"THIS IS IT'
Our Bountiful Continent
Chapter 14
I awoke on the two hundredth day of the year with the sound of aircraft passing overhead. The whine of jet engines was so loud that I involuntarily shrank with the expectation of a visitation by the monsters. The noise of the craft brought me wide awake After rapidly dressing and putting away my effects, I went immediately to the foyer, and had the attendant connect the, intercom to the second floor. I started singing softly "I Wake in the Morning When Shadows Are Deep," then in a higher-pitchei voice I sang, "Good Morning, Merry Sunshine," then said, "Up and at it, folks! We have a long journey to make."
Realizing it would be some time before the Delegates were ready for breakfast, I jogged to the tower and back. When I entered the dining area, gasping for air, after the brisk jog, the Delegates greeted me with "Good morning, Mary sunshine, what makes you wake so soon?" The group were so happy and full of expectation that they reminded me of little children ready to do a jig from nervous tension. I was so swamped with questions that I was unable to answer for a time, because of my deep breathing. After we were seated, Mr. Hoyt said, "I say there, old topper old boy, old boy, old buddy, where are you whisking us to today and where will we wander after we have arrived?" When my breathing had returned to normal, I said, "I say old topper, old chap, we are going to Fort McPherson near the Mackenzie Bay Delta, on the Beaufort Sea." The excitement couldn't have been greater if I had said, "Now we are going to the planet Mars, to visit the little green men, so Tom can tell them a story to see if they are capable of laughing."
After a hurried breakfast, and while the group were excitedly discussing the impending trip, I went to the telephone and called the Transportation Sequence in Regional Division at 13466, to verify that a barge with dormitory facilities that would accommodate our tour party would be at our disposal on our arrival at that location.
My next call was to the Catering Sequence to request sufficient personnel to feed and look after the needs of the Delegates. When I returned to the table, Tom had the group spellbound with a wild story. He was saying, "When I was on a dew line construction crew, during a long hard winter at Nicolson Peninsula, and was short of supplies, our foreman, Tom Cooper, said, 'Well, Browning, we only have enough food to last this ten-man crew for one week, and if the weather doesn't break by tomorrow so a plane can fly from Fairbanks, I am going to ask you to go with the dog team and a sled to Barter Island to pick up supplies.' Then he said, 'Tom, you know danged well that to wait for flying weather is just plain wishful thinking. Now why don't you take Jim Kalliak and get started with the dog team? Yes,' he said, 'I know that the snow is blowing so strong that you can't see ten feet ahead, but Kalliak grew up here, and knows this country like the back of his hand.' "I said, 'Cooper, you know danged well you are just kidding yourself by thinking that five dogs and that small sled could haul enough supplies to feed the men and those four polar bears that we caught last year for more than a couple of days, at the most.' "Seeing that our short supply of provisions was getting serious, I got my head to working, which I will have to admit is very painful, and came up with a workable solution. I said, 'Cooper, I just thought of something. You know those polar bears have tamed down, and don't try to bite your hand when you are feeding them? Well, if you will let Kalliak help, we will get busy and make harness for them and build a bobsled that is big enough to haul ten tons of provisions. Yes, Cooper, we are going to make those bears pay for their keep.' "By the following evening I had the bobsled finished, and Kalliak was putting the final touch to the harness, when Jim Phelps walked up and started giving me a bad time. He said, 'Say, man, that's a right fancy sled you got there. What are you going to haul, corn or alfalfa or hay. Then he asked how was I going to hook the bears to the sled-four abreast, or four-in-hand. I said, 'Four-in-hand, man.'" I couldn't believe what I was seeing and hearing, because Tom's facial expression was dead serious, and the Delegates were sitting spellbound listening to a story that could discourage them from making the northern trip. When Tom paused to conjure up some more lies about the bears, I thought of calling a halt to his wild story, but thought better of it, purely from curiosity to see how far he could go with such an unreasonable story before the Delegates would come to know that he was lying. After Tom did some deep breathing, a gleam came into his eye, and he said, "Well, folks, the next morning when we hitched the bears to the sled, everything went smoothly until Jim Phelps said, 'Tom, you should have the rear team in the lead! Right away I could see the rear team acting contrary, and I said, 'Dang it, Jim, keep your voice down. Don't you know that bears have ears to? When he said, 'Look, Tom, you can see that the rear team realizes that they should be in the lead,' the bears started fighting and the harnesses were chewed to strings." When Tom said, "Next morning ...... I said, "Tom, save it for another time, because we are due at the airport in a short while."
As we boarded the plane, we were all grieved to have to say goodbye to Frank Cassidy, who had been so helpful and whom we had relied on to conduct us around Los Angeles and the outlying area. As he was shaking hands with and being hugged by many, including the sheik, there were tears in many eyes. When the Delegates had boarded the plane, I turned to our driver, Joe Courtland, and, before saying goodbye, I told him that, if there were no interruptions in my itinerary and the time schedule, I would meet him in Brownsville on the two hundred and fifteenth day of the year, but to check with me occasionally via Continental Headquarters. When the plane became airborne, one could sense excitement rising among the Delegates.
After refreshments had been served, I received a barrage of questions as to precisely where we were going and what we were going to do. I said, "All right, folks, it is difficult and time-consuming to answer your questions individually. Now, if you will permit, I will attempt to give you, as nearly as possible, our itinerary for the next fifteen days, approximately; however, not in detail, because there are always unforeseen variables I have no way of accounting for. To begin with, you are aware that we are going to the northern part of North America. We are going to land at Seattle for fuel. Our next stop will be Fairbanks, where you will select warmer clothes than what you are now wearing. Even though it is summertime, and there will be no darkness when the sun dips behind the horizon, the temperature can get uncomfortable. "Also, you will need to select light gloves and mosquito screen headgear, because there will be various places on the tour where you will need them if you go out of doors. Late today we will be in Fort McPherson on the Mackenzie River Delta, near the Beaufort Sea. Our arrival will coincide with the first barge train to arrive that far north from Bremerton, where they were built. The first train is bringing supplies and building materials to a number of places along the Inland Waterway, to such places as Fort Providence, at the Great Slave Lake, Fort Simson, Norman Wells, Fort Goodhope, Fort McPherson, Aklavik, Inuvik, and all the way to Tuktoyatuk on the Beaufort Sea. "There are a number of experiments that have been and are being conducted in that northern area. Of late there have been minerals discovered that can be expanded to be of great use to this continent now that water transportation is available for heavy freight hauling, and airports for passenger and light freight. "Before it slips my mind, I want to inform you that many locations in that northern area are almost self-sufficient regarding vegetables, because of the many hothouses that have been erected and staffed by personnel who are adept at growing vegetables. They are, of course, blessed in that area with constant sunshine for a portion of the year, after which period they use heat, light, and ultraviolet in the hothouses. There will be many things coming out of the far north, aside from minerals and seafood. "At present, many stations along the Mackenzie River, as well as many other locations all across the north, where the Animal Husbandry Sequence has domesticated the Ovibus (or musk ox, as they are commonly referred to), are growing into a sizable food supply. The musk ox have really proven successful as milk animals, and from their hides come the finest of leather goods. "The caribou is proving to be a most useful animal also. There are feeding areas all across the northern timber region, in order that the caribou will have ample food during the long winter period, thus preventing them from becoming so thin and weak when the tundra mosses are not available for grazing."
