There truly is no place like home. Mayrhofen, my actual birthplace, is in the shadow of the Alps. One of many hamlets in the Zillertal. The original family estate is situated in the Southeast, a reasonable distance from the little chapel. The property is overseen by the same wonderful family my mother overheard that night in the church. Last count, I believe the children now number 5. An agricultural bounty flows from Die Wiesen, or The Meadows, as the estate is named, and allows it to be self-sustaining and then some. Word was sent ahead, and the main house had been prepared. When I was little, the house seemed like a castle to me. Complete with a looming tower. Now of course, the looming tower was no more than a small parapet made into a hobby room. Father had it built specifically for my mother. It afforded her a lovely view of the valley for her painting. The walls nearly three feet thick, in that respect, you might classify it as a miniature castle. A fortification is the better description.
The chimneys were putting out little sparks that shone in the night sky. Klaus opened the front door to greet us.
"Gräf Von Rieser, Gräf Von Grünne, Welcommen Heim!" Klaus said as we stamped our feet. Hugs were exchanged, and Klaus inquired about our health, driving, and the roads.
"No snow to speak of until we passed Lend. Even then, just dusting the rest of the way. And there is no need to be so formal, no need to use the Gräf or Von anymore, Klaus," I answered.
We were swapping our shoes for a type of fur-lined boot we wore in the house. I never understood why we had to wear these when we were small, but whenever we complained, my mother would calmly offer to give the staff the day off and let us boys take over the upkeep of the floors. To which we would reply respectfully with our gratitude for the clean floors and disappear.
"Nonsense, respect must be maintained, or what will our society come to?" Klaus spoke with a fierce stubbornness that left no room for argument. "Gräf Von Rieser, there will be fresh meats and cheeses in the ice box, along with buttermilk from this afternoon. Misses just churned it for you today. There are loaves of bread, crackers, and dried fruit in the larder with the preserved goods. If you need anything at all, just ring." A bell system ran from the main house to the farmhouse. "Oh yes, I almost forgot, there is a telegram for you on the desk in the study. It just came this evening, they brought it up from town, and the fire should be built up by now.”
Shaking his hand gingerly, I thanked him profusely and assured him we had everything we needed for the night. Fritzy had already headed to his room. The automobile would be put in the small barn just down from the house. A telegram had arrived, hopefully it would be from The Earl. I went up to my room and found some pajamas in a drawer and a robe. Fuzzy boot slippers donned. I went down to the study. Well, perhaps a stop for buttermilk before Franz found it. By the time I made it to the study, I was loaded up with a full plate and a glass of buttermilk. Klaus had understated the amount of food they had put out for us. I had a delicious sandwich with a homemade relish of some sort. Thickly sliced, smoked roast, and thick Swiss cheese on freshly baked bread. I swear the bread was still warm when I sliced it. A few pickled beets and carrots and a large glass of buttermilk rounded it off. The entire room was at the perfect temperature. I threw a piece of wood on the fire just to keep it built up nicely and settled in for my large supper.
Twenty minutes later, the plate was pushed away in defeat. My eyes had gotten the better of me. I never had the ability to eat like Franz. Then I remembered the reason I was in the study in the first place. Retrieving the telegram, I went over to relax on the chesterfield close to the fire.
Dear Jim, the Proxy is due to arrive for the ceremony tomorrow STOP At your full disposal STOP Please advise upon his departure STOP Send a case STOP
I wonder whom The Earl chose to send. Well, we will find out soon enough. Cheap price, a case of Alpine beer. Setting the telegram down on the end table, I crossed over to the fire, threw another large log on, and returned to the Chesterfield, where they would find me napping all the time as a child. There was something comforting about watching my father scribbling away at the desk. Fire is a year-round occurrence in this room. The smell of warm leather, and ink. I drifted off to the comfort and warmth of childhood.
Something large but soft slammed into my head.
"You going to lay there all day? Thanks for inviting me to supper! For such a strapping lad you sure eat like a girl," Franz teased, the pillow he threw at my head rolling off onto the floor.
"If we were younger," I threatened.
"You'd what?" he countered. "Come on Sandy, let's go for a run, we're home."
I had slept brilliantly, and the excitement of being home was contagious. Franz was already dressed and ready to go. "Be ready in 2 shakes of a lamb's tail" I said heading toward the stairs. It was more like ten minutes or so, but soon we were out on the trail. It was invigorating, the smell was intoxicating. The air was brisk on the skin, with the warm blood pumping. Memories surrounded us everywhere here. When we were young, Fritzy lived just a mile down the road. Our families summered here almost every year. At Advent, we would return and stay through St. Stephen's Day or just after the new year.
Fritzy kept running ahead and then pulling back. He was trying to bait me into a race, but after 35 years, I was aware of who would win. A mile or so later he resorted to begging.
"Come on Sandy, you could win this time." I gave, in bolting like a deer, he had the good grace to wait until we were back to the property to overtake me.
"Waited all that time, did you?" I panted out of breath. We were back to the slow jog now coming around the yard.
"It seemed only fair to give you the feeling you would win this one," he said grinning ear to ear. I punched him hard in the arm, "Ow!" he said, rubbing his arm. Running, he was impossible to beat, but in boxing, I had him.
The door opened to the most wonderful smells of smoked sausage.
