tion, of the American eagle to swoop down upon them and "wipe 'em out in sixty days." They talk unreservedly and offensively about the prospects of a speedy annexation; of a protectorate, and the gigantic scheme of absorption, all of which cannot fail to engender much ill-feeling and animosity. It recalls afresh to the sensitive Mexican mind the "North American invasion"—the loss of valuable territory, and the general distress that pervaded the country.
Then again we have been full of unjust doubts as to the integrity of our neighbors. The consequence has been that the keen discrimination of our friends across the water has long since gathered to themselves the friendly relations as well as the profitable emoluments of trade which legitimately belong to us.
To compete successfully with the diplomatic methods of the English, French and Germans requires tact and skillful manipulation. Of the many Americans who gaze from afar with longing eyes on the prospect for business investments, it is safe to say that not one in five thousand has the slightest idea of the nature of the difficulties to be met and overcome in order to realize these prospects. In endeavoring to establish business relations, it must be borne in mind that it is not with one race he has to do, but with various shades, mixtures and types; with sentiments and prejudices, diverse and in common, all to be met, pandered to, and softened into harmony.
The average American has the impression that, should he locate in Mexico, and exercise his accustomed force and energy, much sooner will he reach the acme of his hopes and the realization of his golden dreams. Delusive thought! It does not require much time to undeceive him. He finds that no push whatever is expected or required; in fact, the less he has the better, for he must learn to bend to the slow—very slow—methods of the Mexican; to accept the dolce far niente of the country. Business customs and habits confront him which yield but slowly to modern ideas, while the necessary schooling in the mañana system, and the still more difficult lesson that. Toots-like, time is of "no consequence," must chafe his restless spirit, and dampen his impassioned ardor.
