“Thank you, Senator,” said Mr. Crewe, “that brings me to the very point I wish to emphasize.  Everywhere in Leith I am met with the remark, ’Have you seen Job Braden?’ And I always answer, ’No, I haven’t seen Mr. Braden, and I don’t intend to see him."’

Mr. Whitredge laughed, and blew out a ring of smoke.  Mr. Flint’s face remained sober.

“Now, Mr. Flint,” Mr. Crewe went on, “you and I understand each other, and we’re on the same side of the fence.  I have inherited some interests in corporations myself, and I have acquired an interest in others.  I am a director in several.  I believe that it is the duty of property to protect itself, and the duty of all good men in politics,—­such as the senator here,”—­(bow from Mr. Whitredge) to protect property.  I am a practical man, and I think I can convince you, if you don’t see it already, that my determination to go to the Legislature is an advantageous thing for your railroad.”

“The advent of a reputable citizen into politics is always a good thing for the railroad, Mr. Crewe,” said Mr. Flint.

“Exactly,” Mr. Crewe agreed, ignoring the non-committal quality of this remark, “and if you get a citizen who is a not inconsiderable property holder, a gentleman, and a college graduate,—­a man who, by study and predilection, is qualified to bring about improved conditions in the State, so much the better.”

“So much the better,” said Mr. Flint.

“I thought you would see it that way,” Mr. Crewe continued.  “Now a man of your calibre must have studied to some extent the needs of the State, and it must have struck you that certain improvements go hand in hand with the prosperity of your railroad.”

“Have a cigar, Mr. Crewe.  Have another, Senator?” said Mr. Flint.  “I think that is safe as a general proposition, Mr. Crewe.”

“To specify,” said Mr. Crewe, laying his hand on the roll of papers he had brought, “I have here bills which I have carefully drawn up and which I will leave for your consideration.  One is to issue bonds for ten millions to build State roads.”

“Ten millions!” said Mr. Flint, and the senator whistled mildly.

“Think about it,” said Mr. Crewe, “the perfection of the highways through the State, instead of decreasing your earnings, would increase them tremendously.  Visitors by the tens of thousands would come in automobiles, and remain and buy summer places.  The State would have its money back in taxes and business in no time at all.  I wonder somebody hasn’t seen it before—­the stupidity of the country legislator is colossal.  And we want forestry laws, and laws for improving the condition of the farmers—­all practical things.  They are all there,” Mr. Crewe declared, slapping the bundle; “read them, Mr. Flint.  If you have any suggestions to make, kindly note them on the margin, and I shall be glad to go over them with you.”

By this time the senator was in a rare posture for him—­he was seated upright.