"I'm first to wash up," Franz stated, bolting up the stairs.
Klaus appeared before me, "Breakfast is warm in the oven, Mein Herr. The run was good?" he asked.
"Wonderful Klaus, please extend our gratitude to your wife for feeding us."
"It is her pleasure, Mein Herr. My oldest daughter will be over this evening to take care of the guests. Are you certain you would not like me to send for the cook and perhaps a proper maid?"
I doubted the extra work was appreciated but with children leaving the nest, as they say.
"No, Klaus, it is essential everything is kept in the strictest confidence. Of course, we do not want to burden you or your family either," I said, trying to show my genuine concern.
"Mein Herr, I assure you; it is quite the opposite. Winter days are coming, there is little outside work for us this time of year. Everyone is happy to be busy."
Shaking his hand I said, "We are lucky to have such a wonderful family as yours caring for us." Klaus choked up at the statement. He mumbled something about breakfast again, bowed, and hurried off.
I decided to forget being a gentleman in lieu of possibly losing out on breakfast. In the kitchen, I washed my hands and face, grabbed a plate, and opened the oven door. My fears were immediately put to rest. Even Fritzy could not eat that much. There was a dozen Semmel (buns), sausage, ham, and some type of pastry. On the table were jams, jellies, buttermilk, butter, and boiled eggs. "Good luck eating all that my friend," I said in a faint voice. Halfway through my breakfast, Franz came in, well-groomed and ready to feast. A moment later, he sat down, filled his plate, said "Glory to God," and went all in. At one point he came up for air just long enough to ask for buttermilk and call me a heathen. Truthfully, I became one upon smelling the sausage. Speaking of smelling, I excused myself and went off to clean up and dress.
After breakfast, Franz retrieved the small lock box and brought it into the study. I handed him the telegram and pulled out the maps and documents we needed. We spent the bulk of the morning sorting through what was necessary for the following few days. Everything else was put away and the lock box secured.
Leisure encompassed the afternoon. Playing the waiting game, we both took advantage of the lull to read, lounge, and engage in a fierce round of chess.
"You've bested me again Sandy. In every other endeavor I can almost feel what you are thinking, just not in chess and espionage," Franz stated, sliding back in his chair. Just then, Klaus entered the library with a striking young lady of around seventeen. She was dressed as a house attendant, her blond braids threading around her head. Eyes the color of an alpine lake stared out from under thin sandy brows, her lips were full but not thick, perfectly pink. A little shame crept into my cheeks as I had to wrestle with my baser urges for a moment.
"Gräf Alexsander Von Rieser, Gräf Franz Von Grünne, may I present my daughter, Elsa Bauer. Elsa and I will be attending to your guests this week. With the help of my family of course."
Klaus pushed Elsa forward just a bit as he introduced her. She curtsied and declined her head.
"Gräf Alexsander Von Rieser, Gräf Franz Von Grünne, it is my sincere pleasure to meet you. I will strive to consider all your needs," Elsa said in a clear feminine voice.
My mind got the better of me, wishing she could take care of my needs. Hardly a gentlemanly thing to think! With that, I reined myself in, strode over to her, bowed, and stated the standard "at your service, Elsa."
Standing, I concluded the formality by saying, "Please do refrain from using our titles though. It will be a dreadfully long affair if we must be formal every time we speak. Herr Rieser or Mein Herr will be fine, Elsa."
I had said her name twice and introduced myself in the fashion of meeting a lady, not a servant. Franz watched the whole thing, cataloging it. Franz inclined his head and leaned slightly forward.
"It is my pleasure to make your acquaintance. Thank you for your assistance this week."
Elsa made a small curtsy and stepped back toward her father.
"Supper will be ready at half of 7, Mein Herr," Klaus said, and shooed Elsa from the room.
Franz turned and stared at me, then walked over, and closed the library door, whereupon he turned back on me.
"At your service? Sandy, we have clothes older than that GIRL!" He emphasized the word girl heavily.
"You needn't admonish me, I have quite taken care of it myself, I assure you," I replied.
He looked at me seriously, cracked a wide grin, and said, "She is striking, it took me aback slightly too." We had a good laugh about it. "Let's go grab a bite, supper is still 2 hours away," Franz said.
"Yes, I see you have withered away, alright but if we see Elsa, I'm running in the other direction." Laughing as I said it, Fritzy slapped me on the back.
"Blonds aren't your type anyway, it would never last!" Now we were both laughing as we headed for the kitchen.
I was just stepping across the foyer when the knock came. Upon opening the door, in front of me stood an old classmate from Cambridge, Henry Fletcher.
"Henry, so glad to see you, come in, please come in. You will have to forgive our lack of staff. The main house is closed in the winter and under the circumstances, we did not want any additional eyes and ears. Let me take your coat," I said.
"Great to see you, Jim! No apologies, the scenery is stunning, and the estate is just grand. Did you say you do not live here full-time? What a shame, it is a grand place, just grand," Henry replied.
We shook hands several times, patting each other on the back over and over. I procured fuzzy boots, complete with the story for him, which he loved. Klaus and Elsa came into the Foyer, introductions were made. Henry tried to perform better than I had upon Elsa's introduction, but the results were much the same. They took his bags upstairs to his room.
"Did you drive? There was no noise from a car," I asked.
