“I think it will pass, though,” Chase declared. “We’ll have some Indian summer yet.” “Had some snow, haven’t you?” “Two or three inches, early this month. But it melted in an hour when the sun touched it.” Amos nodded slowly. He was lighting his pipe. Agnes had come in with the visitor, but after a moment took herself upstairs and the two men were left alone. This made Chase uncomfortable. Even Agnes would have been a support in this encounter. He looked sidewise at Amos, but Amos was studying the fire; and after a minute the Congressman got up and poked out the ashes and put on half a bucket of fresh coal. Then he jabbed the coals again, and so resumed his seat. “Ain’t been over to Washington lately, Chase,” he said presently. Chase aroused himself. “No. No. Been very busy, Amos. Affairs here, you know....” “I know, I know. Now, me--Washington is my business. But you have to stick to your coal and your iron.” He paused. “I sh’d think you’d get tired of it, Chase.” “How are things in the Capitol?” Chase asked importantly. Amos looked at him sidewise. “Why--I ain’t noticed anything wrong.” “Who will the Republicans nominate?” Amos chuckled. “Gawd, Chase, I wish I knew.” “They’ll need a strong man, Amos. The country’s swinging again.” The Congressman looked at Chase, and he grinned. “Chase,” he said, “you’re a funny Democrat.” “Why? I--” “I guess you’re one of these waiting Democrats--eh?” Chase looked confused. “I.... What’s that?” “Figuring there’s bound to be a swing some day--and when it comes, you’ll be there and waiting,” Amos nodded. “You’re right, too. Bound to be a swing some day.” “I’m a Democrat from conviction, Amos. The Democratic party....” “Fiddlesticks! Tariff has made you--iron and steel. Fiddlesticks!” Chase fidgeted; Amos fell silent, and for a time neither man spoke. Once Amos reached into a table drawer and produced a cigar and offered it to the other. Chase lighted it. When it was half smoked, Amos asked carelessly: “Well, Chase, what was it you wanted to see me about?” Chase put himself on the defensive. “I--why you asked me to come. I supposed....” Amos grinned. “Have it so, Chase. Have it so.” He puffed hard at his pipe, looked at the other. “Well--does it look like the swing was coming in Hardiston?” Chase stiffened self-consciously. “The town has demanded that I run for Mayor--and--I consented.” “That was a public-spirited thing to do, Chase. With all your business to hinder you--take your time....” “I was glad to do it. A man owes it.... If there is a demand for him, he must respond.” “Sure! Sure thing! And you’ve responded noble, Chase.” “I’ve made a straightforward campaign.” “First-class campaign. You figure you’ve got a chance?” Chase’s confidence returned. “I’m going to win, Amos. Nothing can stop me. I’ll be the next Mayor of Hardiston--sure.” Amos looked thoughtful. “I ain’t in touch--myself.” He puffed at his pipe. “Gergue says you’ll win--barring an accident.”