I have pictured our
inland jungles replaced with homes; a great traffic flowing from
end to end of the Republic. But I have also seen that our people
would not profit by it. The languor of the tropics is in their
blood, and you Yankees would be needed to inspire them." His voice
shook with emotion as he went on: "They are good, simple people,
no more than children, and I love them. A gracious Providence gave
us the key to the world's commerce, but we could not use it. It
needs all our wisdom now to adapt ourselves to the conditions that
have arisen. 'Andres Garavel, President of the Republic of
Panama!' It has a sweet sound, my friends, and yet--I have fears."
"Let's take them one by one," laughed his host, "and prove them
imaginary. I see a great good-fortune in store for you."
It was midnight before Senor Andres Garavel, the banker, bade his
friends good-bye. When he descended the hotel steps to his
carriage, he held his white head proudly erect, and there was new
dignity in his bearing. As he was whirled homeward behind his
spirited Peruvian mare, a wonderful song was singing in his heart.
XVIII
THE SIEGE OF MARIA TORRES
The faithful Allan was not long in fulfilling his mission. Such
devotion as his, it seemed, could hardly fail, and, if there had
been a hundred Chiquitas, doubtless he would have corralled them
all.
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