Mr. Varsolov interrupted by asking how animal food could be transported across the north when there were so many bog areas during the warm period of the year, and such frozen areas in winter. "That is accomplished with the aid of self-contained snow trains, of which each car is self-propelled," I said, "but controlled from the leading car, which contains not only the control booth, but comfortable living quarters for the transportation crew. Feed is brought in by barge train before the freezing period sets in, and is stored at various locations along the inland waterway. After the terrain is frozen over, the animal food is transported to the various feeding locations." The sheik was beside himself with the excitement over the adventurous aspect of such activity, and insisted on a detailed description of the snow train. I explained that the lead, or control, car contained a dual diesel-electric system, and that each wheel on each car is driven by an electric motor, and that the wheels are of wide track and equipped with massive low pressure pneumatic tires, and that the train will traverse extremely rough terrain. At his insistence on more information concerning snow trains, I said, "Sheik Omar, the snow trains are used for sightseeing as well as freight. No, the snow trains are not exactly new on the scene. They were developed some years ago by a very clever man who lived in the town of Fresno. "In spite of your preconception of the north being bleak and a desolate place, you are due for a surprise in seeing what has taken place in what used to be considered practically a useless land area," I said.
"Now, folks, we are going to land at Seattle," I said. "While the plane is taking on fuel you will have time to leave the plane and stretch your legs." I want to mention at this time that the sheik's eagerness and progress in learning English were amazing. Due to his being tutored by his interpreter and asking the meaning of many words and phrases of the other Delegates and myself, he had acquired enough English to ask questions and make his wants known, but was still having some difficulty forming sentences. Not being familiar with the American idioms, the sheik wanted to know what I meant by the stretching of legs. After explaining that I meant he could walk about a bit, as a diversion from sitting so long, he said, "You Americans are crazy, but I love you."
After leaving Seattle, the Delegates became very quiet. I could sense that they were awe-struck at the vast expanse of beautiful landscape. They were in a mellow mood and sang many songs as we traveled north along the Pacific Coast, where the shoreline and the many islands were heavily wooded and for the most part unsettled, except for small settlements of beautifully built living complexes. When the airplane circled Fairbanks for a landing pattern, the Delegates acted like little children who had been lost in the wilderness and had suddenly found their way home. In spite of the sun rays, shining at a slant, which felt hot on the exposed skin of my face, there was a northern crispness in the air when I left the plane that early afternoon. For many minutes the Delegates stood transfixed as though things had happened so rapidly as to transcend reality. I looked at them closely for some time, attempting to understand what they were thinking, but to no avail.
Eventually they seemed to awake from a deep sleep. The first to speak was Miss Vollnogle. She said, "Glory be, Mr. Thorp, I feel just like Alice in Wonderland. It is difficult to believe that, after flying over a vast wilderness, we are now standing at the edge of such splendor. To think that we left Van Nuys early this morning is enough to stagger the imagination. This surpasses all fairy tales that have ever been written." The sheiks comment was: "This is a strange and enchanting world that I had no idea existed. What a vast and beautiful land is North America! The wonders you have accomplished here are beyond the belief of those who have not seen it."
As we were standing and discussing the scene before us, a man approached whose face appeared very familiar. When he said, "Mr. Thorp, I am John Atwood, Regional Division Director of Transportation, in Regional Division 133-134-135,66," 1 recalled having conversed with him, and seeing his face on the telephone view plate, only that morning at Van Nuys. After introductions, he said, "I have just flown in from Fort McPherson to meet you and the Delegates, and to extend to you a hearty welcome to this northern region of North America. While you people are in this region everything will be done for your comfort and pleasure to the best of our ability."
After some visiting with a number of people, who had come to the airport to meet the Delegates, we were conducted to the shopping area in the living complex. It was amusing to observe them select items of clothing. They were timid and very frugal, to the degree that I had to advise them on what to select. I said, "You women will need long heavy hoses, not only for warmth, but as a shield against insects. You men will need a jacket, and, of course, screened headgear for everyone." In watching them select clothing, I could sense that, inasmuch as they realized they were not going to make a purchase, they felt as though they were accepting charity. Yes, I was tactfully giving them the rush act, which became obvious to Mr. Atwood. He said, in a low voice, "Mr. Thorp, why are you rushing them?" When I informed him that time was elapsing, and we had another short flight to make, he said, "You seem to forget that, in this region, at this time of the year, there is no darkness."
After boarding the plane, Mr. Atwood said, "You people are due for a surprise, because you are going to be present at a major event. People are coming to Fort McPherson from all parts of the continent to celebrate the event of the first barge train to reach the Beaufort Sea. This event can be compared to the driving of the last spike that marked the completion of the east-west rail lines in man's quest for better transportation. More than one thousand schoolchildren of different grades, their teachers, and a sizable amount of parents are here to take the Inland Waterway voyage from Fort McPherson to the Hudson Bay. I can assure you that you will see and hear things never to be forgotten. "Before it slips my mind," he said, "make certain you have films for your cameras, because this region is a cameraman's paradise. By the time you reach the Hudson Bay, you will have seen varied and interesting terrain, and you will have been lifted and lowered on many hydraulically operated lift locks. Not only will you have met Eskimo and Indians, but also people of Latin descent from various southern parts of this continent, who are serving in the various sequences in this northern region. You will not find it such a bleak country as you might have expected."
