To-night, for
the first time, I see myself in the true light, and as a testimony of
my good faith, and as evidence of the truth of my statement, when I
say that I will never again take money from my fellow men but in honest
business, I wish to make the motion that the report of this committee
be accepted, that the plan be approved, and that the committee be
discharged with the hearty thanks of the citizens of Boyd City."
The motion was seconded and carried. Then came the critical moment.
For a full minute there was a pause. "What is the will of the meeting?"
said the chairman, calmly, but with a silent prayer. There was a buzz
of conversation all over the house. Every man was asking his neighbor,
"What next?"
For a short time it looked as if things were at a standstill, but upon
the stage men were putting their heads together, and soon Banker
Lindsley shouted: "Mr. Chairman."
Instantly the people became quiet and all turned toward Boyd City's
leading financier.
"I am requested to ask all those who wish to become charter members
of an association as suggested in the report of the council, to meet
here on the stage at once, and I move that we adjourn."
The president, after calling attention of the audience to the importance
of answering Mr. Lindsley's request, immediately put the question, and
the assembly was dismissed.
Among the first to push his way to the front was the stalwart form of
the gambler, Chambers, and the stage was soon crowded with business
men and not a few women.
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