Page:Melville Davisson Post--The Man of Last Resort.djvu/82

58 returned with the tumor dissected out, and the hope of life big in his bosom. The world was an entirely different place from what it had been some hours before, and the gambler's steps were firmer, and his ancient careless spirit had returned.

At this moment, as it pleased Fate, a cab stopped before a broker's office on the opposite-side of the street, and the Governor stepped out. The gambler darted across and caught his companion by the shoulder. The Governor turned suddenly.

“Well,” he said, in astonishment, “is this an assault ?”

“No,” said the gambler. “It's worse than that, Al. It's a mandamus. You are not to go in that broker's office.”

“Not to go in?” echoed the Executive. “Why not?”

“Al,” said the gambler, grinning like a Hindoo idol, “I said this here was a mandamus. I guess the judge don't ever explain 'why not' in a mandamus.”

“Good chancellor,” replied the Governor, with mock gravity, “I resist the order.”