to those living on the land. All this has to be verified by experts, but I have gone pretty thoroughly into the thing and I believe that my figures substantially stand."
Despite his endeavor to adopt the manner of Quong there was a flash to Sheridan's eye and a ring to his voice that told of his spirit being in his plan.
"Modern altruism," said Quong quietly. "But possible. You mean to love your neighbor as yourself, Mr. Sheridan. You would make them prosperous against their own wills. In China, if such a scheme were possible, I should order the land owners to come in and pocket most of the profit as a tribute to my own brains. But you set an example of true democracy."
"I expect certain considerations for my origination," said Sheridan. "But they will be modest ones. Brains are held too cheaply in many ways in America."
"In your pulpits, in your schools, and in general by the moneyed class. Will you assume control of your company?"
"If possible, until it is launched. I shall not insist. It may be necessary to control the voting stock. I shall exercise that power, for the general good, if I possess it. But it is my intention to make the direction plastic, with short terms for the directors and simple rules incorporated in the by-laws. Suits for water rights in time of scarcity may occur. There will be provision for the board to be chosen from all sections of the property under the ditch."
"And, with your mixed community, with the
