"If it be really so, general, the discussion between us will not be long. But, allow me in the first place to set forth my grievances, in order to throw full light on the state of the case."
"Do so."
"In the first place, permit me one question. Do you know the conditions of my treaty with the Mexican government?"
"Of course I do, count, as I have in my possession a copy of it."
Don Louis made a sign of surprise.
"That must not astonish you," the general continued; "remember what occurred at Mexico. Do you not owe to an influential person, whose name you are ignorant of, the removal of those insurmountable obstacles which prevented the acceptance of your treaty by the President of the Republic?"
"I allow it."
"That person, I can now tell you, was myself."
"You, general?"
"Myself. Then, do you remember that when all was concluded, I became the first shareholder who gave his signature, and supplied funds?"