It was evident that Mr. Varsolov had read sufficiently and was well versed on the flora and fauna of North America, as was evidenced by the questions he asked. Immediately he said, "Mr. Atwood, I have read that the caribou is a migrating animal, which spends the long winter period slightly south of the muskeg region, where they browse on scrub trees, and then migrate north in the warm period of the year. I have also read that they are constantly on the move during the warm period, which is caused by the aggravation of the mosquitoes and various other insects, which deposit parasites under the skin, in the muscle, throat, and nostrils, which shortens their life to approximately twelve years of age. Have you discovered a method to eradicate the pest," he asked, "and prolong the life of the animal, therefore causing their flesh to be suitable for human consumption?" "There has been, and is, vast research," Mr. Atwood said, "conducted on what you have mentioned. There have been sprays and dips of many formulas experimented with for that purpose. Recently there has been a formula developed that promises to be successful. I am not familiar with the formula, but I have been told that, among its other ingredients, garlic and nicotine are predominant. You must realize that this has only been used on a pilot or laboratory scale, but has been proven successful. "Now," he said, "feeding areas are being set up in the timbered areas, south of the muskeg. The trees will afford some shelter for the animals, as will browsing as a supplement to the feed that will be transported to their winter quarters. After we have observed the routes of their spring migration, they will, by means of barriers, be funneled through vat dips, deep enough to submerge their bodies, after which they will pass under a spray, which will repel insects from the animal's head. They will have this dip and spray at regular intervals during the warm season. This will greatly increase the meat, as well as the leather production of this continent. As a further comment, the slaughtering will be done at the beginning of the cold weather." It was obvious by Mr. Varsolov's expression that he was amazed at what was being done to utilize a vast resource that had heretofore not been considered. He sat for some time in deep thought, then said, "Mr. Atwood, by what method will you drive the animals to the dip areas, where there are so many bogs to contend with?" "For the most part," Mr. Atwood said, "helicopters will be used for the drive, with, of course, beaters near the funneling-in areas. It is thought that, after the first insect season drive, the animal will seek the dip areas as a relief from the misery of their tormentors, just as an animal will seek water when thirsty."
After some thought, Mr. Varsolov said, "Wouldn't it require less effort to spray the whole tundra area with a poison formula, and kill the insect before it has a chance to attack the animal?" "It is thought by the personnel of the Ecology Sequence," Mr. Atwood said, "that to do so would upset the ecological balance of an area, and give rise to more vicious and damaging things that could cause greater adverse conditions to a wonderful and useful land area." "Will the musk ox receive the same dip and spray treatment as the caribou?" Mr. Varsolov asked. "The wool of the musk ox affords sufficient protection from the insect," Mr. Atwood said. "However, I have been told that the face of the musk ox is sprayed occasionally." "Why do we have to keep our whole body and face covered," Miss Vollnogle said, "if the spray will protect the animal?" "Well, if someone is courageous enough to be sprayed with the formula, I am certain they would regret the experience, because the stench is almost unbearable to a human. However, the formula will be sprayed into the air at times as the barge train moves along, to eradicate the mosquitoes which collect in such masses as to impair vision at times. Also, there will be fans around the periphery of the barges, blowing air outward to drive away the insects." A look of pure deviltry appeared on Miss Jensen's face, and she said, "Tom, what experience have you had with the mosquito? Surely you must have had some experience with the beast?"
From the moment we left Carlsbad, I could sense that Tom had an especially tender feeling for Miss Jensen. I could also sense that the poor fellow would not permit his thoughts to dwell on the subject of romance, with the thought in mind that her feelings were not the same as his. When she made the comment about the mosquitoes, I detected a sparkle in both their eyes that was too obvious to miss. After her comment, Tom, with a sparkle in his eyes, said, "Well now, when I was on a fishing trip down in the bayou country, I got acquainted with those little fellows. The ones that swarm around in the daytime were little fellows, but pesky as the devil. When the sun went down, they seemed to return to the swamp water, and were replaced with ones that grew to be the size of horseflies, and the prick of their beaks was equal in pain to a hypodermic needle. Now when the large fellows came around we zipped our tents closed, and stayed inside during the night. Those big fellows were so intent on sucking our blood that they swarmed all over the tent and stuck their beaks through the canvas. There were so many beaks sticking through the canvas that it reminded one of a pin cushion. "Well, one night after a day of poor fishing luck, my partner and I were feeling down in the mouth, and my partner, with a cussed look on his face, said, 'Let's fix those little devils. Let's bend their beaks with the heel of our shoe.' "Well, we hadn't been bending more than five minutes before the little devils flew off with our tent." With a concerned look on her face, Miss Jensen said, "What in the world did you do for protection after you lost your tent?" Having his joke backfire with such an unexpected question, Tom said in a meek voice, "Well, all we could do was put on our screened helmets and submerge our bodies in the water of the bayou." With an expression of affection on her face, Miss Jensen said, "You lie." While listening to Tom's story, the sheik became quite concerned with Tom's predicament, and looked askance at Miss Jensen when she called Tom a liar. When finally he realized the jest of the story, his stomach rose and fell like a bellows, and he said, "Tom always make the joke."
After the sheik stopped laughing, he turned to me and said, "What means Tom, when he say, 'down in the mouth'?" With the seriousness of the question and the look of concern on his face, causing everyone to go into gales of laughter, I attempted, as much as possible, to keep a straight face in deference to the sheik, but I failed completely. With a look of wonderment on his face, the sheik said, "Mr. Thorp, why everyone laugh?" When I regained some composure, I said, "Sheik Omar, that is just one of any number of crazy American idioms. Spoken correctly, Tom should have said, 'My partner and I were sad because of not catching fish.' " With a sad look on his face, the sheik said, "The longer I know you Americans, the crazier you seem to me, but you are a kind and gentle people, so I forgive you." With the interesting explanation of the flora and fauna and terrain of the northern area of this continent, and with a hearty laugh by all, except the sheik, time had elapsed without our being aware of it. When I felt the plane bank, I looked out the window and saw a landing strip near some attractive buildings, surrounded by open country containing small bodies of water. When the plane regained a horizontal position, I could see the ribbon of water that had to be the Mackenzie River. On closer scrutiny I could see the barge train.
As the plane was forming a landing pattern, the stewardess told us to fasten our seat belts and adjust our helmets, and to draw on our gloves, and make certain we had no skin exposed. After her orders had been executed, she explained that the insects were most aggravating to people who were used to that country, but were murder to those just arriving.
On departing from the plane we were conducted to a dining area where a welcoming committee (consisting of people of all ages, including schoolchildren who had just arrived) was awaiting us. On short notice, prior to our arrival, music students had composed music and lyrics about the Delegates of other nations coming to share the experience of traveling the Inland Waterway, in a land undergoing transformation. A choreography teacher had taught a group of students to do a dance step to the music, depicting scenes along the waterway, such as caribou migration, the flight of fowls, and fish jumping from the water. The whole thing was very beautiful and well organized, due to the enthusiasm and effort of everyone involved. I have never before seen, and never again expect to witness, such excitement as was extant in that group of people who had gathered together to celebrate a major event on the North American continent.
After we had all attempted to vocalize (at the insistence of the band leader) on "America the Beautiful," we were informed that food was ready. The whole thing was so touching that tears were flowing from many eyes, as people were collecting food. The emotional effect generated by the children’s' excitement, and their affection for the Delegates, was, I am certain, something the Delegates will never forget, When the Delegates were seated, they were cuddled and kissed by children of all ages. But again, as in Santa Monica, the sheik was the center of attraction. After the display of affection had ceased, conversation became so general that it was difficult to understand a question posed by one sitting directly across the table. When appetites had been sated, there was a lengthy period of teachers collecting their students to stand, while stating their grade and where they had traveled from to be present at this historical event. It is difficult, at this late date, to recall the geographical locations of all the students; however, a few do come to mind. There were a group of second grade children, all of whom were Hopi Indians, who were accompanied by their parents; a group of fourth grade children from Central America who, in spite of Spanish-speaking parents, could speak English very well; a group of high school students from Kansas City. It is difficult to give any further account of grades and locations; however, they were, for the most part, of high school age, and those approaching the age of specialization in a sequence of their choice. After the students had stated their grade and Regional Division, Miss Vollnogle said, "This is something one would have to see to believe. The teacher of every class reminds me of a shepherd looking after a flock of lambs. I would never have believed there could be such a rapport between teacher and student. It is the closest-knit organization I have ever witnessed in a group of human beings."
