"Yes; the fools will have a strike. Let them. It suits us well enough. But we give them a chance. They think trade is flourishing as it was last year. We see the storm on the horizon and draw in our sails. But because we don't explain our reasons, they won't believe we're acting reasonably. We must give them line and letter for the way we chose to spend or save our money. Henderson tried a dodge with his men, out at Ashley, and failed. He rather wanted a strike; it would have suited his book well enough. So when the men came to ask for the five per cent they are claiming, he told 'em he'd think about it, and give them his answer would be, of course, but thinking he'd strengthen their conceit of their own way. However, they were too deep for him, and heard something about the bad prospects of trade. So in they came on Friday, and drew back their claim, and how he's obliged to keep on working. But we Milton masters have to sent in our decision. We won't advance a penny. We tell them we may have to lower wages; but can't afford a raise. So here we stand waiting for their next attack."
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