After the operative is through with his work for the day, he must make it his business to meet his fellowemployees, talk with them, "treat them to the drinks," and cultivate their friendship. By being around wtfi the men evenings, he soon learns their attitude toward the client, and whether they are contented with conditions. If no union exists, but there are strong advo-
lo The Pinkerton Labor Spy.
cates of one, the operative reports the names of these men as "Dangerous Union Agitators," and within a few days they are discharged on some pretext.
However, if the operative finds that a union is in existence, and that many of the client's employees belong to it, his instructions are to assume the role of an ardent union man, join the union, and report to the client the nature of the proceedings of every meeting, and the names of all members. The client then begins to discharge his union employees on different excuses, and fills their places with non-union men. It frequently happens that the union notices the discrimination practiced and orders a strike as a last resort to save the organization.
During the progress of the strike, the services of the secret operative are more valuable than ever, for he keeps the client posted as to the strength, doings and intentions of the strikers, and this information, in nine cases out of ten, decides the victory in favor of the client, and forces the men to sue for peace on any terms.
After things quiet down and conditions again become normal, it is but good business policy for the client to retain the secret operative in his employ indefinitely, as he considers him a necessary tool in the conduct of his business.
There are some secret operatives who have been in the employ of the Agency many years, and who have become wonderfully proficient as