"I should be happy to give you my support."
Birmingham looked as blank as one before whom a door opens unexpectedly.
"You understand," continued Arthur, "that I have been absent too long to grasp the situation clearly. I think my uncle aspires...."
"A very worthy man," murmured Birmingham.
"You seem to think he has not much of a chance...."
"I know something of Sullivan's mind," Birmingham ventured, "and you know it still better. The exploits of the Senator in his youth—really it would be well for him not to expose himself to public ridicule...."
"I had not thought of that," said Arthur, when the other paused delicately. "You are quite right. He should not expose himself. As no other has done me the honor to ask my help, I am free to help you."
"You are more than kind. This nomination means election, and election means the opening of a fine career for me. Beyond lie the governorship, the senate, and perhaps higher things. To us these high offices have been closed as firmly as if they were in Sweden. I want the honor of breaking down the barriers."
"It is time. I hope you will get the honor," said Arthur gravely. He felt sadly about the Senator, and the shining ambition of his mother. How could he shatter their dreams? Yet in very pity the task had to be done, and when next he heard them vaporing on the glory of the future, he said casually:
"I know what your enemies will say if you come into contrast with Livingstone."