“I had not suspected that you were a weird sister,” said McCarthy. “I am weird as the devil, but harmless,” our caller laughed, as he took the chair that my friend offered. “Could I see you alone for five minutes?” “Certainly, if you wish,” said McCarthy. “But first I want to talk with you about that bridge project of mine. I'd thought of you in connection with the board of management. Perhaps you'd like to be a charter member.” My mouth was open with astonishment. What could he be driving at? Was he compromising with the devil? “I suppose the board will have the letting of the contracts?” our caller queried. “Yes, and many other important powers,” said the gentleman. “They want substantial citizens who will work.” “Sir, I am at your service,” Joe assured him, with another smile. “Have you any one to suggest for this board?” McCarthy asked. “Why, there's Jack--what's the matter with Jack?” the other queried. “Then there's a new senator just elected from New York--a hustler and a particular friend of mine, with a silver tongue in his head. He's a protégé of Tweed--stands for important interests, and you'll have to reckon with him.” “What's his name?” was the query of the gentleman. “Squares--Bonaparte Squares.” I had not heard of his election, and could scarcely believe my ears. “I've heard of him,” said the gentleman. “I believe he's a very popular and promising man, but I don't think he will do. We want men of standing and responsibility if we can get them. The board will be made up of the most substantial citizens, I tell you. It's no place for small fry. I'll consider Jack, and perhaps you can think of another man as available.” “Well, there's Jim,” Joe suggested. “All right--I'll consider Jim.” That was about the end of the interview, and within twenty-four hours Joe, Jack, and Jim had received the pledge they required. The charter went through with scarcely a murmur of dissent. The appointments were duly made according to the plans of McCarthy. “It's a pity we had to have those fellows,” I remarked. “Oh, they won't like the job,” said he, with a laugh. We were at the first meeting of the board. Every member was present. The president rapped for order and said: “Gentlemen, we have secured our charter, and now we have other important work to do. First, it is my duty to inform you that we have need of money and not a dollar in the treasury. I suggest that each member of this board lend the sum of ten thousand dollars to the enterprise, to provide a fund for preliminary expenses, and shall be glad to know your pleasure.” A motion was promptly made and carried, with only three dissenting votes, which called for that sum from each. The dissenting votes were those of Joe, Jack, and Jim. Joe rose, and protested with some feeling.