It had the Veridian story; was still running it from time to
time. Therefore, if Mr. Banneker was interested, on behalf of The
Patriot--
Certainly, The Patriot was interested; would obtain and publish the
story in full, if it was as Mr. McClintick represented, with due
editorial comment.
"Will it?" grumbled McClintick, gave his hat a look of mingled hope and
skepticism, put it on, and went away.
"Now, what's wrong with that chap's mental digestion?" Banneker inquired
of Edmonds, who had sat quiet throughout the interview. "What is he
holding back?"
"Plenty," returned the veteran in a tone which might have served for
echo of the labor man's gloom.
"Do you know the Veridian story?"
"Yes. I've just checked it up."
"What's the milk in that cocoanut?"
"Sour!" said Edmonds with such energy that Banneker turned to look at
him direct. "The principal owner of Veridian is named Marrineal....
Where you going, Ban?"
"To see the principal owner of the name," said Banneker grimly.
The quest took him to the big house on upper Fifth Avenue. Marrineal
heard his editorial writer with impassive face.
"So the story has got here," he remarked.
"Yes. Do you own Veridian?"
"No."
Hope rose within Banneker. "You don't?"
"My mother does.
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