ection to confide to you
such plans as I have been able to formulate. Judge Leslie advised me to
play about in society, in Washington, but I was in no humor for anything
of the sort. I had uncommon opportunities to study men and conditions,
and I took full advantage of them. I doubt if I shall vote until the
next Presidential election. Then, if an independent party of consequence
has not been formed, and I see no prospect of working up one in this
State, I shall vote the Democratic ticket. As things stand at present,
it is the less of two evils, and would at least accomplish a reduction
of the tariff, and something towards a redistribution of wealth. I
haven't the least doubt that the Democrats, if they get in--unless they
have a really good man up their sleeve--will abuse their power quite as
much as the Republicans have done; but that will take some time; and
meanwhile a new party is sure to grow up, for the best men in the
country are thoroughly roused. There's no doubt on that point--and it is
a point you would do well to remember. There have been chapters before
in the world's history when right has paid."

"For a while," said Colton, dubiously. "The point is now that you are
likely to join the Democrats."

"To vote with them. Theirs are the soundest principles. I stick to that
point."

"I don't question it. I only wish elections weren't two years off; I'd
like to get to work." He took a bag of peanuts from his pocket and began
to munch thoughtfully. "But you are turning me off. What do you mean
exactly?"

"I shall have nothing to do with the machine. I shall speak and make
propaganda, that is all. My object is not so much to get the Democrats
in as the Republicans out. I shall do nothing to split the Democratic
party--and play a losing game--unless a really great movement should
rise, gather strength, and sweep the country. It is on the cards that
there will be such a movement, and I throw myself into it the moment I
am persuaded the split will not work to the advantage of the
Republicans."

"How much enthusiasm have you pumped up?"

"Enthusiasm!" Gwynne's eyes roved over his "fair domain." Isabel, at
least, was not far from its borders! "I cannot say that I am at
boiling-point, but I don't fancy that matters much. I have my work cut
out and I shall do it. Perhaps I shall work more disinterestedly without
enthusiasm. Certainly I shall be more clear-sighted. If ever there was a
time in the history of a coun