must insist upon," continued the
manufacturer of straw hats. "My arm might prove unequal to a task that
will create no ordinary sensation. But if you succeeded in winning over
Erdblatt and Sand to the scheme, it would prosper without fail and
without much noise."

"I shall do so with pleasure, Mr. Schwefel! Both those gentlemen will,
in all probability, call on me today in relation to matters of
business. It will be for me a pleasing consciousness to have aided in
obtaining merited recognition for Hans Shund."

"Our agreement is, however, to be kept strictly secret from the
public."

"Of course, of course!"

"You will not forget, at the same time, Mr. Greifmann, that our very
extraordinary undertaking will necessitate greater than ordinary
outlay. It is a custom among laborers not to work on the day before
election, and the same on election day itself. Yet, in order to keep
them in good humor, they must get wages the same as if they had worked.
This is for the manufacturer no insignificant disadvantage. Moreover,
workingmen and doubtful voters, require to be stimulated with beer
gratis--another tax on our purses."

"How high do these expenses run?" asked the millionaire.

"For Sand, Erdblatt, and myself, they never fall short of twelve
hundred florins."

"That would make each one's share of the costs four hundred florins."

Taking a five-hundred florin banknote between his thumb and forefinger,
the banker reached it carelessly to the somewhat puzzled leader.

"My contribution to the promotion of the interests of progress! I shall
give as much to Messrs. Sand and Erdblatt."

"Many thanks, Mr. Greifmann!" said Schwefel, pocketing the money with
satisfaction.

The millionaire drew himself up. "I have no doubt," said he, in his
former cold and haughty tone, "that my recommendation will secure your
establishment the custom already alluded to."

"I entertain a similar confidence in your influence, and will take the
liberty of commending myself most respectfully to your favor." Bowing
frequently, Schwefel retreated backwards towards the door, and
disappeared. Greifmann stepped to the open entrance of the side
apartment. There sat the youthful landholder, his head resting heavily
on his hand. He looked up, and Carl's smiling face was met by a pair of
stern, almost fierce eyes.

"Have you heard, friend Seraphin?" asked he triumphantly.

"Yes--and what I have heard surpasses everything. You have bargained
with