conviction that he was enlisting in the public service a man of tried integrity and ability.
"Unhappily, however," said Mr. Puttock, spreading out his plump hands in pathetic fashion, "as you might conjecture, Mr.—" he glanced at the visitor's card—"Benham, my influence at the present juncture is less than nil. I am powerless. I can only look on at what I conceive to be a course of conduct fraught with peril to the true interests of New Lindsey, and entirely inconsistent with the best traditions of our party."
"Your views are heartily shared at home," responded Benham. "Speaking in confidence, I can assure you of that, sir. Our confidence in the Ministry ended when you retired."
"As long as my constituents approve of my action, I am content. But I am grieved not to be able to help you."
"But, in spite of present differences, surely your good word would carry weight. My name is, I believe, already before the Premier, and if it was backed by your support——"
"Let me recommend you," said Puttock sourly, "to try to obtain Mr. Norburn's good word. That is, between ourselves, all-powerful."
Benham frowned.
"Norburn! Much Norburn would do for me."
"Why, does he know you?" asked Puttock. "Have you any quarrel with him?"
"There's no love lost between us. He organised my shearers when they struck two years ago."