The eminent lawyer came closer and was promptly interested. “I am in search of information of all kinds, sir. Kindly explain.” Eliminating himself as much as possible, Farr described the operations of the Co-operative Spring Water Association. But he could not eliminate the man on the box-seat of the jigger-wagon. When Farr had finished his brief explanation that loyal admirer gave in some enthusiastic testimony in regard to the man who had devised the plan and had sacrificed his time in efforts to extend the system. He kept on until Farr checked him. “I will say, Mr. Converse, before you leave, that I'd like to have you carry away a right opinion of me. I was not trying to drag you to a mere political gathering. There are some poor men assembled just now in this quarter who need a sympathetic listener and a little good advice. They are also trying to get justice from the Consolidated and all the general oppression it represents.” “Where are those men?” asked Converse, after a pause during which he wrinkled his brows and tapped his cane. Farr pointed down the street. Not far away a low-hung transparency heralded “The Square Deal Club.” Mr. Converse gazed in that direction and hesitated a few moments longer. “You assure me that it's not a mere political rally?” “I do, sir!” Then the son of General Converse gallantly extended his arm. “I'll be glad to be escorted by you, Mr. Farr,” he said. “Now that I understand this thing a bit better, I am going to break one of my rules.” As they walked along he remarked: “A man's affairs are sometimes directed and controlled for him in a most singular fashion. Little things change preconceived notions very suddenly.” “They do, sir,” agreed Walker Farr. XIX CONSCIENCE ENLISTING A RECRUIT A man who stood at the head of the stairs, an outpost, saw them coming and ran and opened a door ahead of them. The door admitted to a hall which was packed with men who were ranged on settees and stood in the aisles and at the sides of the big room. “Make way for the Honorable Archer Converse,” shrieked their _avant courier_, excitedly. “Three cheers for the Honorable Archer Converse,” called a voice, and all the men came on to their feet and yelled lustily. The distinguished guest climbed upon the platform--Farr close at his heels. The young man placed a chair for the lawyer and remained standing. He raised his hand to command silence. “This is rather unexpected, boys. But this distinguished man happened to be passing our hall to-night and has dropped in on us in a purely informal manner. It's a great honor, and I want to say to him for all of us that the old Square Deal Club is mighty grateful. I ask you to rise, gentlemen of the club.” All came to their feet again. “Bow your heads and for thirty seconds of deep silence pay your respect and veneration to the memory of our great war governor, General Aaron Converse.”