“Ah, I am afraid your people are not great admirers of my government, and perhaps you, Mr. Macdonald, share in the opinion of your county.”
“I have no opinion in regard to Dominion politics. I am for British Columbia.”
“Well, Mr. Macdonald,” said Sir John, rising, “that is right, and you ought to have your road.”
“Do I understand you to say that the government will begin to build the road at once?” said Ranald.
“Ah,” smiled Sir John, “I see you want something definite.”
“I have come two thousand miles to get it. The people that sent me will be content with nothing else. It is a serious time with us, and I believe with the whole of the Dominion.”
“Mr. Macdonald,” said Sir John, becoming suddenly grave, “believe me, it is a more serious time than you know, but you trust me in this matter.”
“Will the road be begun this year?” said Ranald.
“All I can say to-day, Mr. Macdonald,” said Sir John, earnestly, “is this, that if I can bring it about, the building of the road will be started at once.”
“Then, Sir John,” said Ranald, “you may depend that British Columbia will be grateful to you,” and the interview was over.