"Since it first became known that the Government intended to build a Naval Repair Station?"
"Exactly."
"Now, Mr. Douglass, these new owners are offering this property to the Government for one hundred dollars an acre. What did they pay for the land?"
"Less than twenty-five dollars an acre."
"That's all," said Carlton, promptly.
There was a hum of excited voices. Hudson protested that the price of the land had nothing to do with the case, but his argument was lost in the din. A ballot was called for, and the Green Island amendment was overwhelmingly beaten, only two votes being recorded in its favor.
CHAPTER XII SMITHERS TO THE RESCUE
For twenty-four hours after the defeat of the Green Island bill John Carlton was kept busy responding to congratulations. Barry Wynn was one of those who ventured to express his joy to the Congressman.