Haines grinned broadly at this description of Southern politics.
"What was this you were saying about national politics?" continued the Mississippian. "I'm a beginner, you know, and I'm always ready to learn."
"This is a new thing—a reporter teaching a Senator politics," laughed
Haines.
Senator Langdon joined in the merriment.
"I reckon reporters could teach United States Senators lots of things, Mr. Haines, if the Senators had sense enough to go to school. Now, I come up here on a platform the chief principle of which is the naval base for the gulf. Now, how are we going to put that through? My State wants it."
"You're probably sure it will be a wonderful thing for the country and the South," suggested Haines.
"Of course."
"But why do you think most of the Congressmen and Senators will vote for it?"
The Southerner took off his hat, leaned back and gazed across the lobby thoughtfully.
"Seems to me the benefit to the South and country would be sufficient reason, Mr. Haines," he finally replied.