The Diamond Eye

The narrative returns to Washington in 1942, where the unnamed American sniper is watching Mila at the welcome breakfast for her delegation. The sniper has some knowledge of Russian, so he can understand Mila and her compatriots. He makes particular note of Mila’s exasperation that the reporters continue to call her a “girl” despite her age and rank. Mila answers a variety of pointed or incredulous questions about her military service and her views of America. When Mila laughs at one of Eleanor Roosevelt’s witticisms before a translation is provided, the sniper realizes that she understands English. He is interested in any time she expresses frustration with Americans, as this will make her easier to frame for the assassination attempt.

Eleanor Roosevelt also notices Mila’s response to her joke. She reflects that she will store this detail for her husband, as she often does, serving as a key resource in his work. The real purpose of sending tired young veterans is to impress upon the president, and other onlookers, that the Soviet Union is in dire need of military aid.