Transmission

I got out of bed and looked out the window to see snow flurries. I rang for coffee and prepared for our return trip to Mayrhofen. Otto had the automobile waiting at seven. The staff expressed their joy at the opportunity they’d had to spoil us for several days. I reassured them we would return very soon, and we said our goodbyes.

After we had traveled some distance from Innsbruck, the snow died off. The blue sky slowly took over, with a bright sun melting the small amount of snow left on the road. Will remained quiet until the turn to the Ziller valley.

“No one would ever suspect your devious nature, you know?” Will made it an accusation.

“That was the training.” We were schooled in it at 16 and 18 as recruits to spy on the Allies during the war. Much of our training took place in the same groups. By the same instructors. Hence, Will’s effectiveness playing his current role in Vienna. “You are no less devious than I.”

“The gentleman’s thing to do is to admit my transgressions, Jim. You and Reneé made your point last night. Surely you understand why I must say…”

I cut him off right there. “Will, I forgive you. Furthermore, you do not need forgiveness. You did nothing wrong. Eva’s entire business was to accommodate needs. You, like many others, enjoyed my betrothed’s skills. Do you feel you need to confess? I would happily take you up to Brandberg church above the estate.”

“No, Jim, your forgiveness is all I need.”

“You have it, Will.”

The rest of the trip passed in silence, his conscience sufficiently soothed, hopefully. Quite likely, both our thoughts were on the mission outside of Kufstein. It was at the forefront of my mind.

Klaus appeared as we pulled in front of the estate. The wind had come up as we approached Mayrhofen. The mature windbreaks surrounding the property blocked much of it here. The air had a distinct bite to it. The going would be rougher for them in these conditions. With luck, it would pass quickly. Jakob appeared in the vestibule and relieved us of the few items we brought. As we stepped into the house proper, several things happened at once. Elsa announced a light brunch in fifteen minutes if we would like to freshen up. The phone rang as Elsa spoke, and a distinct crash emanated from the tower. My instinct led me to focus on the tower. Quickly excusing myself, I ran up while Elsa approached the phone.

Will followed close behind me as I took the steps two at a time. I spotted Klaus’s youngest son, Alexsander, kneeling by a table as we rounded the corner. He looked up at me with a mixture of sadness and worry. “I didn’t mean to, Mein Herr.” His little hands trembled slightly as he picked up pieces of a sculpture.

“Alexsander, here, let me pick those up. We would not want you to cut yourself,” I said, patting him gently on the back and lifting him with the other arm.

“Truly, it just slipped,” he was saying.

“Not to worry, young man. There are far worse things than a little broken pottery. Now, hand me those pieces and run along.” I collected the pieces from him, and he slowly left with a look of guilt. He was unlikely to make it far before being questioned.

“Here, Jim.” Will handed me a lined basket used for wastepaper. “Was it important?”

“My older brother Otto made it for my mother before he died. Scolding him will not bring the piece back. Perhaps it can be plastered together again?” I took the basket full of pieces and went in search of Klaus’s oldest, also named Otto. He was quite good with his hands. He was naturally gifted at wood and stonework. Finding Elsa first, she promised to send him to see me. With that, we washed up before meeting in the dining room.

Elsa brought out several dishes for us. I insisted on serving ourselves, which brought a look of disapproval. However, she moved the items to the table for us.

“With the contact window between ten tonight and one in the morning. I believe I will try for a short rest this afternoon.” Will finished his meal and sat back, enjoying his coffee. Greta had reduced portions with the others gone, but it was still too much.

“I quite agree. If you do not mind, I will take my coffee in the study.” I said.

“Not at all; I would like to spend some time in the library. There is something I want to put a little research into.”

With that, we went our separate ways. A short time later, Klaus appeared with coffee. I was finishing a letter when he set the tray down. A moment passed before I realized he was still there.

“Thank you, Klaus. May I help you?”

“Alexsander told me of his transgression in the tower. He will assist Otto in repairing the statue. We apologize for his behavior.”

“Klaus, please, he is young and curious. Please do not be too harsh with him. After all, it is just a statue sitting alone in a room. I do appreciate any attempt to repair it.”

"Additionally, Mein Herr, Herr Franz has been calling incessantly since your departure. He called every day without fail. He was the one who called when you arrived this morning. I informed him that you and Will were staying in Innsbruck. He thoroughly interrogated me, but I had nothing to share since I was unaware of any details. His demeanor appeared rather displeased during each conversation."

“I am certain he was. Thank you, Klaus, for enduring the interrogations.”

“I am glad you have returned safely, Mein Herr. If you need anything, please ring. As requested, supper will be served late, eight o’clock.”

“That will be fine.”

I handed the letters to Klaus for the post. In preparation for tonight, I repositioned the receiver on the table. I located the cord for the antenna on the hill. I then attached it to the receiver. There was nothing more to be done there until tonight. We will be receiving c3 tonight, code 3. Every other word is our coded alphabet, with each word in the changing languages. Beginning with Italian, French, Latin, French, German, and repeat. They would put together the message. The contents were unknown to us, allowing us to hone our accuracy. Everything we needed was already arranged in the case, ready to be utilized.

Pouring a coffee, I found myself in front of the wall covered in information. I felt like something was glaring at me every time I looked at it. It was taunting me to find it. Something we all kept missing. Whenever I found myself in a quiet moment, I felt it pulling me like a magnet. Intuition trying to guide my busy mind.

Will had brought quite a few photographs of party members with him. Some were from Germany, Spain, Italy, Denmark, and Belgium, and they allowed us to have faces with names in many cases. I recognized two from the day in Innsbruck. They were from the group that had gathered in the square. Becker and Schulz were sent in from Munich to help gather Austrian youth, recruiting them to the cause. Several other photos seemed familiar. There was nothing specific I could pinpoint though. Perhaps we had met at a social event in Vienna. My thoughts turned to the Chancellor. One of the letters sent to post with Klaus was a thank you note. In our private code, of course. An acknowledgment for accepting the meeting. A hint at considering the information I had provided. I held little hope it would sway him, but words have a way of working themselves into place. Even when they are initially dismissed.

I quit the wall, took up a few newspapers Klaus had placed on the table, and retired to the Chesterfield. I spent the afternoon reading and clipping important tidbits for the wall, eventually laying back to nap for some time. My dreams did not plague me. In fact, I awoke in the evening well-rested. No memories of any dreaming whatsoever. The clock showed half of seven. I returned to my room to prepare for supper and possibly a long night.

 

Greta expressed extreme disappointment at the nearly full serving dishes returning to the kitchen. Klaus’s protests in no way dissuaded her from appearing in the study sometime later to inquire about the quality of the food she served. After Klaus, Will, and I banded together, she eventually accepted our lack of appetite only reflected the intensity of an event outside the estate that night. With promises of hearty appetites much later or in the morning, we finally convinced her to prepare moderately portioned plates for after our project, knowing full well they would not be moderate. Greta returned to the kitchen no less irritated. Klaus stayed to make unnecessary apologies.

Finally, Will and I were able to focus on the transmission. Everything was in place. We turned on the receiver at quarter of ten and made the necessary adjustments. There was no way to tell what time they could transmit or for how long. The wait began; Klaus appeared with coffee and sweet rolls sent by Greta. We settled into a routine of monitoring, pacing, and sipping coffee. Of course, I mixed in stoking the fire or simply staring into it.

An hour passed, and Will checked the dial, adjusting it to 3550 kHz for what seemed like the 100th time in an hour. A transmission began just as he turned to walk away. We both took positions next to the radio, grabbing our pads and pencils. Transcribing the message, it quickly became apparent the transmission was not for us. We noted time, frequency, and so forth. Will began working on the code with the bit of information he had gleaned from the soldier who transferred into his unit. We were aware the Germans were using a device called enigma to send transmissions. Henry had elaborated on the workings of it while training us. Deciphering a message without the code for the day would be a challenge.

I was at the dry bar pouring a schnapps as the second transmission began. A few long strides and I had resumed my seat at the table. My mind had held the first three letters. We both focused on jotting down each letter. The agreed-upon call sign was received. Relief washed over me as the transcription continued. In total, the entire message took less than a minute. Knowing every German with a radio was listening along made it seem eternal. They repeated the call sign, signaling the end of the communication. Deciphering began. Once again, it seemed painfully slow. However, the time of transmission end to fully decoded message sat at just under a minute.

