"Is there a pestilence in the Rookeries? If so, what is its nature?"
"There is not," stated Dr. Surtaine from his seat. "Who ever says there is, is an enemy to our fair and healthy city."
This noble sentiment, delivered with all the impressiveness of which the old charlatan was master, roused a burst of applause. To its rhythm there stalked down the side aisle and out upon the rostrum the gaunt figure of the Reverend Norman Hale.
"Mr. Chairman," he said.
"How did that fellow get here?" Dr. Surtaine asked of Douglas.
"We invited all the ministers," was the low response. "I understood he was seriously ill."
"He is a trouble-maker. Tell Harkins not to let him talk."
Douglas spoke a word in the chairman's ear.
"There's a motion before the house—I mean the meeting," began Congressman Harkins, when the voice behind him cut in again, hollow and resonant:
"Mr. Chairman."