Book II, Part I - Passing Through Mexico: Chapters 18 - 23 Summary

Raphael hates Mexico City, referring to it as "a dirty rag somebody finally used to wipe up spit in the men's room". Raphael decides to go back to a fancy hotel in New York and heads back to the apartment to pack. His continuous rants cause great laughter in the group and Raphael rises to the occasion by becoming more and more outrageous.

Raphael gets his wish and stays in a fancy hotel for the night. The next day, Raphael boards a plan to Washington D.C. where he has been invited to stay at the home of the Poetry Consultant of the Library of Congress.

The next day is a mixture of serenity and excitement. The group takes out a boat for the afternoon...