"THIS IS IT'
Our Bountiful Continent
Chapter 15
SOUTH OF THE RIO GRANDE
On the morning of the two hundred and fourteenth day of the year, I arrived at Brownsville, after having briefed John Brooks on the events of the South American tour. On departing from the plane, I was met by Mr. Manuel Morelos, Regional Division Director of the Continental Constabulary, of Regional Division 98-99 and 100 degrees west longitude, and 18-19 and 20 degrees north latitude, who is a relative of the departed priest Jose Maria Morelos, who was the military genius and champion of Mexico's independence from Spain. Manuel Morelos had been delegated by John Brooks to escort the Delegates and me on the tour south of the Rio Grande River. When I introduced Mr. Morelos to the two Delegates from South America (Mr. Andres Castillo, of Peru, and Mr. Cicero Batista, of Brazil), he looked toward the plane as though he were expecting more Delegates shortly to make their appearance.
After Mr. Morelos had escorted the Delegates and me to the hotel, and the Delegates had been escorted to their quarters to rest and freshen up, Mr. Morelos and I sat in the lobby enjoying cool drinks, when suddenly he became curious about the Delegates, and asked me why there were only two from a continent so vast as South America? "Well, Manuel," I said, "it is rather a long story. So I had better begin at the beginning."
When Mr. Wolford and I arrived at Brasilia, we were met by the heads of every country in South America, who had gathered there to welcome us. I have never been treated with such formality and courtesy. It was as though we were visitors from outer space. "We arrived in the evening, and were conducted to the banquet hall, where a group of the best people were awaiting our arrival. "I am certain Mr. Wolford felt out of place, the same as I, because of our not being dressed formally, as were all of the ladies and gentlemen in that gathering. However, no one seemed to notice our wearing apparel, and it seemed that the toasts would never end. I had eaten very lightly during the flight south (as is my habit when in flight); therefore, on my arrival I was famished, and the food set before us was superb. Being famished as I was, it was difficult to ingest food while attempting to answer questions-questions that were posed with such caution and reserve.
It seemed the thing they were most concerned about was private ownership. "When the question of private ownership was posed by Mr. Batista, I nudged Mr. Wolford, who was sitting by my side. Mr. Wolford first appeared surprised in realizing that I had tossed him the ball, so to speak, When he had regained his composure he displayed a broad engaging smile, and said, 'Distinguished ladies and gentlemen of this gathering, in a highly industrial society, as opposed to an agrarian one, private ownership becomes pointless as it only brings added responsibility to the party or parties holding title to said property of any nature. In our Social Dynamic usufruct is our mode of behavior towards what you refer to as property."
For the sake of clarification, I want to say that even in a price system no one owns anything in its true sense, especially real estate, because society, or the state, holds prior claim to it, to the extent that those holding title to it are told by the state what they can do, or not do with it, or to it. Not to mention taxes which can be levied against it, and possibly assessment charges and maintenance expense. "'When one considers the question of private ownership objectively,' he said, 'one can readily understand that the true ownership of an object is simply the use of it. Now there may be exceptions to that kind of reasoning in a purely agrarian society. 'What I am attempting to make clear is that in this era of technology, the populace of a land area will not, for long, be content to remain purely agrarian, when technology offers the really good things of life,' he said. "The people at the gathering sat for some time with an expression of wonderment on their faces. Eventually, smiles began to appear, and a gentleman from Argentina said, 'Mr. Wolford, your explanation gives me a completely new outlook on the future. Your explanation deserves an ovation! "There was a long period of clapping, and Mr. Wofford was lauded by many. Many pertinent questions were asked, and the answers were well received.
When eventually the questions subsided, Mr. Wolford and I excused ourselves and retired. "On the morning of the following day, I arrived in the lobby, to be greeted by a committee of Delegates from the various states of South America, who had been delegated to take care of our needs and pleasure for a number of days. Yes, in a sense, we were actually pampered during our stay in that land of hospitable people. We were not only taken to every state building, museum, and amusement zone, but were flown to other cities to be shown about, and to agricultural areas, and to inspect cattle ranching in Argentina. Yes, and the most unique experience of all was when we made our way by helicopter and mule back to inspect the most interesting and unbelievable Inca citadel, in the breathtaking scene high in the Andes. "Sitting with the Delegates at the table, and enjoying a late evening meal, on the tenth day of our stay, I was attempting to compliment them on their hospitality, without being gushy, when Mr. Wolford, at a prearranged agreement said, 'Edward, our stay in South America is something we will always cherish and never forget. However, I think it is time we were going home, before we seem to be taking advantage of the hospitality and extraordinary patience of these good people of South America.' "
As a result of Mr. Wolford's statement, there were surprised expressions on many faces, at which time I said, 'Yes, Kenneth, you are correct. It is time we show these people of South America that we can also be hospitable to visitors.' "When I asked how many Delegates were going home with us, I knew I had bungled, because there followed an awkward silence, where everyone seemed to be looking at each other. In order to alleviate an awkward situation, and attempt in some measure to cover my mistake, I said, 'We would certainly like to have all of you come with us on the tour south of the Rio Grande.' "My invitation seemed to go unheeded, due to their preoccupation of attempting to decide how many Delegates would accompany us. All Kenneth and I could do for a time was sit and listen. Kenneth jotted a note and placed it in my hand. The note stated: 'Edward, you goofed that time.' "To the best of my memory, the conversation went some- thing like this: 'The people of North America have shown great initiative in establishing the Social Dynamic which had brought about drastic change on that continental area, but have shown extreme conservativeness in sending only two Delegates to South America! "The Delegate from Chile said, 'We should send those who speak the most fluent English!"
Mrs. Moretti of Peru said, 'I am certain Mr. Wolford and Mr. Thorp would be happy to have us all accompany them on a tour of the southern part of North America, but many, like myself, are preoccupied with duties of state that are very pressing, in that we have been away for the past ten days.' "Before we all retired, Mr. Andres Castillo of Peru, and Mr. Cicero Batista of Brazil, were chosen to accompany us on our return trip. "There, Mr. Morelos, you have the mystery of why there are only two Delegates here from South America, and I do want to mention, before you think of me as being imprudent, that I officially extended an invitation to all the people, of all the countries of South America, to visit the North American continent any time they choose." Rather expectantly, while sipping a cool drink, Mr. Morelos said, "When do you expect the touring Delegates to arrive, and do you think the driver will arrive on schedule?" I said, "I am certain we will have breakfast with both the driver and the Delegates tomorrow morning."
On the two hundred and fifteenth day of the year, I awoke early and walked the short distance to the airport. Just as I arrived, our driver brought the bus to a stop in the parking area. Joe Courtland said, "My relief driver and I spent the night in Matamoros. We arose early in order to transport the Delegates to the hotel." When I heard the sound of jets, I reminded him that his timing was perfect. We hadn't long to wait until a happy, excited, and talkative group of people were leaving the plane. Evidently, the Delegates had seen things that seemed incredible to them, which left a lasting impression. Even on the short distance to the bus, and during the ride to the hotel, everyone was attempting to tell me about different places and events on the northern tour. There suddenly developed such a cacophony of sounds that I couldn't distinguish one voice from another, at which time I held my hand up and said, "Hold it until breakfast, so the Delegates from South America can get some idea about the wonders of what has been accomplished on the North American continent as a result of our Social Dynamic."
As the Delegates alighted from the bus, Miss Vollnogle, taking the stance of a conductor, said, "Ah-one, and Ah-two," and they all started singing "Happy Days Are Here Again." When Mr. Morelos and the Delegates from South America heard the impromptu singing, they emerged from the hotel and joined the other Delegates in starting the day with a happy atmosphere that permeated the air as far as their voices could be heard. I saw many, even at a distance, stop to listen and join vocally. I don't think I ever witnessed a more aesthetic feeling, and I am speaking for everyone in hearing distance. Suddenly I felt an arm encircle me. When I turned my head, Sheik Omar was dabbing at his eyes. I don't think one could ever witness an event that could more completely bond a lasting friendship and feeling of brotherhood among people of different parts of the earth than what Miss Vollnogle initiated at the entrance at Fonda Viag. The thought came to my mind, at that time, that, if there is a God in heaven, he was really smiling on man for the first time, because people from all parts of the world were joined in an atmosphere of brotherhood to build a lasting peace for as long as man inhabits the earth.
The singing at the entrance of the tourist hotel in Brownsville did more to break the reserve of our South American Delegates (as attested by their free flow of conversation and questions with the other Delegates at the breakfast table) than all the things I had said during my flight from South America.
During breakfast the Delegates were so excited about the things they had seen on their northern tour that food was scarcely eaten. The things they told are too numerous to relate; however, Mr. Van Vorhees said, "I still can't believe what I have seen, in the way of water courses and locks, especially on the down slope toward the Hudson Bay. The dams and the hydroelectric installations that are nearing completion are so gigantic as to forgo explanation." It was unbelievable and pleasing to see the amount of courtesy shown to the South American Delegates. When they posed a question everyone ceased talking until their questions were answered. Mr. Morelos turned to me and said, "Mr. Thorp, I would never have believed that people of different races, nationalities, and cultural backgrounds could appear so homogeneous as do those people at this table." Even though time was elapsing, I couldn't bring myself to break off such an excited and interesting conversation, which was having such a beneficial effect. It was ten hours before the bus pulled away from Fonda Viag. Immediately, Mr. Morelos took his place at the microphone to comment on the scenery, industry, and historical places and events that we were passing.
