"Great Scott, Burgess! Why haven't you stopped me! I've said enough here to ruin me with my party, and you hadn't the grace to shut me off."
"I'm glad for one," said Tate, pushing back the pad, "that I got in time to hear you; I've never known before that any Democrat could be so broad-minded!"
"The governor loosens up a good deal between campaigns," said Burgess, rising. "And now, let's go into the library where the chairs are easier."
The governor rose with the others, but remained by his chair, talking to Tate, until the room cleared, and then resumed his seat.
"This is perfectly comfortable; let's stay here, Mr. Tate. Burgess, close the door, will you."
Tate, hesitated, looked at his watch, and glanced at Burgess, who sat down as though wishing to humor the governor, and lighted a cigar.
"Mr. Tate," said the governor unhurriedly, "if I'm not mistaken, you are George Avery's brother-in-law."
Tate turned quickly, and his eyes widened in surprise.
"Yes," he answered in slow, even tones; "Avery married my sister."
"Mr. Tate, I have in my pocket a pardon all ready to sign, giving Avery his liberty. His case has troubled me a good deal; I don't want to sign this pardon unless I'm reasonably sure of Avery's innocence. If you were in my place, Mr. Tate, would you sign it?"