“Didn’t you say the district was Republican?”

“Yes; but since Hopkins defeated them last term they seem to be terrified, and no one likes to offer himself as a possible sacrifice.”

“That feeling will probably elect Mr. Hopkins,” declared Kenneth, with conviction.

“Unless—­”

“Unless what, sir?”

“Unless we come to the rescue of the Republicans and take a hand in local politics ourselves, my lad.”

Kenneth pushed back his chair and rose from the table.  He walked to the window and stood there whistling for a few moments, and then left the room without a word.

For a time Mr. Watson sat silently musing.

“Perhaps I’m inviting trouble,” he murmured; “but I am sure I am doing right.  The boy needs a good shaking up and more knowledge of his fellow-men.  If I can get Kenneth interested, this plan of mine will be of great benefit to him.”

Then he, too, left the breakfast table, and wandering into the garden saw Kenneth busy at his easel in a shady corner.

For a day or so the, subject was not resumed, and then Mr. Watson casually introduced it.

“A law could be passed in the State Legislature forbidding the display of all advertising signs in public places in this county,” he suggested.

The boy looked at him eagerly.

“Are you sure?” he asked.

“I am positive,” was the answer.  “It is merely a question of privilege.”

“And you think we might hire Hopkins to pass such a law?”

“No; we couldn’t trust him.”

“Then what do you propose?”

“I’ll think it over, my lad, and let you know.”

Then he walked away, leaving Kenneth much pleased with the idea he had advanced.  Indeed, he was so much interested in the suggestion that he himself referred to the subject at the first opportunity.

“I don’t like to be beaten, sir, once I’ve undertaken to do a thing,” he said.  “So if such a law can be passed I’ll do all I can to elect the man who will pass it.”

“I thought as much,” the old lawyer replied, smiling.  “But there’s only one man who could go to the legislature with enough influence to win the votes to carry such a unique measure through.”

“And who is that, sir?”

“Kenneth Forbes, the owner of Elmhurst, and the largest taxpayer in the county.”

“Me, sir?”

“You’re the man.”

“A State Representative?”

“It’s an honorable office.  It’s an important office, properly filled.  You might not only beautify your district by having those objectionable signs prohibited, but do many other things to better the condition of the farmers.  And that isn’t all.”

“What’s the rest, Mr. Watson?”

“You owe something to yourself, lad.  All your young life you’ve been too self-contained and exclusive in your habits.  ’The noblest study of mankind is man.’  It would broaden you to go into politics for a time, and do much to develop your character and relieve the monotony of your existence.”