"Well, I'm sorry to say the matter is that I don't think it's a fit bill to vote for."
"What do you mean?"
"Just what I say. After you left me this morning, I got a report of the House Committee that was made nearly ten years ago, and it seems very conclusive to me—so conclusive that I've made up my mind to fight your bill."
"Oh, you're splitting hairs," cried Hudson, in a tone of annoyance.
"Well, you can give it any name you like."
"But, see here, Carlton," cried Hudson, eagerly, "I won't ask you to vote for it if you don't feel like doing so; but promise me one thing."
"What's that?"
"Don't make a speech against it. Don't oppose it openly. It's backed by some of the most important men in my district—men who can make or break me."
"I can't make any more promises," said Carlton, and he moved slowly back to his own seat.