be impractical, we will lay down tracks in it
like we do in mines, and goods can be carried back and forth pulled by
only a couple of beasts. There will also be space for hand carts and
foot travel. There will have to be inns and guard posts buried in the
ground to supply the peoples' needs. But I'm sure it can all be done!"
39 The Engineers and Witches looked at his plans. "Lord!" they said,
"We had no idea your wisdom went into such things! We can find no fault
with your designs and your choice of location is excellent!
40 The passage between Tr and Mu is the perfect place! It is the
narrowest of the desert crossings. The mountains in this region will
provide us with excellent building material! But is not ten seasons an
unreasonable time to build such a project? Twice that would be more
appropriate."
41 "There is need for work in the land," explained Brown Goat. "We can
employ every poor person in our own territories and The Muans and The
Zoams and the people from Fr and those kingdoms below Zo. ALL are
having hard times.
42 I'm sure we can gain financial help from the rulers of these lands
if they know they will be getting most of the money back in wages to
their people. We will obtain loans, I am sure, from every city and village. Some,
perhaps, will even buy a percentage of future profits. The renting of
inn space, and merchant space, along the routes will guarantee a good
profit.
43 This project will NOT be a burden to us, but should be a benefit to
all lands."
44 So it was, the greatest engineering project of their day was begun.
The main tunnel and the ventillation tunnel were begun. They were
started in the mid- point of the desert, and built out towards their
destinations. Sometimes, men stayed sealed in the tunnels