From a short distance down the table, I heard Miss Jensen say to an attractive young woman sitting across from her, "I am Vera Jensen, of Norway. Who are you?" With a facial expression of "I am meeting a celebrity," she said, "I am Evelyn Phelps, of Flagstaff. The Hopi children are my charge. I love them as though they were my own. To be more specific, they are mine, in a sense, until they are ready to specialize in a sequence. I was assigned to them when they were four years old, and they have come to think of me as a second mother." "What will happen," Miss Jensen asked, "when they reach a grade such as college level?" "I will be studying constantly," Miss Phelps said, "to keep in advance of their knowledge and grade level. Actually, Miss Jensen, we are students together. It is a constant challenge, and very exciting, plus a feeling of achievement." Miss Jensen inquired, "Do they ask you questions you can't answer?" "They do quite often, but I have access to a guide for any information on any subject," she said. "You see, Miss Jensen, we are, in a greater sense, all students, with myself as leader. "The experience and gratification one has while spending one's social service in the Educational Sequence give one a feeling of having made the world a better place for human habitation."
The subject became so interesting that suddenly all conversation ceased, and all attention was directed to the two young women. "Do you find, Miss Phelps," Mr. Proulx asked, "that some students are more advanced than others?" "Generally," Miss Phelps said, "that is not normal. However, some are more advanced in one subject than in another. When I find that a student has less interest in a given subject than the rest, I spend more time with the student in question on that subject, and attempt to arouse interest in the subject to the extent of making a game of it. At times I will take a student aside, after the class period is over, and convince the child of the simplicity of the subject. We never rush small children to the extent that they are under pressure. We attempt to create an atmosphere of excitement for learning. We also attempt to instill in the child the desire to be among the most useful citizens on the continent when they have chosen a sequence in which they choose to function." "That is very interesting," Mrs. Gandhi said, "but, tell me, how much time do you spend in each class?" "There is," Miss Phelps said, "no hard-and-fast rule for that. It is left mostly to the discretion of the teacher. There are times when the students and I will spend a whole day, or several days, on one subject. When I feel assured that all the students are thoroughly familiar with the subject we have been discussing, we will then turn to another subject. In many instances, an hour or more will suffice for them to receive a thorough understanding of the subject under discussion." "That is the most interesting and unusual thing I have ever heard," Mr. Varsolov said. "Is that method used all through the students' schooling period?" "Not necessarily, and not in all instances," Miss Phelps said. "When the student has been thoroughly grounded in basic science and the current major subjects, of math, reading, spelling, grammar, history, Esperanto, and the art of penmanship, we are inclined to think that they can assimilate knowledge in more rapid strides. However, up to this date, we have no precedent on which to verify that, because of the newness of this teaching method." "Do the students ever become bored?" Miss Vollnogle asked. "Yes, on occasion. When I detect boredom," Miss Phelps said, "I teach them drama, or music, to those who are so inclined. We think it is important that children be taught to express themselves in various ways, such as elocution, music, and the art of sketching and painting. On occasion, both they and I conjure up games. Many times we make believe we are many things, such as airplanes flying through the air. Sometimes the girls make believe they are stewardesses, and the boys are pilots, or vice versa. Yes, at times we mimic birds and animals, and enjoy our- selves immensely. In all activity, and all games, we stress the importance of team activity, and omit any feeling of competition among the students. Many adopt the attitude that the failure of one is the failure of all. Consequently, they become a very close-knit organization. As a result, they go to great length to aid each other in every way possible. So far, I have detected no attitude of selfishness among them." Her Majesty's Prime Minister said, "Miss Phelps, you have answered many interesting questions, and I think we all agree that your method of teaching borders on perfection; however, there is one area that has not been covered on the subject. Do you teach the children to revere a deity, or the belief in a hereafter?" "We do not," she said. "However, those who have had religious teaching by their parents do, when they feel the necessity, offer supplication without being ostracized." When Mr. Murikomi asked Miss Phelps about the feeding of the children, she said, "Personnel of the Catering Sequence, who are trained in the dietary well-being of the physical health of the people of this continent, see to it that the children have an intake of food that is most nutritious, which in rare instances differs from child to child, which is determined by the Health Sequence. After a child has a physical examination, and it has been determined that the metabolism of a child requires a special diet, the information is given to the Catering Sequence personnel, and the child is fed accordingly, resulting in exceptionally good health. In fact, none of my children has developed a cold."
More questions of lesser importance were asked, -and were answered by Miss Phelps during the course of the evening. The conversation became so interesting that, when I looked at my watch, the time was twenty hours. I had difficulty ushering the Delegates from the dining area, and did so only after much handshaking, hugs, and kisses. The last to break free of the children was the sheik. Finally I said, "Please, Sheik Omar, the barge train is due to depart at nine hours, and you must get some rest."
I woke the Delegates at seven hours and expected to see a group of sleepy-eyed, cranky people. To my surprise, they were wide-eyed and bushytailed. Breakfast was truly an unforgettable experience. Much of the menu was food that had been grown or caught locally, including musk ox steaks and strawberry-topped hotcakes. The big surprise to myself, as well as the Delegates, was walking aboard the barge train. The barges are two hundred feet in length, by fifty feet wide, and a depth of sixteen feet. There were twelve barges attached together, two wide and six long. Eight of the barges were topped with two-story structures, of which the upper story was partitioned to form sufficient space to accommodate a bed and toilet facility, with sufficient furniture for comfort. The lower structure was used for kitchen and storage, while the lower story of another was used for a dining area. The lower story of the remaining structure was utilized for classrooms. The structure covered the length and width of each barge, with the exception of a walkway around the periphery. There was a loading hatch at both ends, plus a control booth at one end. The four aft barges of the train, whose decks were free of any structure, were equipped with various facilities for games. The four aft barges were also equipped with high mesh wire around the sides, and mesh wire covered the top.
