“Here are Mr. Collingwood's endorsements,” said Mr. Nutting, as he placed a large packet of papers on the governor's desk. “Thank you, Mr. Nutting. I will give them consideration.” Mr. Nutting withdrew, and the lieutenant-governor, who had arrived late, was given precedence over the others in the reception room. After the customary salutations, the lieutenant-governor seated himself in the governor's chair, which Quincy had temporarily vacated, and lighted a cigar. “Are you going to send in Venton's name?” “He is inexperienced.” “I know it, but he'll learn. If, following precedent, I become your successor, he will be of great help to me in certain lines.” There was a slight frown on the governor's face. “Mr. Williams, the present head of the department, has held it for many years, is a most efficient man, and I have heard no complaints.” “I know that,” said his Honour, David Evans, “but he's getting old, and rotation in office is one of the principles of our Bill of Rights.” “I am well aware of that,” said the governor, “but retention in office for good and efficient service is one of the principles of our civil service law.” Mr. Evans arose and flicked the ashes from his cigar upon the rich carpet which covered the floor. “Am I to understand then that you will renominate Williams? Let me say now that there is strong opposition to him in the Council and he may fail of confirmation. Will you send Venton's name in then?” “I think I should send Mr. Williams' name in again.” “But, suppose he is turned down the second time?” asked Mr. Evans. “I think I should continue sending in his name until good and sufficient reasons were given for his rejection. This is not a voting contest between two nominees. I am convinced Mr. Williams is the best man for the place. Such being my opinion, to withdraw his name, would be a self-stultification, and, to speak plainly,”--and his jaw was firmly set,--“an acknowledgment that the Council is a stronger arm of the government than the Chief Executive.” Mr. Evans was evidently indignant. “Well, Mr. Venton is backed by men who contribute heartily for campaign expenses. If you can get along without their aid this fall have your man Williams,” and Mr. Evans strode from the room with a curt “Good-morning.” The private secretary laid some papers on the governor's desk. The first one that he examined conferred certain valuable privileges, in perpetuity, upon a corporation without requiring any compensation for the franchise. The property thus alienated from public use had been paid for by the people's money. In response to a vigorous push on an electric button, the private secretary appeared. “Send for Senator Downing. I must see him immediately.”