One of these was partly in frame; and I at once tackled with it and the men.

Mr.Hickson, the acting partner, not being practically acquainted with the business, the whole proceeding connected with the building of the ships devolved upon me.
I had been engaged to supersede a manager summarily dismissed.
Although he had not given satisfaction to his employers, he was a great favourite with the men.

Accordingly, my appearance as manager in his stead was not very agreeable to the employed.

On inquiry I found that the rate of wages paid was above the usual value, whilst the quantity as well as quality of the work done were below the standard.

I proceeded to rectify these defects, by paying the ordinary rate of wages, and then by raising the quality of the work done.