At Chicago he left the colonel with a promise to meet him in three weeks at the headquarters of the British-American Coal and Lumber Company at Bay City. He wired to Ottawa, asking an appointment with the government, and after three days' hard travel found himself in the capital of the Dominion. The premier, Sir John A. Macdonald, with the ready courtesy characteristic of him, immediately arranged for a hearing of the delegation from British Columbia. Ranald was surprised at the indifference with which he approached this meeting. He seemed to have lost capacity for keen feeling of any kind. Sir John A. MacDonald and his cabinet received the delegation with great kindness, and in every possible way strove to make them feel that the government was genuinely interested in the western province, and were anxious to do all that could be done in their interest. In the conference that ensued, the delegate for Victoria took a more prominent part, being an older man, and representing the larger and more important constituency. But when Sir John began to ask questions, the Victoria delegate was soon beyond his depth. The premier showed such an exactness of knowledge and comprehensiveness of grasp that before long Ranald was appealed to for information in regard to the resources of the country, and especially the causes and extent of the present discontent. “The causes of discontent are very easy to see,” said Ranald; “all British Columbians feel hurt at the failure of the Dominion government to keep its solemn obligations.” “Is there nothing else now, Mr. Macdonald?” “There may be,” said Ranald, “some lingering impatience with the government by different officials, and there is a certain amount of annexation sentiment.” “Ah,” said Sir John, “I think we have our finger upon it now.” “Do not over-estimate that,” said Ranald; “I believe that there are only a very few with annexation sentiments, and all these are of American birth. The great body of the people are simply indignant at, and disappointed with, the Dominion government.” “And would you say there is no other cause of discontent, Mr. Macdonald?” said Sir John, with a keen look at Ranald. “There is another cause, I believe,” said Ranald, “and that is the party depression, but that depression is due to the uncertainty in regard to the political future of the province. When once we hear that the railroad is being built, political interest will revive.” “May I ask where you were born?” said Sir John. “In Glengarry,” said Ranald, with a touch of pride in his voice. “Ah, I am afraid your people are not great admirers of my government, and perhaps you, Mr. Macdonald, share in the opinion of your county.” “I have no opinion in regard to Dominion politics. I am for British Columbia.” “Well, Mr. Macdonald,” said Sir John, rising, “that is right, and you ought to have your road.” “Do I understand you to say that the government will begin to build the road at once?” said Ranald.