Mine is the
success and glory of the _Examiner_. I intend to make of it what the
London _Times_ is in England, and the world--a great power, which shall
lay down the law, control cabinets, mould parties, and direct events.
It has given me much trouble to establish it, but _ca ira_ now! From
the _Examiner_ I expect to realize the great dream of my life."
"The dream of your life? What is that?--if I may ask without
intrusion."
"Oh! I make no secret of it, and as a gentleman speaking to a
gentleman, can say what I could not in the society of _roturiers_ or
common people. My family is an old and honorable one in Virginia--this,
by way of explanation only, I beg you to note. We are thus, people of
old descent, but my branch of the family is ruined. My object is to
reinstate it; and you will perhaps compare me to the scheming young
politician in Bulwer's 'My Novel,' who seeks to restore the family
fortunes, and brighten up the lonely old house--in Yorkshire, is it?
You remember?"
"Yes," I said.
"Well, I always sympathized with that character. He is morally bad, you
say: granted; but he is resolute and brave--and his object is noble."
"I agree with you, the object _is_ noble."
"I am glad you think so, colonel. I see I speak to one who has the old
Virginia feeling.
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