A look of resolve came over the faces of the entire audience. It was an experiment worth trying!
"Gentlemen," added H. R., sternly, "we are going to call the bluff of the anarchistic labor agitators!"
A storm of applause burst from the audience. H. R. held up a hand.
"In giving, it is always wise to know to whom you are giving. The Society of American Sandwich Artists, with the aid of those who have made New York what it is, pledges itself to see to it that the meals find the proper bellies. There is no such thing as scientific charity any more than there is unscientific poverty. Nobody hates to give, but everybody wishes to give wisely. I guarantee that nobody who has money to buy food with will be fed at our expense. I guarantee this!"
"HOW?" burst from three hundred and eighteen throats.
"That is our secret. I may add that the coupon, worth exactly ten thousand dollars in cash, is not a lottery scheme. Gentlemen, I count upon your cooperation. I thank you." He bowed, modestly stepped back and nodded to Bishop Barrows. "Adjourn," he whispered.
"I have a few—" began Dr. Barrows, protestingly.
"Adjourn. The reporters will print them from your manuscript."
"But—"
H. R. took out his handkerchief and wiped his cool, unfevered brow. He had foreseen the chairman's speech. Max Onthemaker, who had been waiting for the signal, jumped to his feet and yelled: