`` you may spend the morning with maria , '' she directed . but i need more time , her brain screamed . the tea shop looked packed , the line of people waiting to be served ending outside on the pavement . we-my father 's candidates-are on par as far as power and success go . father stared down at his empty hands and his voice , when he answered , was flat . some looked like they were going , and no doubt some still needed to be received . 