After leaving Matamoros, Mr. Morelos was explaining that the area we were passing through had once been covered with cactus and brush, but water from the Rio Grande (or Rio Bravo, as it is commonly referred to south of the River) had made the country a wonderful agricultural area. He explained that not many years ago most of the area had been planted to cotton, but in recent years much of the area has been planted to sorghum, for its nutritional content, to be used by the Animal Husbandry Sequence as livestock food. However, cotton is still grown to some extent. "I want to comment now," Mr. Morelos said, "that those of you who came here prior to the inception of our Social Dynamic are witnessing a drastic change in the appearance of this country. You no longer see little nameless communities where people once lived in hovels that weren't suitable for goats to inhabit. Just observe the marvelous 150 suite living complex we are now passing, which is typical over this country south of the Rio Bravo. I don't mean typical in design, but typical in comfort and luxury. In fact, one no longer classifies the people here as Mexicans, because people from all over the continent have chosen this area of North America as a place in which to live and fulfill their social responsibility in the various functional sequences. "As contrasted to the area prior to the inception of our new social order, one no longer sees people slaving at drudgery labor, or using hand tools, or guiding a mule and plow, while walking down the crop rows. Now, observe that massive tractor that plows, harrows, and plants a broad area of ground, all in one operation. Yes, the operator even has an air-conditioned cab in which to operate the whole complex equipment. "It still brings tears to my eyes," he said, "to think how poorly my people had to live before the inception of our Social Dynamic. I want to remind you that many of my people no longer live in this area of North America, but are scattered over the whole continent. In fact, I have a cousin who lives in Denver, and is serving in the Recreational Sequence. I also have a nephew who is serving in the Animal Husbandry Sequence, at Fort Simpson, on the Mackenzie River."
As we were driving through country that appeared similar to that which we had recently seen, Mr. Morelos ceased talking for a spell. For some time, everyone sat quietly gazing at the wonders that had been accomplished in that area of the continent in such a short time. I could sense by expressions on many faces that questions were forming in their minds. The first to speak was Sheik Omar. Through his interpreter he said, "I can't understand how a land area the size of North America could have made such drastic changes in the mode of production, mechanization, and mode of living in a period of less than five years. Can you explain how such drastic changes can take place in such a short period of time?" By his expression, I am certain that the question came as a surprise to Mr. Morelos, for he sat for some time in deep thought, as though the thought had never before entered his mind as to why such drastic changes could occur in such a short period of time, but I could readily understand why the sheik (being from a different area of the earth, which wasn't so advanced technologically as North America) would pose that kind of question. After passing his hand over his face, Mr. Morelos said, "It is because, for a number of years, we had the technology, the trained personnel, and resources, just waiting for people to change their concept of social operation from that of scarcity to one of abundance, and it never would have been possible had we not had on this continent the requisite ingredient just waiting to be utilized. "
Then, too, we have a north-south land area, with a diversification of climatic conditions; its vast array of flora and fauna; its vast amount of fresh water (which has been flowing unused into the ocean); its topographical configuration and its river now, affording thousands of miles of waterway, and water flowing from higher to lower elevations (affording vast hydroelectric power), coupled with the fact that there are only two major languages spoken on this continent (causing it to be relatively easy to organize on a continental scale). Yes, everything was in readiness, just waiting for a change of social concept. "
The thing that I ask myself, as well as you," he said, "is why this wasn't thought of and instituted years ago? We have had the technology and trained personnel for many, many years, to have accomplished a Social Dynamic on this land area. It seems that the mind of man maneuvers itself into a groove, and he relates everything to the past, to the extent that every move he makes requires a precedent. "Yes, history is replete," Mr. Morelos said, "with people being tortured and killed for nothing more than making known a new concept, which oftentimes was arrived at by research, but was frowned on because of its potential danger to some of the old concept and dogmas (which would cause them to appear childish). North Americans are no exception, attested by the fact that there had to be a complete breakdown of most of the social institutions before even the scientists began thinking socially without the aid of a precedent to guide their thoughts and course of action."
After leaving Jemenez, we began gaining altitude, and after passing some fields of henequen (sisal fiber), Mr. Morelos told the driver to stop at Ciudad Victoria for lunch, as it was nearing fourteen hours. No one seemed to be hungry until lunch was mentioned, then I heard several comments about hunger pains. During lunch the Delegates from South America asked many questions of the other Delegates about their northern trip. The explanation of the wonders and beauty of the north caused them to stare in disbelief. Mr. Morelos commented that the shortest route to Mexico City was by way of Ciudad Monte and Tomozunchale, but if that route were taken the Delegates would miss seeing a section of the Coastal Inland Waterway that was under construction. The Delegates chose to go by way of Ciudad Madero and Tampico. After lunch we made a short stop at Lindon to inspect an animal husbandry compound, where cattle grazed on the range and were lot-fed on sorghum prior to slaughtering. Before leaving the area, we inspected a goat dairy, where cheeses and ice cream were being processed. The goat dairy brought to memory the experience of visiting the musk ox dairy at Fort Simpson. When Mr. Proulx was relating that experience, those who were active at the goat dairy were gazing at him with a look of disbelief. One young man said, "That is where I am going on my annual leave. I have always been intrigued by musk ox, and even when I read about the experiment, it seemed almost unbelievable."
After leaving Lindon, we began descending to a lower country, and it seemed that everyone became very quiet. Suddenly a devilish glint came into Miss Jensen's eyes, and she said, "Tom, you were reared on a farm in Oklahoma, did you have any experience at milking'?" "Did I have any experience at milking? she says. In my day, there were no milking machines available. We extracted the milk by squeezing the, excuse the term, 'teats'. Why, we used to ride out on the range and lasso a wild cow that pappy would say looked like a critter that might give some milk, and pappy never made a mistake about a good milker. But, my God, getting the milk from some of those critters was a sizable chore. I will never forget the time we dragged a cow critter in with a lariat rope. We called her Brownie. Well, if you ever seen a critter with hate in her eyes, it was that critter Brownie. "We tied her head up close to a manger," he said, "then I said to pappy, 'Here goes, now say a prayer for me,' and I warn't just kidding. When I sat on a three-legged stool to milk the critter, she started kicking and getting her foot in the milk pail. Without thinking about the consequences that might ensue, I said, 'Brownie, I am going to fix you, but good,' so I took a rope and tied her foot to mine." At that point in his narrative, Tom put his hand to his chin and sat in deep thought, with a look of horror on his face, indicating that what remained of the story was just too ghastly to relate. He remained silent for several seconds, while everyone sat with wide eyes and slack jaws, waiting for the gory ending. Finally, Miss Jensen said, "All right, Tom, don't keep us waiting. Tell us who got killed, you or the cow critter?" Eventually Tom said, "Well, somehow or other the rope got slack and came off her horns, and she ran out of the barn and into the corral, dragging me along with her. I reckon it wouldn't have been so bad, if the danged dogs hadn't started barking and chasing her and the rest of the animal critters around the barn lot. "
When pappy saw what was happening, he yelled, 'For God's sake, Tom! Turn her loose before you cause the rest of the animal critters to stampede.' Pappy was right, all right, because the horses were the first to bolt and knock the wooden gate down and run for the pasture, with the cows following close behind." At that point, Tom struck another silent pose, but not for long, because Miss Jensen started prodding, "All right, Tom, tell us how you escaped, and are with us today." When Miss Jensen began heckling Tom for a conclusion, Mr. Batista and the sheik looked askance at her, as though they wanted to say, "For God's sake, let the poor man be, he is having hard enough time as it is without your constant harassment!" After a time Tom said, "Well, there were lots of wild hogs that stayed in the timber around the barn, which caused us to always carry a gun when we left the house, because a body couldn't trust the critters, even though they were a mite cowardly. When they would see an animal critter, or a human being that was down, they would attack. . . .
Well, when I was being dragged around the barn lot, a wild boar dashed for my leg, but missed and bit the rope in half that had me tied to that Brownie critter. When I yelled, 'Pappy, let him have it before he severs my leg,' Pappy dropped him with a forty-five-caliber slug." When people began laughing at Tom's wild imagination, Miss Jensen called him the biggest liar of the twentieth century. The South American Delegates and the sheik couldn't understand why the rest of the Delegates considered the narrative humorous. After some thought, Mr. Batista laughed and said, "Now I remember, you North Americans are noted for wild tales. But, my God, what a wild imagination, and I think it was impromptu." Then he turned to the sheik and said, "Clever, these North Americans, but what crazy stories they tell." The expression on the faces of the two Delegates and the sheik, and the comments made by Mr. Batista, was more humorous than Tom's story. After everyone had a good laugh, Miss Vollnogle said, "A song comes to my mind, which was composed by an Irishman. A song that fits the occasion and the country we are traveling through." Most of the group vocalized as she sang "South of the Border, Down Mexico Way."
