``That is true,'' assented the other. ``I have thought of that,
and if the Senators in Opposition were given a chance to
subscribe, I am sure they would see that it is better wisdom to
drop their objections to the concession, and as stockholders
allow you to keep ninety per cent of the output. And, again,''
continued Mendoza, ``it is really better for the country that the
money should go to its people than that it should be stored up in
the vaults of the treasury, when there is always the danger that
the President will seize it; or, if not this one, the next one.''

``I should think--that is--it seems to me,'' said Clay with
careful consideration, ``that your Excellency might be able to
render us great help in this matter yourself. We need a friend
among the Opposition. In fact--I see where you could assist us
in many ways, where your services would be strictly in the line
of your public duty and yet benefit us very much. Of course I
cannot speak authoritatively without first consulting Mr.
Langham; but I should think he would allow you personally to
purchase as large a block of the stock as you could wish, either
to keep yourself or to resell and distribute among those of your
friends in Opposition where it would do the most good.''

Clay looked over inquiringly to where Mendoza sat in the light of
the open door, and the General smiled faintly, and emitted a
pleased little sigh of relief. ``Indeed,'' continued Clay, ``I
should think Mr. Langham might even save you the formality of
purchasing the stock outright by sending you its money
equivalent. I beg your pardon,'' he asked, interrupting himself,
``does your orderly understand English?''