We reached the Governor's office, and sat down while he looked his letters over.
“Here you are, Ogden,” said he. “Here's the way we hump ahead out here.” And he read us the following:
“MAGAW, KANSAS, July 5, 188—
“Hon. Amory W. Baker:
“Sir,—Understanding that your district is suffering from a prolonged drought, I write to say that for necessary expenses paid I will be glad to furnish you with a reasonably shower. I have operated successfully in Australia, Mexico, and several States of the Union, and am anxious to exhibit my system. If your Legislature will appropriate a sum to cover, as I said, merely my necessary expenses—say $350 (three hundred and fifty dollars)—for half an inch I will guarantee you that quantity of rain or forfeit the money. If I fail to give you the smallest fraction of the amount contracted for, there is to be no pay. Kindly advise me of what date will be most convenient for you to have the shower. I require twenty-four hours' preparation. Hoping a favorable reply,
“I am, respectfully yours,
“Robert Hilbrun”
“Will the Legislature do it?” inquired Ogden in good faith.
The Governor laughed boisterously. “I guess it wouldn't be constitutional,” said he.
“Oh, bother!” said Ogden.
“My dear man,” the Governor protested, “I know we're new, and our women vote, and we're a good deal of a joke, but we're not so progressively funny as all that. The people wouldn't stand it. Senator Warren would fly right into my back hair.” Barker was also new as Governor.