 

*Arrived at uncle * full house * lousy skiing * leaving with the son *

 

Will and I whispered a thank you and leaned back in our chairs. We looked at each other and began laughing. With that, I returned to the schnapps, pouring an additional glass. Will went to the Chesterfield. We raised our glasses to celebrate success, and I reclined on my end in a relaxed manner to join him. Immersed in our own contemplations, we remained in silence for a while.

“You realize, Will, we must eat at least part of the food Greta set up for us?”

Will looked at me, sighed, drained his glass, and stood up. “Let us get to it then. I do not know about you, Jim, but I am kaput,” Will said, carrying his glass off to the kitchen.

Reluctantly, I followed his example. Arriving in the kitchen, we retrieved the plates of food. Thankfully, Greta’s portions were almost realistic for us. The meal finished us both off, though. With no possibility of recuperation, we reluctantly retired to bed after our meal, even though neither of us enjoyed doing so. While the rest of the group was undoubtedly exhausted, Will and I had the luxury of retiring now that we had tapped out our energy. Tomorrow would be a much-needed rest day, with little to occupy us except awaiting their return.

 

 

Klaus arrived with coffee just as I awoke. I extended my thanks for the coffee and, of course, Greta’s thoughtfulness for our late-night meal. He returned the thank you with a look that spoke volumes. Relief was evident on his face. She must have been pleased with our attempt at consuming what we could of the food she had plated. “The others should be returning at some point today. Although I would expect them later in the day,” I relayed, knowing they would both appreciate the information. Remaining in the shadow of Greta’s continued grace is an important task. Indeed, her presence here had no connection to serving as domestic help. Neither she nor her family members were under any obligation beyond attending to the estate. They willingly assumed a burden of responsibility that was not theirs when they embraced their new roles. Their primary aim now was to ensure our safety within the confines of their close-knit family circle. Naturally, I had provided them with monetary compensation. Nevertheless, it would not be reasonable to expect anyone to take on a service role without a clear understanding from the outset. I held no shortage of gratitude for them.

Retrieving a robe, I moved to the sitting room to enjoy coffee with a view. The clock read half of eight. Exceptionally late for me. However, I felt little guilt. Will likely still slept on. The Eigners were due tomorrow. Well, due at their hotel at any rate. What would transpire from there had not been ultimately determined yet. My hope with the Eigners involved them risking contact with others who were perhaps not in the position to leave quite so easily, whether that be due to monetary concerns, relocation destinations, or any of a dozen other reasons. I would endeavor to solve the issues preventing them from acquiring accommodation in a location safer than Austria, Germany, Spain, or Italy. Then, oversee their relocation and that of any family they wish to accompany them.

I would send a message with Henry to my father. One of them could meet him at the station when the train made the stop. Or perhaps I could accompany them for a quick trip. It would be lovely to see Eva, even if just for a few moments. All would depend on Henry’s plan for departure. Will’s return to Vienna must happen by the 17th. A knock at the door broke into my thoughts.

“Come in,” I said. Elsa immediately appeared with a fresh pot of coffee and a breakfast tray.

“Herr Von Dorn requested coffee here if you find it acceptable, Herr Alexsander?” she inquired.

“Of course, Elsa, please invite him over.” She nodded and disappeared.

I went to the wardrobe and found a pair of silk pants to put on under my robe. As I returned to the little room, Will came in.

“Good morning,” Will said, pouring coffee and taking a seat. “Outstanding view; your father should have been an architect.”

“He was, in a sense. When he envisioned something in three dimensions, he would oversee its construction. It is not to say that everything he designed was realized, but a substantial portion of his designs did come to fruition. He embarked on comprehensive redesigns of 'The Meadows Estate,' 'The Innsbruck Estate', and 'The Vaduz Estate.' And numerous close friends and relatives enlisted his expertise to help them design and develop their estates. He was even brought in to design a chapel for a friend's estate in one instance. He has a knack for mastering anything that can be structured, from wealth management to architectural design.” We relaxed, enjoying the morning view.

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Damned

As the host, I suppressed my urge to stay in my room reading for the evening. I knew the storm named Franz was about to arrive. Seeking shelter from his rage seemed prudent. In the sanctity of my room, the squall could blow itself out without anyone the wiser. If Karl were the only other guest, I would have left him to Will and battened down the hatches. However, Henry deserved my full attention. Frankly, I wanted the full story from his viewpoint. The question became how to keep Fritzy at a simmer until I could get him alone. My worries turned out to be for naught. Within minutes of their arrival, Fritzy excused himself. He retired to his room for the night without so much as a hello. Karl did say hello, but also excused himself for the night. They all looked like they were missing a few days of sleep.

Henry met with me briefly in the study. He gave an abridged version of the story. The snow had hit hard on the way up to the station. Thanks to Karl’s knowledge of the area, they could traverse the forest. The trees protected them from the worst of the storm, allowing them to continue almost to the door of the outpost. The shopkeeper had brought supplies in late, as Karl requested. Which meant the outpost had used up much of the stores they had. He brought only one small cask of beer, promising another larger one within a few days with more supplies. It worked brilliantly. They consumed the entire cask, which contained a considerable amount of morphium.

When the trio arrived, all five soldiers were sleeping like the dead. The device they were using to locate unknown radio transmissions sat in the radio room, ready to be used. They were able to use it while transmitting. Henry had time to take photographs and measurements, and Karl even took a sketch. Karl identified each of the parts used. They also took photos of every document, correspondence, or note, being careful to disturb nothing or replace anything they did alter to its previous position or location. The trip itself was a tremendous success. Returning to Karl’s estate afterward was hard-going until they could downhill ski the last two miles or so. A few miles from the estate, the snow and wind stopped. Sleep eluded them the first night, their minds focused on the planning. They were putting all the pieces in place and preparing gear and equipment. Upon return, they were high on their success. Too exhausted to rest well. Henry told me that all at once, exhaustion hit them as they neared Mayrhofen. The knowledge of mission success and safety finally allowed them to rest in the truck, leaving them groggy and exhausted when they arrived.

I inquired what we might provide for him, but he reassured me he needed rest most. In the morning, we would complete plans for the Eigners. I bid him goodnight with that, and he retreated to his room. I crossed over and stoked the fire, allowing my mind to sort through the information he had provided. The clock struck six. Klaus came in search of me.

“Mein Herr, everyone has retired for the night?” he inquired.

“Not everyone, Klaus, has Greta begun supper?”

“Half an hour until we serve. Greta sent me to inquire how many we should prepare for?” Klaus waited patiently as I thought about it.

“Prepare a large tray for Herr Franz and take it to his room. Karl and Henry will be asleep. If Greta would be kind enough to prepare plates for them in case they awake during the night. Just place them in the ice box. Will and I will dine in the kitchen if you do not mind. I will let him know to be in at half of seven.” Klaus acknowledged the instructions and returned to the kitchen.

Tackle the bear now or after it eats? Fritzy was bound to be angry. Logic would dictate he would be fast asleep after he ate. However, he never slept while furious. If I got it over with now, he would be finished blowing the house down by the time they brought the tray. Then he could get a good night's sleep.

With a heavy sigh, I squared my shoulders and headed out. Stopping by the library, I let Will know about dinner. I then proceeded to Fritzy's room, where I knocked once and entered. There was no need to delay, as he was already standing by the window, expecting me. I settled into a chair in his cozy sitting area. As time passed, he continued to gaze out the window, his face flushed with restrained anger. I remained patient, recognizing that I had broken a promise and no words from me could undo the damage. There was no point in launching into an explanation; he understood perfectly why I had gone to Vienna alone.

A full ten minutes passed.

“Unforgivable,” he said in a strained voice. I remained quiet, waiting, watching. The words he wanted to say formed a long string in his mind. Finally, it came.

“You are an insufferable, arrogant, spoiled fuck! How dare you, how dare you break a promise to me? Me! What in the hell were you thinking? One thing! If one thing had gone wrong, you would have been dead. Dead, Sandy! No one can bring you back from the dead. Do you get that? Do you understand, I cannot bring you back from the dead? You could have waited. Nothing is going to happen in two days! Jesus, Mary, and Joseph! May God hold you accountable for this! Your word, Sandy, you gave your word! Get out! Get out of my room, get away from me before I kill you myself!” he slammed his fists down on the stone windowsill.

