“But the Republicans are going to sidetrack it; I have that on the best authority,” said one.
“True; but can’t we force them to it?”
“Only by political power, and they’ve just won a campaign.”
“They won it by Negro votes, and the Negro who secured the votes is eager for this bill; he’s a fine, honest fellow.”
“Very well; work with him; and when we can be of real service let us know. Meantime, this Child Labor bill is different. It’s bound to pass. Both parties are back of it, and public opinion is aroused. Now our work is to force amendments enough to make the bill effective.”
Discussion followed; not flamboyant and declamatory, but tense, staccato, pointed. Mrs. ¬ÝCresswell found herself taking part. Someone mentioned her name, and one or two glances of interest and even curiosity were thrown her way. Congressmen‚Äôs wives were rare at the Civic Club.
Congressmen Todd urged Mrs. ¬ÝCresswell to stay after the discussion and attend a meeting of the managers and workers of the Washington social settlements.
“Have you many settlements?” she inquired.
‚ÄúThree in all‚ÅÝ‚Äîtwo white and one colored.‚Äù
“And will they all be represented?”
‚ÄúYes, of course, Mrs. ¬ÝCresswell. If you object to meeting the colored people‚ÅÝ‚Äî‚Äù
Mrs. ¬ÝCresswell blushed.
“No, indeed,” she answered; “I used to teach colored people.”