A Contractor Tried to Quit a School Job Because the Ground Was Too Dangerous

Mr. James Parks, who had been given the contract by the school board to build a bulwark on the South school grounds and prevent the bank from breaking away and endangering the building, had evidently tired of his job. Finding it more difficult than he had bargained for, he was so thoroughly discouraged that he attempted to throw up the contract, according to the following letter, which he sent to the school board on Friday: 'You are hereby notified that I refuse to proceed with the work on the South grounds under the plans, for the following reasons: First—The condition of the earth makes it very hazardous for the work to be carried out. Second—The engineer agrees with me that the safety of the building is apt to be endangered if the work is carried out according to the plans and specifications. I would like an answer to this today, as it is a pity to delay the work when the weather is fine.' A. P. Burwell, president of the school board, when seen by a Post-Intelligencer reporter last evening, said that the board had held two sessions Saturday in regard to the matter, at which Mr. Parks was present, and they resulted in Mr. Parks withdrawing his letter and agreeing to go on with his contract under the original plans.