But can you administer it successfully without philanthropy ?" At this Darrow turned with a smile.

"Can't you see that he is fooling with you ?" he said.

"Prison reform is one of his fads--that and the rights of the indigent aged and orphans and animals and any other mortal thing that has to live on what he calls the stones of charity.

He knows why you came, and he likes you the better because of it." "Gershom and I have had a word or two about that board," resumed Vetch; and as he stopped to strike a match, Stephen noticed that the cigar he held was of a cheap and strong brand.

"Between the Legislature on one side and that bunch of indefatigable lobbyists on the other, I shan't be permitted presently to appoint the darkey who waits on my table." The cigar was lighted now, and to Stephen's sensitive nostrils the air was rapidly becoming too heavy.