"I see there is but one feeling among us all," said the Senator. "Yes, Richard, you are the man. Your gift of language, your fancy, your modesty, your fluency--But I spare you. From this time forth you know your duty."
Overcome by this honor, Dick was compelled to bow his thanks in silence and hide his blushing face.
"And now," said Mr. Figgs, eagerly, "I want to hear _the Higgins Story_."
The Doctor turned frightfully pale. Dick began to fill his pipe. The Senator looked earnestly out of the window. Buttons looked at the ceiling.
"What's the matter?" said Mr. Figgs.
"What?" asked Buttons.
"The Higgins Story?"
The Doctor started to his feet. His excitement was wonderful. He clenched his fist.
"I'll quit! I'm going back. I'll join you at Rome by another route. I'll--"
"No, you won't!" said Buttons; "for on a journey like this it would be absurd to begin the Higgins Story."