Part 59 (1/2)

”So you have come after all! How good! How very good!”

The hotel man said, ”Senhor Magalhaes, this woman claims-”

”Yes. Yes. Is all right. I am expecting. Please, let us go inside.

Please. Please. Such a great honor, General Crawford!” He extended his

arms in a gesture so splendid that it would have been worthy of the

Emperor himself. ”Come,” he said. He led them into the building.

The lobby of the Imperial was a great glittering cavern, all gla.s.s

and lights. Carlotta felt dizzy. The Brazilian was in complete command,

shepherding them to some secluded alcove, where waiters in brocaded

livery came hustling to bring champagne, little snacks on porcelain

trays, a glistening bowl br.i.m.m.i.n.g with fruit. Magalhaes pulled a

recorder from his pocket, a holido scanner, and two or three other

devices, and set them on the table before them.

”Now, if you please, General Crawford-”

”The fee,” Carlotta said.

”Ah. Yes. Yes, of course.” Magalhaes pulled crumpled old dirty bills

from his wallet, imperial money, green and gold. ”Will this be enough,