I rose slowly from the chair. My heart hurt for him. I thought for one moment to try to say something. The impulse passed, though. Anything said now would result in fisticuffs. It would help him while it happened, but he would be filled with remorse afterward. Making my way to the door, I realized the worst part was I would not change it. Even now, at this very moment, I would still leave for Vienna to warn the Chancellor if I had not already done it. Quietly, I slipped out the door and crossed through to my room. I washed my face and hands and returned to the kitchen to meet Will for dinner. As I descended the stairs, I passed Elsa and Klaus carrying trays for Fritzy. I warned Klaus to let Elsa knock and continued downstairs.

Greta had set a lovely table. The atmosphere in the kitchen was so much cozier than the large dining room. The kitchen itself was as clean as a whistle. You would never know anyone had cooked a meal if not for trays laden with food covering the table and the lovely aromas. The table contained dishes of käsespätzle, hirschfleisch (deer with bacon, mushrooms, and onions), sauerkraut, pickled carrots, and the list went on. Typical of Greta, food overflowed, but it was terrific. She must have stepped out before we arrived. Klaus arrived after we had begun and attended to drinks. He brought fresh buttermilk, compliments of Greta, and inquired about our needs. Seeing we were well taken care of, he also excused himself.

“How did it go with Fritzy?” Will braved the question.

“About the way I expected it to go. I broke a promise. Warning the Chancellor should have been a priority; now it has been done,” I said, sitting back in my chair to give my stomach added room.

“I am not judging you, Jim. You did what needed doing. The fact you promised surprises me. I know you; you made that promise knowing full well you were lying.”

“I did, Will, and I knew Franz knew it for the lie it was. He backed me into a wall. I should have told him no at once instead of pulling something so underhanded.” I sighed, left my chair, and retrieved a bottle of schnapps from the larder.

“He’ll punish you for this for a long time.” Will shook his head, a look of sadness in his eyes. I retrieved clean glasses, filled them halfway, and resumed my seat. A toast was made in gratitude for everyone’s safe return, and we began a night of drinking.

 

In the formal sitting room, Will played the piano while I played the harp. The evening turned into an impromptu concert of sorts. The doors were closed tightly, so the noise would not disturb anyone on the other side of the house. We finished the first bottle with a round of “What did my father say.” Then we opened the next bottle to “Too bad I’m bugglad,” and the “Zillertal waltz 1 and 2” became more serious from there. Bach, then Mozart, took up the rest of the night. As our concert ended, we finished with our anthem, Gott erhalte, Gott beschütze Unsern Kaiser, unser Land! Our eyes were moist with the tears of compatriots without their country, monarchy, or leader. We knew in our hearts that the tiny shell left of a once great empire would soon fall to a tyrant and be no more.

We abandoned our musical instruments and strolled casually towards the library. Embracing the liberating effects of our slightly intoxicated state, we opted for cozy chairs positioned side by side. We set our half-empty second bottle between us on the little table.

"I miss this the most, sharing moments with one of my dearest friends, perhaps my closest confidant. Basking in the comfort of our unshakeable bond, where I can truly be myself, freely expressing thoughts and actions. It is easy to take for granted until it is taken away," Will confessed, absently twirling his glass in his hand. "Every moment, every second, I must remain vigilant, carefully monitoring my body language, speech, even my innermost thoughts. Anything I do could be misinterpreted. Innocent gestures, idiosyncrasies, the slightest misstep places us all in peril. It is a demanding role, but I am thankful to be here with all of you. I needed this respite, even if it's just for these few days."

“You do not need to continue this, Will. Send word of an ill family member you must care for. Any property I have is yours. There is more than enough to be done outside of Vienna. Stay here, go to Switzerland for a holiday, Vaduz.”

Will drummed his fingers lightly against his glass, contemplating his words. "God help me, I wish I could," he sighed, "but the only path is to remain within that den of vipers. Schuschnigg is my responsibility, my district. I will likely learn of any impending danger long before anyone else does. I won't claim the SS is forthcoming with information—they're not—but even they can't help but issue orders."

A heavy silence hung in the air, pregnant with unspoken thoughts.

"I understand, Will. Even now, the desire to be in the thick of things gnaws at me. As much as I appreciate Eva, admission of love is ill-timed. Eventually, they will make their move against the Chancellor and Austria. I carry a deep sense of duty to be there, and to make a meaningful contribution. Fritzy, on the other hand, does not grasp the gravity of the sacrifice as I do," I said with a heavy heart.

“Jim, he understands but is reluctant to accept that the sacrifice should be you. None of us do. We have already endured significant losses during the war, losing so many. I am afraid we may not fully grasp the extent of the losses that lie ahead. The power of the Nazi machine is underestimated. History might very well paint a different photograph of the world compared to the one we hope to preserve.” Will smiled a sad smile, understanding in his eyes.

“I promised I would not go to Vienna under any circumstances without him.” I looked to Will for I did not know what, perhaps absolution in a way.

“Why would you lie to him?” Will asked.

“He was resolute, almost hostile regarding my visiting Vienna without him. We had to alert Kurt, the Chancellor, about the situation. Infiltrating and exiting becomes considerably more manageable with just one person. The greater the number involved, the higher the risk of detection. It seemed prudent for me to assume the risk alone in an effort to protect him.” I pled my case to Will, hoping he would find the necessity in the ruse.

Will took a deep breath before voicing the position he wanted to convey. “You betrayed him and his oath to keep you safe. Surely, you understand he has sworn to protect you at all costs. The way he could not protect Amalia. The oath goes beyond your childhood promise. This is a discussion that Karl and I have engaged in several times. To whom he made the oath, we are unable to reason out. I suspect he made the oath to himself, or worse, Amalia. His parents aside, you are closer to him than anyone and always have been. Amalia overshadowed that bond and took that place in a way you could not. A woman's love overshadows a brother's love in many ways. From the moment her love was ripped away, you were there. You saved him; we are all aware Franz would not have recovered from Amalia without your intervention. Even his parents have said as much.” He paused, finishing the last drops in his glass, and I placed mine beside him as he set his glass down. After refilling both, he resumed speaking.

“I suspect when he finally surfaced from his fog of anguish, the revelation of the lengths to which you went to save him became clear. If I were a betting man, and I am, that is where I would lay my money. At that exact moment, he swore to expand on your childhood pact. Not just to be there for you but to protect you as you protected him from his own hand. Of course, this is all conjecture.” Will smiled, clinked my glass, and drank a generous amount.

“Conjecture ringing of truth at the core. I will take it a step further, Will, he swore to Amalia. Doubly damning if he fails……. Mother Mary.” Setting my glass down, I laid my face in my hands. A brisk rub revitalized me, “Well enough of that, may I interest you in a game of chess that does not involve risking your life?”

“Marvelous, no one is worth playing in my unit.” Will grabbed the bottle, and we moved to the chessboard.

The night moved on while we enjoyed light conversation and far too much schnapps. A luxury Will dare not risk in Vienna. As the game went on, I found the complete truth in Will’s deduction. The insight afforded me a perspective I truly needed. Compassion crept in as I worked through ways to make compensation to Fritzy. The words rang in my head, you are an insufferable, arrogant, spoiled, fuck!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Men Of Leisure

Before retiring, I had arranged for coffee and breakfast to be delivered to both Will's and my rooms. His brief respite was ending, so it seemed prudent to relish these remaining few days. He refused the luxury of simply returning to his family's magnificent estate with their substantial business interests in Germany, which would provide him with a considerable buffer from the immediate pressures, allowing for a temporary escape. I comprehended his yearning to persist in contributing to our cause, a sentiment shared by the rest of us, as evidenced by our involvement in the realm of espionage.

The Eigners would arrive on the train from Vienna that evening. The proper accommodation had been procured. Henry need only meet with them. After consideration, it seemed prudent to allow Henry to work with them on how best to communicate to the community the need to leave. They were about to be in a far better position to assist in facilitating those conversations. The means for departure were already in place from here to France, the plan could start at any time. Certainly, the loose ends would be gathered by the time they settled in Britain.

