It has been many generations since the
nation had a spokesman. Patrick Henry, Daniel Webster, have been dead
a long time. Most of our orators since have killed their own influence
by fanatical clinging to some partisan cause. You should be bigger
than any party, Enoch. And in the White House you cannot be. Our
spoils system has achieved that. But in the Senate is your great,
natural opportunity."
Enoch smiled. "Without the flourishes of praise, I've reached about
the same conclusion that you have," he said. "I have been told," he
hesitated, "that I could have the party nomination for the presidency,
if I wished it. You know that practically assures election."
Diana nodded. "And it's a temptation, of course!"
"Yes and no!" replied Enoch. "No man could help being moved and
flattered, yes, and tempted by the suggestion. And yet when I think of
the loneliness of a man like me in the White House, the loneliness, and
the gradual disillusionment such as the President spoke of you, the
temptation has very little effect on me."
"How kind he was that day!" exclaimed Diana, "and how many years ago it
seems!"
They rode on in silence for a few moments, then Diana exclaimed, "Look,
Enoch dear!"
Ahead of them, along the rim of the bowl, an Indian rode.
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