Page:The gold brick (1910).djvu/318

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that he carried his head too low, denoting him a thinker, but if his gaze was fixed upon the earth, his thoughts were in the stars. Presently he shook his splendid head vigorously, wrapped his long coat determinedly about him, and settled himself at his desk.

Gilman entered, bearing a pile of papers demanding the governor's personal attention, but the morning conference was very brief on this day. As Gilman turned to go, the governor said:

"I desire to be alone to-day. I have that speech of acceptance to write. If Handy comes, send him in, but no one else."

Gilman laid his hand upon the door-knob and the governor asked:

"No one of importance out there, is there?"

"No," said Gilman. "There's a woman—what do you think she wants?"

"A pardon, of course."

"Yes, but for whom? You'd never guess in a thousand years." Gilman was smiling.

"Then tell me."

"Tom Whalen!" Gilman laughed at the humor of it.