fortunes have been made in the railroad business, but no more than in the iron, coal, lumber, and manufacturing businesses, if as much. They are the capital prizes in the lottery of life that are open to every ambitious American. But of the great army of railroad-owners, officers, and employees, a very small proportion obtain more than enough for their daily living, whatever their position in society may be, and some saving for old age and their children outside of that.
As a rule, the railroad officer or employee is as conscientious, high-minded, and devoted to the interest that employs him as any man in any other walk of life, and he appreciates that the best interests of his employer are served by building up the tributary country, which can be done only by adjusting rates and giving service that will develop the natural resources. He is also fair-minded and anxious to be fair and square with the user of the railroad, as well as with the company, because he realizes that the greatest success to the company comes from fair treatment to the patron; in
