JOSEF

After the incident with Josef’s father, many small boats come to the St. Louis. There are reporters, people bringing food, and even family members of passengers, but none of them are allowed on board. Evelyn and Renata wave to their father in one of the small boats: he had traveled ahead of them to Cuba. When the policeman who saved Josef’s father returns to the St. Louis, Josef takes his mother and sister to the social hall to meet him. The officer, Mariano Padron, is overwhelmed by the gratitude that the passengers show him, including money. Officer Padron tells Josef’s mother that his father is alive, but sedated: he is not doing well. Officer Padron plays with Ruthie, giving her his beret and having her chase him. Initially, Josef does not want to play, but when he gives Josef his beret and then pretends to be a passenger, asking when they can go to Cuba, Josef says, “Mañana” (tomorrow). Officer Padron feels bad for bringing up the topic.