"Since that time," went on Langdon, "I've confined my travels to New
Orleans and Vicksburg. Ever been in New Orleans about Mardi Gras time,
Mr. Haines?"
"Sorry, but I don't believe I have," confessed the reporter reluctantly.
The Senator seemed surprised.
"Well, sir, you have something to live for. I'll make it my special business to personally conduct you through one Mardi Gras, with a special understanding, of course, that you don't print anything in the paper. I'm a vestryman in my church, but since misfortune has come upon our State I have to be careful."
Haines searched his brain. He knew of no grave calamity that had happened recently in Mississippi.
"Misfortune?" he questioned.
Senator Langdon nodded.
[Illustration: "FROM NEW YORK, EH? THE VICKSBURG OF THE NORTH,">[
"Yes, sir, the great old State of Mississippi went prohibition at the last election. I don't know how it happened. We haven't found anybody in the State that says he voted for it, but the fact is a fact. I assure you, Mr. Haines, that prohibition stops at my front door, in Mississippi. So I've been living a quiet life down on my plantation."
"This new life will be a great change for you, then?" suggested the reporter.