Chapter 2 (pages 59-90) Summary

Through "Z," the narrator learns of and attends a huge, expensive, but disorganized and incredibly uncomfortable party held by an American diplomat. "Z" told her it was rumored Nelson Denoon would be there. She searches without success for Denoon until running into an American woman who is beautiful, obviously rich, and acting rather strange. The woman says she is Grace Denoon and she is looking for her husband. Grace asks the narrator for help finding Nelson. The narrator wants to find him too so is happy to have the excuse of looking for him on behalf of his wife. Grace clings to her and they finally find Denoon in a guesthouse in the middle of a debate with black and white African leaders. The narrator finds his speaking style leaves something to be desired, rambling, and at times boring...