But there was an
atmosphere about the old statesman as though he had withdrawn himself to
a higher altitude to think his thoughts and formulate his plans alone.
If he had heard of the intimacy of Harlan Thornton with the family of
Luke Presson he made no comment on that fact.
"Now what is he going to say in his address?" she asked. "Every one will
know in a few moments. Tell me ahead--tell me the big utterance that
will make the people sit up. I want to be ready to watch their faces!"
"Why, I haven't a single idea what he will say," he blurted.
"Oh, safe repository, I salute you!"
"But I haven't! The Governor hasn't opened his mouth to me!"
"Have a care! One very easily steps from polite diplomacy into very
impolite falsehood. You must always be truthful with me, Harlan."
His eyes grew brighter and his tanned cheeks warm. It was the first time
she had addressed him without hateful formality.
"I propose to tell you the truth, always," he assured her. "But I mean
what I say--the Governor has kept his address to himself.
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