At one o'clock, an interval between editions, the other reporters went out for lunch. Brennan and John followed them into the corridor and John saw Brennan wink to him.
"See you later, boys," Brennan said, "got some stuff I have to get out."
When they were alone Brennan told John to follow him and they returned to the mayor's office. They were met in the ante-room by the secretary, who ushered them into the room where the mayor was leaning back in a big easy chair, his feet crossed and perched on his desk, and blowing thin clouds of smoke into the air from a slender cigar.
The secretary closed the door behind them and John heard the lock click shut. The mayor looked at them without changing his position.
"Who's your friend?" he asked, nodding to John.
"John Gallant, Mr. Mayor," Brennan said. "Gallant is helping me on this story. You can trust him as much as you trust me."
John shook hands with the mayor.
"As you say, Brennan," he said. "I suppose you have an idea why I sent for you."
Brennan nodded.