Up to that time, however, it must be confessed, the curiosity of the numerous comers was but scantily gratified. Most had counted upon witnessing the spectacle of the casting, and they were treated to nothing but smoke. This was sorry food for hungry eyes; but Barbicane would admit no one to that operation. Then ensued grumbling, discontent,murmurs; they blamed the president, taxed him with dictatorial conduct. His proceedings were declared"un-American." There was very nearly a riot round Stones Hill; but Barbicane remained inflexible. When,however, the Columbiad was entirely finished, this state of closed doors could no longer be maintained;besides it would have been bad taste, and even imprudence, to affront the public feeling. Barbicane, therefore, opened the enclosure to all comers; but,true to his practical disposition, he determined to coin money out of the public curiosity.
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