Interest in the Chicago affair is overshadowing. The President's private secretary has commissioned the Chicago political boss to fix it up.
Corkey is an unknown factor. The boss assures the administration that the district would be lost if Corkey should win.
What does Corkey want?
"I was elected," says Corkey.
"You don't carry the papers," answers the boss.
"I just made you fellers screw your nut for 2,000 crooked votes," says Corkey.
"None of your sailors had the right to vote," says the boss. "Now, here, Corkey, you are going to lose that certificate. It doesn't belong to you, and we've got the House. Here's a telegram from a high source: 'Lockwin must get the election at all hazards. See Corkey.' I'll tell you what you do. You and Lockwin go on and see the President."
"That will never do," says Corkey. "But I'll tell you what I will do."
"Go on."
"Do you know I've a notion that Lockwin ain't goin' to serve. If he resigns, I want it. If he catches on, all right. I want him or you to get me collector of the port. You hear me? Collector of the port. His nobs, this collector we have now--he must get out, I don't care how. But he must sherry. I can't fool with these sailors. If they see me trading with Lockwin they will swear I sell out. See? Well, I want to see Lockwin, just the same. Now, I'll tell you what I'll do: You Send Lockwin to Washington to explain the situation. Get in writing what is to be done. Don't let there be any foolin' on that point. Tell Lockwin to return by the way of Canada, and get to Owen Sound. I know a way home that will leave us alone for two days or more. In that time I can tell what I'll do."