I saw Mr.
Calhoun's eyes kindle.

As usual, he did not lack decision.
"Sir," said he to Von Rittenhofen presently, "we ourselves are young, yet I trust not lacking in a great nation's interest in the arts and sciences.

It occurs to me now that in yourself we have opportunity to add to our store of knowledge in respect to certain biological features." The old gentleman rose and bowed.

"I thank you for the honor of your flattery, sir," he began; but Calhoun raised a gentle hand.
"If it would please you, sir, to defer your visit to your own country for a time, I can secure for you a situation in our department in biology, where your services would be of extreme worth to us.

The salary would also allow you to continue your private researches into the life of our native tribes." Von Rittenhofen positively glowed at this.