Call again to-morrow at this hour, then he will give you his decision."

That got rid of number two. The third man was asked to leave his name
and address; the editor would write to him. Number four was told that
if he would set down his proposition in writing, and send it in to Mr.
Hardwick, it would have that gentleman's serious consideration. The
fifth man was not so easily disposed of. He insisted upon seeing the
editor, and presently disappeared inside with the clerk. Miss Baxter
smiled at the rapid dispersion of the group, for it reminded her of the
rhyme about the one little, two little, three little nigger-boys. But
all the time there kept running through her mind the phrase, "Board of
Public Construction," and the name, "Hazel."

After a few minutes, the persistent man who had insisted upon seeing the
editor came through the general waiting-room, the secretary, or clerk,
or whoever he was, following him.

"Has your name been sent in, madam?" the young man asked Miss Baxter, as
she rose. "I think not," answered the girl. "Would you take my card to
Mr. Hardwick, and tell him I will detain him but a few moments?"

In a short time the secretary reappeared, and held the door open for
her.




CHAPTER II.

JENNIE HAS IMPORTANT CONFERENCES WITH TWO IMPORTANT EDITORS.