Eight o'clock in the morning, Chicago. Poul, Sara, and representatives from various electric lighting companies had been waiting for about two hours for the World's Fair Council to begin their presentations.
As anticipation filled the air, Poul glanced at Sara, giving her an encouraging smile. She nodded back, trying to ease her nerves. This was a crucial moment, and they knew the competition would be fierce.
Ten minutes later, a tall figure emerged from the council chamber door and called out, "Mr. Russell of the Russell Illumination Company, please come forward."
Poul noticed James Russell confidently stepping forward with an air of self-assurance. He took a deep breath and turned his attention back to Sara.
"This is it."James Russell and Sam Insull entered the chamber where the man who had called them introduced them to the council members.
"Mr. Russell, this is the council member responsible for overseeing the World's Fair that will be held in our beloved state. Charles Schwab, Craig Cannon, William Carleigh, Mayor Cregier, Victor Lawson from the Chicago Daily News, and the Honorable Judge Tree."
"Mr. Russell, we'd want you to keep your remarks to one hour as we have a lot to go through today," the council member advised.
With a nod of acknowledgment, James Russell began his presentation, highlighting the achievements of the Russell Illumination Company and the cutting-edge technology they planned to showcase at the fair. He spoke eloquently, captivating the council members with his vision and plans.
He talked about the safety of using their system compared to Axelsen & Nielsen Electric Company, presenting evidence such as the time when he had used alternating current to execute horses, monkeys, cats, and dogs.
"Should you choose Axelsen and Nielsen Electric Manufacturing Company, then…yes, there is a possibility you'll be putting the lives of 30 million people in jeopardy. While we acknowledge that their technology has seen significant advancements over the years, it's crucial to understand the potential consequences of even the smallest errors, unintentional of course. Imagine a scenario where a visiting politician, an esteemed ambassador, a loving spouse, or even an innocent six-year-old child leans against a lamp post powered by Axelsen and Nielsen's system. In the event of a malfunction, the consequences could be catastrophic and immediate."
"And by that you mean?" The Honorable Judge Tree asked, prompting Russell to clarify."They'll be struck dead immediately as thousands of volts surge through their bodies," James Russell responded with a somber tone. "Such a tragedy would not only affect the individual involved but could also lead to panic and chaos among the fair attendees, potentially endangering many more lives."
The council members exchanged concerned glances, realizing the gravity of the potential risk.
"So, it's better that you should grant the contract of lighting the world's fair to Russell Illumination Company as our system may be costly, but safe enough that those visiting the fair can have complete peace of mind," James Russell continued confidently, seizing the opportunity to highlight the advantages of his company's technology.
"There you have it, Axelsen and Nielsen Electric Manufacturing Company's brand of electricity is fatal. Thank you, Mr. Russell," Mayor Cregier interjected, his tone firm yet respectful. "I believe we have heard enough of your presentation for now. We will take your proposal into careful consideration during our deliberations."
James Russell nodded graciously, "Thank you for the opportunity to present our technology to the esteemed council. We are confident that our system can provide a spectacular and safe lighting experience for the Chicago World's Fair."
With that, Mayor Cregier motioned for James Russell and Sam Insull to leave the chamber, "Please excuse us now, and we will call in the next company for their presentation."
As James Russell and Sam Insull exited the room, they glanced at Poul and Sara, he nodded at them before leaving the building.
"It took him thirty minutes to present," Poul commented, his tone musing.
"Axelsen & Nielsen Electric Manufacturing Company, you are the next company to present their bids. Please, enter the chamber," the man announced.
"It's my turn now, Sara. Just wait for me here okay? I won't even take a minute," Poul winked and then entered the chamber where he saw the council members of the World's Fair Council.
"Mr. Nielsen, this is the council member responsible for overseeing the World's Fair that will be held in our beloved state. Charles Schwab, Craig Cannon, William Carleigh, Mayor Cregier, Victor Lawson from the Chicago Daily News, and the Honorable Judge Tree."
"Mr. Nielsen, one of the brightest minds of Avalonia, it's an honor to see you," Mayor Cregier said.
Poul smiled, and he addressed the esteemed council members.
"Thank you for the warm welcome, Mayor Cregier, and distinguished members of the World's Fair Council. It is truly an honor to be here today and have the opportunity to present our vision for the Chicago World's Fair."
He then handed the council members his bid, containing the estimates of the costs, detailed plans for the lighting installations, and the benefits of Axelsen & Nielsen Electric Manufacturing Company's alternating current system.
The Honorable Judge Tree spoke before glancing at the bid.
"Uhm…Mr. Nielsen, respectfully, we ask that you please keep your remarks to one hour."
"That won't be necessary," Poul said confidently.
"So these are your costs?"
"That is correct," Poul said. "They are independent estimates."
"It's quite lower than we expected," Charles remarked. "In that case, let us begin with the most general question. Why should we grant the Axelsen and Nielsen Electric Manufacturing Company the contract for the World's Fair?
"That is because our alternating current system works significantly better in many aspects. For starters, our technology boasts higher efficiency, which translates to reduced energy losses during transmission and distribution. This efficiency not only saves costs but also ensures a more sustainable and eco-friendly approach to powering the World's Fair. So in short, it is better and cheaper."
The council members exchanged glances at one another.
"Is that all?" One of them asked.
"Yes, that is all," Poul concluded as he approached them and shook their hands. "Thank you for your time, Mr. Schwab, Mr. Cannon, Mr. Carleigh, Mayor Cregier, Mr. Lawson, and Judge. It has been an honor to present our proposal to such esteemed individuals."
After that, he left the chamber, his presentation only lasted under a minute.
