"We have had some correspondence—business correspondence—Senator," he said.
Senator Fairclothe was watching him with the shifty eyes of a cornered man who stands on guard, ready to parry a blow.
"Have we? I don't recall the name, young man. Lane, Caine?"
"Payne."
"No. No, I don't remember the name."
"You're sure you don't, father?" interposed Miss Fairclothe.
Payne came to the rescue.
"Of course you wouldn't remember my name, Senator. You have too many large affairs to occupy your mind. It was merely about some land down here. I've meant for some time to write you and thank you for influencing me to buy the land down here."
"What!" cried the girl, and stood dumb, staring at Payne, with a hand pressed to her lips.
"Influence you?" snapped Fairclothe testily. "How could I influence you? You are no child. The buyer must protect himself. It is the first rule of business."