"No, no I took the train in, The Earl had arranged for transportation for me. He wanted certain chatter to be kept to a minimum. My driver let me off down the road a bit with instructions. The Earl has all the transportation arranged, but we can go over that later. Any chance of a drink and possibly some food, in that order, if you do not mind, Jim?" Henry said.
"Of course, terrible host I'm afraid," I replied and ushered him into the sitting room. "Have a seat, I'll get you a Bourbon," I offered, moving to the cupboard.
"God bless you, Jim!" Henry laughed. I poured a generous Bourbon neat and brought it over.
"Franz Grünne, at your service," Franz said as he entered the room. He came over to Henry, bowed, and then offered his hand. Henry stood and shook Franz's hand.
"So, you are the infamous cousin Franz, we’ve heard a lot about you, old boy. Henry Fletcher, it is my honor to meet you. There can certainly be no doubt about the relation to Jim with those eyes, identical."
Henry looked a little stunned just for a moment as he glanced between us. Niceties done, Franz went to the cupboard and poured a small schnapps for both of us. He handed me the glass and we all sat down for the traditional polite conversation before supper.
Henry was back with the government expanding on his position in the war. Covert operations of some kind, nothing he could share now. More to the point, The Earl had chosen him specifically for those skills and our previous friendship. He intended to help in any way possible. Additionally, it brought him to an area that Britain desperately wanted inside information on. Hitler's antics were gaining worldwide attention and Britain was particularly concerned. Although not nearly concerned enough to rally round the country it left crippled. Of course, none of that was Henry's fault. Taking a deep breath, I let it go. Klaus came in to announce dinner in 20 minutes.
"Well, if you gentlemen don't mind, I would like to freshen up just a bit before we dine," Henry stated. Klaus showed Henry to his room.
"Everyone hated it when you left for Cambridge. Lucky you did though, seems a good man, Henry," Franz admitted, looking into his glass.
"Well, the idea and the act fall squarely on my parents, but yes, it has been fortuitous with the present circumstances," I said.
We chatted a bit about where Henry fell into my life at the university, then made our way out to the Foyer to await his return down the stairs.
"Jim the craftsmanship is just stunning," Henry stated as he descended the stairs.
Walking into the dining room, I replied, "Yes, my father built it for my mother, it was a wedding present I believe. Many of the craftsmen were local to the area. Father believes in keeping the local economy strong. There were some special materials imported, generally speaking, the materials all come from within a few hundred miles. Every stone on the walls came from a local stonemason."
The meal was superb, there was a pheasant, klöße dumplings with sauerkraut, tafelspitz, shoestring carrots, whipped turnips with a thick gravy, and the same heavenly bread from last night. Henry was giving Franz a run for his money in how much food fit in his frame. I requested a coffee, which Klaus produced like magic only minutes later.
"Well, Klaus do you think they will finish it all?" I asked.
Klaus laughed and said, "It is like watching my sons eat, but they are young." Henry and Franz barely acknowledged our comments.
"If you will excuse me, gentlemen, I will meet you in the study when you have completed your mission." With that, I winked at Klaus and took my coffee to the study.
Klaus popped his head in a few moments later. "Mein Herr, would you care for some kuchen with your coffee?"
"That is most kind of you, Klaus, however, there is just no room left in me. (I laughed) Perhaps later if you will just leave me a slice in the larder. Where Herr Franz will not find it, of course. Oh, Klaus! Wait just a moment, we have a lot of food, and we will certainly eat quite a bit of it, but would you be sure nothing goes to waste?" I said.
"Of course, Mein Herr, nothing will be wasted, I assure you," Klaus said as he came into the room to build the fire up.
"Thank you, Klaus." What a gift god gave my family when they brought them into our lives.
A full hour later, Franz came strolling into the study with Henry by his side. They had won each other's respect.
"Jim, I was just telling Franz you must invite me more often. What an amazing meal, and the dessert, what did you call that?" Henry inquired, looking at Franz.
"Kuchen," he replied with a wide smile.
"Yes, kuchen, I must try that again, Franz says there are all different flavors," Henry beamed.
"Nothing could bring me more happiness than knowing we have surpassed the expectations of a world traveler. If the two of you are certain you have completed your culinary rapture, we can get a little work done, if you do not mind, of course?" I said it with humor in my voice. I rang for Klaus, and Elsa appeared. Maintaining my composure, I asked for coffee all around and she disappeared as quickly as she came with a "Yes, Mein Herr." Sheesh, calm down big boy, I said to myself. Perhaps when I returned to Innsbruck, a trip to Madame's was in order. Enough of those thoughts.
We all gathered around the desk plotting out the best course of action. With Mussolini below us, and Hitler above us, relations with France shaky, and with no one particularly wanting a stream of Jewish immigrants, we needed to be tactful in getting the aide to England. The trip itself should be straightforward. Innsbruck to Zürich then Zürich to Paris and Paris to LeHarve. At LeHarve, The Earl would have a yacht waiting, with smooth seas it should be the easiest part of the trip. Over the next hour, contingencies were planned for and picked. Once everyone had addressed every concern, they thought possible, we finished and spread out to relax.
"Schnapps, anyone?" I asked. Both Henry and Franz happily accepted the offer. Pouring a few fingers in each glass, I passed them around and took my spot by the fire.
