Page:Melville Davisson Post--The Man of Last Resort.djvu/40

16 “Charmed,” replied the Governor.

“Ah,” said the Major, with great ceremony, “you may be charmed, sir, but to me, sir, yuur face wears the haunted look of one who holds three nines against what he strongly suspects to be a pat hand.”

“Sage,” said the Governor, bowing, “I tremble for my hidden thoughts.”

“You 're a fool,” said the Major, stepping up beside the Executive. “I want to know where you are going.”

“I!” said the Governor, “I am going to the southeast. Do you see that little railroad? I am even now about to commit myself to its irresponsible mercies.”

“You must not go, Al,” continued the Auditor. “Attend, I will nominate the reasons. First, there is a julep party at my palatial residence.”

“Insufficient,” said the Governor.

“Second, there is a strike at the Big Injin.”

“Insufficient,” said the Governor.

“And third,” continued the Auditor, lowering his voice, “Honorable Ambercrombie Hergan is at this very hour in the second room of