The handwriting was
the consul's. Albert picked it up and read it with much
anxiety. It began abruptly--
"The fishermen who brought us to this forsaken spot tell me
that it rains here six months in the year, and that this is
the first month. I came here to serve my country, for which I
fought and bled, but I did not come here to die of rheumatism
and pneumonia. I can serve my country better by staying
alive; and whether it rains or not, I don't like it. I have
been grossly deceived, and I am going back. Indeed, by the
time you get this, I will be on my return trip, as I intend
leaving with the men who brought us here as soon as they can
get the sail up. My cousin, Senator Rainsford, can fix it all
right with the President, and can have me recalled in proper
form after I get back. But of course it would not do for me
to leave my post with no one to take my place, and no one
could be more ably fitted to do so than yourself; so I feel no
compunctions at leaving you behind. I hereby, therefore,
accordingly appoint you my substitute with full power to act,
to collect all fees, sign all papers, and attend to all
matters pertaining to your office as American consul, and I
trust you will worthily uphold the name of that country and
government which it has always been my pleasure and duty to serve.
Pages:
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
33
34
35
36
37
38