With everyone in a jovial mood, time seemed to pass rapidly. As the sun was nearing the horizon, the bus came to a stop at a massive living complex in Ciudad Madero. When I questioned Mr. Morelos, he explained that he had called ahead and made arrangements for us to be fed and put up at the complex. As we departed from the bus, people seemed to rush toward us from all directions. It seemed that the embracing and kissing would never end. After several minutes of uncontrolled emotion, a Mr. Jesus Ortega announced that a song had recently been composed to welcome our arrival, and would we like to hear it? The string orchestra was detained for several minutes by another round of embracing and kissing, with little children clinging to people's legs. Eventually the orchestra began playing a beautiful melody, and people began singing in different languages. The song was titled "Bless Our Savior." Part of the lyrics were as follows: "Bless our Savior, and our Lady of Guadalupe. They bestowed the Social Dynamic, because they love us so." "It is amazing," Mr. Morelos said, "how the older people of this area, especially those of Indian blood, have such little cognizance of the impact of technology on society, due mostly to several generations of strict religious conditioning. They accept the Social Dynamic, and the good things it brings, as an act of God, rather than of planning by technical men; however, the young people think differently." As usual, when we entered the dining room, we were toasted many times, and for a number of reasons, among which the Delegates were praised for choosing their city as a place to spend the night.
When the toasting ceased, questions began. A number of people spoke through their interpreter, Mrs. Cotonfa, Regional Division Director of the Educational Sequence in that area. She is a linguist who serves occasionally as an interpreter, and is a full-blooded Istmas Zapotec Indian. She said, "The folks here this evening, who are Indians, for the most part, of various tribes, are extremely curious about the extreme northern part of this continent, to which they hesitate to travel, mostly because of their lack of English, I think." The local people sat wide-eyed while the various Delegates told of their northern tour-of such places and things as the General Sherman Tree, which is the largest living thing in the world; the Petrified Forest; the Coastal Redwood Grove; their experience in the far north, including the barge train trip; and of being lifted by hydraulic lift locks; and of being lowered on the down slope to the Hudson Bay; of visiting a musk ox dairy, and of seeing a wonderland of muskeg moss interspersed with bodies of water, where wild flowers grow in profusion. The faces of the listeners reminded one of little children listening to a fairy tale. When the Delegates has finished relating their northern experience, Miss Vollnogle said, "Mrs. Cotonfa, I have always seen pictures of, and of course, imagined people of this area carrying massive loads on their heads, while they followed an overloaded burro, and of course, lived in thatched roof huts. Now I see people, men, women, and children, well dressed and living in complexes such as this, which only a short time ago would have been the envy of kings. I am curious. Tell me, do they ever reminisce or yearn for the old mode of living?" When Mrs. Cotonfa related the question to the Indians, smiles appeared, and heads began shaking as they looked from one to the other, and back to Miss Vollnogle, then laughing began as though the question must have been asked in jest.
A conversation began when Miss Jensen asked Father Hidalgo (serving in the Ecclesiastic Division of the Educational Sequence in those Regional Divisions) how he, as well as the general population of the area, were adjusting mentally and spiritually to the technological change that was reshaping their lives? She said, "Is the Social Dynamic dampening, so to speak, the religious fervor of the people south of the Rio Bravo?" "I can't speak for the children, who are growing up in our Social Dynamic," Father Hidalgo said, "as to what their thoughts will be concerning religious teachings, but what I have to say, and I am speaking not only for myself, but for many of the adult population of this area, I think we Christians are far more appreciative of our new social order than those who don't adhere to the tenets of Christianity. Actually, even though the Social Dynamic is extremely technical in design, it is what we have been praying for these many years. If you have any doubt of my being correct, just look at the happy faces on the people in this gathering, It would be a shame and a discredit to anyone who would attempt to change their mental attitude and spoil their serenity. "
The majority of the adult population south of the Rio Bravo think that the Social Dynamic is the second coming of Christ that he has returned and is reincarnated and embodied in the flesh and the mind of the scientist and technician, and that we have entered the millennium. You will find no one on the North American continent who will put forth more effort toward the smooth operation of our new social order and is more appreciative than these people. In fact, their thoughts of you people here this evening are that you have been sent with the blessings of our Lady of Guadalupe and are, in fact, angels in the flesh." Miss Jensen said, "Thank you, Father Hidalgo. I have never heard such beautiful rhetoric."
After much discussion concerning local industry, terrain, and historical events, Mr. Morelos indicated it would be wise to retire early because of having to get an early start in the morning, if we were to inspect the Coastal Inland Waterway, which was under construction, and arrive at Veracruz when there was yet daylight.
On the two hundred and sixteenth day of the year, everyone seemed to hurry through breakfast as though all were anxious about the adventure the day held in store. When we arrived at the ocean front, there were massive dredges in operation, and, as far as one could see, both north and south, a breakwater was under construction. On meeting Mr. Davis, Regional Division Director of the Hydroelectric and Inland Waterway Sequence, he explained that, in some areas along the coast, where the land is low or swampy, the waterway could be developed only by dredging; otherwise, breakwaters have to be built, after which the earth is removed from behind the breakwater and deposited on the ocean side, thereby forming a canal of sufficient width and depth to accommodate barge traffic. The magnitude and scope of the project are sufficient to stagger the imagination. When Mr. Davis explained that the canal would eventually be developed all the way to the Magdaliena River, the Delegates and myself, and especially Mr. Van Vorhees, were awe-struck with the awesome magnitude of the project, and to think it was nearing completion, and that barge traffic on it would soon be a reality! It was almost beyond comprehension. Mr. Van Vorhees commented that it was a marvelous way to transport heavy freight, and for pleasure craft as well. It was quite late in the day when we boarded the bus and headed south.
After we had driven some distance, Mr. Morelos said, "I think it would be a pleasure and an experience for the Delegates to see Laguna De Tamiahua." He instructed the driver to turn left at the next highway. It wasn't long until we came to the waterfront, where there was a lookout point with a number of telescopes for a panoramic view of the lagoon. One could see pleasure craft of all sizes plying the blue waters, under a canopy of billowy clouds. Mr. Morelos said, "Folks, this is America at play. In fact, the Social Dynamic makes it possible for everyone to have time to play at anything that strikes one's fancy, from sailing in the lagoon to riding a snow train across the tundra of the far north in wintertime, to skating and ice sailing on the Great Bear Lake. Actually, life is so short that man should conserve his energy for play. Yes, even his social responsibility should be so interesting that it too should become play." It was difficult to get the Delegates to board the bus; they would liked to have stayed and gone sailing. When riding along in the bus and listening to Mr. Morelos describe various agricultural and industrial projects of the area, I looked at my watch and was surprised to note that the time was eleven hours. When I brought the time of day to his attention, Mr. Morelos instructed the driver to take the side road to Tamiahua, where we would have lunch and give the Delegates a chance to see the entrance of Tamiahua Lagoon.
During the tour of the continent, the Delegates had become so accustomed to beautiful and luxurious living complexes that now they could view them without being awe-struck, but, when we arrived at Tamiahua, overlooking the entrance of the lagoon, they, as well as 1, couldn't believe what we were seeing. There seemed to be miles of parkway (planted to various types of palms, fronting the living complexes) extending up and down the ocean front as far as the eye could see. The living complexes, shops, and dining area of the structure were long and comparatively narrow, and at a right angle to the ocean, with large picture windows overlooking the lagoon. The sight was such as to cause one to stand and gaze in wonderment and admiration for those who designed it.
We were met by the recreation committee of that area and were conducted to a penthouse-type dining area, which had continuous windows affording a view of the ocean and the entrance to the lagoon. At some distance, we could even see the island that lies somewhat back of the entrance. Inasmuch as we were several stories above the ground, the view from our location was breathtaking. There were both sail and motor craft entering and leaving the lagoon. It being a beautiful day with clouds lying over the gulf, I said to Mr. Morelos, " You have made a mistake by stopping here for lunch, because the scene is so striking that the Delegates will spend their time looking rather than eating."
On being served food, and having been told that our lunch period would have to be short, we were introduced to Mr. Diaz, Regional Division Director of Social Relations. Timidly, and rather haltingly, as though she might be reprimanded for asking a foolish question, Mrs. Gandhi said, "Mr. Diaz, is free speech as freely tolerated south of the Rio Bravo as it is elsewhere on this continent, such as it is in Long Beach?" It was evident that the question came as a surprise, judging by the blank gaze Mr. Diaz gave her. Then a gleam came into his eyes. As his face became radiant he said, "Lady, you haven't seen or heard anything yet. Just wait until you visit Veracruz and Mexico City. People of the Veracruz district have, in the past, over such a long period of time, and for so many generations, suffered the domination of so many despotic rulers, and have fought so many times for freedom and independence, that free speech, or criticism of anyone attempting to dominate them, is just a way of life. Now that they have really been liberated from domination and privation, they just have to reminisce when they meet in the cool of the evening. The daytime is rather hot, humid, and uncomfortable for serious discussion. However, I don't think you people, as visitors, will hear anything from them except praise of the Social Dynamic. " Because of Mexico City being a pleasant climate and suitable for daytime assembly," he said, "there has been a sombrero constructed with comfortable seats and a speaker's platform, which is known as Contraversia Congregar, which is located in the amusement area. "As long as man inhabits the earth," Mr. Diaz said, "regardless of social perfection, there will be those who are discontented, especially if they can't in some way dominate their fellows. Yes, it seems to do something for their ego. If you visit Contraversia Congregar in Mexico City, you will hear malcontents venting their venom at the new social order, which they have the right and privilege to do; actually, it is encouraged because it makes for a healthy society. However, in that most everyone is so appreciative of the social order, the malcontents have to be protected by personnel of the constabulary. You will be surprised at the hatred people have for them. Yes, in some instances their hatred borders on mayhem, so peace officers have to protect them. However, we find that the feeling of malcontent is rapidly abating; possibly in a generation or two it will have vanished."
