atisfied the rumsellers who sold, the rum-drinkers who drank, and the
radicals who have boasted of the law, for all have got out of it what
results were desired: appetite was catered to, vanity was satisfied, and
graft engendered for the benefit of the office-holding class.

"I'm not going to predict what I think will be the result of this
enforcement--not now. What I propose to do as an honest man is to put
the prohibitory profession of this State to the test. When this is law,
Luke Presson cannot pose as an honest man and continue to sell liquor to
all-comers, he cannot bribe sheriff and police; I'll send my own men to
smash every bottle in his place, and I'll put him into just as dark a
cell as any Cheap John who peddles poison from his boot-leg. The rich
man must stand on the level of the poor man. It's the test of our
State's honesty--that bill is--and it shall be called 'The Thornton
Law.'"

He arose, and placed the document in Harlan's hand.

The young man received it rather gingerly. He held it with somewhat the
appearance of one who has the custody of a loaded weapon. His face
expressed consternation rather than appreciation.

"Study the measure. I think you'll find it interesting. Introduce it in
the House day after to-morrow. Our gallant lawmakers will be sleepy
after the ball. That will wake 'em up." The old man's nostrils dilated.
He had the air of one who saw battle ahead and yearned for it.

"Move that it be referred to the Committee on Temperance," the Governor
went on. "The fight will be on then and there, just as soon as they get
their breath. They'll want to get it before a _safer_ gang! Let 'em
refer it to the Judiciary Committee if they've got the votes to do so.
I'm not afraid they'll find any constitutional flaws. And that first
vote will give me a line on the general situation. I'll find out just
what men need to have the gospel put to 'em straight!"

"Governor," stammered the young man, still holding the document at
arm's-length, "wouldn't it be--don't you think a--a--some representative
who has had more experience than I should be the one to see this bill
through?"

"I want that bill sponsored by a man that I can trust absolutely. I'm
sure of you, Harlan! When once it is introduced I'll see that you have
plenty of help before the committee and on the floor."

It had come like a thunderclap on a moonlit night. It was sudden tempest
prefaced by the lull of perfect calm. It was the signal