The Lion and the Mouse; a Story of an American Life by Charles Klein
page 22 of 330 (06%)
page 22 of 330 (06%)
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"Hello, Senator!"
"You're punctual as usual, Mr. Ryder. I never knew you to be late!" The great man chuckled, and the little men standing around, listening breathlessly, chuckled in respectful sympathy, and they elbowed and pushed one another in their efforts to attract Ryder's notice, like so many cowardly hyenas not daring to approach the lordly wolf. Senator Roberts made a remark in a low tone to Ryder, whereupon the latter laughed. The bystanders congratulated each other silently. The great man was pleased to be in a good humour. And as Ryder turned with the senator to enter the Directors Room the light from the big windows fell full on his face, and they noticed that his eyes were of the softest blue. "No squalls to-day," whispered one. "Wait and see," retorted a more experienced colleague. "Those eyes are more fickle than the weather." Outside the sky was darkening, and drops of rain were already falling. A flash of lightning presaged the coming storm. Ryder passed on and into the Directors Room followed by Senator Roberts and the other directors, the procession being brought up by the dapper little secretary bearing the minutes. The long room with its narrow centre table covered with green baize was filled with directors scattered in little groups and all |
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