General Totten, as a
professional mixer, enjoyed a chat.
"That's all right, Captain! What did the mayor say, you ask? He
courteously made no comment. Official tact! He is well gifted in that
line. His manner spoke for him--signified his complete agreement. He was
cordially polite! Very!"
The general put on his cap and slanted it at a jaunty angle. "And he still
approves. Is very grateful for the manner in which I'm handling the
situation. He called me only a few minutes ago. From his residence! I
informed him that all was serene on Capitol Hill."
"And what did he say when he called you this time?"
"Nothing! Oh, nothing by way of criticism! Distinctly affable!"
Captain Sweetsir did not display the enthusiasm that General Totten seemed
to expect.
"Let's see, Captain! You are employed by him?"
"Not quite that way! I'm a mill student--learning the wool business at St.
Ronan's."
"Aren't you and Mayor Morrison friendly?"
"Oh yes! Certainly, sir! But--" Captain Sweetsir appeared to be having
much difficulty in completing his sentences, now that Stewart Morrison had
become the topic of conversation.
"But what?"
"He didn't say anything, you tell me?"
"His cordiality spoke louder than words.
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