Matthew dropped onto the divan. ‘‘I managed to obtain the services of a messenger boy who is working over at the Rookery. Seems the association has tightened ranks with Mr. Pullman, and they’ve scheduled another meeting for tomorrow morning. They’re permitting Mr. Howard to sit in as an interested party.’’ ‘‘What?’’ Fred couldn’t believe his ears. ‘‘That’s outrageous. If the company is to have an interested party present, it seems the workers should have one, also.’’ ‘‘I couldn’t agree more, but we both know that won’t happen.’’ ‘‘Did you hear anything else? Any inkling if they’re going to persuade Mr. Pullman to negotiate?’’ Matthew laughed and shook his head. ‘‘Do you truly believe any of those men will convince George Pullman to bow to their wishes? I’m afraid the managers and Mr. Pullman are going to be working hand in glove throughout this strike. Tomorrow they’ll decide how they will handle the situation should the workers carry through and refuse to couple the Pullman cars.
