When Oscar arrived at the office of the Secretary of the Navy he found the cabinet officials busy in the extreme. Naval officers, politicians and citizens looking after contracts filled the rooms and corridors, and clerks and messengers were coming and going constantly.
"What is it you want?" demanded a clerk, as he met the young inventor at the inquiry desk.
"I wish to see Secretary Short," was the answer.
"On what business?"
"That is a private matter."
"The secretary is very busy to-day; better call to-morrow."
"I think he will see me." And Oscar handed out his card.
"Hum! Does he know you?"
"No."
"Then I think you are mistaken. Nearly all strangers must first go and see one or the other of his assistants."