Page 211 (1/2)

"It's tonight or never," sighed Nichols wearily

The President asked, "What kind of nu at?"

"A coraph shows nearly four hundred and thirty-five thousand," replied Schiller

"And they're going to pour ugh a corridor less than a kilometer wide,"

Nichols said grimly

"Daely "Doesn't he realize or care that thousands will be killed or drowned in the crush alone?"

"A majority of them women and children," added Nichols

"The Capesterres aren't known for charity and goodwill," muttered Schiller acidly

"Still not too late to re Topiltzin would be co Hitler in 1930"

"Providing your hired gun got close enough," commented Nichols

"Afterward, he'd be butchered by the crowd"

"I was thinking of a high-powered rifle from four hundred meters"

Schiller shook his head "Not a practical solution A clear shot could only come from an elevation on our side of the river The Mexicans would know ily Instead of a peaceful crowd, General Chandler's troops would be facing a maddened uns, knives, rocks and bottles Then we'd have a real war on our hands"

"I concur," said Nichols "General Chandler would have no choice but to open up with everything he had to save his men and any American citizens in the area"

The President struck the arm of the chair with his clenched fist in frustration "Is there nothing we can do to prevent hter?"