“It has indeed, and for your head ganger as well. How fortunate the boat was nearby.”
Washington looked at the other keenly before answering. “Not chance at all as I am sure you know. I do believe the last letter from the directors drawing my attention to the wasteful expense of maintaining the boat at this station was over your signature?”
“It was, sir, but it appeared there only as the drafter of the letter. I have no responsibility in these matters being just the vehicle of the directors’ wishes. But with your permission I shall give a complete report of what I have seen today and will stress how a man’s life was saved because of your foresight.”
“Just good engineering, Mr. Drigg.”
“Foresight, sir, I insist. Where you put a man’s life ahead of money. I shall say just that and the matter will be laid to rest once and for all.”
Washington seemed slightly embarrassed at the warmth in Drigg’s voice and he quickly sought to change the subject.
“I have kept you waiting too long. It must have been a matter of some importance that has brought you personally all this distance.”
“A communication, if you please.” Drigg unlocked the portfolio and took out the single envelope it contained. Washington raised his eyebrows slightly at the sight of the golden crest, then swiftly broke the seal and read the letter.