"You aren't afraid of McQuade?" anxiously.
"My dear Mr. Osborne, I am not afraid of the Old Nick himself. I'll give this man McQuade the biggest fight he has ever had. Bolles will have his pains for nothing. Any scandal he can rake up about my past will be pure blackmail; and I know how to deal with that breed."
"McQuade will try something else, then. He's sworn to stop you. I'm glad you aren't afraid of him."
"I can't thank you enough."
"I wander about town a good deal; nobody pays much attention to me; so lots of things fall under my notice. I'll let you know what I hear. You'll find all the decent people on your side, surprise or no surprise. They're tired of McQuade and Donnelly; Some of these paving deals smell. Well, I'm keeping you from your work." Bill rose.
"Help yourself to these cigars," said Warrington gratefully, passing the box.
Bill took three.
"Good night, Richard."
"Good night, Mr. Osborne. If by any good luck I become mayor of Herculaneum, I'll not forget your service to-night."
"That's all that's necessary for me;" and Bill bowed himself out. He layed his course for his familiar haunts.