CHAPTER XVIII.
FRANKLIN MAKES A NEW MOVE.
It was soon evident that the new superintendent, Joseph Mombray, was the right man in the right place. He was a constant and conscientious worker, and under his management the electrical fan works took on a new lease of life. In the course of a few weeks many of the old workmen—those who were of small account—were discharged, and their places were filled by a better class of men.
This was especially apparent in the department in which Franklin was employed. The discharge of Felter, Nolan, and Jackson had been followed almost by a clean sweep, only Franklin, Harry Leclair, who, recovered sooner than expected, and two others remaining of the old force. The new boys were all manly fellows, and the young electrician soon made several fast friends among them.
Early in March, Franklin's uncle was able to get up from his sick bed, and this was cheering news from home. Mr. Bell, and Franklin's aunt Martha, wished the boy to come home again, stating that they now thought they would be able to get along