"Certainly, there is something unforeseen, Jim, but I believe the highest probability of complications have been addressed," opined Henry.
"Without the information of whom, or if she is arriving with others, I concur, Henry. In our experience to date, people want their children, sick or elderly safe first," Franz stated. All the questions we have will be answered tomorrow, I thought to myself.
Everyone sipped their Schnapps, working through thoughts and winding down for a little while. The feeling was quite comfortable. Henry turned out to be a perfect choice. The Earl had a true gift for understanding people and combining them in the most advantageous ways. Henry spoke, bringing us back to the moment.
"Jim, what is it about this room? I am unable to put my finger on it. The whole thing is stone, and yet it radiates the ideal level of warmth. I must say, it is the most comfortable room I have ever been in." I laughed a little when he noticed and gave him the explanation he was looking for.
"It is quite astute of you to notice, actually. My father worked with the stonemasons during construction to provide the features for the entire house. The Chestnut trim you see runs throughout the house. The trim is not only for aesthetics but acts as a false front for the piping running through the walls. Each fireplace within the house is part of the system. Water tanks were specially made for each hearth. As the water heats, the steam it creates travels through the pipes. Rarely will every fireplace have a fire in it, so the system is designed to self-regulate for the most part. However, there are pressure release valves in strategic places and an entire control system in the basement. The system allows for warm water at any faucet you access, both inside and some places outside. Overall, it regulates the temperature of the entire house. This room always seems especially cozy due to the largest tanks being placed in this section of the house. The obvious downside is keeping a fire going all the time."
"Ingenious, it should be mandatory in every castle. We have radiator heat, but the use of the stone in conjunction with the piping!" Henry laughed.
"If you would like some light reading, I would be happy to bring you a handwritten volume to peruse on the basics? My father felt it insufficient to publish, but I assure you it is worth the read," I offered.
"That would be delightful, thank you, Jim," he replied.
"With that, gentlemen, I believe I will retire for the evening. Henry, it has been a delight, sleep well, you are invited to take a stroll with us in the morning if you like," Franz announced as he rose.
"Sleep well Franz, truly a pleasure," Henry said as he rose to shake Franz's hand.
"I'll be ready in the morning!" I winked at Fritzy, admiring his understatement of the morning run. With that, Franz departed the study.
"I realize how forward this is, Jim, but your eyes are almost identical. Are you certain Franz is not more closely related than a cousin? It is uncanny, obviously, there is the different hair color and so forth, but it is striking," Henry inquired.
"Henry, you are certainly not the first to be taken aback by it. Our mothers are sisters, we both inherited their eyes. It is also part of the reason we always joke about being twins," I replied.
Henry shook his head, "I feel quite secure here, Jim, so let us have a chat about the real payment The Earl would like. Honestly, it is the payment I would like." Henry looked at me quite seriously readjusting in his seat as he continued. "You have developed a small, tight-knit group here, Jim. The intelligence all of you gather is invaluable."
Interrupting, I said, "Well, Henry, you may be overestimating the amount of information we are coming into."
Henry plowed forward, "No, Jim, we don’t believe we are. In the kind of fight that is about to happen, everything is important. You were in the game back in the war. I know you understand."
"Indeed, I do, Henry, if you are asking for us to share information, you know I will agree. The problem will be the transmission of that information."
Henry smiled, rose, and headed for the schnapps with a "do you mind" gesture. I waved him on, and he poured himself another finger or two, I declined, and he replaced the lid and headed closer to sit back down.
"We have a machine, it is experimental, but we have had good results. Would you be willing to try it out, and send us information?" Henry asked.
"Of course, I will, even if it wasn't a common enemy, it is the right thing to do. Like you, your country is in every bit as much danger as mine. Moreover, I believe they will do everything possible to keep mine intact. England will not be so fortunate I fear."
It felt like prophecy as I said these words to Henry. He went on to explain the general workings of the machine. He had one with him, and having procured my consent, he would show me the workings, but it was a bit complicated and required time. We agreed to find a way and work it out in the coming weeks or months. In the meantime, we would stick to the methods we were already using.
Our discussion turned lighter, catching me up with the stories of others from school. Too soon it was 11 o'clock and we said our good nights. I found myself in my room staring at my bed like an enemy. I changed into the dreaded nightclothes, grabbed my robe, and headed down for the kuchen I knew Klaus had set aside.
There it was in the larder, significantly larger than I would have sliced, but I blessed him, nonetheless. Buttermilk had been left in the ice box too, perfect. Taking the late-night snack off to the study, I paused, deposited it on the end table, and ventured off to the library. My father's volumes were kept in a specific area making what I was looking for easy to find. I laid the volume on the vestibule table lest I forget in the morning and returned to my sugary feast. What a treat! I must stop eating like this soon or start running morning and night. The mere thought of it made me laugh. The obvious plan was to stoke the fire, pile on some logs, and sleep on the chesterfield. The plan was undertaken at once. My last thoughts were lost to the gods of sleep.
I lay still for a moment; the pain was there on the left side of my head. Like a lost thought, it was gone as soon as I tried to focus on it. My eyes opened, and I stretched feeling great. Klaus, ever attentive, arrived with coffee, still long before anyone else was awake. "Klaus you are like my guardian angel, thank you for the coffee. No one has risen yet?" I asked.
