"Let's see, Captain! You are employed by him?"
"Not quite that way! I'm a mill student—learning the wool business at St.
Ronan's."
"Aren't you and Mayor Morrison friendly?"
"Oh yes! Certainly, sir! But—" Captain Sweetsir appeared to be having much difficulty in completing his sentences, now that Stewart Morrison had become the topic of conversation.
"But what?"
"He didn't say anything, you tell me?"
"His cordiality spoke louder than words. And, of course, I was glad to meet him half-way. I have invited him to call at the State House, if he cares to do so, though the hour is late. And now I come to the matter of my business with you, Captain Sweetsir," stated the general, putting a degree of official sanction on his garrulity in the case of this subordinate. "If Mayor Morrison does come to the State House to-night, by any chance, you may admit him."
"Did he say anything about coming?"
"Mayor Morrison understands that I am handling everything so tactfully that an official visit by him might be considered a reflection on my capability. His politeness equals mine, Captain. Undoubtedly he will not trouble to come. If he should happen to call unofficially you will please see to it that politeness governs."
"Yes, sir! But the other orders hold good, do they, politeness or no politeness?"