The Feast of the Goat

The brothers Díaz, Luis Amiama, and Antonio de la Maza have more or less resigned themselves to Pupo’s abandonment; at Juan Tomás Díaz’s house, they discuss their next move. Juan Tomás suggests going into hiding, which enrages Antonio: “Cowards hide. Let’s finish the job, Juan Tomás. Put on your general’s uniform, give us some uniforms, and we’ll go to the Palace. And that’s where we’ll call for a popular uprising” (300). His companions are skeptical, though, and when the others return, they agree that Antonio’s plan is rash and probably suicidal. When Antonio proposes hanging the body in Independencia Park, they likewise oppose this plan, which further enrages him. When he sees the fear in Juan Tomás’s wife’s eyes, however, he calms himself and apologizes.

They decide to split up: Modesto and Luis go their separate ways while Turk, Antonio, and Juan Tomás stick together, seeking shelter at Robert Reid Cabral’s house at the suggestion of Dr. Santana. Unbeknownst to Agustín, his brother is part of the conspiracy on behalf of the United States. When the assassins arrive, Robert ushers them quickly into his house, introducing them to his pregnant wife and young son. Robert sets them up in a small, hot attic with almost no ventilation, but they hardly noticed the conditions.