let that chap go. I believed he had attempted a
good job. I saved Rodriguez's worthless life and took a risk in doing
it. I would not have done so, but I thought the man was aiming at you;
but since I did, the only reward I was entitled to, or wanted, was to do
as I pleased with the man."

"Undoubtedly," said Mr. Howland. "Of course it occurred to you that
Rodriguez's life, however worthless you hold it in other ways, might be
extremely valuable to the San Blanco Trading and Investment Company,
which is myself?"

"Yes, I did think of that," replied Dan, "although I am employed by the
Coastwise Company, I know you practically own both. I realize, too, your
kindness to me in the past; but I did look on the fellow as a man
honestly trying to serve his country; and when it came to deliver him up
to be hanged--why I simply could not do it." Dan rose slowly. "I showed
myself ungrateful to your interests. As I say, I appreciate what you
have done. I am going to show that I do by asking you to consider my
resignation in your hands to act upon as soon--whenever you please."

"Sit down, Captain Merrithew," said Mr. Howland, as though he had not
heard the last words. "In the first place, you recognize that where
there is no law and order legitimate business cannot be carried on.
Where a country is governed in a haphazard manner, while it may be easy
to secure contracts, it is impossible to collect on them. Business
interests having connections with such countries find conditions
intolerable, and where we can we rectify them. If you have studied San
Blancan affairs you know that under Rodriguez (who, despite his cruelty,
is honest) business here, whether controlled by myself or any one else,
may for the first time in history be conducted on an honest and reliable
basis. That is all I ask or have asked. I have no benefit of
discriminating duties. I am largely interested in the business affairs
of this country; but I obtained those interests fairly, and it is my duty
to myself and my daughter and my business associates to maintain and
develop them.

"I talk to you this way, Merrithew, because I have felt you were going
wrong, and I wanted to set you right. I'll say frankly I know I'll not
lose anything in so doing. I owe you a great deal. I am glad I do; for
I like your sort. I wish I had a boy growing up as you have grown. You
have a future before you--if you will only watch that damned hot head of
yours."