"Mr. Worth will see your committee," said Abe crisply.
The citizens had forgotten their committee. Horace P. Blanton had made it difficult to remember. Three men now came out of the crowd at different points and went forward, James Greenfield's orator following them to the porch. But as the men came up the steps Abe spoke in a low tone to his companions, and Blanton found his way barred by the solid bulk of Pat.
"Were you also appointed to interview Mr. Worth?" asked Abe, dryly. "I understood it was a committee of three."
"I'm not exactly a member of our committee, but I'm always glad to offer my services in the best interests of the people."
"Mr. Worth will see the committee," said Abe.
"But you have no right, sir—This is an outrage, a disgrace! I—"
A growl from the Irishman interrupted him. "That's just fwhat I'm thinkin'. The presence av sich a domned hot air merchant as yersilf is a disgrace to any Gawd-fearin' company av honest workin' men. Av Abe here will only give me lave-"
Horace P. backed away, and from beyond reach of those huge fists said loftily: "My friend Mr. Worth shall hear of this."
"'Tis likely that he will av ye stand widin rache of me two hands," agreed Pat.
Horace P. backed farther away. "I shall let him know that I offered my services," he declared with all the dignity he could command.