Nevertheless, there were some not so sure that the Consolidated would
succeed in electing its man. Since Ridgway had announced himself as a
candidate there had been signs of defection on the part of some of those
expected to vote for Warner. He had skillfully wielded together in
opposition to the trust all the elements of the State that were hostile to
it; and already the word was being passed that he had not come to the
campaign without a barrel of his own.
The balloting for United States senator was not to begin until the eighth
day of the session, but the opening week was full of a tense and suppressed
excitement. It was known that agents of both sides were moving to and fro
among the representatives and State senators, offering fabulous prices for
their votes and the votes of any others they might be able to control. Men
who had come to the capital confident in their strength and integrity now
looked at their neighbors furtively and guiltily. Day by day the
legislators were being debauched to serve the interest of the factions
which were fighting for control of the State.
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