As to their success, I have no fear whatsoever!'
"I was aghast! The thought that my hare-brained cousin was engaged in
such a foolhardy expedition was maddening. I loved the boy as a
brother--indeed he _was_ my foster-brother, brought up in my own family,
and regarded as one of us. The Cuban studied my face curiously.
"'Senor,' said he gravely, 'knowing your sentiments, I came here to-day
for advice. There is much more to be told. Every moment is precious.
To-morrow in New York----'
"'Stop!' I thundered, 'you have gone too far already! There is some
mistake. You are laboring under a delusion. I will tell you frankly,
Villasante, that you misjudge me. Many things have happened since I saw
you at Saratoga two years ago. My views upon public questions have
changed, as a more intimate acquaintance with any subject is apt to
effect. I should like to see your country self-governed, the Spanish
yoke overthrown, and liberty in its best sense gained; but the United
States must keep her hands off! It would mean war with a friendly
nation, an ancient ally. In other words, there would be the Devil to
pay! Can't you see our position in the matter?'
"'Caramba!' (or something like that) exclaimed Villasante excitedly,
walking up and down, and clenching his fists. 'Your country _must_ aid
us! We can not free ourselves--quite impossible! We are weak; Spain is
mighty! For centuries she has held us in her torturing grasp! It has
been a continual drain of our blood, our pride, our gold, and all that
goes to make for the self-respect and prosperity of a nation! Cuba is
desolated! She cries for aid--first to you; if unheeded, then to the
whole world! Shall the Pearl of the Antilles fall to Germany, France, or
England?'
"'Not while the Monroe Doctrine is respected and enforced, as it will
be!' said I spread-eagle-ly.
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