But why do you
discuss these things with me or tell me of them?"
"It is because I have considered you and recognize your worth," replied
Alvarez slowly. "Why rush on to destruction with the foolish rebels? No,
do not speak! Pay good heed to what I say. There is more passing on this
continent than you think. Great events are about to occur. I do not speak
merely of the war between the rebels--or, if you prefer it, the
Americans--and the English, but of another change.
"Spain is seated at New Orleans near the mouth of the Mississippi, which
flows through a larger area of fertile and temperate country than any
other river in the world. The waters of hundreds of navigable streams
converge there, and it must become the rival of London and Paris. What can
Quebec, Boston, New York, or Charleston be to New Orleans? Can Spain give
up such a site and such a vast and fertile territory as Louisiana? Never!
And here is the greatest opportunity in the world for strong men! Come
with me! Bring your friends with you! We need such as you! I offer you a
career that could not even enter your dreams in the woods of Kaintock!"
A deep, red flush overspread Henry's face.
"Do you think that we could fight against our own people," he exclaimed.
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