The Walking Delegate

"The Walking Delegate" by Leroy Scott is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around Tom Keating, a foreman in the ironworkers' union, who is embroiled in a power struggle against Buck Foley, the corrupt walking delegate. The narrative delves into themes of labor rights, integrity, and the personal and professional challenges faced by workers in a rapidly industrializing society. At the start of the novel, we find ourselves at the St. Etienne Hotel construction site, where Tom diligently oversees the work of his crew amidst harsh winter winds and the looming presence of Foley. As accidents and tensions mount, it becomes evident that the workers are increasingly frustrated with Foley's iron-fisted control and corruption within the union. The opening chapters introduce key characters and lay the groundwork for the evolving conflict between Tom's desire for honest representation and Foley’s self-serving tactics, setting the stage for a gripping tale of loyalty, struggle, and the quest for justice in the gritty world of labor.