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drums: "Senoars y Senores...*" I begin to say to the man "...esta noche tenemos el superbo honor...**"

"What did he say" Coops asked. I translated into English. 

"...We our very pleased to have our esteemed friend among us..." Another pause. I translated.

The light from the reflector jumped, it left the runway, it began to move, it headed slowly and uncertainly in our direction, then with a sudden acceleration it hit us in full and while the man in the tuxedo shouted: "...our great GARY COOPER!!" the whole room burst into applause.

Dazzled, I instinctively moved the chair out of the circle of light. "What should I do, Adriana? What should I do?" Coops asked me. 

Damn, I thought. Here is Gary Cooper in the flesh asking me what to do and it doesn't look like he's acting at all. I wanted to hug him. Instead I said, "Get up, so that everyone can see you. And say 'thank you' in English too, so everyone understands it."

Coops got up. He looked even taller. He waved his hand and silence fell upon the hall. "Thank you. I'm really glad to be with you tonight. It's a lovely place, lovely music. Have a good time, as I do. Thank you." and sat down.

Prolonged applause. The reflector went out, the lights came back on, the orchestra began to play again, people invaded the dance floor. "Was I all right?" he asked me. 

"Yes. You were perfect." I smiled at him. "Unexpected?"

"Very unexpected." and again I felt the desire to hug him. Instead I said, "Another Cuba Libre?"

"Humm humm." said Coops. "Double."

* King of Kings

** tonight we have the superb honor