Chapter 12: The Escape into Hell

They were walking down the narrow streets of the shanty town where Joe had his anonymous little room. Once Jenny showed up, the neighbors had a good idea that these were two Americans who were trying to hide from the authorities.

The peasants, who were desperately trying to eke out a living, would resort to anything for money. Drugs, prostitution, stealing and kidnapping were all common activities.

Joe had a hold of Jenny's hand as they wound their way out of the slum. They approached a dark alley that they would have to get past to get to a street with a taxi. There were several big men loitering under the street lights arguing mildly about a soccer game.

As Joe tried to excuse himself and lead Jenny between them, somebody hit Joe savagely with a board. Joe dropped without a struggle. Jenny froze. She didn't know what to do. Should she scream? Should she call for the police? She knew she couldn't afford to get the police involved, because they would ask too many questions. Graft and corruption was common. Maybe they could bribe their way out. It would be a close call.