“It is; it has been forming in my mind for weeks and months; more than once I was in despair, and not until last evening did the splendor of the scheme burst upon me in all its fulness.”
“You are dreaming what others dreamed before you, but the only one who made a fair start toward its realization was Simon Bolivar, and he died disappointed and brokenhearted. I suppose the first step will be to send ambassadors, or whatever you choose to call them, to the different republics of South America, proposing a meeting of representatives to consider the great scheme?”
“That will be the first step. It will take some time for a full exchange of views, and a committee will be named from each government to draw up the plan for confederation.”
“Your scheme contemplates that this union shall be a republic, like my own country?”
“No other form can flourish in the clear sunlight of liberty of South America.”
“Not the least important step, after the plan has been formulated, will be the choice of the Chief Magistrate; who should he be?”
The American knew what was coming, but the enjoyment of prodding the bulky ignoramus was none the less exquisite.
“The thoughts of all would naturally turn to the man who originated the grand scheme; they would feel profound gratitude, and inquire whether he is competent to carry out the plan and make the dream a realization; an immense majority will insist that the responsibility and honor shall go to him.”
“And in that case you would be the man?”