France: Mystery Malady

Mystery Malady

Is something wrong with the 73-year-old President of France? For months the health of Francois Mitterrand has been a source of quiet concern among some world leaders. In the Florida Keys last April for talks with President Bush, Mitterrand looked deathly pale, says a U.S. official, and his color since then has ranged "from gray to green, neither of which is good." Some who do business with Mitterrand note that his once imposing intellect and presence seem dulled, apparently by fatigue. He tires easily in meetings and seems to have a short attention span; during last month's economic summit in Houston,...

Want the full story?

Subscribe Now

Subscribe
Subscribe

Learn more about the benefits of being a TIME subscriber

If you are already a subscriber sign up — registration is free!