In Medeyell, the capitol, Manda Gallegos returned to give President Barreda a report on her Washington, D.C. trip. “The President was too busy to see me in person, but he responded and sent me this official statement from the Department of Finance.

“Hey, I did get to eat lunch with Hilary; she told me the next President would be a woman. Hee, hee, hee! I don’t believe her.”

     The President of Charombia spoke to Manda, “I saw you on satellite television. When our black limousine flying our flags drove up to the White House, and you got out in that gown and diamond necklace, it was very impressive.” Pause. “I am very proud of you. And this is more U.S. dollars than I expected.” Pause. “I am so thankful your plane was not damaged” Pause. “Confidentially, Manda, I wish you were really my wife.”

     “You know I‘m too much woman to be married to one man. After the meeting I went to a very private party in northern Virginia. It’s true; Virginia is for lovers. Hee, hee, hee! Please excuse me; I have to go now.”

     “Your money is in your bank account. Colonel Hector Valasquez will accompany you back to your apartment.”

     Manda exited with, “Viva Charombia!”

     In the Audis on the way to Manda’s apartment Colonel Valasquez told her, “ A bomb has been planted in Barreda’s Mercedes.”