When we were riding south toward Veracruz all vegetation was extremely green and lush and one could sense that the humidity was much greater than what we had previously experienced. Not being used to the climate, I had a rather depressing feeling, and my shirt became damp and sticky. However, the interesting country we were traveling through alleviated my feeling of discomfort. As we were leaving Veracruz, Mr. Morelos was explaining the usefulness that that area had for the rest of the continent. He said, "At this latitude the temperature and precipitation are such that almost everything grows prolifically. This area, and farther south, is especially suited to the growth of coffee, tobacco, bananas, coconuts, pineapples, and anything that requires a tropical climate. Farther to the south and inland, at a higher elevation, tea is being grown. This area is suitable for many types of nuts, including the cashew, and, last but not least, it is suited to the growth of avocados and the tomato. Yes, this area is a jewel, and the garden spot of this continent." I want to mention at this time that I had never seen Tom Browning so quiet as he was while driving through that area of North America. No, he didn't have a wisecrack or a comment to make, but sat like a mouse while Mr. Morelos talked. Miss Jensen said, " Tom, it seems that a man of your ability and organizing technique could have effected a social change long before the American social Institutions collapsed." Tom made no comment, except to say, "I was having a heap of fun, even during the price system era."
As we were nearing Veracruz, we were met and waved to by a stop by a welcoming committee and an escort. A young man entered the bus and introduced himself as Jose Alvarado, serving with the Recreational Sequence in those Regional Divisions. He informed us that, because he was a linguist and especially adept at conversing with the Indian people in the various locations over which we would be traveling and coming in contact with during our tour of the south, he was happy to have been chosen by Mr. Lopez, Regional Division Director of the Recreation Sequence, to assist Mr. Morelos in the capacity of interpreter. The young man seemed to exude happiness and excitement. He said, "Your presence in this area is considered a momentous occasion." He spoke very rapidly and came directly to the point without using superfluous words. After leaving the bus, he entered the automobile so quickly as to seem like a cowboy mounting a horse in a Hollywood horse opera. At length we entered Veracruz, a town completely rebuilt. The living complexes were of different design and color than what we had seen. All the buildings, including the warehouse by the docks and ship berths, were of varied and loud colors. One could readily sense that the people residing in that town were rebelliously bent. There were many pennants flying, also overhead banners, bearing the words "RECIBIDO CON AGRANDO DELEGACION, DEL NORTE," and, in deference to those who spoke only English, there was an occasional banner in English, with the words "WELCOME, DELEGATES OF THE NORTH."
When the bus came to a stop at the entrance of a beautiful structure, which had been erected to accommodate tourists, musicians with their instruments emerged from the building and played "Yankee Doodle." The Delegates were especially amused, because they hadn't heard that number since arriving in North America.
When we were conducted to the dining area, the band followed, playing dance numbers, which continued through the evening. The danzon is the regional dance of Veracruz. It requires music of unique rhythmic timing and downbeat. The lyrics of each number tell of local events. To dance properly to the music, one is required to stand extremely erect and maintain an air of solemnity, reflected by facial expression. It being rather early in the evening for dining in that locality, we were entertained by dramatists depicting past events and acts of cruelty perpetrated on the populace by despotic rulers. One such act had to do with the cruelty committed by the dictator General Porfirio Diaz, who arrested the wives and mothers of those who rebelled against him. I think we were all amazed at the acting ability of those people, who had been tutored by the very clever Helen Brown, of the Education Sequence.
A group of children dramatized the invasion of the United States armed forces in 1847, and again in 1914, bombarding and occupying the town of Veracruz, during the heyday of the "big stick" era. When the dramatization ended, dancing began until dinner was served. The dancing was very colorful, because the dancers were garbed in wearing apparel of a bygone era. During the evening meal, many questions were asked of the Delegates about their respective countries, including customs and sports. Many of the male Delegates, especially Mr. Proulx, had comments to make about the extreme beauty of the women of that area. Mr. Morelos explained that the beauty of the women was due to such an admixture of races resulting in unique features and grace of movement. After a group of children did a pantomime depicting local activities (such as fishing, picking bananas, and clearing brush with machetes), the Delegates became weary, due to the late hour, and, of course, the humid climate, which took its toll on them in spite of their being in an air-conditioned enclosure. When Mr. Morelos became aware of their weariness, he recommended we retire.
On the one hundred and seventeenth day of the year, I was awakened by Mr. Morelos tickling my foot and saying, "Mr. Thorp, we have all overslept. If we can leave by ten hours, we can arrive in Mexico City before the rain starts." Being yet half asleep, I looked out the window and said, "Man! It is already raining." Mr. Morelos said, "That doesn't mean anything; it rains here most of the time. When we get to higher land we will likely have some clear weather in the higher altitude, affording some breathtaking scenery, especially after reaching the summit and beginning the descent into the valley in which Mexico City is located." I said, "What do you mean, we will arrive before the rain starts?" He then explained that every late afternoon (almost without fail) it rains for approximately two hours in the high valley. When we were seated at the table, Mr. Morelos was very emphatic that we would have to leave as quickly as possible, if they wanted to see the breathtaking scenery that was in store for them; otherwise, the rain would start and block out a scene of the Shangri-la Valley of the North American continent. Excitement was high, with the expectation of viewing some unique landscape. Breakfast was eaten rapidly. In spite of the rain, a crowd of people turned out to see us off.
After we pulled away from the complex, Sheik Omar said, "If we only had this rain in my country, it could no longer be called a desert." Then he said, "Allah, isn't this wonderful?" After leaving Soledad, we began gaining altitude rapidly. It seemed only a short while until we had blue skies. Mr. Morelos was correct; the scenery was spectacular. He was saying, "Even though this area of the continent is beautiful and rich in many kinds of vegetation, the area lying to the south and east, in the higher elevation back from the ocean and located in what used to be known as lower Veracruz, is of volcanic ash, which is the richest soil in all the world. The soil is said to be as much as forty feet deep in places. The plant life there grows so prolifically as to be almost unbelievable. It rains there all the time, yet not in flood proportion. Everything is being produced there that requires a tropical climate. Yes, I have told you this before, but it is difficult for me to refrain from telling you again. We are now using heavy equipment, and have constructed packing plants and refrigeration to keep the luscious fruits and vegetables from becoming stale, until air transport takes them to many places over the continent, including the farthest inhabited areas of the far north, including the Arctic Ocean. "That which can be cured or canned will be carried by barge train in a short while when the coastal inland waterway is completed," he said.
At that point, Mr. Castillo said, "Mr. Morelos, why do you propose to ship produce from here to the north by barge train, when air transport is so much more rapid?" "Things that are perishable," 'Mr. Morelos said, "we do ship by air. However, things that are not perishable we will ship by barge train, because it is only one-tenth the energy expenditure as compared to even rail shipment. It is, as you see, a matter of energy conservation." Mr. Morelos had become so enthused and engrossed in the richness of a land area lying not far to the south that he had neglected to comment on the scenery at hand. Suddenly he said, "We seem to have gained considerable altitude while I was telling you about a land area that we are not even traveling through. I am truly sorry, folks."
The high country we were driving through was a sight to behold. Mr. Morelos was pointing to various mountain peaks and points of interest. He said, "Over there you see the twin peaks, which are among the highest on the North American continent. They are called Ixtacchuatl, meaning the sleeping lady, and Popocatepetl, meaning the warrior." I want to mention at this point that, since we left Brownsville, Tom and Miss Jensen had been inseparable. As Mr. Morelos's comments were becoming more romantic, I turned to look at the Delegates, to see what their reactions were, and saw Tom and Miss Jensen holding hands.
After having passed the summit, Mr. Morelos told the driver to stop at a newly erected mountain lodge for lunch. We were led to a lookout point where there were telescopes. The sight before us was unbelievable and breathtaking. Lying before us was a long valley nestled among mountain peaks. The valley was so green as to cause one to think it had all been planted to lawn. In the distance one could see Mexico City, which Mr. Morelos explained appeared quite different than it did before the inception of the Social Dynamic, but no less beautiful. When I asked Mr. Morelos to explain what caused its change of appearance, he said, "Mr. Thorp, it's a long story. Let's have lunch first, before everyone starves. I will explain it to you on our descent into the valley." As we ate lunch everyone was extremely quiet, and seemed to be in a mellow mood, which indicated that they thought that to speak at all would break a romantic spell that they would probably never experience again. Even I felt that words could not describe the scene and the atmosphere.
