Page:Despotism and democracy; a study in Washington society and politics (IA despotismdemocra00seawiala).pdf/293

 Senator Bicknell raised her hand to his lips and kissed it gallantly.

"My dear lady," he said, "I am glad to oblige your husband, and I believe he will render a full equivalent for whatever he makes out of this transaction. And I have frankly told him that I think our co-operation in business will be a good thing for me politically. But the day I spent at your house, the kind hospitality to your husband's friend, the sweetness of your home, the excellent behaviour of your children, quickened very much the interest I felt in Mr. Crane, and it was a factor in my effort to serve him. Come now, Crane," said the Senator, tapping him on the shoulder, "all I ask is that when I am up for re-election, if you choose to contest the election with me, you will please leave Mrs. Crane at home. If ever she enters into the campaign, I am lost."

"She will enter the campaign, but it will be for you," replied Annette.

Crane then pulled himself together, and again expressed his appreciation of Senator Bicknell's kindness, and asked when they could meet to go into