燃眉追擊

Senator Mayo: I want to thank you, Dr. Ryan, for the information you've shared with us this afternoon. Jack Ryan: Thank you, Senator. Senator Mayo: I agree we have to help the Colombians in their struggle to curtail the drug cartels' activities, however, I'm confused. How do you see additional funds alone advancing this program from the utter failure that it is? You see what I'm getting at? Jack Ryan: Um, no, I'm afraid I don't. Senator Mayo: You said this effort would be totally benign on our part. Jack Ryan: Well, the finding clearly states that our assistance is limited to supply and advice only, Senator. Senator Mayo: I know. I've read that. I've also read a similar finding written 35 years ago this week regarding a little-though-of sliver of jungle in southeast Asia. Jack Ryan: Uh, I'm sorry, you're comparing our request for supplemental antidrug funds to Vietnam? Senator Mayo: I'm comparing it to every instance a legislative body such as this is asked to render judgment based on less than all the facts. Jack Ryan: Well, I'm afraid I don't know what to say to that. Um... Senator Mayo: You could begin by assuring us we have been given all the facts. Jack Ryan: I thought I had. Senator Mayo: You could further assure us, then, that this increase in funds, this escalation, to use your word, will not be used for any covert military action. Jack Ryan: I-I don't know how you're getting to this. Senator Mayo: Long experience, sir. No troops, then. I enunciate that clearly because I don't want there to be any mistake. Jack Ryan: No troops. Senator Mayo: You could say I have your word on that? Jack Ryan: You could indeed, because you do.