He had just opened a course of lectures at a newly established Socialist branch in Belwick.

The extent of his daily correspondence threatened to demand the services of a secretary in addition to the help already given by Rodman.

Moreover, an event of importance was within view; the New Wanley Public Hall was completed, and its formal opening must be made an occasion of ceremony.

In that ceremony Richard would be the central figure.

He proposed to gather about him a representative company; not only would the Socialist leaders attend as a matter of course, invitations should also be sent to prominent men in the conventional lines of politics.