I drew a strong picture of the effect of the present situation on the party, and hinted that I had no personal wishes to gratify." "And what do you think will be the result ?" "I think we shall somehow manage to straighten things out," said Ratcliffe.
"The difficulty is only that the new President has little experience, and is suspicious.

He thinks we shall intrigue to tie his hands, and he means to tie ours in advance.

I don't know him personally, but those who do, and who are fair judges, say that, though rather narrow and obstinate, he is honest enough, and will come round.

I have no doubt I could settle it all with him in an hour's talk, but it is out of the question for me to go to him unless I am asked, and to ask me to come would be itself a settlement." "What, then, is the danger you fear ?" "That he will offend all the important party leaders in order to conciliate unimportant ones, perhaps sentimental ones, like your friend French; that he will make foolish appointments without taking advice.

By the way, have you seen French to-day ?" "No," replied Madeleine; "I think he must be sore at your treatment of him last evening.