THE LADY SPEAKS

In her first extended interview with a Western journalist since theBurmese military regime freed her from six years of house arrest this week, Nobel laureateAung San Suu KyitoldTIME Hong Kong bureau chief Sandra Burtonshe believes the junta has started down the path to democracy. "I believe that all thinking people must be ready to change with the times," Suu Kyi told Burton in the unfurnished front room of her lakeside home. "I hope that in the last six years they realize that what we want is change for the good of the nation, and that by cooperating they too may be able to bring about what is good for the nation." Outside, members of her long-suppressed National League for Democracy were cutting back a six-year growth of grass and weeds. As for the precise reason for her release, the "Lady" could only speculate: "Was it just a publicity stunt, or was it designed to get more investment from abroad? Was it merely a way to lighten international pressure, or was it really for the good of the nation for all of us to work together? I certainly hope it is the latter, but only time will tell. Most people are just keeping their fingers crossed."