A knock brought coffee and breakfast. The Aspirin was in the lavatory. I reluctantly left the comfort of my bed to chew a few up on the way to coffee. The real problem was Fritzy. My head gave a throb in protest at the thought. Taking the tray, I returned to bed, setting it on the stand beside me. I closed my eyes and lay my head back against the headboard. Conjuring up an image of Eva smiling eased the tension in my forehead. Perhaps I would go to Vaduz for a few days when Will left. Or, a thought occurred to me, what if we all went to Vaduz on the train in the morning? Henry accompanies the Eigners. The four of us are off for adventure in Vaduz. Brilliant idea, an excellent finish for Will and Karl.

As I began working through the arrangements in my mind, Will’s words at the station returned. “A man dressed in the clothes of kitchen staff seemed quite interested in you.” Reality took hold; we could not risk traveling together. At least, not right now. Afterward, when the Chancellor, Will, and Karl were safely away. The twinge in my temple brought the realization it was over a week since I’d had a nightmare. I reached over to the drawer on the stand to retrieve my journal Franz had insisted on–it had been more than a week! Perhaps the episodes were gone. In fact, had there been an episode since the countess? No, at least if there were, I had failed to document them.

Ah, a possible window of opportunity with Fritzy. An olive branch of sorts. Where to go from there? I poured myself a cup of coffee, adjusted the pillows, and settled back to mull the problem over. A direct approach was the only way. Straight to the point. Call him out on Will’s theory, which I fully believed was not a theory but fact. Then, cut the head off the dragon. My actions were indeed unforgivable and there needed to be a fresh start. But Fritzy bore no responsibility for my well-being. For my part, I would have to be candid and upfront, even at the risk of hurt feelings or his rage.

It sounded so simple. Coffee finished, I checked under the tray to find my favorite breakfast, gröstl., which was especially welcome after a night of drinking, bless you, Greta. I poured another cup of coffee and went to work on the mixture of fried potatoes, ham, bacon, onion, and fried eggs.

Satiated in every way I could be under current circumstances, I surveyed my options. Spending the morning in bed was the most appealing, but Henry would leave soon for Innsbruck. I knew him well enough to understand the need to be in place when the Eigners arrived.

After a long hot shower with a shave, I went to the wardrobe. Mentally, I prepared myself for Franz and went downstairs. Henry had just hung up the telephone as I crossed the bottom stairs.

“Glad you made it down, Jim. My ride will arrive anytime. I was going to pop up to let you know.” Henry reached out for my hand.

“I thought you might make an early departure. Do you have everything you need?” I asked.

“Indeed, you are the most gracious host. I plan to return on the 19th, arriving here later in the evening, of course,” Henry moved toward the entryway to don his shoes, coat, and hat.

“We will look for you then, Henry. Safe travel. You know my wishes for the Eigners. Do pass them along.” I shook his hand again.

“I will see to everything. Prepare for the exodus. There are likely to be quite a few families ready to get themselves or their loved ones to safety. We will get some two-way transmissions in when I return.” He stepped outside and started for the road. I stood watching until he was out of sight. Making my way into the kitchen, I found Klaus already placing a pot on a tray for me.

“Guten tag, will you be in the study this morning?” he inquired.

“No, Klaus, I believe the library, if you don’t mind,” I said, heading to the library.

“Certainly,” he said after me.

The house seemed quiet, considering there were still four of us here, along with Klaus and his family. Entering the library, I found the room empty. My book lay on the table where I had left it, still marked. I took my chair and resumed the story. True to his word, the coffee appeared moments later. An hour later, Will peered in.

“There you are,” he said, coming to join me. “Thank you for the luxury of staying in a bed this morning. I even went back to sleep after the sumptuous breakfast.”

“My pleasure, Will. It seemed a well-deserved morning for you.”

“Where is everyone?” he inquired.

“Henry left this morning for Innsbruck. I have not seen or heard anyone else.” Checking the clock, I realized the late hour. “Noon, certainly they are not still sleeping?” I rose to check the study, with Will following along behind. Empty, I went to the dining room sitting room and opted for the kitchen. Elsa, seated at the table reading a book, looked up. She stood immediately when she saw us.

“Please, do sit down, Elsa. May we inquire where Franz and Karl might be?” I asked.

“Innsbruck, Mein Herr, they said not to expect them until tomorrow.” Elsa looked a little sheepish. “Herr Franz said you would not mind the loan of the automobile.”

“Thank you, Elsa,” I said, turning back to Will.

“It would seem we have been abandoned for greener pastures. Or more voluptuous ones, perhaps.” We both laughed. “Well, shall we retire to the library, we may as well enjoy a leisurely afternoon?”

Will countered my question with his own. “Cribbage,” he inquired.

“Yes, it has been ages, I will find the board. You and father are the only ones who care to play.” My mild excitement showed in my tone.

We began our very leisurely afternoon with honey whiskey in coffee, cribbage, and lovely treats that occasionally appeared from the kitchen.

The telephone rang, and in the distance, I heard Elsa request they wait a moment. She appeared at the doorway. “A Madame Reneé wishes to speak with you, Mein Herr.”

“Thank you, Elsa.” I looked at Will, who had a knowing smirk on his face. “This will be interesting.” Taking the receiver, I said, “My darling Reneé, to what do I owe the pleasure?”

“My darling Jim, I do hate to bother you. However, I felt it important to inform you I have had your automobile delivered to your estate here in Innsbruck. The driver is in no condition to operate such a machine. We will deliver them to the estate in the morning also.” Reneé said in her kindest voice.

“I am in your debt, Madame; you are too kind,” I replied.

“But of course, enjoy your evening, Jim,” she said, hanging up the receiver.

Returning the telephone to the table, I entered the library, doing my best to stifle the laughter.

“Oh no, let me guess. Franz and Karl are so far gone she returned the auto to the estate.” Will laughed over every other word.

We both burst into laughter. As happens with those under tension, the laughter turned into uncontrollable laughter. Soon, we were blathering idiots, recounting possible scenarios happening even now at Madame’s, which brought more laughter. After what seemed an eternity, we held our sides and gasped for air. Grateful for the release and still stifling the occasional chuckle.

 

We met in the vestibule in the morning for a run. Although slightly shorter than myself, Will always matched my pace. He was extremely competitive in his own right, just not at sports. Academics were his field of battle. Music too, brilliant, able to play multiple instruments. Will also seemed to possess an audiographic memory, providing him with perfect tempo, function, and cadence. He was easily considered a musical savant but lacked the desire to engage in the profession. However, challenge him with a piece of music, whether in direct competition or presentation of the piece, and prepare to be put in your place.

Will took the lead, heading down the road instead of up. Eventually, we ended up at Fritzy’s parent's estate, a mile or so from “The Meadows.”

“I thought a different route might be nice.” It brought back memories of our childhood. “Jim, when we used to run between these houses during my visits, we never realized our upbringing was remarkable. Not just because of our financial privilege, but also because of our close-knit group, especially the four of us. We are fortunate to have survived the war and seen our families thrive and excel. Each of us has been able to further our education at multiple universities. Most importantly, we have managed to sustain the deep bonds we forged all those years ago. It is a true blessing," Will concluded, gazing silently at the estate.

The grounds and grand house looked lonely, wrapped in a blanket of frost and snow. The gates were locked, and the windows dark from the curtains pulled closed. The Grünne’s caretakers were close friends with Klaus and Greta. Both properties enjoyed the ministrations of loving caretakers but were no longer full of the legacy of the families that built them.

We headed back, both of us lost in our thoughts. A quiet peace hung between us, as it often did. It was highly likely we were both thinking about the same thing. When we were at Stella, we would always test each other. It became a game of sorts. The frequency with which we operated on the same train of thought was an average of eighty percent. Will tracked it over a session to find the average.

“What is your escape plan?” I asked it without realizing it.

Will shot me a look, smiled, but kept pace in silence for some time.

“Loosely, mind you, the idea is this: I will have to make my way to the city's outskirts. The best way to do this is to become a Strotter². I already have everything in place, hidden close by. No one realizes we have a direct access point under us. Once I have changed, I need only to slip into the sewers and play the role. Part of the ploy is a bag I have partially filled with bones, fillings, and other items they collect in the sewers to sell. Karl has set up the same situation in the rooms across from the Chancellery. He hopes to get Kurt out with him, but we cannot tell him this. So, it remains to be seen if it will work. Everything depends on how they take control,” he said, trailing off at the end.