"No Mein Herr, you are the first. I knew you would want an early start this morning." Klaus stoked the fire and then brought in a large bundle of wood to restock the supply.
I sipped my coffee as I made my way upstairs. After a light toilette, I changed into my running clothes and headed down to the kitchen. By the time Fritzy and Henry appeared I was well into my third coffee. Frankly, I was getting a little restless. "Good morning, obviously you both needed to sleep off your eating competition!" I said laughing.
We all joked around a bit and headed out for the run. I was just trying to warn Henry when Franz began to subtly speed up.
"20 pounds says I beat you to the red gate," he challenged.
“But where is the red gate?” Henry asked with a bewildered look as Franz took off.
"Just go!" I yelled at Henry, and continued my normal pace, watching the show.
From my vantage point, Henry might have had a chance. He was about 6’ and lanky, and once he got his pace, he was fast. I could see Fritzy taking it a bit easy on him, not realizing Henry's gain. I picked up my pace a bit, not wanting to miss this. Suddenly, he saw Henry overtaking him and poured it on. They were both stretching it out, but Henry was just so fast. Thinking back to school, I could not recall a time when we had ever run against each other. Henry's ability to run had not been something of which I was aware.
When I arrived, they were both laid out across the light layer of snow on the ground, panting like a struggling freight train.
"Who won?" I quarried as I approached, trotting around their heads, fully expecting them not to answer. I circled around heading back to the estate at a steady pace. About a third of the way back down the lane, two madmen sped past me.
Fritzy yelled something unintelligible as he sped by. My guess was someone had offered double or nothing. I laughed to myself and hoped none of Klaus's family was in the way when they got near the house. I was uncertain about Henry, but I had been hit by Franz more than once and it was a painful experience that took a week or two to recover from.
Arriving to find everything looking normal, I noticed Mrs. Bauer, Greta, crossing the yard. She was shaking her head. Her direction put her in line for their house. All was clear when I entered the vestibule, I changed shoes and headed to my parents' room. Another amenity my father planned out for the house was a full lavatory for my mother just off their main bedroom. In their lavatory, he had designed and built a shower, something my father had experienced on his travels. Having three or four lavatories in one home was extravagant, to say the least. Indoor plumbing had become commonplace here in the early ‘thirties but when the house was built it was still a luxury to have a full lavatory upstairs. The shower was a work of art, heaven! The entire bathroom had the same tile, floors, and walls. The shower had benches with overhead streams that came down in multiple places. Reluctantly I left the luxury of a well-placed stream of hot water. My back muscles completely relaxed. Returning to my room to dress I noticed the time. Getting caught up in the luxury of the shower was easy to do.
Warm, clean, and freshly shaven, I joined the others for breakfast. The dining room table had been under attack for some time it seemed. As I sat down, I began laughing, if this is what Klaus dealt with feeding his boys, small wonder he had any food at all. Grabbing one of the last Semmel and a sausage, I made my way toward the butter bowl. The butter had been under barrage for some time, but there was enough to butter the roll. Having poured myself a coffee, I sat back and watched the carnage. They had both looked up and smiled as I came into the room but continued chewing and shoving the next bite in.
Franz remained the reigning champion of the feast when it was said and done. Henry, admitting defeat, pushed his plate away, poured a fresh cup of tea, and leaned back. A look of utter satisfaction rested on his face.
"Klaus, sir, please extend Frau Bauer my compliments. You are indeed a lucky man to have a chef in your home." Henry said looking over at Klaus.
Klaus chuckled a bit replying, "Mein Greta will be most pleased with your compliment, Herr Fletcher, danke." With that Elsa appeared asking to begin clearing.
"Elsa, just do not put your hands too near Herr Franz." I broke into laughter with Klaus and Henry following. Fritzy shot me a smirk and surrendered from battle. He too poured coffee and leaned back.
"Glad we thought to leave you something, Sandy, try to be on time would you!" Franz said, laughter circled again.
"Well, gentlemen, shall we move to the sitting room? I do believe our guests will be arriving anytime. The invitation time was set for eleven o’clock," I suggested.
We retired to the sitting room, bringing coffee along. As we passed, I noticed the volume on the vestibule table.
"Oh, Henry, yes, here is the volume I spoke to you about. If you would just be good enough to leave it on your night table when you leave," I said, handing Henry my father's handwritten journal on steam heating and plumbing.
"Wonderful, Jim, thank you, I'll just sit down and have a go now if you two gentlemen don't mind." Henry took the book eagerly, sought out a comfortable lounge, and was engrossed in moments.
I looked at Fritzy and said, "Library for a round of chess?"
"Wonderful idea!" he replied, and we strolled out leaving Henry in peace to read.
The coffee appeared shortly after being carried by Elsa. I began to apologize for our thoughtlessness, feeling an elbow in my back, I turned to see Franz casting the disapproving father look.
"Thank you, Elsa," Franz said, she curtsied and left the room.
We were several moves in when the conversation returned. "There is no reason not to be polite to the girl," I said.
Franz countered, "You absolutely should be polite, in the same way you would be to Klaus or Frieda."
Grabbing a pawn, I looked up and said, "that is exactly what I was doing."
