As he sat down Mr. Carlton arose, and turning to the members, said:
"Gentlemen, have you any questions to ask of my constituents? If so, I know that they will be only too glad to answer them."
The members shook their heads, as much as to say that they had heard as much as they cared to hear, but this did not satisfy Mr. Carlton. He desired, if possible, to spike any opposition that might develop. He turned and looked directly at Jesse Hudson.
"Mr. Hudson, have you any questions to ask?"
"No," said Hudson, in a slow-going way, "I've listened to all that has been said, and I have no desire to combat any of the arguments which have been presented."
Carlton beamed with delight. He had no idea that his proposition would have such plain sailing. He turned to the head of the Committee and said:
"I suppose, Mr. Chairman, that it would not be premature if I were to tell the members of this Committee that the proposition for a new Naval Repair Station for Cleverly is likely to be reported to Congress with a favorable report?"
"I think that what you say is quite probable," said the Chairman. "For my own part I—"
"One moment," interrupted a determined voice.