The sympathetic chords which the two men struck upon their first meeting only grew stronger with time.

A single episode brings out the bonds that drew them together.

It took place at a time when the tension over the blockade was especially threatening.

One afternoon Page asked for a formal interview; he had received another exceedingly disagreeable protest from Washington, with instructions to push the matter to a decision; the Ambassador left his Embassy with a grave expression upon his face; his associates were especially worried over the outcome.

So critical did the situation seem that the most important secretaries gathered in the Ambassador's room, awaiting his return, their nerves strung almost to the breaking point.