Around the periphery of the barge train were fans facing outward to drive away all insects. One of the four barges had a lounging area under a canopy, below the mesh wire. One barge was equipped to simulate a theater. One could therefore travel aboard the barge train with all the comforts of an ocean liner. It was an unforgettable sight to observe the children, as well as the adults and the Delegates, walk aboard the barge train, and being assigned to their quarters. The barges can be controlled individually from their control booth, or the whole twelve can be operated simultaneously from one booth. Each barge is equipped with a dual system of power for motivation. One is a trolley pole that receives power from a trolley grid, which resembles the trolley grid of an electric bus. The other is an inboard diesel-electric power unit, used principally for maneuvering the barge outside the range of the trolley grid, as when docking in a slip space, and maneuvering into and within a lift lock. The mechanisms on both sides and ends that connect the barges one to the other were also equipped with an electrical connection, resembling a plug and socket (with the exception of the order of magnitude) in one's living quarters.
When everyone had been assigned to his quarters, and personal effects stored, and food supplies brought aboard, John Atwood turned the volume up on the public address system and called for an assembly on the four aft barges. When all had been assembled, Mr. Atwood said, "Folks, I don't have to tell you that we here today are witnessing, no, not just witnessing an historical event-we are making history. Everyone on the North American continent and many other places over the world is observing this event on television, or internet, or by holography. This scene will be shown to history students many hundreds of years from now. Yes, even thousands of years from now. "The people of this time period, and you people here today, will be referred to by human beings thousands of years from now as those courageous people who effected the breakthrough from the dark ages of the for profit at any cost lifestyle to an enlightened and civilized society, one befitting the intellect of man, if his ego causes him to think that he is something above the insect, the worm, the reptile, and the lower animal forms of the earth. "You are here to traverse, for the first time by Land Waterway, a rich and wonderful land area of this continent, which was thought for years to be of little use to man. "Now, I am going to fire a shot," he said, "that will be heard, not only around the world, but for all time to come, so long as human beings inhabit the earth." When Mr. Atwood fired the revolver, whistles blew and church bells rang over the whole of North America.
Aboard the barge train things were equally as exciting as elsewhere on the North American continent. While the student orchestra played "America the Beautiful" and many aided vocally, Tom was standing with tears streaming down his face. When he realized that I had noticed his emotions, he said, "Ain't people crazy to cry when they are happy? Yes, by God, that is something I would never do." As the barge train pulled away from its mooring, everyone got into the spirit of celebrating a history-making event. Up to that time the adult Eskimo population of the area seemed to be passive about the whole affair, but as Eskimos unfastened the dock mooring, others not occupied began beating on cans and metal drums, while others did what was locally termed the caribou dance. The children and dogs ran up and down as though they were being chased by heel flies.
When the train pulled away from the mooring, everyone stood transfixed, except those in the orchestra, who came on strong with the "St. Louis Blues" as some black students furnished the lyrics. When we were under way, and a more normal atmosphere pervaded the group of people, Miss Jensen said, "Now, Tom, this has you, as the Americans say, 'buffaloed', because I am certain you have had no experience with barges." "Don't get flippity, miss," Tom said, "because I helped build the breakwater at the Long Beach Harbor. After small rocks were built up to a point near low tide, giant rocks were hauled from Riverside and put in place by means of cable slings, with a massive power crane anchored to a barge. Well, everything went along smooth for a time until they put me oiling the rig. The first time I climbed the high boom to oil the cable pulleys, I could see that I had to 'take the bull by the horns,' as the fellow says, and make some drastic changes. "When I climbed down to the deck I said to the foreman, 'Jack, seeing as how a quick blow is possible at this location, I am demanding that the company furnish a stock saddle for me to sit on while I am doing the oiling up there.' Seeing as how most everyone around there was afraid to climb, they didn't have much choice but to comply with my demand. Well, I got the fanciest saddle on the West Coast, and anchored it near the top of the boom. I would sit there with my feet in the stirrups, and oil things that rightly didn't need to be oiled in the first place, but it afforded me a lot of pleasure sitting there swaying back and forth with the motion of the ocean, and just having the time of my life. "Day by day my popularity grew, and I became known as the 'breakwater cowboy.' Reporters would come from the shore to photograph me and get my life story for newspaper write-ups. Yes, I was more popular with newspaper reporters than the flagpole sitters of that period. Well, one day it came a sudden blow, and the whole crew jumped into the power boat and headed for shore, leaving me sitting there in the saddle at the top of the boom. The brake on the cable drum snapped and left me at the mercy of the storm. The boom was rapidly flopping up and down and sidewise. One time I would be slammed against the breakwater, and the next time against the rock scow that was anchored alongside the crane scow. Well, I got worried that I would be slammed against the rocks and break a leg. Sure enough, just as I headed for a jagged rock, I jumped free of the boom and landed on a porpoise. At first the poor porpoise was so frightened he almost had a heart attack. When I pointed toward the shore he made a squeaking noise, and in a few minutes I was deposited on the beach. Every since then I have had a soft place in my heart for porpoises." Tom didn't realize it or expect it, but he had well over a thousand people for a live audience, plus television and holography coverage. During his discourse about the breakwater and the porpoise ride, the children, especially, were spellbound.
When he had finished, and they realized the impossibility of the thing, they made a rush for him, and he was smothered with hugs. People didn't realize we were being scrutinized by the world via television and holography, which was all the better, because they were being themselves. Furthermore, they didn't realize they would be seen by people generations from that day.
When the shouting, the dancing, and the hugging ceased, the sheik, not realizing we were on worldwide coverage, and that the cameras at that moment were focused on him, walked over to me and said, "Mr. Thorp, how could Tom 'take a bull by the horns,' while he was on a barge?" At that moment, people of the world, as well as those on the barge train were convulsed in laughter. When the sheik realized he was facing the world, he quickly covered his face with his hands, and said, "The curses of Allah be on you, Tom."
John Fisher, the barge train captain, stepped to the public address system microphone to make some announcements. He said, "This barge train is going to be your home and playground for a number of days. I don't have to tell you that this is going to be an interesting and unique experience, because I am certain that you have never seen a landscape quite so enchanting and unbelievable. You are the first tour party to really and truly see the beauty of this land area, because of the protection that has been afforded by technological application. Those who came here without the protection we are now enjoying could in no way appreciate the wonder and beauty of this land, because of the harsh conditions caused by various insect life. "We have on board sufficient talent and facilities to keep you occupied, interested, and happy," the captain said. "However, I am quite certain that, for the first day, at least, you will spend most of the time gazing in awe at the scenery unfolding before you. Inasmuch as we are not heavily loaded, and are not drawing much water, we will be traveling at the rate of approximately fifteen miles per hour. We will stop at various points along the journey, which will give some diversion, and afford you the opportunity of observing the various activities along the route, and meet people who are doing a great service for the North American Social Dynamic. Before reaching the Hudson Bay, you will have been raised and lowered many times by hydraulic lifts. The most spectacular of them all will be on the down slope approaching the Hudson Bay. "We will do our utmost to afford you a happy journey. Now, get acquainted and enjoy yourselves," he said. Mr. Fisher made the understatement of the twentieth century when he said we would spend a great deal of time standing in awe of the scenery unfolding before us. It was a scene that is difficult to convey to anyone by mere words. The observation deck above the living quarters structure was equipped with many sets of stationary binoculars, where one could, if one desired, see for many miles a landscape that is so unique as to cause one to think that it is only a figment of the imagination.
