human
Yes, and I have that practically arranged, too, except for one thing. I must produce the break by getting the coming presidential appointments--the most important of the whole term, in some respects--rejected by the Senate. There are three men in the Senate who must make the fight their own in order to make the break in the party irreparable, except by the retirement of the President from the contest for nomination at the end of the term. These men are privately interested in the whiskey tax bill, which is certainly lost in committee unless I force its passage. I've been working at that for two months, and have not yet succeeded. I _want your help in that_.
gpt
But, Edgar, you know I don't understand politics, or--
human
It's not necessary that you should. Heaven forbid that you ever shall! The only obstacle is Everet. He is chairman of the committee that has the bill in charge. He can report it favorably, and if I could induce him to do it, I could manage the rest. But I cannot. I have exhausted my resources of argument and persuasion, and he will not yield. It has worried me more than I like you to know, dear. I have said nothing, because I didn't want to trouble you. But you can help me now, if you will.
gpt
I can help? I'm glad of that, Ed, but it seems funny to think of my helping in _business_, doesn't it?
human
Yes, you can help. I will tell you what I want you to do. Everet is fascinated with you. He hardly left your side to-night, and when he did, his eyes followed you. Everet is the only one whose support I must have now. You must get this for me. You can do it--
gpt
Why, Ed?-- She stares at him inquiringly.
human
What could I do, dear?
gpt
Your woman's cleverness should prompt you, Helen. You understand little politic devices to a considerable extent; it is only necessary that you enlarge upon it in a smaller field. Everet will call, of course. There is--no reason why he should-- she is looking at him--