“Are you planning to stay in the sewers for some time? Eventually, someone will become aware and clean them out,” I asked.

“Oh no, we will go immediately to the city's edge. There is a small farm where we have an arrangement with a cousin of mine. Like any good Austrian Catholic, Fatherland Front, a monarchist, he hates the Nazis and all they stand for. He will have several transportation options prepared: horses, autos, and carts. Karl and I will make decisions at the time based on the situation throughout the country. Horses seem the logical choice currently, but you and I know everything can pivot instantly under those circumstances.”

“A solid plan,” I said, patting him on the back as we came round into the estate grounds.

“Let us pray you are correct. You will know when we show up in Vaduz or wire from the Villa in Switzerland,” he laughed.

 

 

In the afternoon, I found myself staring at the wall in the study, the nagging feeling of missing something still lingering. A photograph placed by either Will or Karl kept drawing my attention. The photo pulled at the edge of my consciousness. I was attracted to it since they first pinned it there. I could find no reason for it. A tall man, obviously with blond hair, and blue eyes. The Nazi poster boy type, his clothing nondescript. The typical business suit and hat, slight build, wiry, athletic possibly. It was hard to say in the clothing. I was judging from his neck, face, and hands, which were well-defined. The photograph was in the section designated to known Nazi infiltrators, but it bore a small question mark on the upper right-hand side.

I kept searching my mind. Meetings, social engagements, events, groups, government officials, offices, nothing. Will came in and stood just to my right. “Gerhard Schmidt, do you know him, Jim?”

“Yes, well, no, I am uncertain, Will. When you placed the photograph, it caught my attention. Since that day, it has continued to draw me. I cannot place him specifically, yet something tells me I know him.” I turned to Will, perplexed.

“Schmidt is a bit of an enigma. Loosely, he belongs to our unit. My gut tells me he is SS, and yet every now and again, I have caught him engaged in extremely anti-Nazi behavior.” Will tapped the photo with his forefinger. “Either he is a brilliant counterspy or a rebellious SS agent. I am not certain I would care to bet on which. I have not given him any insight into my awareness of his practices. However, he is slippery; just because I have not allowed myself to be caught tracking him does not mean he is unaware.”

A chill went from my toes to my neck when he spoke the last sentence.

“You okay, Jim? You look like someone crossed your grave. Excuse the euphemism. Let me get you a Schnapps.” Will went to the bar and poured us each a schnapps.

“Please,” I said halfheartedly. Now, the photograph seemed to draw me in. What triggered that response when he spoke those words? Will handed me the glass, tapped it, and took a swallow. I looked at the drink. As I lifted it to my lips, I glanced at the photograph and froze. The left side of my head seared in pain. The glass fell from my hand, and I watched in slow motion as Will grabbed it with his free hand just before it hit the ground. It was the last thing I remembered.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Man in The Mirror

I heard talking in the distance. How could it be distant? Returning to consciousness, I realized the voices were close to me.

Will's voice: "Why the hell didn't you tell us about this?"

 

Fritzy's pissed-off voice: "What was I supposed to tell you, Will? There is something seriously wrong with Sandy. He is randomly stricken by extreme pain in the left side of his head and has corresponding nightmares. And there appears to be absolutely nothing medically wrong with him except that when it happens, part of his head disappears on X-rays."

 

Karl: "Look, Will, we know now, alright. Let's focus on what we can do to help."

 

Fritzy: "There is nothing to do. I keep him as comfortable as possible. He will be disoriented for a while when he comes to. Aspirin, painkillers, nothing helps; it just stops like it had never happened."

 

Will: "If you would have fucking told me this, I would have never let him go to Vienna. At least not alone. Jesus, Mary, and Joseph, Franz, you prick."

 

Fritzy: "I told you not to let him leave, you arrogant cocksucker, and what did you do?"

 

Karl started to speak, but I cut him off.

“STOP!” I yelled as loudly as possible. Which was not very loud at all but caught everyone’s attention.

All three of them rushed to the Chesterfield where I lay. Questions came from all directions. They stopped. Fritzy spoke, “How’s the head, Sandy?”

“Fine.” I began to sit up.

“Whoa, let’s just take it slowly. How about we prop you up a bit before we move straight to standing up?” Fritzy asked with soft concern in his voice.

“Yeah, tough guy, you took one hell of a fall,” Will added.

“May I get you anything, Jim?” Karl asked.

“Some water, please,” I said, easing up into the pillows Fritzy had placed behind me.

Karl handed me the water. I sipped it slowly. Everything felt fine, no dizziness, no pain in my head. My shoulder felt a little sore, but otherwise, I felt good.

“What happened?” I asked, looking at Will. “The last thing I remember is talking to you.”

“We were speaking about Gerhard Schmidt. You went pale, so I poured a little schnapps for you. You were about to take a drink, then you cried out, grabbing your head and dropping the glass. I caught the glass as it fell, only to see you collapse.” Will’s voice was heavy with concern.

“Yes, I remember………the photo.” I pushed everyone back, waving Fritzy away as he tried to prevent me from getting up. My legs felt a bit shaky. Otherwise, I seemed fine. I made my way to the wall and found his photo. Fritzy came up on my left side, Will on my right, and Karl just behind.

Franz spoke first, “What is it, Sandy? Do you know him?”

“Yes and no, I said, shaking my head slightly.” I moved over to the table and sat in a chair facing the wall, continuing to look at the photo. “The friend gifted by your friend,” I said quietly, recalling my conversation in Münster ten days before. “Will, are you and Gerhard friends?”

“Obviously not! However, in the context of our espionage, yes, he believes we are,” Will replied.

“Fritzy, ‘the friend gifted by your friend,’ what if it was a metaphor? Will, my friend, brought the gift of photographs of our adversaries, but for Gerhard, Will is a friend.” I looked at him, searching his face, hoping for some confirmation I was not reaching beyond the limit of sanity.

“Is he the face in the mirror, Sandy? The face in the nightmares?” Fritzy asked with an almost demanding voice.

“Yes,” there, clear as day, I suddenly remembered the mirror. That is exactly where I knew Gerhard from: the mirror.

Fritzy turned sharply towards Will, pressing him for every shred of information about Gerhard Schmidt. Their voices gradually faded into the background as I delved into my memories, sifting through the mental images of past nightmares. I struggled to extract fragments from my subconscious, the images remaining elusive but hovering just on the fringe of my consciousness. Then my head swam like it lifted away from my body. He appeared, standing over me, laughing. The face of my nightmares. Why? I do not know this man. Where did he come from? What could he possibly want? We had nothing and no one in common beyond Will. Will! I heard her voice clear as day. The lady in the mirror. In my head, her voice came strong, loud, and defined. I felt her to the very core of my being. We were one, intertwined at the cellular level, no, the spiritual level. The level of energy itself. Soft, wispy, comforting tendrils wrapped around me and pulsed through me. Like a dam pulled away from the stream, we flowed together as one being. In those moments, I understood the very fabric of existence. Then, awareness splashed over me like icy water.

“Will,” the words came out like a whisper. They were all engaged in conversation. My voice was too soft to override the debate playing out before me.

“WILL,” I said too loudly. All three of them turned in unison. He stepped toward me, a shadow of worry crossing his face.

“Jim, what is it? Are you alright?” I waved his questions away as he said them.

“Will, he knows you, Schmidt knows who you truly are.” My words were hers.

“Are you certain, Jim? I do not recall ever engaging with or seeing him before Vienna.” Will began casting doubt, but I would have none of it.

“Will, listen to me; this is not conjecture, a hunch, or assumption. In Munich, you gave a lecture at the university several years ago. The administration approached you afterward, asking you to tread lightly, remember?” The scene played out as if I were in attendance, but I was elsewhere. I stood up and replaced the schnapps he had poured for me an hour before my collapse. My stomach felt unsettled, but I didn’t care; I needed something to steady down this disconnected feeling.

“Indeed, the lecture focused on the perils associated with racism and the presence of totalitarian and fascist governments, emphasizing the roles of Joseph Stalin and Mussolini in their current regimes. We still considered Hitler a fluke then, but someone took offense, or they would not have put forth the warning they did.” As Will spoke, the realization hit him. “I don’t remember him, but there must have been a hundred students in attendance.”

