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“Then I advise you to be a Republican.”

“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.”