conditions here in Warwick; and I became very much interested, for
municipal reform is one of my hobbies. Wherever I 've lived, I 've
always been against the machine, at least to the extent of my vote.
Miss Wycliffe told me that you were trying to break up the clique that
has ruled Warwick since the war; and when she saw how much she had
enlisted my sympathy, she proposed that we become acquainted. That's
how I happened to send a message to you by the captain. I did n't know
when you were likely to be most at liberty." He paused, and flicked
the ashes from his cigar. "I feel guilty to think that I have stolen
some of your time, when I have nothing to give you in return but good
wishes."

It was impossible to guess whether Emmet were surprised or disappointed
at this disclosure of the comparative futility of his visit.

"Good wishes," he said, "are always worth having, and especially from
this college, for I tell you there are mighty few men connected with
this place that wish me well."

Leigh, remembering the bishop and Cardington, did not doubt the truth
of this declaration. He wondered what his colleague would surmise
should he come in at that moment. The situation would be complicated,
and would no doubt gain in interest, but it was an interest he was
content to forego. He was impressed by a hint of passion and
resentment in his guest's voice, restrained as by one not entirely sure
of his hearer.

In Leigh's attitude there was no affectation. He was genuinely
interested in the situation, and he brought to it all a Westerner's
lack of class prejudice, all his appreciation of a man for his