After appetites were sated, the group just sat looking out the massive window until Mr. Morelos broke the silence by saying, "All right, folks, let's be on our way before it rains." The sheik said, "Mr. Morelos, why do you insist there will be a rain?" "Sheik Omar, there will definitely be a rain," Mr. Morelos said. "Starting in May, and ending in October (by the price system calendar), it rains every late afternoon almost without fail. If we don't have a rain I will certainly be surprised." After leaving the lodge, Mr. Morelos said, "Well, folks, I don't want to sound like the erstwhile real estate broker, or as you say farther north, an Escrow Indian, but I want to tell you that you are going to see a sight that you will never forget. We will be coming into the garden spot of the North American continent, yes, the Shangri-la Valley of this continent. The land of eternal spring. A city that was founded by the Aztec Indians in the year of 1325, and was given the name Tenochtitlan, or a place of tuna cactus. "It is located," he said, "at an elevation of 7,349 feet, but is only 19 degrees north of the equator. It's far enough south never to get really cold, and with sufficient elevation that one never suffers from the heat. It has sufficient precipitation to keep it green, with a wet summer and dry winter. "
We have a vast building program in progress, to house people who are coming here from all over the continent to live. We are erecting accommodations for tourists who come here for a short stay. "You will be surprised at the change taking place in its appearance. The original mistake was building a city on an area which was once a lake. It is an unstable site for large structures, in that foundations are on unstable earth, due to swamp water only a few feet below the surface of the ground. "At present, we are demolishing the structures which were built on the lake area, and are now building around the periphery of the lake. We have paved a broad roadway which completely encircles the lake area. "We are, to the best of our knowledge, and by consulting ancient records, and comments by people of Cortez's army, digging out and dredging the lake, then building structures and a causeway on it that resemble its appearance when Cortez first saw it." "One descriptive comment," Mr. Morelos said, "of its appearance is by one of Cortez's captains, Bernard Diaz Del Castillo. He said of it, the lake and the city, then called Tenochtitlan- 'During the morning we arrived on a broad causeway which separated the Lakes Chilco from the Lakes of Xochimilco, and when we saw so many cities and villages built on the water, and other great towns on dry land, and that straight and level causeway, we were amazed and said that it was like the enchantment they tell of in the legend of Amadis, on account of the towers and pyramids and buildings rising from the water, and all built of masonry. Some of our soldiers even asked if some of the things we saw were not a dream.' "He also wrote in manuscripts, which are still preserved, that never again in the world could there be discovered lands such as these."
Another writer among the Conquistadors described it thus: 'The Aztec city has many wide and handsome streets. Two or three are the principal streets, and all the others are formed half of earth, like brick pavement, and the other half of water, so that they can go out along the land, or by water in boats and canoes, which are made of hollow wood, and some are large enough to hold five people.' " Mr. Morelos said, "Cortez himself, in a letter to King Charles V of Spain, wrote: 'There are many large and fine houses in the Aztec city, and the reason of there being so many important houses is that all the Aztec lords of the land, who are vassals of Montezuma, have houses in the city, and reside therein for a certain time of the year. In addition to having fine and large dwellings they also have very exquisite flower gardens, built on upper apartments, as well as down below."' Mr. Morelos continued: "It is said that the Aztecs built a great capital city on what was originally two reed-covered banks or islands. It is said that the natives heaped up mud from the shallow lakes onto large rafts and grew luxurious vegetables on the rafts. Little by little, the garden rafts became affixed to the bottom of the lakes and no longer floated. They are said to have formed the original blocks of the city. It is said that between the years of 1440 and 1450, a very wet season caused the water of Lake Texcoco to rise so much that the city was destroyed, and the inhabitants were forced to leave in their canoes and barges, which gave rise to the construction of the massive dike. The great engineering project executed by the Indians was sixteen kilometers long and was constructed to confine the lake from the city.
"There folks," he said, "you have the history, though briefly, of the area, and of what happened, and how it looked when it was first seen by Cortez and his soldiers. "I want to inform you that, for the sake of posterity and of present-day tourists, the Recreation Sequence, aided by the Hydroelectric and Inland Waterway Sequence, is restoring the lake and its structures to its appearance as seen by Cortez." The explanation by Mr. Morelos of the area and its history had become so interesting as to cause time to elapse without one being aware of it.
When looking ahead, we were entering an area of structures that surrounded a vast project of earth moving and dredging. There were, however, a few structures in the midst of the project that were being demolished. Mr. Morelos explained that within a year or so the project would be complete, and the area would appear as though Cortez had never arrived, with of course the exception of a vast number of beautiful living complexes surrounding it. When the bus came to a stop in the parking area of a beautiful structure (which had been erected for tourists), a large group of Mr. Morelos's constabulary peace officers formed a corridor for us to walk through to the entrance of the building. As we walked through the corridor, the peace officers stood at attention and saluted. They were a really handsome group of men in their attractive uniforms. Mr. Morelos tapped me on the shoulder and said, with pride in his voice, "These are my boys." We had hardly walked indoors when the rain started, and what a rain!
The North American tour of Delegates from around the world was gaining popularity each day as the most effective way of promoting peace and a feeling of true brotherhood throughout the world. It seemed the farther south we traveled the more appreciative people were of our purpose of attempting to promote a closer bond among all people of the earth (and create a feeling that every man is his brother's keeper), because the welcoming committees were really outdoing themselves in causing us to feel that we were really welcome and in good hands. We were conducted to the dining area, where there was a large crowd of people, who stood while the band played a number that had been composed for that occasion; it was titled "Hail to the Delegates of Goodwill." As in Veracruz, we had arrived too early for dinner, but we were seated and served light refreshments and drinks. Our early arrival afforded us the opportunity of meeting many people whose services are of great use to North America. We were so arranged at the table that the Delegates and I were facing the local people and the tourists.
When the noise and clatter of being seated had ceased and introductions were made, I especially appreciated this meeting because of the opportunity of getting to meet a number of key people in the various sequences whom I had heard about but had never met. The Regional Division Directors of the various sequences that now come to my mind were Mr. Lopez, of Recreation; Mrs. Sarah Allgood, of Education; Miss Veronica Juarez, of Textile; Tom Bennett, of Agriculture; Felix Alvarez, of Animal Husbandry; Porfiric, Gomez, of Leather; and Mr. William Hacket, of Transportation. As we sipped drinks, many questions were asked about the tour, and the Delegates had many questions about industry, historical locations, and various places of recreation.
During the waiting and visiting period, Mr. Proulx posed a question that was directed at Mr. Hacket, Regional Division Director of Transportation. "Are rapid transit tubes being built south of the Rio Bravo, Mr. Hacket?" Mr. Proulx asked. At the mention of rapid transit tubes, all conversation ceased, and attention was directed at the two men. "There will be two lines built," Mr. Hacket said, "one on either side of the land area, near both the Atlantic and Pacific, somewhat near the ocean front, but diverting their routes somewhat in various areas, to make stops at locations of heavy population. Construction on the tube has started, but we are directing most of our attention to the replacing of existing rail lines with heavy rail and wide track, and new rolling stock with low-centerof-gravity 'units' for the purpose of rapid delivery of both freight and passengers, and of course the grading and laying of new track, to connect with locations that heretofore have had no means of transportation, except by inadequate highways."
When asked about the construction of rapid transit tubes on the California peninsula, he said, "Mr. Proulx, inasmuch as it doesn't seem there will be a heavy concentration of people in that area for sometime, it is most likely that the present rail line will suffice, until such time as there develops more activity on that land area. The present rail line runs, of course, along the Pacific side of the peninsula, with branch lines running to the gulf in various places. However, when and if population increases in that area sufficient to grant the building of a transit tube, one will certainly be built." "Mr. Hacket, while we are on the subject of transportation," Mr. Van Vorhees said, "are there any inland waterways being constructed south of the Rio Bravo, other than the coastal inland waterway?" "Eventually, there will be several inland waterways developed," he said. "The streams that will be made navigable are the Rio Santago, the Rio Blass, the Rio Usumacinto, the Rio San Juan, and Magdelena, but, at present, concentration is on the coastal canal and the Tehuantepec Isthmus Canal, which are the most needed at this time." After Mr. Hacket explained the canal system, Mr. Van Vorhees shook his head and said, "Such a project as the inland waterway crisscrossing this continent, and a coastal canal on the Atlantic, is enough to stagger the imagination, but I have seen it with my own eyes. It is amazing what can be accomplished when people become organized for a purpose, as it is now here in North America rather than being divided and ruled, which is what financiers and politicians have always done throughout recorded history. Yes, it comes clear to me now, that those gentlemen who were thought to be sagacious didn't realize that the introduction of technology to the means whereby we live would eventually result in a fait accompli, which would cause the arrival of a day of reckoning." "You are partly correct," Mr. Hacket said, "but you overlook the fact that the price system and technology cannot, for long, live together, due to their incompatibility. The price system is the handmaiden, and technology is the master. The handmaiden will die of fatigue, and the master will have to acquire a new handmaiden."
Late in the evening, dinner was served, which is customary in that region of North America. Having had a chance before dinner to ask and answer questions of the local people and the tourists, the Delegates seemed weary from a day of extreme aesthetic reaction. Yes, the scenery and the romance of the area had gotten to them, and we all retired early-early for that region of North America.
