"That's putting it rather strong," replied William. "That is to say, that when I tell you I elected Governors and Senators, you don't believe it." Bodney passed on, leaving the brothers walking up and down the hall, shoulder to shoulder.
"Did I say that I didn't believe you? What difference does it make anyway?"
"What difference does any man's record make? If a man isn't proud of his record, what should he be proud of? You are proud of your decisions—they go to make up your record. I elected Governors, and—"
"Why didn't you elect yourself?"
"That's a nice way to come back at a man—your own brother. Haven't you heard me say that there is something higher than a desire for office? Hah, haven't you heard me say that?"
"Yes, there is something higher—the roof of the board of trade."
"John, that is an unfair thrust at my speculations. But, sir, at one time I could have closed out for millions. Do you understand, for millions."
"Why didn't you?"
"Now, just listen to that. Reproaches me for not being a money grabber, for not joining the robbers to crush the weaklings. I have suffered a good deal at your hands lately, but I didn't expect that stab. It wounds me here." He halted, and placed his hand on his breast. But he went in to breakfast and ate with the appetite of a man who, if wounded, must have marvelously recovered; he joked with Agnes about the preacher; he told her that it would be her duty to take care of his numerous slippers, presented by women. "And when you have a pound party at your house I will contribute a—"
"Senator," said Howard.