The Diamond Eye

The scene opens on Halloween in 1942, as Mila prepares for a final evening of events at the White House. Kostia tells her that he is not attending. She asks if he will find her later and then realizes this could be a truly final farewell if he still intends to defect. He does not answer her, and she passionately kisses him goodbye.

After official photographs, Eleanor presents Mila with an autographed photo of herself. Mila is touched, saying, “I will miss you, Eleanor” (372). She is surprised when Eleanor shows her one last gift from Jonson: a set of diamond jewelry. Alexei compares the diamonds to her capacity for love, while Eleanor suggests they represent only her shooting skill. Mila is confused that the accompanying card suggests they will meet again. The president tells her to assure her friends in the USSR of his support.

The perspective shifts to the American sniper, who wonders at his bold gesture of sending Mila diamonds. He sets up his shooting nest on the White House lawn, waiting for Alexei to bring Mila nearby.

As the narration shifts back to her, Mila surveys the White House lawn for possible shooting positions, unnerved by the card from Jonson and noting that the