AN AFTER-DINNER STORY

AN AFTER-DINNER STORY

BY SILAS HARRISON

AN ANECDOTE OF MCKINLEY

PRESIDENTMCKINLEY’Sscrupulous loyalty to his cabinet officers is spoken of as one of his characteristics. It is said that he never went over the heads of his secretaries to consult an assistant, but held each to responsibility for his department.

Of all the events of his administration probably none was a source of more anxiety to him than the decision of the Supreme Court on the status of the colonies. It was a matter of great moment whether the highest judicial body should uphold the view of the Administration that the Constitution sanctioned the possession of colonies which were not granted full representation. There were conflicting rumors and forecasts of the color of the decision, and these added to the tension felt at Washington. Shortly before the announcement of the finding of the court a subordinate officer of one of the Departments appeared at the White House, at an unusual hour, and insisted upon seeing the President on the plea of important business. Having been admitted, he came at once to his errand.

“Mr. President, I have some good news for you. I have just learned authoritatively that the decision of the Supreme Court is to be in your favor.” He fairly glowed with the importance of his welcome message.

“Thank you,” said Mr. McKinley quietly, “thatisgood news. But have you informed your chief?”

“No, Mr. President; I thought you ought to be the first to know it.”

“Well, Mr.——, I’m sorry for that. Now, will you please do me the favor to go at once to your chief and give him the information, so thathemay communicate it tome.”

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