"Yes—and this new franchise the street railway is so nearly concluding," he answered. "O, we'll be enough for them yet. When are you going to appoint a new street commissioner? Perhaps that might precipitate things a little."
"Tomorrow, then, I'll ask for Thalberg's resignation," was the reply. "How would John Allingham do for that place? I've been thinking it might be a good thing all around."
"Splendid," cried Bailey. "He'd like it, too. He likes a good fight—always did."
"Would he, do you think? Under a woman-mayor?" she added.
"I think so. It's different now you are elected, you know. Ever notice how much easier it is to support an innovation after it is well started than before?"
"Then come, Minnie," she said, turning to the stenographer. "Take this to Mr. Thalberg;" and she proceeded to dictate a letter advising him that his resignation, taking effect immediately, would be acceptable to the mayor.
Then she dictated another as follows:
Mr. John Allingham,
Municipal League Rooms; City.
Dear Mr. Allingham:
Will you do me the favor to call at this office Thursday, the seventeenth, at ten a. m., and oblige,
Gertrude Van Deusen,
Mayor of Roma.