uncle, my dears, will never allow you to come to want. Pin your faith
to the old man. Why, we'll wallow in the fat of the land until the
grass comes again, gentle Annie. Gentlemen, if you are gentlemen,
which I doubt like hell, salute the victor!" The refreshment was
brought in, and before the session adjourned, they had lowered the
contents of a black bottle of private stock by several fingers.

The announcement of the candidacy of Mr. Louis Seigerman in the next
week's paper (by aid of the accompanying fiver which went with the
"copy") encouraged the editor, that others might follow, to write a
short, favorable editorial. The article spoke of Mr. Seigerman as a
leading citizen, who would fill the office with credit to himself and
the community. The trio read this short editorial to Louie daily for
the first week. All three were now putting their feet under the table
with great regularity, and doing justice to the vintage on invitation.
The back room became a private office for the central committee of
four. They were able political managers. The campaign was beginning
to be active, but no adverse reports were allowed to reach the
candidate's ears. He actually had no opposition, so the reports came
in to the central committee.

It was even necessary to send out Arab Ab to points on the railroad
to get the sentiments of this and that community, which were always
favorable. Funds for these trips were forced on them by the candidate.
The thought of presenting a board bill to such devoted friends never
entered mine host's mind. Thus several months passed.

The warm sun and green blades of grass suggested springtime. The
boys had played the rôle as long as they cared to. It had served the
purpose that was intended. But they must not hurt the feelings of