John Pugh, railway worker, Seth Joshua, donkey driver, fighter and Frank Joshua, teacher were all converted in the Welsh valleys. Pugh became a dedicated pastor who planted and grew several large churches before becoming involved in the 'Forward Movement'. The Joshua brothers had independently, and with no training, started a venture of their own which saw great growth amongst the English language dominated industrial areas. It became the sort of pilot scheme that Pugh was looking for and they joined forces.

The title of the book is taken from Pugh's plan to reach the unchurched industrial wasteland of Splott, next to Cardiff. He advertised the fact that he wanted 'To secure men of GRACE, GRIT AND GUMPTION' for the work.