Chief Justice, as in one of his restless turns the brooding politician passed near.
"We reckon to beat him by five," answered Coxon.
"Unless any of your men turn tail, that is? I hear Fenton's very wobbly—says he daren't show his face in the North-east Ward if he throws Medland over."
"Oh, he's all right."
"Been promised something?"
"You might allow some of us to have consciences, Chief Justice," said Coxon, with an attempt at geniality.
"Oh, some of you, yes. But I'll pick my men, please," remarked Sir John, with a pleasant smile. "Perry's got a conscience, and Kilshaw—well, Kilshaw's got a gadfly that does instead, and of course, Coxon, I add you to the list."
"Much obliged for your testimonial," said Coxon sourly.
"I add any man I'm talking to, to the list," continued the Chief Justice. "I expect him to do the same by me. But, honestly, I add you even in your absence. You're not a man who puts party ties above everything."
Mr. Coxon darted a suspicious glance at the head of his profession, but the Chief Justice's air was blandly innocent.