As I was taking one of Franz's pawns, he said, "Strange, I do not recall you trying to profusely apologize for anything to either of them. Perhaps to your parents’ house servants, let me see..." He was tapping his chin for effect. "No, I can definitively say at no time do I remember that happening after the age of 13." He had stopped playing, fully engaged in the discussion now. Stopping myself, I rubbed my face with both hands for a moment.
"I don't know what keeps coming over me. It isn't love, I know what that feels like." We both looked down, I hesitated then continued, "There is some measure of lust in it though, which makes me feel a letch. Just keep being my conscious, I'll try to rein it in until I can get to Madame’s for a night." The game resumed. Neither of our hearts was in it though. The talk of love had opened doors we both preferred to keep closed.
Mercifully, an hour later our much-anticipated guest arrived. Klaus retrieved us while Elsa showed them to the sitting room. When we entered, Henry was introducing himself to the trio. He was then kind enough to continue the introductions.
“Miss Golda Eigner, Mrs. Schuschniggs' aide, her brother, Mr. Gideon Eigner, and sister, Miss Geula Eigner, may I present Gräf Alexsander Von Rieser, your host, and Gräf Franz Von Grünne, his cousin.” Bows were made, hands were perfunctorily kissed, shaken, and so forth.
"Miss Eigner, if I may, would you care to be shown to your rooms to freshen up?" I offered.
"We would be most grateful Gräf Von Rieser," Golda replied.
"Not at all, if you would do us the kindness of dropping the formality though." I said, turning to escort them upstairs, however, Klaus appeared out of nowhere and brought the procession upstairs to their rooms, relieving me of the duty.
"Fortunately, they are our last guests, I do believe that will finish off the available accommodations. Although, I suppose I could move into Father and mother’s room," I joked.
"I will be only too happy to suffer that duty for you," offered Fritzy, knowing full well about the lavatory.
"Straws if it comes to it?" I proposed, and we both broke out laughing. Henry looked lost, so we shared the story of straws for anything we both wanted.
"Are you blokes certain you are not brothers? If they ever devise a test, I think you two should be first in line, not to defame your dear mothers by any means," Henry said laughing.
Elsa brought word a few minutes later that the Eigners would be taking a short rest; asking to be awoken in time for the afternoon dinner. We all understood how frightening this must be for the three of them. Some time to relax, adjust and decompress from the journey would not hurt. I rang Klaus to inform him of early supper, and that we would skip dinner all together. Franz looked grief stricken, Klaus assured him he would deliver a snack shortly.
The three of us moved to the study to go over everything, girded with the knowledge we would have one grown woman and two adolescents.
"This should work out quite well. Golda will easily be able to pose as my wife bringing her siblings home for holiday," Henry said.
It made sense, Golda indeed was sufficiently old enough to be Henry's wife. Ten years was not an unusual span between husband and wife. The easiest way to successfully traverse the trap of thorough questioning is the truth. The closer you can stay to the truth, the better your chances. We ironed out a few added details, and once satisfied, we resumed our earlier positions in the library. Henry had joined us in the library continuing to read. We rejoined our game, with better luck. Mid-morning slowly moved into late afternoon. The smells of cooking made their way through the house. Franz's stomach growled, and I found myself rolling with laughter.
Upon regaining my composure, I accused him verbally "There is no possible way your stomach can be empty! When we get to Innsbruck, you are going to the doctor to be checked for parasites!" Henry burst out laughing, Franz assumed a crushed look, and as if to counter my threat, his stomach growled again.
All three of us broke into raucous laughter.
Golda, with her siblings in tow, came down to the sitting room. Staying in a small group, all three appeared a bit wide-eyed and out of their element. Elsa's voice came through as our laughter died down.
"The Eigners await you in the sitting room at your convenience, Mein Herr." With that, she returned to attending to the guests. As it turned out, one guest, judging from the electricity in the room. Gideon Eigner's eyes followed every move Elsa made, no matter how subtle. His sisters seemed completely unaware of the attraction. Elsa, however, was keenly aware as evidenced by her need to linger closer to him, swish a little more when crossing the room, and repeatedly ask everyone if they needed anything. After a few minutes, it seemed necessary to remove the distraction.
"Elsa, would please show Gideon and Geula around the house, thank you." Gideon was up like lightning, and Geula joined him at a much more lady-like pace.
There seemed to be a slight hiatus once the four of us were left alone in the room, which Henry seemed anxious to resolve.
"With your permission, Jim?" Henry looked at me and continued, "Miss Eigner, just how much do you understand about why you are here?"
Nice opening, I admired Henry giving her control of the conversation. Allowing her to stretch herself and test the waters.
"Well, Herr Fletcher…"
"Henry, please," he interrupted.
"Well, Herr Henry," Franz and I stifled a giggle. A well-bred young lady would not easily drop proper etiquette. "Only what the Chancellor disclosed to my parents and me, the belief that Germany will indeed invade Austria. At that time, the antisemitic practices of the Nazis will be instituted immediately. Every person of Hebrew descent will then be systematically rooted out, killed, or sent to concentration camps. Therefore, for the safety of myself and my siblings, they have told us Gräf Von Rieser will secret us away before it is too late." Her eyes bore just a bit too much moisture. Like a lady though, she held her head up high and did not allow tears to form.
