"It's all going to help contribute to the collapse of Spain as we knew it," McCaskey said, "which everyone here believes is imminent. Someone who spoke directly with the prime minister told General de la Vega that a new constitution is already being worked on-one that will allow the different regions virtual autonomy under a very loose central government."

Herbert folded his powerful arms. "Why don't we call old Abril up and let him know what's gonna happen in his own country."

Hood frowned and motioned him silent.

"The reason I mentioned General Superior González," McCaskey said, "is that there is a Jesuit priest who helped to save our lives. His name is Father Norberto Alcazar."

"Is he all right?" Hood asked, writing down his name.

"He was hurt getting me safely to María's side-couple of heavy-duty bruises from gunfire chopping up the courtyard. Nothing serious, though. But I want to do something for him. He doesn't strike me as the kind of priest who'd want to be kicked upstairs or anything like that. Father Norberto was telling me at the field hospital that he lost his brother in this ordeal. He's had it pretty rough. Perhaps we can do something for his parish. Work it through the Vatican, if the White House can arrange that."

"We'll certainly talk to them about that," Hood said. "We can set up a scholarship somewhere in the brother's name."

"Sounds good," McCaskey said. "Maybe one for Martha too. Maybe from all of this madness a little good will come."

After the other men in the room wished McCaskey well-"And I don't mean with just your health," Herbert added-Hood hung up. Father Norberto's story reminded him of something that tends to get lost in events like these. It isn't only a nation whose destiny is changed. The ripples go outward, affecting the world-and the ripples go inward, affecting every citizen. It was not only an awesome metamorphosis to behold. It was damn near overwhelming to have been an integral part of the process. And without having left this office.

It was time to hang that responsibility up.

Hood buzzed Bugs Benet and asked him to call his wife. She was at her parents' home in Old Saybrook, Hood told him.

Herbert looked at Hood. "Sudden trip?" he asked.

Hood shook his head. "Long time in the works."

Hood swung the computer monitor toward him. He went to his personal file.

Bugs buzzed. "Sir?"

"Yes?"

"Mr. Kent says that Sharon and the kids left early this morning to go back to Washington," Bugs told him. "They were going to take the eight o'clock flight. Do you want to speak with him?"

"No," Hood said. He looked at his watch. "Thank him and tell him I'll call later."

"Shall I ring Mrs. Hood's cellular?"

"No, Bugs," Hood said. "I'll tell her when I meet her at the airport."

Hood hung up and finished his coffee. Then he rose.