The Exiles of Faloo

Mr Bassett had made the commonest mistake of political speakers; he had supposed that the argument which appealed most strongly to himself would appeal most strongly to his audience. He had appealed to fear. Dr Soames Pryce was not a timid man, and he resented what he regarded as an attempt to scare him. “I vote against the election of Mr Smith to this club,” said Dr Pryce, bluntly. “After all you have said?” exclaimed Mr Bassett. “You surprise me very much.” “One moment, Mr Bassett,” said the President. “I must declare then that Mr John Smith is not elected.” Mr Bassett paused with the pen in his hand. “Am I to write ‘not elected,’ gentlemen? We have all admitted that Smith is a good, hospitable fellow, and we have business dealings with him. We might let him down as easily as possible. May I write ‘postponed for further consideration’? It commits us to nothing, and it’s not quite so harsh.” “I see no objection to that,” said Sir John. “What do you think, doctor?”