There were large and small bodies of water interspersed with tundra moss and willows. There were many types of wild flowers that gave the landscape a rare beauty, which caused one to stand and gaze until fatigue set in. I turned to Tom and said, "How does this scenery compare to your boyhood days in Oklahoma?" "It is lovely," he said, "but there are no sheep sorrel, lady slippers, or primroses on the meadow, and I don't see any sour dock or poke that a body could pick for greens. I reckon a body can't have everything in all places on the continent. However, dispensing with the wise cracks, it is an unbelievable sight." When I asked the sheik what he thought of the landscape, he said, "The whole thing isn't fit for camel or horse, or limousine, but I will never forget the beauty of this region. It seems more like a dream I am having. I had no idea that such a place could exist." Excitement rose when a group of caribou cows and calves were sighted some distance from the water. They were close enough to be visible to the naked eye. I shall never forget the reaction of the children when the animals were sighted. It seemed that every child was jumping up and down with joy. People were so taken with the scene of the landscape as to forego lunch. When the Arctic sun was nearing the horizon, a bell was sounded, and some of the catering people shouted that food was ready to be served.
When people were seated in the long dining hall, there wasn't the slightest chance of conversation, because of the babbling of the children. I recall that one little fellow said, "Jake, did you see that fittle caribou calf nursing its moth Jake said, "Yes, I saw that. Wasn't that something, wasn't he cute!" One little girl said, "Elizabeth, did you see those little calves making believe they were fighting?" The children's babble was constant during the whole course the meal, and I am certain that no children were ever more excited over any previous event, including a circus.
When the evening meal was finished, everyone assembled on the play area barges. When all were seated, the teachers of various classes took great pride in displaying the talent of the students, and it was amazing what they had been taught. Miss Edna Malson, teacher of a fourth grade class, said, I would like to present young John Williams, and have him do a reading of something he has composed." When young John stepped to the microphone he said, "Ah, having done some research on the progress of the human being I would like to tell you what I have found and concluded concerning mankind. At the outset, I would like to say, here and now, that we here, and those who will follow after us, are a composite of all that has gone before. Regardless of the good or evil of things and events that transpired before the inception of our Social Dynamic, it is of little consequence, when one considers that man through the ages has progressed from a very lowly being (when he had no concept of science or technology) to the impact of what we are witnessing. Not only what we are enjoying here this evening, but every phase of the Social Dynamic.
"In all fairness," John said, "considering what man had to function with, and the misery and privation he had to cope with it seems, while thinking in retrospect, that he should, to a great extent, be at least partially forgiven for his transgressions. "I think," John said, "that none of you here (if you can mentally place yourself in man's bygone environment, when there was a natural scarcity of the necessities of life, and man was struggling for a mere existence) would deny that his behavior was to some extent, excusable. If he was to acquire more of the good things of life, he had to acquire them at the expense of others. To do so, without retribution from his fellows, he had to create, in the minds of others, an attitude that his unjust acts toward them were his prerogative, according to the law, or the folkways of society, and of course, the sanction of a deity that his behavior was normal and a way of life, that those who were being deprived were, in a way, the better situated; because of their frugal living, they would receive a greater reward in the hereafter. "As a result of my research," John said, "I have found that, so long as the necessities of life were in short supply, it was a human attribute to be dishonest with and cruel to one's fellows. Whether it was just or unjust is not for me to say. I ask you, is there any among you who would have acted differently, had you been in that environment? "Man's progress, and his sense of justice and love for his fellows," John said, "increases in direct proportion to the technology he has wrought. In spite of man's conscience, and good teaching he received from the ecclesiastics about love for his fellows, he didn't really become civilized until there was no incentive for him to deprive his fellows of the good things of life. I think that you will all agree that man has finally arrived at a state of real civilization in our Social Dynamic, because there is no incentive for him to do otherwise. This is why that, when thinking in retrospect of man's unfavorable environment, he shouldn't be thought of with excessive harshness. He did go before and suffer the rigors of unfavorable conditions, and progressed in spite of adversities. Without him we wouldn't be here today traveling on this barge train. We are, after all, his flesh and blood. We are the descendants of those people who we are prone to think of as being bad. We are his progeny. "Thank you for hearing me through."
When young John concluded his discourse, everyone sat in silence for quite some time, not believing that a boy of his age was capable of such a thing. I assure you that I have done my best in giving John's discourse verbatim, but I am certain that I have fallen far short of remembering it all. At the close of John's discourse, the sun had dipped behind the horizon, but it was yet almost light as day.
There were a number of clever plays, executed by students of all ages. Many of the plays were written by the students themselves, and to a great extent the plays had to do with the Social Dynamic, depicting, of course, the contrast between the price system and the Social Dynamic. One play was a musical, which could be classified as an opera. It portrayed a poor sharecropper on the Mississippi Delta during the post-World War I era. One actor portrayed a young black soldier, who had served in his country's armed forces, and had received a number of citations for bravery, only to return home to the cotton fields and once again become a second-class citizen, to eke out a mere subsistence. The acting and the music was of eighth grade students of Natchez. The students had such acting ability, and the drama was so moving that tears were flowing from many eyes.
It is amazing how time can elapse when watching clever acting by such clever youngsters, and where there is no darkness to warn one of the time. I looked at my watch, which indicated one hour. When asked if there were more plays, I was told there were many more, but, the hour being late, and the children being tired and needing rest after such an exciting day, it was best they retire. I was told that the older students would put on some plays the following day depicting political activities. They would eventually perform in the Chamber of Congress in Washington, D.C.
Being an early riser, I awoke before many of the other people on board, and was nearing the dining area when I met Captain Fisher. He informed me that during the night the train had put in at Fort Good Hope and Norman Wells, to take on freight and a couple of passengers. He said we would shortly be putting in at Fort Simpson, and would spend several hours at that location to visit the animal husbandry compound that had been started. When looking toward the west, I saw a range of mountains, and commented that it seemed we had gained some altitude. He informed me that we had, and that we had been lifted twice by locks, and that it was regrettable we hadn't been awake to experience the event. He said, however, that there would be another lift before we arrived at Great Slave Lake, and that it would most likely be at a time when we were not asleep. I switched on the intercom and shouted, "All right, boys and girls, arise and shine, because after breakfast we are going to visit a musk ox dairy." If you ever saw youngsters hit the deck and get dressed rapidly, it was those precious young Americans. Some of them had to be halted by their teacher or parent to wash their face and hands, and comb their hair before going to the dining area. There was but little conversation during breakfast, and food was eaten rapidly.
