India, Feb. 16 -- At the farthest edge of a village, where people once lived in harmony, but in the last eleven years had not, a white-bearded chief stood staring into the horizon. His bald deputy stood beside him, polished scalp reflecting both sunlight and loyalty.

"The opposition is shouting that you surrendered to the Great White Chief's tariff pressure," the deputy said cautiously. "They are asking why you agreed so quickly."

The Chief sighed, a sigh that had addressed many rallies. "He threatened to block exports of the instrument I value most. Without it, I am as vulnerable as a rabbit among lions."

The deputy's eyebrows rose. "What instrument? Ventilators?"

The Chief shook his head.

"Cancer radiation machines?"

"No."

"Advan...