The bishop read it over slowly. "How can I congratulate you? What
splendid news!"
"You have congratulated me."
"Eh! When?"
"You said I had faith in my dream. Now I beg of you not to move, but
just see how things work."
In the course of the next ten minutes, the prelate saw Clark in swift
action. Automatically the clear brain marshaled all the pressing
duties of the moment and discharged them in quick succession. Messages
to Filmer, to the military authorities, to various impatient creditors,
were dispatched, for in this masterful hand was gathered every filament
through which a vitalizing energy would again permeate the works. The
flexible intellect of the man worked with a precision that was
impressive. Presently the bishop rose to go. He stood, an imposing
figure, animated with benign understanding and good will.
"Good-by, till we meet again. I rejoice with you in what has just
taken place, but you are a prophet and all prophets are on a precarious
pedestal. Had you been in the pursuit of wealth I could not have
talked as I have to-day."
Clark did not answer, and in the hush the voice of the rapids lifted a
melodious chorus.
"But after all does it matter how deep the water through which any man
passes if the community at large benefits?"
"I don't know what they would say to that in Philadelphia."
"Possibly, but in an economic sense what has happened is that some of
the wealth of Philadelphia has been transferred here. This will be a
few weeks' sensation--and then will follow a fresh one. That is of the
nature of things. But long after you and I have moved on, the forests
and mines of this district will be adding to the strength of the
country. Those men who have backed you have contributed with you and
made it possible. Mr. Clark, I have no fear for the future of the
works or of yourself."