Page:Despotism and democracy; a study in Washington society and politics (IA despotismdemocra00seawiala).pdf/82

 "S. M. & L. stock must be going down when you ride in a street-car."

"I lost one of my coach-horses last night," replied Senator Bicknell, "and can't use my carriage to-day."

"Misfortunes never come singly," said Senator Standiford, enigmatically, then adding, "I suppose it's in order to congratulate you on the success of your protégé, Crane, to-day?"

Thorndyke could scarcely keep from laughing at the look of chagrin which came over Senator Bicknell's countenance at this.

"Y-yes," he answered, dubiously.

"Don't get in a panic," kept on Senator Standiford, with rude good-humour; "I know how it is with those fellows. Crane thinks from this day forth that you are a back number, an old fogy, and a dead cock in the pit. He will go into what he considers a grooming process for the next four years—oh, I know those fellows! He will kick up a lot of dust in the gubernatorial convention, will make a great display of not wanting the nomination, and will bide his time until your term expires. Then he will find it is a grueling and not a groom