“I think you had better pour us all one, Sandy,” Fritzy said from behind me.

“Yes, Karl, would you shut the door? Everyone, take a seat, please.” I brought glasses and a bottle to the table. Appropriate portions poured into our glasses, and “Fratres Primum!” was toasted in unison. A toast we had not made in years. Brothers first, our toast on the night we, as a group, committed to joining the war. Just boys at the time. Everyone drained their glass, and another round was poured.

"Fritzy and I have not been entirely candid, as you already know. What's transpiring with me goes beyond the medical aspect. We are, in essence, all scientists, and an abundance of information eludes our comprehension. I am uncertain about the best approach to elucidate what must be conveyed.” I found myself stumbling slightly, grasping for the proper terminology.

“Sandy, please allow me,” Franz said. I waved him on, grateful for the intervention.

“Boys, Sandy is headed to the science of the situation in an effort to make it sound more lucid. I will not. We know each other better than anyone else. So, when I tell you there is a supernatural aspect to what is affecting him, there is no doubt you will take this seriously.” Franz paused, waiting. Karl and Will sat with serious, unquestioning expressions, so he proceeded.

“In an effort to find a cause, I forced him to see a clairvoyant. Excuse my muddling through this.” Franz stood pacing slowly in front of the wall, papered with information, maps, and photos, and back around the table. “She, in essence, implied he is operating partially in the spirit world and partially in the physical world. A lady is helping him, but we have no idea who she is or why she is trying to help. We know only that she does not exist in this space or time. Gerhard Schmidt is the protagonist haunting his dreams. Somehow, he triggers these attacks, even though he is nowhere near him. Until today, we had no idea who he even was. She had warned him, ‘The friend gifted by your friend is your true adversary, Jim. In your sleep, she reaches out to you from her time. She reaches out to warn you, to save you. The words spill from your very mouth into another body. The one in the mirror holds the key.’ Am I wrong in guessing she told you about the lecture, Sandy?” Fritzy came to stand next to me.

“Just a little while ago. The connection to her is clear, strong; I am able to hear her voice.” I looked at each of them, but none of them bore a look of disbelief or doubt.

“I am unable to remember if I told either of you about Sandy trying to stop me from taking Amalia home.” They both shook their heads no. “We were spending time with my parents. She had come to stay so they would have a chance to get to know her. Sandy encouraged me to keep her here and ask her to stay longer. Amalia and I wanted her to return home to push things forward faster.” Fritzy stopped there, looking at the floor.

“But you didn’t know, did you, Jim?” Karl asked.

“No, Karl, I just had, well, I cannot explain it. Maybe a sick feeling in my stomach anytime I even thought about her going home.” I shrugged, trying to convey my innocence.

“We will not spend time on how often Jim has saved us on espionage missions. His intuition is without flaw. Everyone trusts him. If he has a strange feeling, anyone with him will stop and give it credence.” Will stared me straight in the eye as he said it. I had no idea. “What I am saying is we believe you, Jim. We believe what is happening is for a reason. If you tell me Schmidt attended that lecture, I believe you without question. I am in danger, we are in danger, but we always have been. We are only now aware of whence it comes. Which changes absolutely nothing about our mission.”

 

 

Klaus announced supper, but the disconnected feeling lingered. Although not directly sick, my stomach stayed unsettled. Making my apologies to everyone, I retired to my room for the evening. A tray with mint tea, freshly baked crisp thin wafers, and beet relish was delivered shortly after. I changed into the set of silk loungewear Eva had sent with me. I tried lying in bed briefly but found myself too restless. Moving to a comfortable chair with an ottoman, I stared at the starlit sky. The tea was soothing. I took small sips, happy to be alone in the silence. A single candle burned by the bed, allowing the night to shine into the large window. I longed for Eva to be there with me. Her head on my shoulder, her slender fingers intertwined in mine. An audible sigh escaped my lips. I had to laugh at my obvious melancholy.

Leave here, go to her. The lady's voice rang clear in my head. A perplexing feeling overtook me. An impulse to abandon everything tonight and drive to Vaduz. Like a switch, the feeling left. Her voice gone. My body felt as if it were suspended high up with the stars; now I felt heavy, like a magnet dropped on an iron sheet. The queasiness left, along with the lightheaded feeling. For the first time in hours, I felt like myself again. “Are you still there?” I asked the night. Subtle pressure from my midsection to my heart, almost indigestion, came to the question. It was gone as quickly as it came.

The thought occurred to me that she was there but out of energy, or whatever she needed to stay connected closely enough to be heard. I had to be mad, lingering on the edge of delusion! Yet, every fiber knew the truth of it. What rational scientific thought fought so hard to deny, my body, heart, and spirit insisted was the truth.

With Will and I both compromised, how would we proceed? Perhaps the voice bore listening to. Return to Vaduz, all of us. Wait for this storm to blow over. Blow over, what was I thinking? The Nazis were not going to blow over. We thought that in the 20s, and here we are. It would take time for Hitler to be perceived as the threat he was fast becoming. Even more time for France and England to do something about it. No, Will said it best: we have always been in danger. Now we know more specifically who presents the most significant threat. The mission does not change. When the time comes, try to save the Chancellor, and get people out.

Switching on a lamp, I retrieved a periodical and began reading. Something to let my mind focus elsewhere. Before I knew it, my appetite had returned. Just as I finished the last of the beet relish and crisp wafers, Franz knocked and entered with Elsa in tow. She placed a new tray beside me, scooped up the old tray, and left.

“Your appetite has returned then. Good timing on my part.” Fritzy said, making himself comfortable in the chair next to mine. “Greta sent up various items for you, hoping something would appeal to you.”

I lifted the covered plates to find an array of items. My stomach growled in happiness, and I did my best to make a dent in the bounty.

Franz cleared his throat and began, “Perhaps my insistence on protecting you has gone too far. The fact that you needed to lie to me speaks to how extreme I may have become.” Franz’s words brought me to a dead-stop mid-forkful, and I stared at him as he continued. “As much as I hate to concede the point. Will is correct. None of us are safe. We knew from the beginning we would be in danger, and we chose to try to make a difference anyway. Our principles, goals, and intentions have not changed. We must proceed in ways we feel will best accomplish our tasks.”

His words prompted me to set my fork down, sit back, and take in what he had to say. Part of me questioned this sudden change, yet his words were more in line with the real Franz.

“I apologize for lying, Fritzy. Obviously, you understand why I felt the need to break trust with you. It will not happen again if you are true to your words. All of us are going to die. None of us know when. We both know time is our most precious commodity, but do we stop doing what is right to try to protect each other for another day? At the cost of what? Another person's life, happiness, and well-being? If anything should happen to me, know that I have lived my life the best way I know how. I am grateful for every moment. The friendships, bounty, hardships, and bumps in the road this life has brought. I want to grow old with all of you, but if that is not our destiny, know that I loved my life. If something happens to any of you, I know each of you is living your life exactly the way you choose to.”

“Well put, Sandy, and I will renew my efforts toward enjoying life.” He looked out at the stars, and I returned my attention to the tray of food. Hopefully, his attempt would last longer than the last one.

“Nothing is set in stone,” I said between mouthfuls. “I will wait until Henry returns, but I believe I will also return to Vienna. Covertly. We need a firm, well-practiced plan for Schuschnigg. It also allows us to provide ready funds and assistance for those wishing to leave.” I almost held my breath as I said it. A shadow crossed his face briefly but was gone just as quickly.

“As always, you are correct. We will make plans when Henry returns next week.” With that, Fritzy arose from his spot, bid me goodnight, and left. It was too good to be true, yet he seemed completely at peace. The feeling I had about him was a stormy, tumultuous sea.

Suddenly, an image appeared in my mind of Will explaining the importance of being with me instead of fighting me. Franz conceded the point, knowing Will was correct in his judgment. I would do what I wanted regardless. It is better to be beside me than left in the dark. At that moment, I knew the lady in my head was showing me what had transpired to prompt Franz to go along with me moments ago.

