In the following presentation of Progressive Chile, no effort has
been made to elaborate, to give undue coloring to the picture, or to
magnify its defects. It is a record of impressions gained from personal
observations, of the life and customs of the people in one of the most
enlightened, progressive and interesting countries in South America.
To attempt to conceal from view, to obscure the unsightly spots and
blemishes that mar the social structure and disfigure the body politic,
or to unnecessarily expose the moral and social defects and infirmities
of a people who possess so many admirable qualities, commendable
characteristics and desirable accomplishments, would be unjust, unfair.
The truth is not always pleasant reading, and it may seem unkind to
withhold the cup that patriotic pride demands. But let those who know
the real life of Chile pass judgment, and if from long association
they have not become so accustomed and inured to national, social and
political deficiencies as to regard them as established and correct
principles, they will agree with one who regards the situation from an
unprejudiced viewpoint.