"Michael McCollum - Man of Renaissance" - читать интересную книгу автора (McCollum Michael)

"There is no danger, General. I've been vaccinated and if it hadn't taken, I would have been dead six
months ago."

Trujillo's expression quickly turned to anger, obviously fueled by the thought that he had made a fool of
himself before this stranger.

"Be that as it may, Sen├╡r Medico , I find myself wondering at the timing of your current visit."

"If you will pardon me for saying so, General Trujillo, it is I who should be wondering at your presence,
not vice versa."

"My presence here does not concern you."

"It concerns me if it interferes with my work. I got the impression from Captain Rodriguez that I am to
consider myself your prisoner."

"His Imperial Majesty would never imprison a representative of the Public Health Service, Doctor. You
are our honored guest."

"Will I be allowed to practice my craft freely?"

"Certainly. I will even assign an officer to assist you."

"Will I be allowed to leave when I am finished in this village?"

"I'm afraid not," Trujillo said. "You will to remain as our guest until we complete our work here."

"How long will that take?"

"As long as it takes."

"I was forced to lecture your junior officer concerning Mexico's obligations under the treaty. Must I do
the same for you, General?"

"His Majesty has authorized me to take special measures on my current mission, Doctor. If you are
inconvenienced, your service may petition His Majesty for compensation. Now, then, if you will excuse
me, I have much to do."

Beckwith turned to leave.

Trujillo glanced up from his paperwork. "One thing more, Doctor. I would be honored to have you for
my guest at dinner this evening. Senora Galway sets an excellent table and I am always interested in tales
of far-off places."

Beckwith blinked, seemed about to refuse, and then relented. "I would be delighted."

He turned to leave once more, his expression dour. He was well out in the hall, following a uniformed
flunky toward the stairs that led to the hacienda living quarters, before he allowed himself the barest hint
of a smile.