"Politics must be purified," Hall announced, solemnly.
"That's so," acquiesced Moore. "Every politician I know, nearly, is so desirous of being purified that he steps right up here, as though this was the disinfecting vat! Our legislators seem to think that Burroughs is the Chief Purifier, and that I am the one who cares for the shorn lambs!"
"Well, I can't change now."
"You're mighty conscientious. If you had been as much so at Fort Macleod you probably wouldn't have been run out of the police for——"
"I'm as conscientious as most office-holders," Hall interrupted. Something in the twist given the words inspired Moore with renewed courage to press his point. After he had talked earnestly for several moments, his guest interrupted: "Where is Bob to-night? You said last night that he would be here."
"He's instructing the conscientious legislator."
Hall laughed, and it was not long before he allowed himself to say:
"Of course, if there's any money going, I want to get my share. I'd do as much for Burroughs' money as anybody."
After a guarantee of good faith had passed from a safe to his pocket he left. "What do I care whether Bob Burroughs goes to Congress or goes to hell?" he muttered delightedly, as he felt the roll of bills in his pocket. "I've got a pricker coming that will sting his rhinoceros hide! This money ain't half what's coming to me from that mining deal; take it all in all, I'll even up with him before the session closes. Just you wait, Joe," he apostrophized, as he entered the elevator; "just you wait until the time comes!"