carpet which covered the floor.

"Am I to understand then that you will renominate Williams? Let me
say now that there is strong opposition to him in the Council and he
may fail of confirmation. Will you send Venton's name in then?"

"I think I should send Mr. Williams' name in again."

"But, suppose he is turned down the second time?" asked Mr. Evans.

"I think I should continue sending in his name until good and
sufficient reasons were given for his rejection. This is not a voting
contest between two nominees. I am convinced Mr. Williams is the best
man for the place. Such being my opinion, to withdraw his name, would
be a self-stultification, and, to speak plainly,"--and his jaw was
firmly set,--"an acknowledgment that the Council is a stronger arm of
the government than the Chief Executive."

Mr. Evans was evidently indignant. "Well, Mr. Venton is backed by men
who contribute heartily for campaign expenses. If you can get along
without their aid this fall have your man Williams," and Mr. Evans
strode from the room with a curt "Good-morning."

The private secretary laid some papers on the governor's desk. The
first one that he examined conferred certain valuable privileges, in
perpetuity, upon a corporation without requiring any compensation for
the franchise. The property thus alienated from public use had been
paid for by the people's money. In response to a vigorous push on an
electric button, the private secretary appeared.