Part 31 (1/2)
”At what?”
”In politics.”
”Are you patriotic?”
”Yes, up to a certain point. I have no transcendental idea of patriotism at all. Patriotism, as I interpret it, is a matter of curiosity. I believe that there is strength in Spain. If this strength could be led in a given direction, where would it get to? That is my form of patriotism; as I say, it is an experimental form.”
Kennedy looked at Caesar with curiosity.
”And how can it help you with your plans to stay here in Rome?” he asked.
”It can help me. In Spain n.o.body knows me. This is the only place where I have a certain position, through being the nephew of a Cardinal. I am trying to build on that. How am I going to arrange it? I don't know. I am feeling out my future course, taking soundings.”
”But the support you could find here would be all of a clerical nature,”
said Kennedy.
”Of course.”
”But you are not Clerical!”
”No; but it is necessary for me to climb. Afterwards there will be time to change.”
”You are not taking it into account, my dear Caesar, that the Church is still powerful and that it doesn't pardon people who impose upon it.”
”Bah! I am not afraid of it.”
”And you were just saying you are not courageous! You are courageous, my dear man.... After this, I don't doubt of your success.”
”I need data.”
”If I can furnish you with any....”
”Wouldn't it be disagreeable for you to help a man who is your enemy, so far as ideas go?”
”No; because I am beginning to have some curiosity too, as to whether you will succeed in doing something. If I can be of any use, let me know.”
”I will let you know.”
Caesar and Kennedy took a walk about the streets, and at twilight they took leave of each other affectionately.
XIV. NEW ATTEMPTS, NEW RAMBLES
_CARDINAL SPADA_
”I have arranged two interesting conferences for you,” said Kennedy, a few days later.
”My dear man!”