“The business of human rights,” I went on, “and how the country is viewed from abroad will matter in the campaign. Anyone who is ambiguous about the democratic institutions will not figure in these elections. But the winner will win on his economic policies, essentially on what he can offer the middle class. Our campaign, for example, will center on inflation, investment, and unemployment, although we will also make clear that we believe the Malvinas should be restored to Argentina through peaceful means, that there must be serious investigations into allegations of torture and official murder over the past ten years, and that the perception of Argentina abroad must be changed. We feel that most other contenders are placing too much emphasis on the disappearances and the end of dictatorship—”

“Have you any surveys to prove this?” Donald interrupted me.

“We have very limited resources. It would also be hard to draft the right questions. These things are delicate. No one has done much research into public opinion because no one has any money.”

“That’s not the case,” Susan spoke for the first time. She looked at her husband rather than at me. “We know of two parties that have done considerable research. It seems vital to us.”

“Yes, but those are the parties which will not figure in the election, irrespective of how much research they do. The main contenders have not yet emerged.”

Since she had contradicted me I felt that it was the only way I could come back. I tried to be convincing and sure of myself, but I did not know whether this was still working. I had no idea whether I was talking to the right people, whether they would offer me work, or offer Señor Canetto professional advice, or simply keep in touch with us, as with all the other splinter groups who sought power in the vacuum that was political life in Argentina during those months. I also believed that this was the best chance I would get to make a deal with them. Before we left the table, I decided, I would ask them what they could do for us, and I would leave silence after the question. If they asked me what we wanted I would say money, money now, and professional advice about how best to market our candidate, advice from the best North American agency about television and advertising and the use of slogans and images.

“How do you think the results of the elections will affect American interests in Argentina?” Donald asked me. Susan put her knife and fork down and looked at me.

“I think that relations with the United States will improve. Any candidate who hopes to win will have to make clear in one way or another his party’s support for economic stability. Some candidates may make anti-American speeches, and use anti-American rhetoric, but this should not be mistaken, especially now, for anything other than electioneering. You must discount it.”