"I never believed that he would be," confessed the daughter.
Haines laughed.
"Why, do you realize that to-day he is one of the most popular men in public life throughout the country; that 'What does Langdon think?' has become the watchword of the big body of independents who want honesty and decent government without graft?
"I tell you that's a big thing, Miss Langdon. That's success—real success in politics, especially in Washington politics.
"Now, if there's anything else you want him to have, I'll see that he gets it I'll try to get it for him"—he paused a minute, then added, with heartfelt meaning in his voice—"and for you, Miss Langdon."
Carolina played coquettishly with the secretary.
"For me, Mr. Haines?" she questioned, archly, with an effective glance into his eyes.
Bud's pulses began to throb violently—to leap.
"Yes," he exclaimed, unsteadily, "for you, and you know it. That's the inspiration now, my inspiration—the chance of winning your belief in me, of winning something more, the biggest thing I ever thought to win—because, Miss Langdon—Carolina—I love you." He bent over and seized the girl's hand. "Ever since the day I first saw you I—"
She shook her head indulgently and in a moment drew her hand from his.