Here was the way to save our
prophet! Here was the way to get what one wanted in Mobland!
I picked up the receiver and called Eternal City. Yes, Mr. T-S was
there, but he was "on the lot" and could not be disturbed. I gave my
name, and stated that it was a matter of life and death; Mr. T-S
must come to the phone instantly. A couple of minutes later I heard
his voice, and told him the situation, and also my scheme. He must
come himself, to make sure that his orders were obeyed; he must
bring several bus-loads of men, clad in the full regalia of
Mobland's great Secret Society; and they must arrive at Abell's
place precisely on the stroke of midnight. The men must be paid five
dollars apiece, and be told that if they succeeded in bringing away
the prophet unharmed, they would each get ten dollars extra. "I will
put up that money," I said to T-S; but to my surprise he cried: "You
ain't gonna put up nuttin'! God damn dem fellers, I'll beat 'em if
it costs me a million!" So I realized that the prophet had made one
more convert!
"Have you got that bus with the siren?" I asked; and when he
answered, yes, I said, "Let that be the signal.
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