The enterprise needs another man, because to make it a success zeal and money alone are not sufficient; in our country are required also self-denial, tenacity of purpose, and faith, for the soil is not ready, it is only sown with discord." Ibarra appreciated the value of these observations, but still would not be discouraged.

The thought of Maria Clara was in his mind and his promise must be fulfilled.
"Doesn't your experience suggest any other than this hard means ?" he asked in a low voice.
The old man took him by the arm and led him to the window.

A fresh breeze, the precursor of the north wind, was blowing, and before their eyes spread out the garden bounded by the wide forest that was a kind of park.
"Why can we not do as that weak stalk laden with flowers and buds does ?" asked the Sage, pointing to a beautiful jasmine plant.

"The wind blows and shakes it and it bows its head as if to hide its precious load.

If the stalk should hold itself erect it would be broken, its flowers would be scattered by the wind, and its buds would be blighted.