“In Heaven’s name, what has happened? Have we annexed Canada, or Mexico, or both?”
“Neither yet—I tell you I must break the matter to you gently. And first by answering your question as to who was elected President of the United States. And I will do it dramatically as well as gradually. Behold, the curtain rises on the grand drama. Act 1st, Scene 1st.—The Election of Abraham Lincoln!”
“Thank Heaven!” said Justin.
“I say so too! We Southerners worked hard for the election of Old Abe; because we knew if he was not elected we could never carry our point with the common people against their superstitious attachment to the Union.”
“What do you mean? I don’t understand you.”
“No; perhaps not, for that was one of the deepest dodges of state-craft that ever was tried. The slave-power working covertly for the election of the abolition candidate! Ha—ha—ha! Ho—ho—ho!”
“Go on—perhaps I shall know what you would be at presently,” said Justin.
“Perhaps you will. Shift the scene. Scene 2nd.—The Secession of South Carolina!”
“What!” thundered Justin, in astonishment.
“Yes, sir!” replied the captain of the Sea Scourge, who understood only the astonishment.