Shortly after breakfast we put in at Fort Simpson. The minute the train was made fast in the slip, the children insisted on disembarking, even before their headgear had been donned.
As we stepped from the barge train, we were met by Jim Rogers, Director of the Animal Husbandry Sequence, in Regional Division 120 degrees west longitude, and 61 degrees north latitude. Following Mr. Rogers was a group of mostly smiling Indian people, and a group of very shy Indian children. However, when the Indian children were hugged by the youngsters coming off the train, their shyness soon vanished and they were all running and romping together. In spite of our just having had breakfast, they insisted we have refreshments before taking us to the animal compound to inspect their dairy operation. Mr. Rogers and the Indians directed us to their beautiful living complex, of which the Indians were very proud, and wanted to show it to visitors. The children sat at the table, in deference to their hosts, and partook of cookies and musk ox milk. At first, I was averse to drinking the milk, but like the children I accepted some in deference to my host. I was extremely surprised on taking a sip of the milk. It was extremely palatable and seemed to be much richer than cow's milk. In fact, I liked it so much that I asked for a second helping, which evoked a smile from the Indians. I was informed by Mr. Rogers that, in spite of the short growing period, a grass had been developed that produced a very nutritious hay for the animals, and that they got two cuttings during the growing season, which, of course, will be supplemented by hay and grain that will be shipped in by barge train.
After refreshments had been partaken of, and a lengthy visit with the Indians and others of the compound, we were conducted to the animal compound. The musk ox is a unique and interesting animal. It also has a type of beauty, in spite of its odd physique and stance. Its protective instinct toward its young, and to those with whom it is acquainted, is very amusing to those who are viewing it for the first time. At that season of the year, the calves are kept in a corral and partially milk-fed. When we approached the corral in such great numbers, the calves became very nervous and began milling about. When Mr. Rogers walked into their midst, in advance of the rest of the group, the calves surrounded him and placed their rumps against him, with their heads pointing outward. After taking that position they stamped the ground with their hoofs. Their rapid maneuvering into that position caused gales of laughter from the youngsters. When the children inquired of Mr. Rogers why they performed in such a manner, he informed them that they were protecting him from them. As we entered the milking area, there was a very young calf that received the same treatment by the cows as had Mr. Rogers by the calves in the calf corral.
The whole thing was of great amusement to all the visitors, because of their never having seen such actions from animals before. Mr. Rogers explained that they were always protecting a calf or some human being that they feel is close to them, and over the centuries they have protected their young or infirm from predators, and, by that method, they have survived through the ages. He said, "They will likely perform the same protective action for generations to come, in spite of their being domesticated. They are very affectionate animals," he said, "and their faithfulness is similar to that of a dog." After Mr. Rogers spoke gently to them for a spell, they seemed to relax and gradually move away from him. He told us that that was the normal action when strangers approached. Mr. Rogers said, "Now, children, approach slowly, one at a time, and touch them gently on the head." It was the most amusing thing to observe, because within a short while the children were walking among them, and petting them, and if the animals had been able to purr like a cat, they would have been purring as a result of the attention they were receiving.
Many of the children had never been around animals, with, of course, the exception of a dog or a cat, and their affection for those furry beasts was touching. Coincidentally, we arrived at the milking area in time to observe the milking operation. As with dairy cows, their heads were placed in stanchions, and the milk was extracted by means of vacuum cups attached to the teats of the udder. Mr. Rogers informed us that this herd of milkers was the third generation in domestication, that the original herd had been captured as calves, and that they, the originals, had never become completely accustomed to living in captivity. Mr. Rogers said, "The granddaughters of the originals were producing as much as five gallons daily, and their milk is considerably higher in butterfat than that of jersey cows, and in another three generations we expect they will average eight gallons per day." At the end of the milking area was a cheese-processing operation. On sampling the cheese, I had to admit that I had never seen or tasted cheese with better flavor. Mr. Rogers said, "By the following year, cheese from the compounds, over this vast land area, will be finding its way to tables all over the continent. Before you go," he said, "remind me to serve you people ice cream, because it's a treat you will never forget." The children seemed to be in seventh heaven playing with the Indian children and the musk ox. On closer scrutiny it became evident that the Indian children were attempting to teach our children a game that resembled hide-and-seek. It appeared that the Indian children had the advantage, because of their being able to blend with any background. Their technique of camouflage reminded me of young quail. Well, they were all having such a good time that it was heartbreaking when we had to leave. Before our children boarded the barge train, the Indian children grabbed them and wouldn't let go until they promised to return.
As the barge train pulled away from the mooring, my watch indicated eleven hours. When we got under way, the terrain was noticeably different from what we had observed the day before. We were on higher and drier ground, and scrub trees were becoming more prevalent. We saw a lynx scamper for a thicket of trees. There were many animals sighted during the day, such as hare and fox. The sight that was most exciting, for the youngsters, as well as for the adults, was a timber wolf and two whelps. Without a doubt, she was a most handsome animal. At thirteen hours we had our first experience of being elevated by a hydraulic lift. It was a most unique and thrilling experience, in that the water channel widened to accommodate six lift locks. Before approaching, the train glided to a stop, and the barges were uncoupled, two by two. Each pair lined up abreast and the hydraulic lift elevated us approximately forty feet, after which the gates were opened, and the barges were reconnected and we were on our way.
We were now on the Great Slave Lake elevation. The whole operation was executed in a matter of minutes. The water course gradually became wider, and, again in a matter of minutes, we were meeting with pleasure craft, which blew a whistle of salute. We were, in a broader sense, on the Great Slave Lake, or at least on the lake's elevation, and were approaching its main body of water. After maneuvering around an island, we were truly on the main body of the lake. The water became choppy, as though we were on the ocean. To the south we could see some beautiful structures at two locations.
The captain informed me that we were looking at Hays River and Pine Point. When the sun was nearing the horizon, we approached Fort Resolution. As we approached closer it seemed to become more beautiful. Noticing my curiosity, Captain Fisher informed me that, since the inception of our Social Dynamic, Great Slave Lake bad become so popular as a pleasure resort area that more and more living space had to be erected to accommodate the influx of tourists, and, now that it is accessible by waterway, "We can," he said, "expect twice the amount of tourists next year." When I asked if there were any activity at Fort Resolution, other than looking after tourists, he said, "Fort Resolution is one of the main stock food depots, from which snow trains haul animal food to the various feeding areas. "There have been so many inquiries from people over the continent," he said, "that a snow train equipped for passenger comfort will, during the cold season, leave daily from McMurry, making stops at Lake Athabaska en route. It is thought by personnel of the Recreation Sequence that Lake Athabaska will become as popular for recreation as the Great Slave Lake. "At present, there are recreational facilities being erected at the west end of Lake Athabaska," he said, "just as there are here at Great Slave Lake. There will be snowplows keeping a skating strip cleared along the shoreline of both lakes. Also, there will be at various locations along the shore, shelters for warmth, food, and first aid, with personnel and equipment to cope with any emergency. "People of the Recreation Sequence think that snow trains will become more popular each year. The popularity, they think, is due to people desiring to see a beautiful winter scene that would be difficult to traverse by any other means than by snow trains. "Living complexes are being erected along the shore of Great Bear Lake in many places, and more and more North Americans are turning to winter sports and winter scenery. If present trends continue, there will be snow trains arriving daily at Great Bear Lake."
