William Steinway’s diary: “At 12 o’clock am called upon by Geo. H. McVey and Joseph Helback of Exec. Comite of pianomakers who bring me official notification that our men will only work 8 hours pr day after May 1^st +c. Compel them to sign that the matter of wages is to be left to the agreement of employer & employeуs.” Having that document, William Steinway can legally tell his workers that fewer work hours means less money for them. During the next few days, the majority of Steinway & Sons employees will vote in favor of 10 hours workday – except the varnishers, who will continue to demand 8 hours work with 10 hours pay.