To the surprise of Mr. Rimmon and Little Snap, the politician replied, after a moment's hesitation:
"Certainly, Mr. Calvert; anything I can do for him I will. I hope I may have a little talk with you before you leave the town."
"Yes. Now, Mr. Lewis, I would like to see you alone a little while. I will see that that bond is fixed up all satisfactory, Mr. Claverton."
"You can come right into my office," said Mr. Rimmon. "I will send my man to take care of your horse, Mr. Calvert."
Notwithstanding the bold utterances of Marion Calvert, the majority of the spectators looked with favor upon him, and there were many outspoken words in admiration of him. The crowd generally falls in with him who shows a fearless attitude, even if he slightly oversteps the line drawn for him, rather than the one who is weak and vacillating, though he represents the cause they intended to espouse. Mr. Warfield had recently acted in a manner disliked by several, and not understood by any.
While the outsiders were discussing the situation pro and con, Little Snap and his two friends were trying to decide upon the best course of action. Finally, when he had been made acquainted with the true state of affairs, Mr. Calvert said:
"I will look after the bonds on your mail contract, Lewis, and to give Claverton and his backers no opportunity to make a fuss, I will see that the proper bail is secured for you. To-morrow I will go to Salt Works with you, and stay there to come home with you. I do not believe you will have any farther trouble. I must go to Washington on the next day. Be sure and keep your eyes and ears open, and at the least suspicion of interference let me know. Mr. Rimmon will also be on the watch for you."
"You needn't be afraid but Warfield will stand by you after this, for he knows his chances of getting into Congress depend too much on what I do for him to act differently."
Having reached this decision, the plan was carried out as rapidly as possible, and with complete success, so the following morning Little Snap was promptly on hand for the mail pouch.
So was Dan Shag, and in his disappointment, he exclaimed: