The Man and His Kingdom by E. Phillips Oppenheim

Dene had arrived, and the evening's idleness was at an end. There were all the packages on the backs of the long train of mules to be examined and carried away into the storehouses, the mules themselves to be fed, Dene's horse to be cared for. Fortunately, the moon had risen up from behind the dark-crested hills, and every moment its light was growing stronger. There was no lack of willing workers. The little open space round which the houses of the settlement had been built was suddenly transformed into a scene of bustle and cheerful energy. Men went backwards and forwards carrying all manner of packages, and a fire of cheerful conversation was flashing all over the place. Dene himself, head and shoulders above them all, moved about with outstretched hand, everywhere welcomed with enthusiasm, hearing all the news of the place, frankly and unaffectedly delighted at the joy which his coming had evoked. There were no complaints, no discordant voices. The horses had done wonderfully; the harvest--well, never had Beau Desir seen such a one before. He, too, had great tidings for them. A whisper began to creep around that their dream was realised. A sadden torrent of questions assailed him. He held up his hand, and every one paused in their tasks. Packages were laid down, eager faces were turned towards him. There was intense silence. He was going to speak to them. Every man and woman in the place was there except the schoolmistress, and she, too, was within earshot, standing back amongst the shadows of the verandah, her face turned towards him.

"My friends," he said, "the news which I have brought to you is mostly good. I have succeeded in the object for which I went to England, and I found President Rimarez upon my return last week prepared to conclude the arrangements which I made with him before starting. Beau Desir is ours. I have the charter in my pocket, and the money has been paid."