Meanwhile, a storm whips up on the river and a thick fog clutches at the boats, but none of them can see the flashing light high atop the bridge, and without the lighthouse's light or bell, the "fat black tug" crashes upon the rocks nearby. The bridge calls to the lighthouse saying that its light is for aircraft, and reassures it that it is still needed, "each to his own place." The man finally arrives, in a rush and complaining about his being late was due to some boys stealing his keys. The lighthouse resumes its job, warning the boats throughout the storm and fog, and glad it still has work to do. Though it now knows that it is small, it is still very proud.