Reconciliation
"Ah, Mr. Horn. Welcome to my abode."
The FCP leader entered the large Winnipeg residence. Steven Van der Laaden called something to a young native man in the living room.
"Servants Steven? I thought you were above that?"
"Sharp tongued as ever I see. The boy is well payed, and his father wishes him to learn European languages. I ask are you below hiring these people?"
"Perhaps. But I see no reason why to-"
Steven rolled his eyes.
"Ah, the life of an idealist... these men are just as capable as you or I. You see them as dull, or inept, and you are wrong! You were not beside me as I fought and toiled along with them for the independence of our nation. That is why I have succeeded and am Prime Minister, while you have remained head of your party. I support the people not the rich. In my eyes, the greatest and strongest Canada is one including all of these people, not divided by things such as race and class."
"People don't accept such radical changes, even if they are well-intentioned."
"I needn't force people to change their views. The might of the different races in our country together will be enough to show people that this is a good thing."
Michael stroked his brown beard, flecked with grey. He began to grin.
"You utopian."
"Always have been. I'll do my bit for that dream."
The tension lifted from the conversation like fog pierced by sunlight.
"I'm sure you would. But you do know that I did not come here for idle chat. I... have something I would like to tell you."
"What's that?"
"Steven, a few years ago when you left, it was on very bad terms. I never saw you again until the Fort William Conference, and we did not speak.
Throughout my time in knowing you, you have been many things. When I first met you, you were a fiery young Egalitiste. Immature perhaps, but very strong-minded. You have been a fervent follower of what you believed in, and a skilled diplomat. After you left, you showed yourself to be also a strong and hardy worker and leader. To me, you have been like a son, and above all, a friend.
Our last words with each other before your exit still haunt me, and I don't doubt did similar to you. Steven, the time has come to release the gnawing at my mind.
You were right. The FCP was not the best way to meet our plans. It was you who brought around our independence, you and Sears. History will look upon you much better than it will see I, if it does at all. I am sorry."
For some time, the room was silent. A faint clinking sound came from the kitchen.
"I knew I couldn't hold that against you forever, Michael my friend. Let us put this dark stain on our friendship behind us."
"Indeed!"
The servant entered the room with two glasses of wine.
"Cheers."
The two reunited friends clinked glasses and drank deeply.
*****
And thus, those who were once set against one another were healed. Strange, and perplexing are the myriad acts of fate, but for all her feints and tricks, she leads us to good.