On the one hundred and eighteenth day of the year, I awoke shivering from what seemed like subzero weather. I called to Mr. Morelos, and received a very sleepy "Yes, what is it?" I said, "It is I, Edward." He said, "I didn't say who is it, I said what is it?" With my teeth chattering, I said, "My God, man! Does winter arrive here suddenly on the hundred and eighteenth day of the year?" He said, "You wouldn't listen to my warning when I told you to sleep under a blanket. And, being a fresh-air nut, you insisted on sleeping with a window open, rather than relying on the airconditioning system. So now you think you are frozen to death, and you have me wide awake. All right, it is now five hours, and it will soon be daylight. So let's get dressed and have some coffee and go for a walk. You will enjoy the morning air, because nowhere in the world is the morning air quite so crisp as it is in this region, after the evening before rain."
After having coffee and shaking the cobwebs out of my brain, we began to walk. The air was crisp with a feeling of dampness. It was also pungent, and the scent of flowers was almost stifling, almost equaling that of the Bulgarian perfume flower fields in the early morning while the dew is still on. As we walked, we received the scent of many kinds of flowers. As the early morning glow was casting eerie shadows over the valley, and the pungency of the many rain-soaked flowers was titillating my nostrils, my mind drifted back to a period of my childhood. When I looked at my watch, I said, "Jose, what has happened to the sun? It should have been up by now." He laughed and said, "Edward, you seem to forget that you are in a valley surrounded by high mountains." As we walked we discussed the experience of the inception of the Social Dynamic. He told me that, when a group of engineers came to Mexico City to present a scientific mode of social operation, the greatest opposition to it came from organized religion. "The ecclesiastics projected the argument that science is ungodly," he said, "and that such an experiment would certainly leave the country torn asunder, and would tend to cause man to retrogress to his more animal instincts. However, the ecclesiastics were overruled, and now are praising the event as the second coming of Christ. The turn of events is certainly amazing." He said, "I suppose you people in the States had some unique experience also."
His statements started me reminiscing, and I replied, "Well, Jose, the situation in the States and in Canada was somewhat different than in this region. Jose, I am thinking in retrospect to a period some years prior to the inception of the Social Dynamic. Actually, to the era of the twenties and early thirties, which was a unique period in the history of the American price system economy. There developed, partly by chance, a unique event, in that a boom period was experienced while the world was at peace. That, of course, was abnormal for a price system, after technology had been introduced as a means of production. It is thought by many that the business boom was caused by the introduction of installment buying, which stimulated business during that era. However, at that period, business operated its affairs by a complete laissez-faire method, which was often referred to as free enterprise. That was the period when the production line technique came to be in vogue, and eventually production overran consumption, resulting in high inventories in the late twenties. "Sensing that condition, those in the know, and those who dealt in stocks, suddenly began selling, rather than buying, and the stock market took a nose dive, resulting in the great depression of the 1930s. Financiers, industrialists, and politicians didn't recognize the fact that the underlying cause of the depression was the introduction of technological production techniques into the price system, a system that was born of scarcity and requires scarcity for its existence. "In the early thirties, when Franklin D. Roosevelt was elected to the presidency of the United States, he, on the advice of economists, took a right-about-face of creating an artificial scarcity, by the outright destroying of usable products. Even that didn’t suffice to revive the economy appreciably, to bring it back to something resembling normality." I said, "Jose, Mr. Roosevelt, along with financiers and industrialists, soon recognized that the production of nonconsumeable items was mandatory if the price system was to be saved. They also recognized that the order of magnitude of waste necessary to accomplish economic stability was war. Also, fortunes could be made by such a program. "After the war and postwar boom, the economy again became shaky, and built-in short wear or planned obsolescence of consumer goods, coupled with police action in various parts of the world, and with higher taxes, became the order of the day, not to mention the inflationary spiral as an expedient to stave off economic collapse. The whole thing at that time reminded me of a clock pendulum swinging gradually to a stop. Well, the inevitable happened and civilization almost went down the drain. The only alternative to the complete deterioration of society on this continent was the installation of a social order that is compatible with science and our technological era of abundance." Mr. Morelos's only comment was "It must have been rough going.)9 When we entered the dining area, the Delegates were just arriving wide-eyed and bushytailed with what the excitement of the day had to offer.
At the close of breakfast, Mr. Morelos said, "Folks, I want your attention. There are any number of places to go, and things to see in this general area. Now, inasmuch as we will remain in this area for a few days, I would like some suggestions for the day's activity." There was so much excitement among the Delegates that near bedlam ensued. Everyone was making suggestions so rapidly that it was difficult to distinguish one voice from the other. During the clamor, Mrs. Gandhi raised her hand and said, "Mr. Morelos, I was told that in Mexico City there is a place where people gather to publicly express their feelings on various subjects. I have forgotten how to pronounce this place in Spanish." Mr. Morelos said, "It is known as Contraversia Congregar." Immediately everyone decided they wanted to spend the day at Contraversia Congregar, located in the amusement zone. I want to point out that, at the beginning of the tour, the Delegates were, for the most part, very reserved and not overly gregarious in their association with each other, but gradually, and especially of late, they were reminding me more and more of little children who had not the slightest care in the world, and their organization and rapport were almost equal to that of a school basketball team. When Mr. Morelos with enthusiasm in his voice said, "All right, let's get in the bus, and be on our way," one of the Delegates was heard to say, "The last one in is a rotten egg!" When they all ran to get in the bus, Sheik Omar said, "Phew! Such a display of energy! I only wish I could do as they are doing."
It was a short drive to the amusement zone, and when the Delegates left the bus there was Bavarian music coming from an unknown area, and they suddenly began dancing. The music was quite loud, but Mr. Morelos cupped his hands over his mouth and shouted, "Now, damn it, kids! Do you want to dance, or listen to some malcontent exude his venom?" After leading us around and back of some mechanical devices, which were intended for amusement, we came to a large open area where around the whole periphery were tables and benches under canopies. In the center of the spacious opening there was a unique structure. It was a canopy, but constructed of reinforced concrete arches. The floor was raised to one step elevation higher than the surrounding area. The area under the canopy was equipped with comfortable seats, and a raised area at one end where a lectern stood. Both the seats and the podium were equipped with microphone and receiver.
When we took seats under the canopy, Mr. Morelos told the young peace officers who we were and that we preferred to be treated informally. Mr. Morelos stepped between the two attractively dressed men, and while holding their hands said, "Folks, these are my two boys, Mark Lopez and John Turner, of the local constabulary. You can rest assured that as long as they are present no one will be allowed to lay a hand on or do bodily harm to another person. "We have arrived," Mr. Morelos said, "earlier than is normal for most people of this area, including tourists. I deliberately brought you early so you can have choice seats under the canopy. Though you will have a period of waiting, I would advise not leaving your seats, because when you return they will be taken." Mr. Morelos said to one of the peace officers, "Go to the catering area and have a portable bar moved over here, and have some catering personnel come along to serve these people while they are waiting for the show to start."
As we sat and sipped drinks, conversation became very interesting. Many of the Delegates were telling us about their homeland, to the extent that much that was said is now rather vague in my mind. However, I recall vividly what Mrs. Gandhi said about India. She said, "My country reminds me somewhat of your Puerto Rico prior to the inception of your Social Dynamic. My country is unique, in that the climate is such that proper housing occupies but little of the people's mind. "They have bred so rapidly, and became so overcrowded," she said, "that it has affected their minds to the extent that human life has become of little value. I will have you know it is a gruesome sight to see a dead body lying in the street and being stepped over by pedestrians. It is heart-rending to see people, even little children, sitting on their haunches, with no flesh on their bones, who have reached the point of mental numbness, and are blissfully awaiting death. "One can say truthfully, that the various sects of my country have been of some value, in that they prevent belligerency and cause people to philosophically accept their miserable lot. By the same token, this has retarded their sense of pride and progress to the extent that they care for nothing, including themselves. "In some instances," Mrs. Gandhi said, "it becomes evident that people have to be saved from themselves. There have been many attempts to introduce contraceptives, but the order of magnitude that one encounters causes it to seem useless. "In my research, I have read of an element, whose name slips my mind, which, when added to drinking water is minute amounts, is completely effective as a contraceptive. It is physically harmless, tasteless, odorless, and colorless. However, if one desires pregnancy, all one has to do is drink bottled water for a period of time. I recall the statement of one author: 'I will defy any mammal, two-legged or four-legged to conceive while ingesting the element.' It seems rather a devious approach to a serious situation, but I have decided to bring it to the attention of the state officials when I return home." By the time Mrs. Gandhi had finished her discourse, many of the Delegates were dabbing their eyes.
The sheik was especially affected by her explanation of conditions in India. It seemed that, suddenly, and almost on cue, a group of people had gathered around us and were gazing at us intently. I will have to admit that we were a most unusual group of people, in that many of the Delegates seemed to have stepped from the pages of the National Geographic magazine, or appeared suddenly on a television travelogue. It was evident that we were not recognized. At some muffled directions from Mr. Morelos, John Turner stepped to the microphone and said, "Folks, I want your attention, please. We have with us today a distinguished group of people. They have traveled from all parts of the world, as Delegates of their respective countries, to inspect our Social Dynamic. They wish to be treated informally. However, I will ask you to conduct yourselves in a manner befitting good Americans. Now, if you like you can chat with them a few minutes before we officially open the meeting." In seconds, we were smothered with handshakes amid hugs. As usual the young folks and children gravitated to the sheik.