I moved the tray to the door. Where the huge appetite sprang from, I could not say. It felt pleasant to be full. Returning to my chair, I contemplated the conversation that had just unfolded. With Henry’s return, a plan could be formulated for how best to utilize the radios and move those willing to leave Vienna. It would not hurt to check in with Reneé on the situation in Paris when I returned to Innsbruck.

 

 

 

 

 

Will, Karl, Franz To Eva

The following few days came with an ease I could not explain. The four of us settled into a pattern of exercise, breakfast, work, break, work, supper, reading, games or both, and sleep. All tensions about anything were quietly relieved. New arrangements for Will and Karl’s return to Vienna were planned. With a full understanding of the role Schmidt played, we tore apart everything. We combed through our cryptography, ensuring all of it was unique. We scrutinized our invention and design. Then, we practiced with just the transmitters unplugged from the machine. One person transmitting, all of us decoding, rotating to a new person for transmission every time. The person transmitting composed their private message, which none was privy to. Then we practiced more. Everyone began to know the codes, not perfectly, but enough to begin deciphering without the keys to some degree. The exception being Will, of course, who knew it all from the first glance.

Early Monday morning, only a few hours away, I would take Will to Salzburg in the old truck. From there, he would make his way to the train station in the city and return to Vienna. Fritzy would return to Innsbruck with Karl. They would make a night of it, and Karl would return to Vienna via the train from Innsbruck. As much as I wanted to send one of the radios with Karl, they were not mine to send. We would need to wait for Henry to arrive before making those decisions.

In the evening, Klaus found me in the turret alone. After several hours of relaying and decoding messages, we all stepped away for a break before supper.

“Mein Herr, my apologies for disturbing you, but a letter has just arrived. The courier said it was of the utmost importance and for you to receive it directly. The courier awaits a reply in the vestibule.” Klaus handed me the envelope.

I opened the unmarked envelope and caught the subtle smell of Madame Reneé.

      

My Dearest Jim,

 

Forgive the urgency; however, your betrothed and I have located a prospective property in the Marias District, Paris. The property in question is available immediately. We believe it will meet your current requirements. Our agent in Paris, acting on our instructions, has placed a sizable deposit on the property with an understanding of commitment within seven days. At which time, the deposit will become forfeited. Upon receipt of this correspondence, please advise me of your availability for travel. Otherwise, we shall make arrangements to satisfy the obligation to inspect the premises ourselves.

 

Yours sincerely,

Madame Reneé La Chabanais

“Klaus, would you kindly locate Herr Franz and ask him to join me? Oh, and send him with correspondence materials, please.” I folded the letter, tapping it on my other hand. Reneé had wasted no time in her task. We needed this. The news was welcome. With Henry due on Wednesday and Will leaving tomorrow, I would need Franz to step in while I traveled. My mind raced with everything to be done. I paced the floor, looking at the stones under my feet.

I heard Fritzy’s voice mere moments later.

“Klaus sent me up with some urgency, Sandy. Is everything all right?” Franz’s breath came quickly as he likely took the steps two or three at a time. His hands were empty, though.

“You came without writing materials?” I inquired, ignoring his question.

“Klaus said he would bring what you required right away. Now, what is going on?” Franz insisted.

I handed him the letter. He scanned it, whistled, and read it again. Franz gave me a look of surprise, followed by an immediate plan. “Reneé wasted no time. Yes, to everything we are about to discuss. Will can take the truck himself to the edge of Wals on the outskirts of Salzburg. I will let our cousin Leopold know to expect company and send a letter with Will. I will continue with the plan for Karl. Then return in time for Henry.”

“A decision will need to be made regarding the radio. Henry and I did not go into his plans for the radio. For that matter, we did not discuss his plans upon returning. There was some discussion about him going to Vienna himself. He wanted to get a good impression of his own. Send those communications on, and then make a hasty exit. You will have to discuss the details with him,” I finished as Klaus came into the room with writing materials.

“Would you like me to wait, Mein Herr?” Klaus inquired.

“Yes, if you would please. Thank you, Klaus.”

 

Madame Reneé,’

Your news was well received. I shall prepare to travel with the utmost haste. Thank you for your efforts on our behalf.

 

Your friend,

Jim

 

I sealed the letter in the envelope, left it blank, and handed it to Klaus. He took the envelope to the courier, waiting in the kitchen. Greta, always the hostess, had offered the young man a hot beverage and a light snack.

“You and Karl plan to leave in the morning after Will?” I asked Franz, picking up our conversation where we had left off.

“Yes, we were going to see both of you off, then pack and head to the estate in Innsbruck.”

“Wonderful, I will go in with both of you and catch the train to Zurich. If you do not mind the early trip, that is?” I winked at Fritzy, who laughed. He patted me on the back, and we headed downstairs. I went to my room to prepare for supper.

In the dining room, we shared the news of Reneé’s find and the new travel arrangements. Will seemed to recall cousin Leopold from a family function of some type, which made our choice even better. Even if Franz were late returning to the Meadows, Klaus would make Henry feel at home.

“I bet you are excited to see Eva again,” Karl said, laughing. This prompted everyone to join in. Even Will threw out a jibe. I thought about calling her, but I knew Reneé. Eva would be notified almost immediately upon receipt of my reply. No, it was unnecessary. She would be packed and waiting for me when I arrived at the station in Feldkirch. A call to father ensured it.

After supper, we adjourned to the library. The discussions turned serious almost immediately. Loose plans were formed, and Will, Karl, and Franz discussed the same techniques we had devised these last few days again. We went over warning signs, problem areas, processes, codes, and so forth for the rest of the evening. Although I participated, part of my mind was deeply occupied in my planning.

If the property were satisfactory, it would need to be brought up to a decent living standard. Were there tenants already occupying the property? If so, would they stay or go? How many? The questions were endless. Eventually, I closed my eyes, bringing myself to present matters only. I heard Will break into my mind.

“Jim, are you quite alright?”

“Yes, Will, thank you. Just putting my to-do list to bed for the night.” I smiled and took this queue to make my exit. Going to each in turn, “Karl, please take care, watch over our dear Chancellor as best you can.” I turned to Will and took his hand. “Safe travels, my friend. Please consider what I said. Putting yourself in jeopardy any longer is unnecessary, but I understand.” I pulled him in, and we shared a firm hug. “Fritzy, well, you know.” I shook his hand and hugged him. “My best to each of you. Stay safe. I will see you each soon enough.”

They all said their farewells, and I excused myself to go pack. I wanted five days of clothes for the trip, ranging from relaxation in the hotel to formal dinners in Paris. In the wardrobe room, I opted for a trunk. It would be expected, plus it allowed me excess space. A knock came just as I closed the trunk. It was tempting to turn Fritzy away, but if we did not address it now, we would have to in the morning.

“Come in, I’ll be right out,” I called, changing into the loungewear and donning a robe. Slippers on, I made my way around to the sitting room. Franz sat waiting in his typical place. “And what are the doctor’s orders, Herr Franz?” I laughed, and surprisingly, he joined me.

“Just do me one favor, please tell Eva about the trip to the countess, and be honest with her about the headaches. Allow her forewarning in case it should happen while you are abroad.” He smiled, a soft look in his eyes. I realized his primary concern was Eva. Well, it should be, too.

“Excellent point. I will see to it when she allows me to speak.”

We both fell into deep laughter, knowing what Eva’s greeting would likely be, appropriate or not. He stood, pulled me into a big hug, and left for his room. Perhaps my leaving Austria had brought him back to himself. Then, a suspicion crept in. Franz and Karl had just been at Madame’s. I wondered if she might not have something to do with his change of attitude?

 

 

The morning became a tapestry of chaos and order combined. Trunks, suitcases, and bags were all brought down and loaded in the autos. Breakfast was a whirlwind affair, except for me. In preparation, I had requested a more leisurely experience. Coffee and rolls appeared in my room just as I arose at five. My bags had been taken care of the previous night. A letter appeared under the door of my sitting room while I enjoyed the leisure of my morning.

Dear Jim,

 

Thank you for the most relaxing days I have had in months. I cherish our friendship. All arrangements are made upon my demise for your estate to inherit everything I own. If, God in heaven forbid, neither of us makes it out of this mess, then Eva shall be an even richer woman than she already is.

