“I am aware of that,” said Ames. “And your influence with Congress in regard to it?”
“I am studying the matter, Mr. Ames,” returned the President slowly.
“Shall the Avon mills be closed pending a decision? Or, on the assumption that Congress will uphold the altered schedule, must the Spinners’ Association begin immediate retrenchment? As president of that Association, I ask for instructions.”
“My influence with Congress, as you well know, Mr. Ames, is quite limited,” replied the hectored executive.
“It is not a question of the amount of your influence with that body, Mr. President,” returned Ames coldly, “but of how you will employ that which you have.”
Silence lay upon them all for some moments. Then Ames resumed:
“I would remind you,” he remarked with cruel insinuation, “that––or,” glancing at the girl, “perhaps I should not make this public.” He paused and awaited the effect of his significant words upon the President. Then, as the latter remained silent, he went on evenly:
“Second-term prospects, you are aware, are often very greatly influenced by public facts regarding the first election. Of course we are saying nothing that the press might use, but––well, you must realize that there is some suspicion current as to the exact manner in which your election was––”
“I think you wish to insinuate that my election was due to the Catholic vote, which you controlled in New York, and to your very generous campaign contributions, do you not? I see no reason for withholding from the press your views on the subject.”