Morton Bassett and Sylvia were leaving the building together.

A shout rang out, echoing hollowly through the corridors, and was followed by scattering cheers from men who were already hastening toward the senate chamber where the caucus sessions were held.
Somehow Morton Bassett's sturdy shoulders, his step, quickened to adapt it to the pace of his companion, did not suggest defeat.

Dan still watched as the two crossed the rotunda on their way to the street.
Bassett was talking; he paused for an instant and looked up at the dome, as though calling his companion's attention to its height.
Sylvia glanced up, nodded, and smiled as though affirming something Bassett had said; and then the two vanished from Dan's sight..