Thorne glanced uncertainly at the prosecutor, who had spoken with complete assurance. Thorne recognised the danger. Murgatroyd had been getting indictments lately, and for every indictment, a conviction. Thorne did not know what proof Murgatroyd had in his possession, and he knew of no way that he could find out. Besides, the people liked Murgatroyd. Thorne believed in compromise, therefore he extended his hand.
"Look here, Murgatroyd," he said, "you know neither of us can afford to have things like these talked about. Don't let us sling mud—let's fight in the open. A fair fight and no favour—let's be decent."
"Why don't you get your ammunition in the open, then?" asked the prosecutor.
Thorne flared up.
"Why didn't you?"
Murgatroyd smiled and said:—
"You'll find my ammunition in the open, Thorne, the next time the legislature meets to choose a Senator!"
Thorne's insolence had returned as he demanded:—
"Do you mean to tell me that your name will be presented in the caucus?"
"That's precisely what I mean."