While the author took a much deserved Easter vacation, Hargrove was on a plane to Bolivia.
Dear Comrade Pedro:
I am in a bit of a rush, but I wanted to get this message out to you first. In a few moments I will be leaving to catch a plane to Bolivia for a brief business trip, and you likely won't hear from me until next Tuesday or Wednesday. With my current condition, I would prefer to rest, but unfortunately, I have no choice in the matter. However, I will contact you as soon as I return to the UK.
Meanwhile, these gifts for various officials that you mention - I understand that such bribery is necessary, but it saddens me to see such corruption in a government. Pardon me for saying so, but it sounds like your country is ripe for a People's Revolution.
But, back to practical matters. What sort of gift would be suitable?
Regards,
Hargrove