"He hardly fancied it at first, but he fell in love with it after a bit.

And we have made a compact, too. I am to keep his secret and he is to

spare me, in future, when he gets ready to denounce the supporters of the

University bill--and I can easily believe he will keep his word on this

occasion."

A fortnight elapsed, and the University bill had gathered to itself many

friends, meantime. Senator Dilworthy began to think the harvest was

ripe. He conferred with Laura privately. She was able to tell him

exactly how the House would vote. There was a majority--the bill would

pass, unless weak members got frightened at the last, and deserted--a

thing pretty likely to occur. The Senator said:

"I wish we had one more good strong man. Now Trollop ought to be on our

side, for he is a friend of the negro. But he is against us, and is our

bitterest opponent. If he would simply vote No, but keep quiet and not

molest us, I would feel perfectly cheerful and content. But perhaps

there is no use in thinking of that."

Why I laid a little plan for his benefit two weeks ago. I think he will

be tractable, maybe. He is to come here tonight."

Look out for him, my child! He means mischief, sure. It is said that

he claims to know of improper practices having been used in the interest

of this bill, and he thinks he sees a chance to make a great sensation

when the bill comes up. Be wary. Be very, very careful, my dear.

436

The Gilded Age