But when I found that there were about three generals for every colonel I chose the nominally inferior but actually more distinguished grade.
I remained in Venezuela two years, campaigning nearly all the time.

But it was an ignoble warfare, cruel and ruthless, and had I not given my word to Carmen, to stand by him until the country was pacified, I should have resigned my commission much sooner than I did.

Ramon, who acted as one of my orderlies, bore himself bravely and was several times wounded.
In the meanwhile I received several communications from Van Voorst, and made two visits to Curacoa.

The cutting and disposal of my diamonds being naturally rather a long business, it was nearly two years after I had shipped them to Holland before I learned the result of my venture.
After all expenses were paid they brought me nearly three hundred thousand pounds, which account Goldberg, Van Voorst & Company "held at my disposal." It was to arrange and advise with the Amsterdam people, as to the investment of this great fortune, that I went to Europe.

But I did not depart until my promise was fulfilled.