But now Rockwell was at his side and barely gave him time to finish his sandwich and gulp down the coffee.
"Miss Norman and the Senator and I go with Mayor Black in the Senator's car," said that master of ceremonies and conspiracies. "The other four of you are to follow in the Mayor's machine. Here's your coat and hat."
Along the hall--down in the elevator--through the lobby to the pavement--Merriam had only a dazed sense of being part of an irresistible, conspicuous procession which was carrying him whither he had no strong desire to go.
A limousine was already drawn up at the curb, and the hotel starter was deferentially holding the door.
Mayor Black was already within the car.
"Ah, Senator," the Mayor ejaculated, "I'm glad to see you up again, and to have you--really you--coming to the Reform League!"
For an instant Merriam did not understand. Then he realised that the Mayor thought he was addressing the real Senator Norman. It was a good omen for the continued success of his impersonation.
He sank into the seat opposite the Mayor, who was facing forward with Aunt Mary beside him. Rockwell climbed in and sat next to Merriam. The door slammed, and the machine started.
Then, as the Mayor still beamed at him and as neither of the others spoke, Merriam said gently:
"I'm still the impostor, I'm afraid, Mr. Mayor."