Page:Despotism and democracy; a study in Washington society and politics (IA despotismdemocra00seawiala).pdf/302

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much chance for an ambitious man in law as in politics."

"Yes, but you can't imagine how the life gets hold of one. It seems like death to me to leave Congress—and when I was steadily rising, too—and to be driven out ignominiously by a creature like Sanders! But I must do it; you would not let me do otherwise."

"Yes; I would not let you do otherwise. Then you must go to Senator Bicknell and tell him all."

"Do you think I should? Do you think I could?"

"Oh, yes. He must know it some time. He must know why you decline this scheme he has arranged to benefit you. You must go to him early to-morrow morning."

Crane looked at his watch.

"It is half-past twelve—he always sits up until two or three o'clock in the morning."

"Then go now."

"He will think my repentance a mere emotion—he will believe that my character was shown in my agreement with Sanders."