"Social--so far as I could observe," Poundstone replied truthfully,
wondering just how much Pennington knew, and rather apprehensive that
he might get caught in a lie before the evening was over.

"Preliminary to the official visit, I dare say."

The Colonel puffed thoughtfully for a while--for which the Mayor was
grateful, since it provided time in which to organize himself.
Suddenly, however, Pennington turned toward his guest and fixed the
latter with a serious glance.

"I hadn't anticipated discussing this matter with you, Poundstone,
and you must forgive me for it; but the fact is--I might as well be
frank with you--I am very greatly interested in the operation of this
proposed railroad."

"Indeed! Financially?"

"Yes, but not in the financial way you think. If that railroad is
built, it will have a very distinct effect on my finances."

"In just what way?"

"Disastrous."

"I am amazed, Colonel."

"You wouldn't if you had given the subject very close consideration.
The logical route for this railroad is from Willits north to Sequoia,