The secret of the sympathy existing between Peru and the United States lies largely in the similarity of the national ideals, which in both countries are centred in liberal principles of civil government. The Civil party which elected President Pardo stands for the most progressive politics of Peru. The illustrious statesman who presides over its councils at present, Dr. Augusto Leguia, has just received the highest proof of the nation’s esteem for his genius and patriotism, in the announcement of his election to succeed Dr. Pardo as President of Peru. The election took place in May, 1908, and the successful candidate is to be inaugurated on the 24th of September, 1908. The president-elect is one of Peru’s greatest men, his name being especially identified, as Finance Minister, with the successful financial operations of the present government during the first three years of Dr. Pardo’s term; his knowledge of all that pertains to this important branch of the government is unequalled by that of any other Peruvian statesman. A gentleman of distinguished family and most attractive personality, as well as a statesman of extraordinary ability, Dr. Leguia is a worthy successor of President Pardo, who by his admirable qualities of mind and heart has endeared himself to all Peruvians and won the respect and esteem of all foreigners in his country. [Illustration: THE PERUVIAN IRONCLAD _GRAU_, IN THE HARBOR OF CALLAO.] [Illustration: THE UNVEILING OF BOLOGNESI’S STATUE IN LIMA.] CHAPTER XI THE POLITICAL ORGANIZATION OF THE REPUBLIC [Illustration: A REVIEW OF THE TROOPS, LIMA.]