As you can see, it is much simpler to operate one of these automatic machines than it is to typewrite a legal document--or make a dress." Together they looked up the long aisle at the double line of workers in their creams and browns, their fingers deftly placing the blanks in position and removing the finished discs.

Somewhere, unseen, a phonograph started playing a lively tune.
"Where do they get their flowers ?" asked one of the guests, noticing that each woman was wearing a rose or a carnation.
"They find them in their locker rooms every morning," said Mary.

"They usually sing when the phonograph plays," she added, "but perhaps they feel nervous--at having company--" This was confirmed when they left the room, for as they stood in the hallway first a hum was heard behind them here and there, and soon a mellow toned chorus arose.
"They certainly seem happy," said one of the visitors.
"They are," said Mary.

"And, indeed, why shouldn't they be?
Their work is light and interesting; they are paid well; and more than anything else, I think, they all know they are making something useful--something tangible--something they can look upon with satisfaction and pride." They ascended a stairway and suddenly the scene changed.

Below, the work had been cast as though in a light staccato key, but here the music for the machinery had a more powerful note.
"These are the oscillating grinders," said Mary, raising her voice above the skirling symphony.