"
"Payin' so much attention to other people's business must have made yer
forget yer own," said Strout, shutting his teeth together with a snap.
"Oh, no," remarked Quincy, with a laugh; "I had plenty of time left to
take a hand in village politics, and my friend Mr. Stackpole was elected
by a very handsome vote, as you have no doubt heard." Strout dug his
heel into the carpet, but said nothing.
"Now," continued Quincy, "I've had your appointment as postmaster held
up till you and I come to terms."
"You're takin' a lot of trouble for nothin'," said Strout. "I can't be
postmaster unless I have a store. I guess I kin manage to live with my
music teachin' and organ playin' at the church."
"I've thought of that," said Quincy. "I don't wish to go to extremes,
but I will if it is necessary. Before you leave this room, Mr. Strout,
you must decide whether you will work with me or against me in the
future."
"S'posin' I decide to work agin yer?" asked Strout; "what then?"
"Well," said Quincy sternly, "if you drive me to it, I'll bring down a
couple of good music teachers from Boston.
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