"Maybe you don't grasp the significance," he said.
"A man in his eighties has a plan."
"But nobody knows his plan."
"We live a long way from the capital. We'll get some accurate news soon. Our president is no fool."
Federicka Kolb, a friend of the Humboldts for years, paused before Lucienne and Raul, smiled and offered them cigarettes. She was an attractive heavy-set person, with a light complexion and especially intelligent mouth and eyes.
"Darling," asked Lucienne, "what is the latest news about President Díaz? Is there anything we can depend on?"
"General Matanzas said he has resigned and left the country," said Federicka.
"The highest authority," said Lucienne, glancing at the general, who had put his head on his arms.
"I'll talk to him later," said Raul. "Is there any word of a successor? Has Matanzas been in Mexico City recently?"
"I was in Mexico City last week," said Federicka, her face pleasant and calm. "People say Díaz wants Mexico to become a democracy. Díaz wants the Indians to vote."