When John Turner announced that the meeting was officially opened, the crowd had moved back several paces, and he said, "All right, folks, if anyone wishes to speak on any subject, please walk to the microphone. Now, I assume that you understand that your talk will not exceed thirty minutes, and should you become incoherent before your allotted time has elapsed, you will be asked to step from the podium." An elderly man of Indian blood, who spoke understandable English, gave his name as Juan Emeldo. He raised his hand and said, "Would I be permitted, please?"
When he stepped behind the lectern he said, "I am a Mixie Indian of the Tehuantepec region. I only want to express my gratitude of being a North American, and enjoying a peaceful life since the new social order has come into being. I don't want to leave the impression that I am bitter for what transpired before the introduction of our Social Dynamic. I only want to draw a comparison between the two modes of social operations, so you can understand why everyone in this region of North America, and especially the Indians, are so appreciative and thankful for our new way of life, wherein we can feel free and enjoy the fruits of this continent in equal proportion to everyone living on this land area, without feeling that we are accepting some kind of charity, which has left us a proud people, which we have always been. "I, like my people," he said, "who have, for many generations, lived in the Istmas region, lived so poorly as to almost be like animals in such a rich country. It was a time of constant unrest, and of fighting, running, and never knowing whether our leadership was benefactor or despot. It seemed that everyone had designs on the Istmas region, even foreign nations and corporations, some of which engaged some of our local leaders as a front for their designs. It is amazing how, during the price system era, some of our local people, with the promise of money and power, could be turned against the best interests of their own people by outside interests. "I have seen the time when we were running and hiding like animals and eking out a mere existence. "The most heart-rending was our womenfolk and poor little children, who were half starved and half clothed, while at the same time we were living on a land area that was blessed with an abundance of everything in the way of food and fiber. "We were, for many years, categorized as fourth-class citizens, only because we were American Indians, who only wanted to live in peace with those around us, regardless of what race or nationality. Yes, we were willing to cooperate with anyone who promised us a mere pittance. That is why we so often became involved, unknowingly, with despotic leaders, who were not concerned with our well-being, but who were only using us as a means to an end, to acquire wealth and power. "Well, I could go on and on telling you of the inequities of the past, but it doesn't become one to remain bitter about what happened in the past, when we are now enjoying such a peaceful and a sumptuous life. However, those memories do remain, and leave scars on one's mind. I sometimes stop to reflect on what has happened during my lifetime, and have to pinch myself to realize that I now enjoy a more sumptuous life than did extremely wealthy men during the price system era. You, of course, know what conditions are like now, so forgive me for telling you about it. "We live in a beautiful living complex, equipped with every convenience known, that makes for comfortable living. We have freedom of choice and selectivity in food, clothing, recreational facilities, and travel. The young folks have the advantage of schooling, and a choice of social service in any sequence of their choice. Most of all, we have sufficient leisure time to enjoy all of these marvelous things. "I hope I have done justice," he said, "in drawing a comparison of the past to that of the present." "Thank you for listening."
When Mr. Emeldo stepped from the podium, a young man, who gave his name as Phillip Cortez, stepped to the microphone with a stride and an air of real supremacy. He said, "I am of Castilian blood, and a descendant of the Conquistador Cortez. In times past, my people struggled desperately to make something of this country, only to meet with opposition on every hand, not just from the Indians, but from foreign powers and corporations who viewed this country with a jaundiced eye, and who perpetrated hate and unrest among the Indians, who turned against us-we, who were their benefactors. "Now, the Indians are not responsible for having been born Indians, any more than the black people of Africa are for being black, or the Asiatics for being of a yellow-tan hue. No, some people can't help being inferior. That's why I contend that Caucasian people should rule the earth, and those who are not Caucasian should be subservient to those who are. It isn't normal, or just that all men should be equal. It is more in keeping with human nature that men should be categorized, and those who are of the lower strata should serve and cater to those who are of a higher strata, namely, those of light skin. "The Indians of North America, who are practically savages, have no right to live as well as we of Spanish blood. This unjust change has all come about by the ungodly 'science and technology,' which has become a curse to the world. "Had it not been for technology, we, the Spanish people, would still have a hacienda culture of living in mansions, riding fine horses, attending great festivities and balls, and the Indians would be serving us by performing menial tasks-and everyone would be happier and closer to God. "This new social order is doomed to failure, because, eventually the people will become corrupt, and society will deteriorate. Then the people will recognize their mistake of permitting scientists and technicians to manage social affairs, after which things will return to normal, and people will once again be happy and content to sacrifice abundance for the serenity of scarcity, and the more simple method of hand-tool operation. Yes, God is frowning on man for his materialistic way of life, and for his permitting technical men to take the place of politicians and statesmen." The longer young Cortez talked, the more one could sense a feeling of animosity among those present. Several people shouted, "Shut him up!" "Put him behind bars!" "He is an enemy ,of North America!" "He is a bigot!" "Let me get my hands on him!" Each time there was a comment from the audience, the peace officers would reply with "Be quiet, and hold your peace. If you have a rebuttal to make, it will be made from this speaker's platform." Mr. Batista nudged me and whispered, "Why do you permit such venomous, treasonous talk to be made in public by that young man? In many places over the earth he would be shot by someone for his treasonous outbursts." I said, "Mr. Batista, if that is how the young man feels about things, it is better that he voice it than keep it to himself. In fact, it is to the advantage of North America's Social Dynamic to know what is on people's minds. That poor young man is suffering from an inferiority complex. The only thing he can think of, to pet his ego, is to feel that he is on the top rung of the ladder, looking down at his subordinates. Mr. Batista, we value free and open speech in North America, because it makes for a healthier social condition." When the peace officers told young Cortez that his time at the microphone had expired, he held his hand aloft and shouted, "People, I say to you, rise up and overthrow this ungodly scientific state!"
Sentiment was running high, especially among the Indians of that region. His life could have been in danger because of his derogatory and venomous statements. The peace officers therefore escorted him through the crowd of angry people to a safe distance. Mr. Morelos explained to me later that the peace officers of that region have such high respect from the Indians that one officer can control a massive crowd of people, even when the situation is dangerously tense.
A young man, who appeared to be in his late teens, was admitted to the microphone. He gave his name as Patric O'Henry and said, "I realize that the hue of my skin belies my name. I am part Indian, of the Hauve tribe. One of my distant relatives was a member of the Patricos, a group of Irish Catholics who joined with the Cabos brothers in the Istmas region to fight a holy war against the liberals. "Young Cortez, who just spoke, should be garbed in a marmalade uniform and raise an army to overthrow the Social Dynamic of North America and reestablish a conservative, despotic, church-dominated ruling class. Anyone enjoying the fruits of our Social Dynamic who will make statements such as Cortez just made gives me a pain in the you know what. Any slight knowledge of history causes that bit about being pure-blooded Spanish, or pure-blooded anything, to be ridiculous. Even he being Spanish, especially his having olive skin, could very well mean that in his veins runs African blood, of the Moroccan area. Yes, and his desire to subjugate people whose skin hue is not so light as his attests to his lack of knowledge of history. He doesn't seem to realize that over the ages people of all races and nationalities have, at one time or another, subjugated their own people, by the mechanics of financial manipulation, which caused them to be subservient to those who have created debts against the less affluent. "That poor fellow doesn't seem to realize that the atrocious deeds of man, in the absence of technology, indicate that he is only half civilized, and that so long as there is a scarcity of the needs of life, there will be deeds of inequity. It is only when there is the presence of abundance, achieved by the means of technology and social affairs, directed in accordance with technology, that men will conduct themselves in a manner befitting civilized creatures. "People like young Cortez," he said, "are more to be pitied than hated. I am certain that, if he doesn't completely lose his mind, he will eventually shake that inferiority complex, of having to feel that he is superior to other people, for the purpose of feeding his ego." "Thank you for giving me an audience."
A number of people stood before the microphone to talk about any number of things, such as ways to conserve energy, methods of restoring the various Aztec structures (which are to be erected in the lake area), and the technique of reclamation of various metals that had been scattered over the landscape during the price system era. When looking at his watch, Mr. Morelos said, "Folks, it is now twelve hours, and time for lunch break. Talking will resume at thirteen hours. There is good food to be had nearby."
After we had collected food and were seated at the tables around the periphery of the open area, we collected people as a barnyard collects flies. I think I have never witnessed more curious people in all of our tour. Even when they asked questions of us their actions indicated that they felt for us to take the time to answer them was an imposition on us. The gathering gave me a feeling of tenseness until Miss Vollnogle stood and said, "Folks, meeting and talking to you people here today is a rare and pleasant experience that we shall never forget, and will always cherish. So feel free to ask questions of any of us." Had Miss Vollnogle had prior knowledge of the effect her little speech would have on those people, she would, in all probability, have kept quiet.
Immediately everyone began asking questions. Many of the questions we didn't understand, because of their being asked in various Indian languages mixed with a sort of pidgin English. Recognizing the awkward state of affairs, young Mr. Jose Alvarado (the linguist, whom we had met at Veracruz) stood and, in various Indian languages, explained to them that it would be necessary that they ask questions through him.
