“I suppose you find it very entertaining,” he said to his roommate.
“I find it painful,” Richard replied frankly. “The next person that comes in—I’m going to get out.”
It was but a few moments before another congratulatory friend arrived, and Richard, true to his word, took his departure. He stayed away from the room all the rest of the evening; and meanwhile Lester received a succession of visitors, among them Colby, the third marshal—all generously come to express their satisfaction at his success.
At ten o’clock, in order to protect himself against a prolongation of the ordeal, he turned out the light, undressed in the dark, and went to bed. He lay awake for a long time; he heard Richard come in and go to bed, and he wished that he had never seen Richard. At last an idea that gave him some comfort came to him, and while he was turning it over in his mind he fell asleep.
David had not been among those who had rushed to give Lester their congratulations. He had felt that if Richard were in the room it would be awkward for both Lester and himself. But the next morning he left his door open while he dressed and so caught sight of Lester descending the stairs. He hailed and halted him, and then he said: “Even though I didn’t come to see you last night, Lester, I want you to know that I’m glad you got it. I voted for you.”
Lester’s smile, even though forlorn, showed his gratitude. “I don’t see how you can reconcile it with your conscience,” he said. “But I shan’t worry about yours; I’m having trouble enough with my own. Do you suppose if I went round to your house some time to-day I could see Mr. Dean?”
David looked astonished. “Yes, I’m sure you could. Almost any time. He’s always at home.”
“Then I’ll call on him some time this afternoon.”
“He’ll be glad to see you,” said David.