Page:Despotism and democracy; a study in Washington society and politics (IA despotismdemocra00seawiala).pdf/98

 her in a cab, got in myself, and took her home. I thought she would box my ears before I got there, but I carried my point."

"She told me about it—she tells me everything; and I thank you for taking care of the child. You may imagine what I suffer on her account."

Senator Standiford rose then, and, resting both hands on his old-fashioned gold-headed stick, he looked full into Thorndyke's face, and said, slowly:

"I hope we understand each other, Mr. Thorndyke. We think you a very strong man, and strong men are liable to become dangerous. The State organisation wishes you to remain where you are. But in the event that I should be re-elected and should be forced to resign, I have no hesitation in saying that unless something unforeseen happens you would certainly have my personal good wishes toward getting you the party nomination for Senator."

"I understand you perfectly, Senator," replied Thorndyke, with equal coolness, "and though I admit I think it a shameful state of affairs that any organisation or any man should have the power to dispose of any man's political future, yet it is a