The Machine That Challenged the Horses Part 2

While Hollen's mechanics tore into the wheels at Plant One, Ernest went out to learn the business of farming.

He didn't want textbook theories or government pamphlets. He wanted real numbers. Arthur arranged a meeting with Sir Edmund Harcourt, an estate owner out west who farmed hundreds of acres of grain. Harcourt kept dozens of workhorses and occasionally hired massive steam engines to help with the autumn harvest.

When Ernest arrived at the estate, Harcourt met them by the barns. He was a broad, sunburnt man in his fifties with dirt on his boots—someone who actually walked his own fields.

"Lord Teucher," Harcourt said, shaking his hand firmly. "Word travels fast. People say you're trying to put my horses out of work."

"Not necessarily," Ernest said with a smile. "I'm just trying to see where a motor might help."

Harcourt led them into his farm office, cleared away a stack of grain receipts, and opened his ledgers.