A Sorority of Angels by Gus Leodas Page B

forward. His statement will be difficult to accept by our courts because of political motives – those who prefer a change in government and will go to extremes. At least four officers, honorable men, will testify Carlos died in the line of duty, a national hero.”
    “What about Steinerman and the army infiltration and the rest?” Her eyes tried to penetrate his reasoning.
    “Haven’t heard of any secret police units or oppression on the people. I trust Klaus. I don’t believe he’s deceiving me. Marichal is the best military mind in South America. Yes, we’re strengthening, but the invasion of Chile is a fantasy Pilar, a fantasy. Marichal has excellent information. Chile plans to invade us using our jointly owned islands as the excuse, why I authorized an increase in military spending for defense, enough to protect us.”
    His response unsettled Pilar. She lost the debate without gaining any points, a disastrous performance, and a total defeat.
    “Pilar, I’ll make quiet inquiries about your statements. I will investigate. I assure you, you are wrong. Carlos wasn’t murdered. As far as free elections, they will happen in a few months once I’m satisfied we’re stronger militarily and economically and the invasion threat ends. I must be certain for stability.
    “I work diligently to salvage and reform our chaotic economy. Our national currency has improved on the exchange markets when once on the verge of disappearing and interest rates lowered. The Merval, the market index for the Buenos Aires Stock Exchange is rising. I supported the Head of Household Plan instituted to provide the needy with a monthly allowance. We’re cutting government spending. I assume political risks with initiatives to have economic strategies work. We face a staggering national debt and restive labor unions. We are the second largest grain exporter. I’m trying to revive Argentina. Again, I will reinvestigate Carlo’s death. To make you feel better, the head of the Presidential Intelligence Service is of Spanish ancestry. You might’ve heard of him, Julio Cavallo Toledo.”
    His argument crushed Pilar, almost convincing.
    “Yes, always held him in high regard.”
    “I’ll ask him to assist in my investigation. Will that make you feel better? No one of German ancestry will participate in this investigation. The years of the ‘dirty war’ and secret terrorism and inquisitions by the military and police are over. We are a democracy, what we’ll be as long as I’m alive.”
    Pilar felt hopeless to continue the discussion. His continued resistance would demean her and the subject’s credibility. She failed. She decided to have Tomayo bring it up again tomorrow. She sighed theatrical.
    “Well I must say it’s a relief to hear you say what you said. Forgive me but I’m still confused.”
    “Politics is a two-faced animal and you’ve been gone a long time. Your uncle is no fool. Carlos died a hero. He wasn’t murdered.” She pretended to agree by nodding. “As far as Tomayo unable to get to me, we’ll talk about that tomorrow. Satisfied?”
    Pilar nodded again. Awkwardness developed between them.
    “Uncle Rafael, don’t mention this to Steinerman.”
    “You believe what you told me?”
    “Yes, I do. I think you will also if you listen to Tomayo tomorrow. I realize it’s difficult to accept it from me, but tomorrow please talk to Tomayo.”
    “I promise you this. I won’t tell Klaus anything, and probe. You aroused my suspicions. About the military build-up? I will hear it from Tomayo and give the subject a good airing. I will not offend Klaus and Ludwig on innuendo. Never have they given me reason to believe their actions are anti Argentina. Pilar.” His voice assumed a pleading tone. “Forget politics. I assure you Argentina will prosper. The beef embargo by Europe is hurting but surmountable. We will get around that. France pledged to assist. Let’s stop talking about this and tell me about you and New