In this dilemma, an old friend, a foreman on the Clyde, came over to Belfast to see me.

After hearing my story, and considering the difficulties I had to encounter, he advised me at once to "throw up the job!" My reply was, that "having mounted a restive horse, I would ride him into the stable." Notwithstanding the advice of my friend, I held on.

The comparatively few men in the works, as well as those out, no doubt observed my determination.

The obstacles were no doubt great; the financial difficulties were extreme; and yet there was a prospect of profit from the work in hand, provided only the men could be induced to settle steadily down to their ordinary employment.

I gradually gathered together a number of steady workmen, and appointed suitable foremen.