Havana 28 October 1975

'Comrade Colonel, flash message from Luanda - Benguela has fallen to South African troops.'


'When?'


'Three hours ago. Helicopter borne troops seized the airfield at first light and motorised troops took the city by midday. There is an increasing use of air support - Mirages as well as Impalas.'


'Who was in command in Benguela?'


'Captain Delgado Comrade, he sent this report.'


'If Benguela's gone they'll bring in reinforcements by air and sea. What's Luanda saying about the FNLA?'


'It's confusing Comrade Colonel. FAPLA seems to be in control of Luanda and its outskirts but there is FNLA activity as close as Caxito and yesterday we had unconfirmed reports of Zairian troops and white mercenaries in Uige.'


'Hmm...when is the ship due to dock in Luanda?'


'The 30th Comrade'


'Thank you. Comrade Captain, please notify General Durreti that I'd like to convene a meeting with The Chief.'


'Is it that bad?'


'Yes, Captain I fear it is. It's time to shit or get off the pot.'