Page:American Boy's Life of William McKinley.djvu/218

182 $5000 a year as a congressman, McKinley paid back these loans. Later on, other loans were made, to help defray campaign expenses, but these likewise were promptly paid when they fell due.

As McKinley became better known, his campaign expenses decreased, and by the time he left Congress he had saved up something like $20,000, which he invested in securities and real estate, thinking to lay up a little for "a rainy day," which was both wise and praiseworthy. At this time his wife possessed property worth $75,000, left to her by her parents.

Soon after McKinley became governor Mr. Walker came to him and said he was hard pressed for cash.

"I used to help you out," he said. "I would like you to do the same for me. Indorse these notes, and I will get them discounted at the bank at once."

McKinley had never been in the habit of indorsing notes for anybody, for he knew what bitter trials such actions often produce. Yet here was his old friend asking him the favor, and how could he refuse him? Moreover, to the best of his belief,