A trusted associate's unexplained absence threatens a critical construction project and raises suspicions for a man accustomed to control. Babcock, a man of routine and authority, finds his plans disrupted when Tom Grogan, his dependable boatman, fails to deliver a crucial load of stone. The delay of three days for a scow meant for the Lighthouse Department's sea-wall project creates an immediate problem, forcing Babcock to confront the uncharacteristic unreliability of his long-time associate and the potential consequences for his reputation and the project's timeline.

The narrative appears to focus on a specific incident of professional disruption and the ensuing tension. The premise suggests a character-driven story exploring themes of reliability, responsibility, and the consequences of unexpected failures in a professional context. The pacing likely builds as Babcock grapples with the delay and the mystery of Grogan's absence. The story seems poised to explore the dynamics between employer and employee when established trust is broken.