d
upon me an hour or so later by an enterprising office-seeker, to whom,
in my enfeebled state, I fell an easy prey--I endorsed his application
for the Nova Zembla consulship."

IV

AN ACCIDENT--DINNER

Colonel Manysnifters's story was very thirst-provoking, and President
Madison, our grinning drink-mixer, had a busy half-hour of it. It was
now about seven o'clock and we were again overtaken by the storm, which
hurled itself upon us, fairly rocking the car in its violence. The
train, which had been proceeding slowly and jerkily, now came to a full
stop. An avalanche of snow, earth, and loose stones had fallen at the
end of a deep cut. Had we been going at any speed an awful catastrophe
would have resulted. As it was we were barely moving when we ran into
the obstruction. It would be hours before the track could be cleared,
and there was no relief in sight. Fortunately, we were well provisioned,
and could stand a siege of a day or so in any event. The brakeman set
out on his long, hard journey to the nearest telegraph station, swinging
his lantern, and swearing picturesquely. Every precaution was taken to
guard the train against further accident. Our party accepted the
inevitable philosophically. Dinner was announced, and amid the good
things provided by our chef we soon forgot our mishap.

[Illustration: President Madison.]

"Now, gentlemen," said Colonel Manysnifters genially, between the soup
and fish, "let's cut out golf, religion, baseball, and politics, and get
down to serious subjects. Senator, what is the best poker hand you ever
held?"

Senator Wendell, thus addressed, said, with a far-away look in his eyes,
"Let me see, let me see. Oh, I remember now; it happened twice--three
times--or was it three times? Twice I will swear to."

"How's that?"

"I say it happened twice; I am positive of it--and before the draw,
too."

"Who was dealing?" asked the Colonel eagerly.

"Poker stories barred," said Senator Baker sternly. "Remember,
gentlemen, that this is a non-partisan gathering; not only that, but
some of us know absolutely nothing about the game. And yet, and yet,"
said he thoughtfully, as if to himself, "it _is_ a fascinating subject.
Why, on one occasion,--I will never forget it,--being right under the
guns, I passed without looking at my hand. The man next to me opened the
pot, and all the rest stayed. I picked up my cards carelessly, and
imagine my delight when I found that I had----"