"It would be the bitterest blow of my life if I failed," he said to young Ned Wilson and his father one night, on their return from one of their meetings. "I should never dare to put my foot in Brunford again, neither would Mary, if this young upstart got the better of us."
"Never fear!" said young Ned. "I'll promise you he shall not win this election, Mr. Bolitho."
A little later Mr. Wilson was called away to see someone, and Ned and Mr. Bolitho were left together.
"You speak with great certainty, Ned," said Mr. Bolitho, who had come to address the young manufacturer with great freedom.
"I do," replied Ned. "Mr. Bolitho, I'm a plain man, may I say something to you now?"
"Say what you will, my lad!"
"Well, then, I love your daughter, and I want to make her my wife. Will you let me have her?"
"I don't know Mary's feelings about the matter," said Mr. Bolitho.
"But supposing you win this election, will you do your best for me?" There was a kind of challenge in Ned's voice as he spoke.
"I'll promise not to oppose you, anyhow."