"I believe I am not called upon to disclose my source of information,"
he said with chilling dignity. "It appears to have been trustworthy. I
presume you have 'phoned me concerning the appropriation matter. I do
not recognize your right to intrude in that affair, and I shall decline
to discuss it. Yes, sir. To my people, to those who have a right to
question, I am and shall always be willing to explain my position. Good
night."

"Wait! Hello! Hold on a minute. Don't get mad, Heman. I only wanted to
say just a word. You'll let me say a word, won't you?"

This was more like it. This was more nearly the tone in which Mr. Atkins
was wont to be addressed. It was possible that the man, recognizing the
uselessness of further opposition, desired to surrender.

"I cannot," declared the Honorable, "understand why you should wish to
speak with me. We have very little in common, very little, I'm thankful
to say. However, I will hear you briefly. Go on."

"Much obliged. Well, Heman, I only wanted to say that I thought maybe
you'd better have a little talk with me. I'm here at the hotel, the
Regent. You know where 'tis, I presume likely. I guess you'd better come
right down and see me."

Heman gasped, actually gasped, with astonishment.

"_I_ had better come and see YOU? I--! Well, sir! WELL! I am not
accustomed--"

"I know, but I think you'd better. It's dirty weather, and I've got cold