XXII
A CHALLENGE AND A CONFESSION
Although Runnels had spoken with confidence of the coming shake-up
in the railroad organization, it was not without a certain
surprise that he awoke one morning to find himself actively in
charge of the entire system. He lost no time in sending for Kirk,
who took the news of their joint advancement with characteristic
equanimity.
"Now, there is nothing cinched yet, understand," the Acting
Superintendent cautioned him. "We're all on probation, but if we
make good, I think we'll stick."
"I'll do my best to fill your shoes."
"And I have the inside track on Blakeley, in spite of Colonel
Jolson, so I'm not alarmed. The break came sooner than I expected,
and now that we chaps are in control it's the chance of our
lifetimes."
Kirk nodded. "You're entitled to all you get, but I've never quite
understood how I managed to forge ahead so fast. Why, there are
dozens of fellows here who know more than I, and who could do
better. I've been mighty lucky."
"You don't really call it luck, do you?" Runnels looked at him
curiously.
"I'm not conceited enough to think I'm a downright genius."
"Why, the Cortlandts engineered everything. It was they who
arranged your promotion to the office in the first place, and
they're behind this last affair.
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