“Thank you, your Excellency,” said Mr. Dartmoor.
“Your position,” continued the President, “is that the United States, by interfering in the Chile-Peruvian War, gave the last-named nation undue encouragement, and because of a change in policy, failed to impress Chile with the firmness of its position. Because of this, you believe the United States should now interfere and prevent Chile’s retention of the provinces of Arica and Tacna?”
“Yes, your Excellency.”
“Mr. Dartmoor, I will place the matter before Congress with the recommendation which you have urged.”
He rose from his seat, and the conference was at an end.
Harvey left the White House very much pleased with the result of his call, and hurried to the hotel where he had promised to meet his old friend, Carl Saunders; and arrived there, he related in detail the conversation with the President, and received the congratulations of his chum of the Callao Rowing Club days. Then they fell to discussing events that had occurred those many years ago, and talked of the persons they had then known. Both heard with relief that all members of the two families who had been so intimately associated were living. Carl was delighted to learn that General Matajente was high in favor with the government, and as belligerent as ever, notwithstanding his advanced years.
“And John Longmore?” he asked.
“Poor fellow! he died in an insane asylum.”
“How is Señor Cisneros?”
“He is very well, and is resident manager of the mine.”