SEVERAL Political Entities were dividing the spoils.

  "I will take the management of the prisons," said a Decent Respect
for Public Opinion, "and make a radical change."

  "And I," said the Blotted Escutcheon, "will retain my present
general connection with affairs, while my friend here, the Soiled
Ermine, will remain in the Judiciary."

  The Political Pot said it would not boil any more unless
replenished from the Filthy Pool.

  The Cohesive Power of Public Plunder quietly remarked that the two
bosses would, he supposed, naturally be his share.

  "No," said the Depth of Degradation, "they have already fallen to
me."