the accounting department similar to that which Torrance is loading the

producing end with."

"I am afraid that you are prejudiced, Harold," said Compton. "I cannot

discover that Torrance is doing anything to in any way complicate the

shop work. As a matter of fact a single change which he has just made

has resulted in our performing certain operations in less time and to

better advantage with five less men than formerly. Just in this one

thing he has not only more than earned his salary, but is really paying

dividends on our investment."

Bince was silent for a moment. He had walked to the window and was

looking out on the street below, then he turned suddenly toward Compton.

"Mr. Compton," he said, "you have made me assistant general manager here

and now, just when I am reaching a point where I feel I can accomplish

something, you are practically taking the authority out of my hands and

putting it in that of a stranger. I feel not only that you are making a

grave mistake, but that it is casting a reflection on my work. It is

making a difference in the attitude of the men toward me that I am

afraid can never be overcome, and consequently while lessening my

authority it is also lessening my value to the plant. I am going to ask

you to drop this whole idea. As assistant general manager, I feel that

it is working injury to the organization, and I hope that before it is

too late--that, in fact, immediately, you will discharge Torrance and

drop this idea of getting outsiders to come in and install a new

accounting system."

"You're altogether too sensitive, Harold," replied Compton. "It is no

<<BackPagesTo menuNext>>