The first to ask a question was a very pretty young Indian woman. She was not only pretty, she was also handsome. She stood proud and erect. Her facial features were perfect and distinctive, which gave the appearance of nobility. She was so striking that one would gaze at her as one would when inspecting a thoroughbred horse. "For years," she said, "we, the Indian people of the southern part of North America, have been looked down upon by those who are not Indian. Do you people of the north feel the same about us?" I said, "Well," and Miss Vollnogle nudged me, saying, "Please, let me answer her." "I am certain," she said, "that any discrimination against the American Indian, in times past, was of a purely economic nature. Now that the Social Dynamic has been established, that condition will rapidly vanish. Being from South Africa, I can view things with a more detached perspective. What I have to say is not meant to be flattery. I think of the American Indian as people who are highly developed, both mentally and physically, who are very clever in the various fields of art and science. They are a handsome and wholesome people who would be an asset to any land area of the earth. You are personally very typical, and a good representative of the North American Indian. Never, but never, feel inferior to anyone. I think you are wonderful." The beautiful young creature stood like a statue, as she attempted to maintain her composure, but her emotion became evident when tears came into her eyes. She said, "Thank you, miss, you are very kind."
Miss Vollnogle attempted to say more, but her voice wavered with emotion, and she ceased talking. The sheik was asked many questions about his homeland, and his answer to one young man went, as nearly as my memory permits, something like this: "America is a vast and beautiful continent. Its people are kind and generous. Its scenery is striking, but I love my homeland so much that no land area on earth can take its place. However, your new social order has done so much to enhance this land area, in the way of the development, utilization, and conservation of your resources, and has discouraged inequity among your people, that it causes me to bow my head in shame, when I think of my people living in poverty. When I return home, I am going to use my influence to organize the various continents of the world into functional units resembling North America. I can think of no reason, in this era of technological abundance, why every human being shouldn't enjoy abundance and a happy life. I am dedicated henceforth to create world conditions that are beneficial to all humanity. "When my allotted time on this earth is nearing its end, I want to feel that I have been instrumental in leaving the earth a better place than I found it. With that feeling," he said, "I can meet my maker without having to bow my head and make excuses for my earthly deeds." After the sheik had voiced his decision, he seemed to have taken a new lease on life, attested by the radiant glow on his face. Mr. Morelos said, "Time has really elapsed. It is now time to resume the public talks."
After we were seated, a man of middle age stepped to the microphone. He stood for some time, very erect, giving the appearance of a man of great dignity. He said in measured words, "My name is John Billings. I am serving with the Astrophysical and Space Sequence. I assume that you think that I would only be concerned with things concerning my profession. Regardless of what you think of the personnel of that sequence, we are just as human as the rest of you, and with the same human frailties. Yes, we can love and hate, and things can leave scars on our mind, the same as on yours. I want to say at the outset that no one is more appreciative of the Social Dynamic than we in this field of endeavor, because it gives us such freedom and wide scope for research and exploration. "Like Mr. Emeldo, I too, feel that I must give some comparison of conditions in America now, as contrasted to conditions during the price system era, to attempt, to a degree, to erase the scars of the past from my memory. "There were things," he said, "that transpired during the price system era, that were conducted in the name of business, that were not in the best interest of the American people. There were so many things of that nature that I hardly knew where to begin. I think one of the most subtle and least recognized by most people was that of the automobile. Now I will have you know that there is nothing wrong with the automobile. It is only the method by which it was introduced to the American people, or should I say foisted on the American people. It was advertised as to cause people to think of it as a status symbol, To utilize public transportation, and be without the latest model automobile, was to place oneself in a menial position of poor taste, which caused one to be lacking in social acceptance. Well, Mr. Jones and Mr. Smith had the latest model, with fancy chrome adornment, and so forth, which left you out of the 'in' crowd. "This attitude on the part of the public was a boon to many types of businesses, which are almost too numerous to mention: steel, rubber, automobile insurance, highway construction, highway materials, paving and dirt-moving equipment, hand tools for repairing automobiles, automobile repair centers, automobile clubs, and eventually automobiles designed in such a way that backyard mechanics could no longer repair their own vehicles without the expense of special equipment, thereby enhancing repair business for the various automobile agencies. All these things notwithstanding, people still had a desire to make use of public transportation, which, however, was discontinued in many areas, thereby forcing the people to purchase automobiles. "Now, in all seriousness, who wants to drive an automobile that is more than two years old, not only to maintain a good standing in his community, but when the mechanics of a machine is designed to operate for a given length of time, or miles, it isn't financially prudent to operate or drive it longer, not to mention driving an automobile whose body designs are out of date? "With those conditions prevalent, it became necessary to constantly build new highways, whose effectiveness was always too little and too late, to the degree that highways and freeways became massive parking areas during the busy hours of the day, which resulted in the emission of poison gases that permeated the air. "The wasteful use of our nonrecurring petroleum was rapidly approaching depletion, we were told, but who wanted to spoil such a lucrative business as the automobile, with its vast number of parasite businesses relying on it for their existence? There were, of course, some crocodile tears that fell, and some belated conservation plans that were soon forgotten. Well, as the boy said when he thou ht he had seen a ghost, 'Let's just close our eyes and pretend it isn't there!' I can recall many other things that were just as wasteful," he said, "and as foolish, but I think I have taken enough of your time. "Thank you for being patient."
There were many short talks on many subjects during the day. However, after having listened to a young woman expound on the importance of the arts, such as music, painting, and sculpturing, contending that their importance in society was that which causes life to be more livable, I shall never forget the comments of the last speaker. A young man stepped to the microphone and gave his name as Samuel Doulion. He said, "I am a student. I came to the conclusion two years ago that everyone should, aside from their academic activity, conduct an extracurricular activity. Being an agnostic, I decided to research the various faiths and religious activities, to determine, if possible, whether they, both past and present, were advantageous or detrimental. "I have come to the conclusion," he said, "that man in his formative period was a rather crude creature, possessing, of all things, a conscience, and a mind that was capable of rationalizing, and he was prone to think with his emotions, rather than with his brain, which caused him to be a very unstable creature. Inasmuch as he could rationalize, his rationalization could, in time of stress, cause him to commit violent acts against his fellow creatures. "Among men there can always be found the exceptional individual of the group, who has the presence of mind to think before acting, and to give some thought as to the end result of various emotional and thoughtless activities human beings are capable of committing, to the detriment of themselves and their fellows. Those, the exceptional ones, were the first to teach morals and consideration for their fellows, which eventually evolved into set patterns of ethics, conduct, and of religious cults, of which some projected the thought that punitive measures would be executed by a higher power, or gods, against those who were foolish enough to break the various rules of established folkways of the community. "There evolved those who were more cunning, who arranged the set patterns of thought, in such a way as to gain advantage for themselves, namely, the shaman and the witch doctor. Those who were the cunning formed strong organizations and received the blessings of the community or the state leaders, because of their technique of keeping people in line and subservient to their masters. Stated differently, the people were induced by fear of punishment in the hereafter to police themselves. In many instances the ecclesiastic clique became more despotic than the heads of state, because of their power of excommunication. However, people Were taught to be kind to their fellows, with, of course, the exception of war, at which time they were justified to kill in the name of God, because God loved them, and hated those they were fighting. "People over the ages have become accustomed to rationalizing that there is a deity and a life after death, to the extent that it seems to have become a part of them. "I have concluded that, inasmuch as we have established a Social Dynamic on this continent, where no one is permitted to stop the flow lines of production, or curtail one's right to consume, or interfere with one's right to the pursuit of happiness and individual philosophy, it makes little difference what route a person's philosophy takes him. Our only concern is for him to serve society in his individual capacity, and consume to his heart's desire. Now that that has been accomplished, it is difficult to determine what philosophy a man lives by, if any. "Thank you for listening."
When I arrived at the complex, I was informed that I was to call John Brooks. When he raised the receiver and his reflection came on the view plate, he smiled and said, "Edward, are you enjoying yourself?" I said, "Yes, John, I am truly enjoying myself." "Well, I dislike taking you away from the Delegates," he said, "but your presence is needed here. There are many things happening in our new society, and many decisions to be made. I will have you know that the Continental Directors, as well as myself, place a great value on your sanction of any activity or change that is to be made, in that you have traveled a great deal of late, met people, and observed progress and esprit de corps. We think your sanction should be had on a number of decisions. "Is it possible, Edward, without causing the Delegates any discomfort, that you return for a period of time?" When I inquired as to the length of time, he said, "Eighteen to twenty days. We would also like to have a report on the progress of the tour up to this point." "John, give me a few minutes to think," I said, "and I will call back." I wanted so much to inspect the progress that had been made on the Tehuantepec Canal and projects farther south and east. On pondering the various alternatives, it seemed that the Delegates should be allowed ample time to see the Indian temples of that general area, as well as the other cities and sights along the Pacific Ocean. After some thought, I reasoned that, in spite of the lapse of twenty days, there would still be places of interest in the area the Delegates would not have had time to see.
After a discussion with Mr. Morelos, Jose Alvarado, and Tom Browning, as to travel in various locations and comfort for the group, I told them I would meet them at Jachitan on the two hundred and thirty-eighth day of the year. When I checked with John Brooks, he asked if I could leave immediately, and I could think of no reason for delay. So I collected my belongings and asked the driver to take me to the airport. When I went to the lounge area to say goodbye to the group, they insisted they see me off. As I walked up the steps to board the plane, I turned around to wave and saw tears in some of the eyes. It became urgent for me to grab my handkerchief.
To be continued
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