Finally the House fixed a date after which it was decided that no new bills could be introduced. Mr. Carlton put in some anxious hours. He wondered if something might not occur at the last moment to upset his plans. But the day arrived and passed and no new Naval Repair Station bill had been presented. Mr. Carlton was overjoyed. It seemed almost certain that his measure was to have smooth sailing. The following day a meeting of the Committee on Naval Affairs was called for the purpose of transacting general business. Among other things the Clerk of the Committee read the report made by the Board of Naval Experts on the proposed Repair Station at Cleverly. It was clear and it was convincing. The words were music to the ears of John Carlton. But, as the clerk finished, Mr. Collins, one of the members of the Committee, arose and said: "Mr. Chairman, I now request that the clerk read the bill making an appropriation for the construction of the Naval Repair Station." Congressman Carlton was on his feet instantly. "What is the purpose of having it read now?" "I wish to offer a little amendment to the bill," was the reply. "All right," said the unsuspecting member. The bill was read, and as the clerk concluded, Mr. Collins rose and said: "I move to strike out the portion of the bill fixing the location of the station at Cleverly, and to insert the words, 'Green Island.'" Half a dozen members were on their feet at the same time, all claiming recognition at once. The Chairman nodded to Mr. Carlton and the others sat down. "Mr. Chairman," cried the Congressman, "this is a most astounding amendment. It changes the whole purpose of the bill. It is not fair to do this at the last moment without giving the members a chance to consider what it means." Mr. Collins flushed. "The gentleman has no right to say that. It is a reflection on me." "I have no desire to reflect on the member," said Mr. Carlton, "but I'd like to know the meaning of the amendment." "I'm not prepared to discuss it now," confessed Mr. Collins. "In fact I presented the amendment by request." "Then you're willing to postpone consideration for the present?" "Yes." "For how long?" "Well, say two weeks." And so it was agreed. After the meeting Mr. Carlton went to his fellow member: "See here, Collins; who are you representing in this matter?" "My constituents, of course." "No; but you said that you presented the amendment by request." "That's true." "By request of whom?" The member smiled. He did not relish the aggressive manner of the gentleman from Maine. He answered rather ironically: "I'm not prepared to give you that information--at least not for the present."