He followed the banker into his private office and told him briefly his intention to forward the interests of his young friend Kenneth Forbes for Member of the Legislature.

The old gentleman shook his head, at first, predicting failure.  Young Forbes was his most important customer, and he respected him highly; but this anti-sign issue bade fair to ruin all his chances.

“The idea is too progressive and advanced to be considered at this time,” he stated, positively.  “The encroachments of advertisers on personal property may lead to a revolt in the future, but it is still too early to direct popular opinion against them.”

“Isn’t Forbes a better man for the place than Hopkins?” asked Uncle John.

“Undoubtedly, sir.  And I think Forbes would have won, had not Hopkins forced this unfortunate issue upon him.  As it is, our young friend cannot avoid the consequences of his quixotic action.”

“He doesn’t wish to avoid them,” was the quiet reply.  “We’re going to win on that issue or not at all.”

“I’m afraid it’s hopeless, sir.”

“May I count on your assistance?”

“In every way.”

“Thank you, Mr. Warren, I’m going to spend a lot of money.  Put this draft for fifty thousand to my credit as a starter.”

“Ah, I begin to understand.  But—­”

“You don’t understand at all, yet.  May I use your long distance telephone?”

“Of course, sir.”

Uncle John had secured considerable information from Mr. Watson, and this enabled him to act comprehensively.  The advertising sign business in this part of the state was controlled by two firms, who contracted directly with the advertisers and then had the signs painted upon spaces secured from the farmers by their wide-awake agents.  These signs were contracted for by the year, but the firms controlling the spaces always inserted protective clauses that provided for the removal of any sign when certain conditions required such removal.  In such cases a rebate was allowed to the advertiser.  This protective clause was absolutely necessary in case of fire, alteration or removal of buildings or destruction of fences and sign-boards by weather or the requirements of the owners.  It was this saving clause in the contracts of which Uncle John had decided to take advantage.  The contracting sign painters were merely in the business to make money.

Mr. Merrick got the head of the concern in Cleveland over the telephone within half an hour.  He talked with the man at length, and talked with the convincing effect that the mention of money has.  When he hung up the receiver Uncle John was smiling.  Then he called for the Chicago firm.  With this second advertising company he met with more difficulties, and Mr. Warren had to come to the telephone and assure the man that Mr. Merrick was able to pay all he agreed to, and that the money was on deposit in his bank.  That enabled Mr. Merrick to conclude his arrangements.  He knew that he was being robbed, but the co-operation of the big Chicago firm was necessary to his plans.