"Miss Eigner, it must be very difficult to leave your parents behind," I said, she nodded a yes. "The entire business is and will be difficult. You see, certain areas are already checking papers. Removing the three of you as soon as possible is essential. I am certain you are all capable of the bravery you will need to show in the coming few days. If I may ask you to accompany us to the study, Henry will lay out the plan, and you may ask whatever questions necessary."
Golda stood, "Of course, Gräf Von Rieser."
I turned and looked at her, "Golda, this truly will require you to adjust, you would honor us if you began by addressing us by our first names." She nodded with an unsure look in her eyes.
Resuming our walk, Franz moved ahead and offered his arm. Golda took it, hesitantly, and they strolled on, touring through the house on the way to the study. We patiently followed and paused whenever he would stop to explain something to her. In the few minutes it took to get to the study, she had become completely at ease.
"There is no one more capable of breaking down female Austrian etiquette than Franz the suave," I said in an extremely low tone to Henry.
Henry chuckled and inquired, "With that hidden charm, you would think him married by now."
Henry must have seen the look of sadness and remorse cross my face for he hurriedly said, "Oh, I see, yes well, another time."
The plan was laid out, weak areas were pointed out to Golda. Henry and Golda meticulously worked through the flaws until they had them ironed out and memorized. Elsa was asked to show the younger Eigners to supper.
"Let us take a break with our brains full, shall we? We may resume with full bellies after supper." I shot Franz a look and continued, "Well some of us will have full bellies." The three of us laughed while Golda looked perplexed. Henry offered his arm, and this time Golda accepted it without hesitation. Dinner, like the previous night, was excessive, extravagant, and extensive. Klaus expressed to our guests that all items on the menu going forward were Kosher. Something none of us had considered. The Eigners were profoundly grateful, thanking Klaus profusely. Golda had insisted on thanking the entire family personally. After dinner, the entire clan received sincere thanks from each of the guests, including myself.
Both Henry and Franz managed to control themselves. Dining like perfect gentlemen throughout the entire meal. I made a mental note to come to the kitchen after the Eigners were in bed to see how long they would be able to abstain. I laughed a little at the thought and received inquiring looks.
"Just thinking of the foot race this morning, by the way, who won?" I quarried.
"Henry soundly beat me both times. I don't understand it, you are so fast for someone your size." Franz said it as if Henry was small.
"Track and Field in school, Franz, I competed in all events. You should see my long jump, if you care to wager, I would be happy to demonstrate," was Henry's explanation.
"I believe 40 pounds is quite enough for this visit, perhaps when you visit again, we'll set up a proper course and have a competition." There was light laughter. Franz and Henry took turns regaling the Eigners with details of the morning's race. Both embellished their prowess equally.
After Dinner, we retired to the study depositing the adolescents in the library where they joined several of the Bauer children of similar ages. Pulling Klaus aside, I thanked him privately. He assured me it was not an inconvenience as our neighbor is Jewish. They had been friends for years, so asking him to provide the necessary processes and procedures for the animals and food was as simple as asking. Nonetheless, my gratitude was immense.
"On board the trains, will I be expected to join you in, well privately?" Golda asked, her cheeks crimson.
"No, not at all," Henry continued, "With your family traveling with us, the men shall sleep in one berth and the ladies in the other."
"Thank you!" A sigh of relief inadvertently escaping as she replied.
"Please do keep in mind, Golda, you will be known to be married. Although you want to be careful not to do anything inappropriate, you also want to display a respectable level of affection in public," I said.
"Think of how your parents act when they are together in public. Allow that to be your guide," Franz finished for me.
Golda blushed slightly nodding her understanding.
"Will you require any assistance explaining the roles to your brother and sister?" I inquired.
"I believe we will do fine, if there are questions, we may address them in the morning. If there is nothing else for the evening, I would like to retire. Tomorrow will be the beginning of many busy days," Golda said.
We each took turns wishing her goodnight, Henry escorted her to the library to retrieve her siblings, then escorted everyone to the stairs with best wishes for the night's sleep.
Franz already had three glasses of schnapps poured before Henry returned. As he reentered the study, he swung by and grabbed his as Franz set mine in my outstretched hand.
"Well gentlemen, here is to a smooth, safe, and swift journey." We all stood, clinking glasses.
Franz and I both added, "Amen."
"Are you certain the driver will meet you in the morning? We are headed home to our respective parents’ houses in Innsbruck tomorrow. There is plenty of room for the four of you in the car," I offered.
"The driver is set, I asked Klaus to have a telegram sent for confirmation when they arrived this afternoon. It is appreciated, but as we discussed, the intelligence all of you are gathering is invaluable. There is no need to compromise such a valuable resource," Henry said.
"This is it for now then?" said Franz. "How about a light snack before we retire?" Franz glanced at me but gave Henry a knowing look.
"Now that my friend, is a brilliant idea," Henry said.
I stood, thanking Henry profusely, "See you in the morning then," I said, and the two of them headed for the kitchen.
In the morning, I was up, bathed, dressed, and enjoying coffee long before anyone else in the house arose. The smells of breakfast were escaping the kitchen as Franz and Henry both strolled in. They were engaged in light conversation, taking their seats across from each other. Two food gladiators meeting on the field of battle. “Good mornings,” and “slept wells?” were exchanged, and coffee poured. Moments later, the platters were on the table. The warriors looked around cautiously, saw no polite company in range, and engaged. They both managed a second plate before the genteel sex arrived with flawless manners. Both immediately assumed perfect posture and manners. All of us stood to seat the ladies.
