human
You cannot force geography, resumed Burr, in tones as even as if he had but spoken of bartering for a house and lot.
gpt
Lower Louisiana and Mexico together--yes, perhaps. Florida, with us--yes, perhaps. Indeed, territories larger perhaps than any of us dare dream at present, once our new flag is raised. All that I purpose is to do what has been discussed a thousand times before--to unite in a natural alliance of self-interest those men who are sundered in every way of interest and alliance from the government on this side of the Alleghanies. Would you call that treason--conspiracy? I dislike the words. I call it rather a plan based upon sound reason and common sense; and I hold that its success is virtually assured.
human
You will explain more fully, Colonel Burr?
gpt
I march only with destiny, yonder--do you not see, gentlemen? Burr resumed.
human
Those who march with me are in alliance with natural events. This republic is split now, at this very moment. It must follow its own fate. If the flag of Spain were west of it on the south, and the flag of Britain west of it on the north, why, then we should have the natural end of the republic's expansion. With those great powers in alliance at its back, with the fleets of England on the seas, at the mouth of the great river--owning the lands in Canada on the north--it would be a simple thing, I say, to crush this republic against the wall of the Appalachians, or to drive it once more into the sea.
gpt
I know what is in your minds, gentlemen. The one thing which troubles you is this--the man who speaks to you is Vice-President of the United States. I say what in your country would be treason. In this country I maintain it is not yet treason, because thus far we are in an experiment. We have no actual reign of reason and of law; and he marches to success who marches with natural laws and along the definite trend of existing circumstances and conditions.
human
What you say, Mr. Burr, began Merry gravely,
gpt
I interest you, gentlemen! You can go with me only if it be to your interest and to that of your countries to join with me in these plans. They have gone far forward--let me tell you that. I know my men from St. Louis to New Orleans--I know my leaders--I know that population. If this be treason, as Mr. Patrick Henry said, let us make the most of it. At least it is the intention of Aaron Burr. I stake upon it all my fortune, my life, the happiness of my family. Do you think I am sincere?