Aunt Jane's Nieces at Work

"

"Why?"

"Because Hopkins is a Democrat, and we may then fight him openly."

"What is the difference, sir, between the two parties?"

"There is no difference of importance. All Americans are loyal citizens,

whichever side they adopt in politics. But the two parties are the

positive and negative poles that provide the current of electricity for

our nation, and keep it going properly. Also they safeguard our

interests by watching one another."

"What is your preference, sir?"

"I've always been a Republican, whenever I dabbled in politics, which

hasn't been often."

"Then I will be a Republican."

"Very good."

"I am sorry to say that I know nothing about politics and have no

convictions on the subject. Who is to oppose the Honorable Erastus on

the--on _our_ side?"

"I don't know yet. The primaries for the nomination are not to be held

for two weeks, and the Republican candidates seem shy about coming

forward."

"Didn't you say the district was Republican?"

"Yes; but since Hopkins defeated them last term they seem to be

terrified, and no one likes to offer himself as a possible sacrifice."

"That feeling will probably elect Mr. Hopkins," declared Kenneth, with

conviction.

"Unless--"

"Unless what, sir?"

"Unless we come to the rescue of the Republicans and take a hand in

local politics ourselves, my lad."

Kenneth pushed back his chair and rose from the table. He walked to the

window and stood there whistling for a few moments, and then left the

room without a word.

For a time Mr. Watson sat silently musing.

"Perhaps I'm inviting trouble," he murmured; "but I am sure I am doing

right. The boy needs a good shaking up and more knowledge of his

fellow-men. If I can get Kenneth interested, this plan of mine will be

of great benefit to him."

Then he, too, left the breakfast table, and wandering into the garden

saw Kenneth busy at his easel in a shady corner.

For a day or so the, subject was not resumed, and then Mr. Watson

casually introduced it.

"A law could be passed in the State Legislature forbidding the display

of all advertising signs in public places in this county," he suggested.