Book 3, Chapter 18 Summary and Analysis

"The Man with the Sun in His Eyes" wraps up the Roosevelt era. The title refers to his 1906 visit to the Isthmus, where he takes in everything with childlike enthusiasm. Emphasis continues on patriotic fervor, as Stevens gives way to Goethals, who accepts the duty of seeing the project through to the end. Roosevelt gives Stevens' and Shonts what they want: freedom to build by contract and a clear line of authority: President - Secretary of War - Chairman - Chief Engineer.

No sitting President has left the country before, so there is great excitement when Roosevelt announces he will visit Panama, timing it to experience the height of the rainy season. Advanced preparations to beautify the towns are successful, and the Republic of Panama declares the day of Roosevelt's arrival a national day of "joy and exalted enthusiasm...