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McCutcheon, George Barr, 1866-1928

"The Prince of Graustark"

I want to
see the country on the boom. I want to see it taking advantage of all
the opportunities that--er--come its way. There may be a few
pointers that William W. Blithers can give you in respect to your
railways and mines--and your general policy, perhaps. I hope you
won't hesitate about asking."
The Prime Minister tapped reflectively upon the table-top with his
fingers for a moment or two.
"Thank you," he said. "We are at this very moment in something of a
quandary in respect to the renewal of a treaty with one of our
neighbours. For the past twenty years we have been in alliance with
our next door neighbours, Axphain on the north and Dawsbergen on the
south and east. The triple alliance will end this year unless
renewed. Up to the present our relations have been most amiable.
Axphain stands ready to extend our mutual protective agreement for
another term of years, but Dawsbergen is lukewarm and inclined to
withdraw. When you become better acquainted with the politics of our
country you will understand how regrettable such an action on the
part of a hitherto friendly government will be.


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