“Nothing that will cost the citizens of this country one penny of their heritage. I'm going to bet this money—bet it, understand, not loan it, because a loan predicates repayment at some future date, and for the sake of my self-respect as a business man I'd hate to make a bum loan of that magnitude on no security. However, if you want to be a sport and grant me a little favour in return, you can.”
“Name it, friend.”
“As soon as you have been recognized by the United States, I want you to have your ambassador in Washington make representations to my government that the present American consul in Sobrante is not acceptable to your government. That fellow is a disgrace to my native land and I want him fired.”
“It shall be my first official act after freeing my country from a tyrant's yoke.”
“Another little favour also, Ricardo.” This time Webster spoke in English.
“Eire away.”
“After I give you this money, I don't want the Doctor and the Colonel to kiss me to show how grateful they are.”
“You wonderful fellow! Jack Webster, if I had a sister I should want her to marry you.”
“Shows how little you'd think of your sister—staking her to a sentimental jackass. Shall I cable the money to New Orleans in the morning? I have a letter of credit for my entire bank-roll, and I can give a draft at the Banco Nacional, and have them cable a New Orleans bank.”
“That will do very nicely.”