His cousin could not help laughing. “You always were a pretty good press agent for J. K. Farnum.” “Why shouldn't I be?” “I don't know why you shouldn't. A man who gets ahead puts himself in a position where he can bring about reforms.” “That's it exactly. I mean to make myself a power.” “Get hold of one good practical reform and back it. Pound away on it until the people identify you with it. Take direct legislation as your text, say. There's going to be a strong drift that way in the next ten years. Machines and bosses are going to be swept to the junk heap.” “How do you know?” Jeff could give no adequate justification for the faith that was in him. It would be no answer to tell James that he knew the plain people of the state better than the politicians did. However, he mentioned a few facts. “It's all very well for you to be a radical, but I have to conserve my influence,” James objected. “I've got to be practical. If I were just going to be a reporter it would be different.” “Don't be too practical, James. You've got to have some vision if you're going to lead the people. Nobody is so blind to the future as practical politicians and business men.” He stopped, smiling quizzically. “But you're the orator of the family. I don't want to infringe on your copyright. Only you have the personality to be a real leader. Get started right. Remember that America faces forward, and that we're going to move with seven league boots to better conditions.” James mused out loud. “If a man could be a Lincoln to save the people from industrial slavery it would be worth while.” Jeff did not laugh at his conceit. “Go to it. I'll promise you the backing of the _World_.” “What have you to do with the _World_?” “Beginning with next Monday I'm to be managing editor.” “You!” “Even so. Captain Chunn has bought the paper.” “Chunn, the man who made millions in a lucky strike in Alaska?” “Same man.” James was still incredulous. “How did Chunn happen to pick you for the editor?” “He's an old friend of mine. 'Member the day I had the fight with Ned Merrill. Captain Chunn was the man who stood up for me.” “And you've known him ever since?” “I've always corresponded with him.” “Well, I'll be hanged. Talk about luck.” James looked his cousin over with increased respect. He always took off his hat to success, but he had been so long accustomed to thinking of Jeff as a failure that he could not adjust his mind to the situation. “Why, you can't run a paper. Can you?” Jeff smiled. “I told Captain Chunn he was taking a big chance.” “If he's as rich as they say he is he can afford to lose some money.” James took the news of his cousin's good fortune a little peevishly. He did not grudge Jeff's advancement, but he resented that it had befallen him to-day of all days. The promotion of the reporter took the edge off his own achievements. Part 2