"I didn't say no one bought firearms in Venezuela, Mr. Strawbridge. I said they were not allowed to be sold here."
"O-o-oh, I se-e-e!" Mr. Strawbridge's ejaculation curved up and down as enlightenment broke upon him, and he stared fixedly at his consul.
"All I meant to say was that the trade is curtailed as much as possible, in order to prevent bloodshed, suffering, and the crimes of civil war."
Mr. Strawbridge continued his nodding and his absorbed gaze.
"But, still, some of it goes on—of course."
"Naturally," nodded Strawbridge.
"I suppose," continued the consul, reflectively, "that every month sees a considerable number of arms introduced into Venezuela, as far as that goes."
Strawbridge watched his consul as a cat watches a mouse-hole—for something edible to appear.
"Yes?" he murmured interrogatively.
"Well, there you are," finished the consul.