Pleasantries were exchanged all around again. Young Gideon began piling food on, only to be scolded. All the men assured him it was quite all right to return to anything he liked more than once after finishing a reasonable first plate. This won us the gratitude of the sisters and the brother. Touché. Franz, looking straight at me with eyes full of mirth, called for his plate to be removed.
"My compliments, Klaus, but I simply could not suffer another bite I am that full."
Seeing Klaus's eyes filled with the same mirth I was feeling, it was all Henry and myself could do to keep a straight face.
Golda looked at each of us in turn and said, "When dining with you gentlemen, I often feel at a loss."
Franz and Henry both looked at me like wolves caught in a trap.
"Just pretend you are sitting at the table with a few additional brothers, understand?" I replied.
"Ah, yes, I see," said Golda and resumed her meal without the slightest glance toward either Henry or Franz.
Again, laughter was stifled. As gentlemen, we all sat and sipped coffee while making polite small talk. Henry heard the chimes of the clock in the Foyer.
"May we retrieve your luggage in preparation?" Henry asked.
"Thank you, that is quite thoughtful, however, Gideon brought it all down to the foyer while we were preparing this morning," Golda replied. That brought a round of “smart girl” looks.
After breakfast, we escorted everyone to the foyer.
"Please let us know of your success as soon as possible," I said to Henry as we embraced and shook hands.
"It has been a real pleasure, Jim, do invite me back for holiday. Truly a grand place, Jim, just grand," Henry said.
I whispered back, "If this goes well, it may become your second home." He took my meaning, slapping me on my back.
Henry stepped over to say goodbye to Franz as I reached Golda. Taking her hands gently in mine I rolled a small bag from my sleeve to my palm. She looked at me, shocked, and began to refuse. I pressed it gently into her palm.
"You'll need this, get a good start so your parents have a safe place to come to when the time arrives." Her eyes began to moisten, as I backed away and bowed.
"Miss Eigner, my cousin, and I wish you all a blessed trip and happy life," Franz said as he appeared beside me. He also bowed, walked over, and perfunctorily kissed both ladies' hands, then stepped back.
On cue, an old, beat-up car pulled into the circle drive. Further waves and well wishes were made by the Bauers, and everyone went away.
We watched them drive away. Franz turned to look at me, vocalizing my thoughts.
"I do not recall the last time I truly felt I have done something completely worthwhile, until now."
"I could not possibly agree more with that feeling," I said, then added, "did you want to finish breakfast or are you unable to suffer that?" We both laughed on our way back to the dining room.
Both of us had packed before breakfast, and we carefully retrieved only what we knew we needed from the safe in the study. Franz brought Klaus in and shut the door.
"Klaus we just wanted to have a frank conversation before we leave for Innsbruck, if you have the time," I inquired.
"Of course, Mein Herr," Klaus said as I motioned for all of us to have a seat.
"We could not possibly express our appreciation to you or your family for playing servants to us these past days." He started to protest but I stopped him. "Truly, you have played a large role in what we all pray is a safe trip and new life for that little family. You are receiving a significant bonus, Klaus, and no, this is not a negotiation. You have earned more than you know. We are arranging for a new car, big enough for your whole family. Keep it gassed up at all times, please."
Klaus interrupted, "Mein Herr, we do not need anything, we have a fine home, a sturdy truck, good land to work, plentiful livestock, and quite a savings." I waved my hand in understanding but continued.
"I understand, Klaus, but we would ask you to take the risk of doing this again. Understand, our actions endanger both your family and you. If something were to come of it, you must promise me that you will plead innocence. You must say we are cruel employers who do not keep you informed and simply demand. Do you understand?"
Klaus looked for all the world as if he would cry. Finally, he replied, "Yes, Mein Herr I understand, and my family, we know what you do. By doing God's work you allow us to help these people too."
It was the same feeling Franz and I had. I grabbed his hand in a type of celebratory handshake.
Franz added, "Everything must always be kept confidential, Klaus. If you need to escape, you take your family in the car and go to Vaduz. There will be no questions, do you understand?" Klaus nodded in affirmation. Franz continued, "you said the neighbor is your friend, if his family is in danger, we will help him. There are more Nazis flooding into this area making it their playground. When Austria is taken, keep him around the farmstead, try to get him to allow you to do his town errands for him, but protect yourself and your family first." We sat back as Klaus absorbed all this information.
"Do you have any questions?" I asked. Klaus shook his head no. "We will be back in a few weeks, possibly sooner. I am having a telephone installed for you, it will allow us much faster communication."
Klaus smiled a guilty smile and said, "We had one installed this summer, Mein Herr. I thought the Elder Gräf had informed you, my apologies."
I laughed and said, "No apologies, Klaus, please, we owe you a debt of gratitude. Keep the money safe, my friend, use it in any way necessary. Please arrange for a telephone in the main house as well."
Everyone stood, hands were shaken, as Klaus was leaving the study, he turned and looked at Franz.
"Mein Herr, we have prepared a basket for your trip. You will find it in the larder. I will bring the car around now."