Sugarland - Chapters 1-5 - Page 48

     “That's all right.”

     “We will make your reservations at the Green Fields hotel.”

     “Whatever you think.”

     “Nothing else is suitable.”

     Back to the phone. Some more words, slightly less calm. Back to me.

     “Unavoidable delays.”

     He pursed his mouth and held the receiver to his ear. Some moments passed. He took out a cigarette but didn't light it, only tapped one end and then another on the bedside table.

     “I've been meaning to ask you,” I said—trying to ease him with conversation—“how hard is it to bring guns through customs?”

     “Very difficult,” he said. “Guns are the raw material of revolution, and the communists have many more volunteers than they have arms. Therefore guns are highly restricted. But it can be done.”

     “Even rifles?”

     “Rifles are the most difficult. But it still can be done. You see, guns and money and influence are all the same. If one has guns, he has influence. If he has influence, he can always get money. Or money and influence, you see, can be converted to guns. They are all forms of power, yes?”

     Back to the phone. A couple of sharp bursts, then to me with an expression of chagrin.

     “My apologies,” he said.

     “You worry too much.”

     “Family.”

     “Then if somebody had connections and money, he could bring in rifles.”