human
Texas agrees! I exclaimed.
gpt
It will be a great country, said he at last.
human
This once done, I shall feel that, after all, I have not lived wholly in vain.
gpt
But the difficulties! Suppose Van Zandt proves traitorous to us?
human
He dare not. Texas may know that he bargained with England, but he dare not traffic with Mexico and let _that_ be known. He would not live a day.
gpt
But perhaps the Doña Lucrezia herself might some time prove fickle.
human
The public might not approve, Mr. Calhoun; but at least there _were_ advantages in this sort of aids!
gpt
We are obliged to find such help as we can. The public is not always able to tell which was plot and which counterplot in the accomplishment of some intricate things. The result excuses all. It was written that Texas should come to this country. Now for Oregon! It grows, this idea of democracy!
human
At least, sir, you will have done your part. Only now--
gpt
Only what, then?
human
We are certain to encounter opposition. The Senate may not ratify this Texas treaty.
gpt
The Senate will _not_ ratify, said he.
human
I am perfectly well advised of how the vote will be when this treaty comes before it for ratification. We will be beaten, two to one!
gpt
Then, does that not end it?
human
End it? No! There are always other ways. If the people of this country wish Texas to belong to our flag, she will so belong. It is as good as done to-day. Never look at the obstacles; look at the goal! It was this intrigue of Van Zandt's which stood in our way. By playing one intrigue against another, we have won thus far. We must go on winning!
gpt
Let England whistle now! he exclaimed exultantly.
human
We shall annex Texas, in full view, indeed, of all possible consequences. There can be no consequences, for England has no excuse left for war over Texas. I only wish the situation were as clear for Oregon.
gpt
There'll be bad news for our friend Señor Yturrio when he gets back to his own legation!
human
Let him then face that day when Mexico shall see fit to look to us for aid and counsel. We will build a mighty country _here_, on _this_ continent!
gpt
Mr. Pakenham is accredited to have certain influence in our Senate.
human
Yes. We have his influence exactly weighed. Yet I rejoice in at least one thing--one of his best allies is not here.
gpt
You mean Señor Yturrio?
human
I mean the Baroness von Ritz. And now comes on that next nominating convention, at Baltimore.
gpt
What will it do?
human
God knows. For me, I have no party. I am alone! I have but few friends in all the world --he smiled now--
gpt
Rustle of silk, my boy, rustle of silk--it is over all our maps. But we shall make these maps! Time shall bear me witness.
human
Then I may start soon for Oregon?
gpt
You shall start to-morrow,