I had become so engrossed in the information Captain Fisher had imparted that much time had elapsed, and the sun was dipping low on the horizon. After looking at my watch, and declaring with surprise that the time was sixteen hours, I became conscious that our rate of velocity had greatly diminished. When I glanced toward shore, we were slowly maneuvering into the dock slip.
When the train was made fast, a welcoming committee came aboard, headed by Alvan Durand, Regional Division Director, of the Recreational Sequence, in Regional Division 110 through 116 degrees west longitude, and 49 through 59 degrees north latitude. Mr. Durand is really a ball of fire, insofar as activity and enthusiasm are concerned, and a man of organizing and leadership ability. He was followed by a group of bagpipers who marched twice around the periphery of the barge train, amusing the children. They were followed by a brass band that assembled at the rear of the train and did a newly composed number titled "New America." We were conducted to a dining area in a complex that almost rivals Denver in pure elegance. The dining area is equipped with scene of many places in America, including the erstwhile large cities and slum areas of the price system era. After having been toasted by a number of people, representing a number of sequences in that area, and after appetites were sated, we were again entertained by students from aboard the barge train, and, of course, by some local adult talent that had prepared some acts for the express purpose of entertaining the Delegates and the first travelers aboard the barge train (traveling the complete distance, from the Arctic Ocean to the Hudson Bay).
The plays were put on by the local adults, portraying, for the most part, historical events of the progress of technology and its adverse impact on the price system economy, coupled with the privation of the American people, who were producing such a vast array of products, in quantity, of the necessities of life, that it wrought havoc with their mode of social operation and caused industrial operations to come to a halt, resulting in the industrialized governments of North America jointly declaring martial law and delegating the military establishments of the United States and the provinces of Canada to maintain some semblance of order to stave off a condition of anarchy, in order that our technological productive equipment could be kept intact. The play ended with the military officials imploring the scientists and technicians to formulate a social control affording compatibility with technology. The glee club sang a song they had composed, titled "The Glory of Social Dynamic," which brought all the people to their feet. cast of high school students put on a play depicting a political convention. hen the curtains were drawn the scene opened with a group of people carrying placards while marching up and down and shouting, "We want McDougle!" Another group was attempting to drown them out by shouting, "We want Elsberg! We want Elsberg!" uring the noise and clatter, the chairman was attempting to restore order and quiet, by vigorously rapping a gavel on the lectern, and shouting at the top of his voice, "Will Senator Foghorn please come to the platform!" hen the senator stepped behind the podium, he placed an ld-fashioned megaphone to his mouth and shouted with all the energy of his vocal cords, "Be quiet out there, you all, so I can say mah peace! Now, I said, be quiet out there or I will call in the militia." When the noise abated somewhat, the senator spoke again through the megaphone and said, "Msta Chairman, Honorable Delegates, and mah friends. You arr mah friends? Why certainly you arr mah friends." When there was no clapping in response to his comment and query, he shouted, "All mah friends had better speak up and let me know that you arr mah friends, or ah will vote against the continuation of farm subsidies." After a threat of such dire consequence, everyone stood and sang, "For he's a jolly good fellow." Senator Foghorn said, "Yes, ah realizes that Elsberg is a Yankee, and that he has been attempting to get the support of organized labor. But seein' as how he is influential on the Naval Committee, and has been instrumental in the appropriation of large sums of money to help the backward countries of the world, which will help stabilize our economy, we are goin' to nominate Senator Elsberg for the presidency." A group of people who were led by Senator Lockhale stood displaying placards and shouting, "We want McDougle!" Senator Foghorn pointed a finger at Senator Lockhale and said, "See here, young man, ah am goin' to have to caucus with you and learn you the way of life around here." For several minutes thereafter, the whole thing was pandemonium. When the curtains dropped, a young man appeared on the platform and reminded us that the hour was late for more plays, but promised that the following night the same actors would put on a play depicting a session of Congress, where in the background lobbyists were running the show. He said eventually the group of actors would actually perform in the Chamber of Congress. The Delegates and everyone from the barge train had had a long and interesting day, and were soon back aboard the barge train and in bed.
On the two hundred and third day of the year I awoke to be informed by Captain Fisher that he had planned to travel during the night, but night travel had been canceled by a call from Continental Headquarters after I had retired. He informed me that both Her Majesty's Prime Minister and I were to return immediately to Topeka-that a plane was sitting on a landing strip nearby, and that Mr. Ditmor and I were to leave immediately after breakfast. Not knowing why Mr. Ditmor and I were being called away, I went ashore and placed a call to John Brooks. He said, "Her Majesty and the Parliament need Mr. Ditmor at a special session of Parliament." He reminded me of something that seemed of little importance at the time, and the whole thing had been crowded from my mind by more important events. It is difficult, when relating the events of a tour of such importance as is this one, to mention everything relating to it, and I confess I left something out. I failed to mention that all the nations of the world had requested the privilege of sending a Delegate or Delegates to inspect our Social Dynamic, with, of course, the exception of the governments of South America. Mr. Brooks informed me that our tour had become so widely publicized over the world that the governments of all the nations of South America would like to participate in what remained of the tour, and that they would like to meet with our Continental Board of Directors at the close of the tour. He said, "Due to some degree of timidity, on the part of those who had contacted Continental Headquarters, they had indicated that they would like an invitation personally extended by the Director of Foreign Relations." John Brooks informed me that the representatives of every nation of South America were waiting for me at Brasilia to discuss protocol prior to sending Delegates to North America. When I told the group of people at breakfast that I would be leaving for a time, and gave them the reason for my departure, they expressed their regrets at my having to leave, but were pleased that they were going to be joined by Delegates from additional countries. I had became so attached to the children, and they to me, that on my announcement of departure there were many sad little faces staring at me. Not only would I miss the children, but the thought of missing the pleasure and excitement of traveling on the Inland Waterway to the Hudson Bay was disappointing, to say the least. Yes, when breaking away from the children, I felt dejected.
Before boarding the plane, I instructed Tom Browning to at his discretion decide upon what mode of transportation to employ, or places to tour, after reaching the Hudson Bay, just so long as he and the Delegates arrived at Brownsville by the two hundred and fifteenth day of the year. I looked out the window of the plane with a feeling of sadness, and watched the barge train and the lake disappear. I had so come to love that whole landscape, with its unique terrain and numerous bodies of water.
To be continued.
This was chapter 14 - on to chapter 15