Date: Mon, 28 Apr 1997 04:05:13 -0700 (PDT)
Subj: [Benjamin] Civics 101

On Sun, 27 Apr 1997 16:44:41 -0700 (PDT), 
address deleted wrote:

> "Paleface, you talk democracy. You talk republic."
> She points a finger at herself, shakes her head and finally makes a large
> circle with her hand as if waving something off,
> "Me, not familiar with them.  You hidding behind words.  Me sure not alone
> not understand."
> She points her finger at Benjamin again and then at herself,
> "You, explain, what they are?"

Benjamin seems delighted by the prospect of someone who wishes to hear the
explanation.  First, by word and gesture, he offers to Matoaka to step
aside to discuss this without disturbing the others, where they can
concentrate.  Whether or not she accedes, he begins to explain his concept
of a democracy and a republic (basically, the 18th century concept, though
he has talked to many who came after him, learned some of the problems and
solutions that arose from that system, and incorporated them into his
thoughts).  He is slow and patient, and he addresses her almost as if she
were a young child.  He is very careful to point out how the electoral
process is more than just consensus, how important the secret ballot is in
allowing unpopular ideas to be voiced in spite of peer pressure, and how it
provides people with just enough freedom from retribution to speak their
minds, but not so much freedom from consequence for them to act without
concern for the future.

During the course of this discussion, if it can be held in private,
Benjamin will gently inquire as to Matoaka's background, but will not force
the question, having learned that many on the River do not wish to tell.
He will be especially interested in learning if she is married, and if she
still considers her marriage to be in effect if so.

-- 
* Frank J. Perricone * address deleted * http://www.sover.net/~hawthorn
Just because we aren't all the same doesn't mean we have nothing in common