but I doubt if the way to get Negro rights is to vote for those who took them away.”
“I agree with you perfectly,” said Bles.
“I understand you do, and that you made an unusually fine speech on the subject the other night.”
“Thank you, sir.” This was a good deal more than Bles had expected, and he was embarrassed.
“Well, now, we think you’re just the man to take the stump during September and October and convince the colored people of their real interests.”
“I doubt if I could, sir; I’m not a speaker. In fact, that was my first public speech.”
“So much the better. Are you willing to try?”
“Why, yes, sir; but