THE GOVERNOR They were to elect a new one in Iowa, and there were rumors afloat that Richard Markham would be the man chosen by his party.

There had been similar rumors once before, but Mrs.Markham had regarded them as mythical, never dreaming that such an honor could be in store for her boy.

Now, however, matters began to look a little serious.

Crowds of men came frequently to the farmhouse and were closeted with Richard.

Tim Jones rode up and down the country, electioneering for "Dick." Hal Clifford, in Camden, contributed his influence, though he belonged to the other party.