ested. I look forward to a career of ever increasing
influence and power in St. Petersburg, and I wish
to take back as many credits as possible."

"I understand, I understand!" The Governor
rested his lame back once more. "Your ambition is
the more laudable, Excellency, since you have
achieved so much already. I am not one to balk the
honest ambition of any man, particularly when he
does me the honor to take me into his confidence. I
like this suggested measure. I like it much. I be-
lieve it would redound to our mutual benefit and
reputation. Is it not so, Jose?"

The Commandante nodded vigorously. "I am
sure of it! I am sure of it! I like it--much,
much."

"I will write at once to the Viceroy of Mexico
and ask that he lay the matter before the Cabinet
and King. Without that high authority we can do
nothing. But I see no reason to doubt the issue when
we, who know the wants and needs of California,
approve and desire. We are doomed to failure in
this unwieldy land of worthless savages, but it is the
business of the wretched servants of a glorious mon-
arch to do the best they can."

Rezanov had an inspiration. "You might remind
the viceroy that Spain and the United States of