"If I understand this meteorite, it will, upon the application of flame, dissipate itself in vapor, but not explode." "Hold, Colonel!" cried Mr. Fowler, in great alarm, as he and the President drew back. "It will explode and tear your hand into pieces." It was too late. Holding his hand containing the bullet well out through the window, he touched the flame to the cartridge. A slight flash from the fulminate followed, and then the meteorite disappeared in a colorless gas. Holding aloft the empty bullet, he exultingly cried: "Was I not right when I claimed a knowledge of this explosive?" Then Junius Cobb explained how he had discovered this compound; how he had transmitted it to the Chief of Ordnance in 1887, and the restrictions he had placed upon that office regarding the sealed packet containing the formula. Time passed, and he had been dropped for desertion, but the sealed packet still remained in the office of the Chief of Ordnance. It had been opened, and a subordinate in that office had stolen his secret, sold it to the government, and reaped immense reward and honor. But Cobb had no ill-feeling against the man; he had died long years ago; and what did this theft avail him at that moment? "You are a wonderful man, my dear Colonel; and I believe that, in the dim past, you conceived the idea of many of our greatest inventions of to-day." President Craft arose from his seat as he spoke. Thanking Secretary Fowler for his kindness, Cobb turned to the President and asked: "Is it time to take our departure?" "Yes, Colonel." Then, turning to the Secretary, he said: "By the way, Mr. Fowler, be so kind as to have an order made out directing Captain Hathaway, Second Cavalry, to report to Colonel Cobb to-night for orders; send it at once." "Sir, I will attend to it immediately." "Then, Mr. Fowler, we will say good afternoon." "Good afternoon, gentlemen;" and then to Cobb: "Come and see me, Colonel, whenever you feel inclined." In fifteen minutes they were back at the executive mansion. After partaking of a cup of coffee, as was the President's custom at that hour, they entered the drag again, and were rapidly propelled toward the Capitol. Cobb noticed the handsome exterior of the buildings, their beautiful architecture and harmonious coloring. Pennsylvania Avenue was, indeed, a beautiful thoroughfare. Its buildings were large and grand; great hotels, clubs, bazars, churches, and theatres were thrown together in one complex but magnificent order. Over the sidewalk, on either side, and also covering the cross-streets, was a glass canopy supported by pillars of the same material, handsomely carved and finished. The windows and doors were grand in their size; and what seemed strange and dangerous to Cobb, no sash was to be observed; nothing but great panes of glass, some white and clear, others of various hues.