It was a relief to both men when at this point the door of the office opened and Martin Jaffry entered.
Not since the unfortunate anti-suffrage statement of George's had Uncle Martin dropped in like this. George, looking at him with that first swift glance that often predetermines a whole interview, made up his mind that bygones were to be bygones. He greeted his uncle with the warmest cordiality.
"Well, George," said Uncle Martin, "how are things going?"
"I'm going to be elected, if that's what you mean," answered George.
Doolittle gave a snort. "Indeed, are ye?" said he. "As a friend and well-wisher, I'm sure I'm delighted to hear the news." "Do I understand that you have your doubts, Mr. Doolittle?" Jaffry inquired mildly.
"There's two things we need and need badly, Mr. Jaffry," said Doolittle. "One's money—"
"A small campaign contribution would not be rejected?"
"But there's something we need more than money—and God knows I never expected to say them words—and that's common sense."
"Good," said Uncle Martin, "I have plenty of that, too!"
"Then for the love of Mike pass some of it on to this precious nephew of yours."