If up to the present the petition has not been granted, it has been for the reason, as I feel sure, that there has been a great deal of material accumulated, but I predict that the campaign is won, that the summons of Makaraig is to announce to us the victory, and tomorrow we shall see our efforts crowned with the applause and appreciation of the country, and who knows, gentlemen, but that the government may confer upon you some handsome decoration of merit, benefactors as you are of the fatherland!" Enthusiastic applause resounded.

All immediately believed in the triumph, and many in the decoration.
"Let it be remembered, gentlemen," observed Juanito, "that I was one of the first to propose it." The pessimist Pecson was not so enthusiastic.

"Just so we don't get that decoration on our ankles," he remarked, but fortunately for Pelaez this comment was not heard in the midst of the applause.
When they had quieted down a little, Pecson replied, "Good, good, very good, but one supposition: if in spite of all that, the General consults and consults and consults, and afterwards refuses the permit ?" This question fell like a dash of cold water.

All turned to Sandoval, who was taken aback.

"Then--" he stammered.
"Then ?" "Then," he exclaimed in a burst of enthusiasm, still excited by the applause, "seeing that in writing and in printing it boasts of desiring your enlightenment, and yet hinders and denies it when called upon to make it a reality--then, gentlemen, your efforts will not have been in vain, you will have accomplished what no one else has been able to do.