John D. Rockefeller had for some months an expert greenhouse
superintendent named Potts, who knew a good deal about greenhouse
management. A recent visitor at the Rockefeller house missed Potts, and
inquired for him. Then, according to _The Saturday Evening Post_,
this conversation took place:
“Oh, Potts,” said Mr. Rockefeller. “Yes, he knew more about
greenhouse plants than any man I ever saw.” “But where is he?”
“Well, he’s gone. It was wonderful, his knowledge of plants.”
“You must have hated to part with him.” “Yes, I did. But it had
to be. You see, he kept coming later and later every day and
going home earlier and earlier.” “Well, a man of his ability
might have been worth retaining even on short hours.” “Perhaps,
perhaps. First he came and stayed eight hours, then six, then
four; then he got down to two.” “But two hours of such a man’s
time was worth having.” “Yes, yes,” answered Mr. Rockefeller
slowly. “Of course. I hope I appreciated Potts. I didn’t object
to two hours’ service. But he got so he didn’t come at all--just
sent his card; then I dispensed with him.”
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