I had my doubts."
"But could he win? It would be a calamity if he had American
backing and failed; it would mean a disaster."
"Cortlandt has been working carefully, and he has been in all the
seven Provinces. He admits that it might be done; and she is
certain. You see, their part in the Colombian affair makes them
strong with the leaders, and they have already whipped the foreign
influences into line. Of course, it will mean a fight--Alfarez
won't give up easily--but, if Garavel should be the next
President, it would be a fine thing for both countries."
The other commissioner shook his white head doubtfully. "I
supposed it was all settled; Cortlandt himself told me Alfarez was
a good man the last time I talked with him. My God, it seems to me
we've got enough on our hands without being guardians for a two-
by-four republic filled with maniacs. We've got to finish this job
on time. I can't understand this change of sentiment."
"Oh, it isn't settled. There is ample time for anything to happen.
When the psychological moment comes, Cortlandt will be in position
to swing his influence whichever way he thinks best."
"Well, it's a puzzling situation," Colonel Bland admitted. "And I
wish it were over." Then he branched off on the subject of a cargo
of cement which had not been up to standard and might have to be
rejected.
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