And Gherardi saw that there
was little or no possibility of moving such a man from the firm
ground of truth which he had elected to stand on. There is nothing
so inconvenient in this world as an absolutely truthful person, who
can both speak and write, and has the courage of his convictions.
One can always arrange matters with liars, because they, being
hampered by their own deceits, are compelled to study ways, means,
and chances for appearing honest. But with the man or woman who
holds truth dearer than life, and honour more valuable than
advancement, there is nothing to be done, now that governments
cannot insist on the hemlock-cure, as in the case of Socrates.
Gherardi, looking furtively under his eyelids at Leigh's strong
lithe figure, and classic head, felt he could have willingly
poisoned or stabbed him. For there were, and ARE great interests at
stake in the so-called "conversion of England,"--it is truly one of
the largest financial schemes ever set afloat in the world, if those
whose duty it is to influence and control events could only be
brought to see the practical side of the matter, and set a check on
its advancement before it is too late. Gherardi knew what great
opportunities there were in embryo of making large fortunes;--and
not only of making large fortunes but of obtaining incredible power.
Pages:
450
451
452
453
454
455
456
457
458
459
460
461
462
463
464
465
466
467
468
469
470
471
472
473
474