 

Fratres Primum,

Will

 

“Indeed, Will, you are my brother first. If Otto had survived, I would dare to speculate that the two of you would have shared many similarities...” I said to the empty air. I folded the letter carefully, placing it in the drawer of the table next to my favorite chair. How funny, my favorite chair. A few weeks ago, merely being in this room would unsettle me, now it seemed as if the entire space had been meticulously crafted for my exclusive use.

After lingering in the shower, which I missed whenever I left, I finally appeared in the vestibule to witness Klaus running everything like a well-oiled machine. There could be no doubts regarding Klaus’s time in military service. Looking for Will, I headed for the door, but Klaus anticipated the target of my search.

“Herr Wilhelm left one-half hour ago, Mein Herr. I would have notified you immediately had I known you needed to speak with him.”

“Not to worry, Klaus, nothing that will not keep,” I assured him, donning a hat, coat, and shoes. I thanked him sincerely, shook his hand, and headed to the auto. I took up the back seat. There was no reason to drive as they would take me straight to the train depot.

Five minutes later, Karl and Franz joined me in the auto. Franz took the driver's seat and Karl took the passenger seat. Karl was laughing at Franz who had a huge roll grasped firmly between his teeth.

“Good morning, Jim,” Karl said, whirling around to smile at me.

“Good morning, Karl. Should I inquire?” I asked, trying not to laugh.

“We thought you were still upstairs. Fritzy had just reloaded his plate when Klaus appeared to notify us you were awaiting us in the car. He pocketed what he could and shoved the sweetbread in his mouth for want of more storage.” Karl relayed the story, laughing the entire time. Franz looked in the rearview mirror, a glint of mirth in his eyes.

“Let us be off, you two scoundrels.” This statement brought more laughter, but Fritzy put the automobile in gear and flew down the drive.

The laughter would begin again every few miles as more food appeared from a pocket, mostly breakfast küchen and rolls. Karl was enjoying the bounty too. Franz seemed extremely happy to provide him with his share. They would do this in school, constantly hungry, as most teenage boys are, they would try to hide food all the time. In their minds, Leo, Karl, Franz, and Mule were perpetually starving. I often wondered if confession for them consisted entirely of stealing food.

The scenery sped by. As I relaxed into the rhythm of it, I slipped into a meditative state and I floated along, not quite part of the solid world. Then I felt something hit my body. Coming back, I saw Fritzy hold the back door of the automobile open. Karl had turned in his seat, he had his hand on my knee and was giving me a shake.

“Hey, come out of it, Jim, we’re here,” Karl said.

Franz leaned over, sticking his head in through the back door. “You, okay?” He looked at me suspiciously.

“Fine, just drifting with the motion of the automobile.” I exited the auto and Franz called a porter over for the trunk and case. The porter happily accepted his coin, took charge of my bags, and headed to ticketing. “Be careful with the automobile! I will contact you as soon as I arrive.” I reached out to shake hands. He pulled me into him as we did.

“Remember what I said. Tell her, be careful,” Fritzy said. He pulled away, quickly got into the auto, and immediately pulled back into the street. The distinct impression of seeing tears hit me. Had he been upset? I shook it off and made my way to the station master.

Purchasing a first-class ticket to Paris, the porter and I made our way to my private sleeper compartment. We had a full half hour before departure. Another porter appeared; they conversed briefly, and the original man excused himself to return to the boarding passengers. I tipped him generously as he left, the new porter taking care of everything for me. While he arranged my compartment, I made my way to the club car for coffee. I procured a newspaper, found a comfortable spot overseeing most of the car, and settled in. Before I knew it, we were on our way.

An hour or so later, I returned to the compartment. The porter had outdone himself. Suddenly, I realized it would not be appropriate for Evangeline to stay with me in my berth. I rang for the porter, who appeared within the minute. I explained the situation, and he assured me he would handle everything. A short time later, he returned. Evangeline would occupy the berth on the other side of mine. The adjacent door, hidden by my luggage, led to the compartment. No passenger had booked it for the trip to Paris on this train or the train we would transfer to in Zurich. The porter assured me he would have everything prepared for Mademoiselle. True to his word, the pass-through door opened into my compartment an hour later. The luggage was rearranged, and everything was in order that afternoon as we pulled into Feldkirch.

As always, I felt a melancholy as we pulled into the station. Even after all these years, I anticipated the excitement of heading out to school. Going the opposite direction to Vaduz always dispelled the feeling. As I stepped out onto the platform, I saw Father; he waved me over. He and my uncle escorted Eva. My God! She was more beautiful than I had ever seen her. My breath escaped me as I approached her. Father and Uncle chuckled as I got hold of myself.

“My darling Evangeline, how I have missed you.” I bent low, taking her hand and kissing it softly.

“Alexsander, my darling.” A tear escaped as she stood on tiptoe to kiss my cheek. I bent slightly, trying to restrain myself, allowing her access to my cheek. I desperately wanted to take her in my arms and kiss her the way she deserved to be kissed.

From the corner of my eye, I saw my father and uncle. Suddenly, I understood the fierce look my father and uncle always carried when they looked at their brides under certain circumstances. We shook hands and exchanged pleasantries. My porter appeared, taking command of Eva’s luggage. Before we knew it, the station called ‘all aboard.’ After hasty goodbyes with promises of information, we re-boarded the train.

Once aboard, Eva followed me to my compartment. The porter was busy preparing everything for Eva. Shutting the pass-through door, I swept her into my arms, kissing her deeply. She tasted sweet, her breath hot on my face as we surfaced for air.

“Oh, Alexsander, how I have longed for you,” she said, searching for my lips again. I pushed her up against the door, lifting her skirt. I grabbed her thighs, pulling them up to me. Her arms held my shoulders tightly as she wrapped her legs around me. I reached for the buttons of my trousers with one hand, and I swear in my head I heard the damn lady's voice as clear as day. Would you break her penance for your moment of lust?

“Damn it!” I said gently, releasing Eva and pushing her leg down with my other hand. Poor Eva, still caught in passion, misunderstood, and reached for my trousers to assist me. “No, my love, we mustn't break your vow.” I pushed her hands away, even as she looked up at me as if roused from a trance.

“Oh, Alexsander,” she breathed, falling into me. She appeared to be a little light-headed. I held her gently and led her to a seat. “Oh, my darling, thank you for your clear head. I was overtaken. I have missed you so.”

I knelt before her, placing my hand gently under her chin. “I love you and have missed you desperately. Please understand, I long for you, but I will not break your vow for my lust.” So there! I thought to the voice in my head. No response came, but a distinct feeling of happiness swept through me, beyond the joy brought on by Eva being here next to me. I poured her a small glass of water and placed it in her hand. She seemed to be coming back to herself. I opened the pass-through door to find the porter gone and Eva’s compartment complete, including a delicate pink rose on the stand by the seat.

“Your room is ready if you want to freshen up,” I suggested.

“Oh, we are not staying here together?” Eva looked around as if noticing where she was for the first time.

“No, my love, considering the circumstances, I thought it appropriate for you to have a separate sleeping arrangement.” I held my hand out for her, which she took after setting her empty glass down. I led her through the pass-through door into her compartment.

“A rose,” she leaned over to take a deep breath of the heady fragrance. “Wherever did you find a rose in winter, Alexsander?” she cooed while peeking in cupboards and nooks. Eva seemed delighted.

“The porter, love, not me. I will leave you to freshen up. Then perhaps we might have a light dinner? We will need to transfer trains around supper time, you see. Then we will be on the next train until Paris.”

“I will only be a few minutes,” she said, and I stepped back into my compartment and closed the door. I took a cloth and placed it in the ice bucket. Wringing it out, I wiped my face and neck with it. That did it; a little ice water went a long way in cooling the blood. If only I had time to step into a cold shower. I regained my composure, changed my shirt, and donned my tie and jacket again. Heathen set aside for now, I stepped out into the hallway, locked the door of my berth, and knocked on Eva’s door. I heard her giggle. She asked me to wait just a moment. A minute later, the door opened, and my stunning future wife stood before me, breathtakingly put together once again. We locked her door and headed to the dining car.

 

 

The scenery took her breath away. Eva drank in the sights as if she had been starved for beauty her whole life. It had never occurred to me that most probably she had never been anywhere but Paris, Innsbruck, Mayrhofen, and Vaduz. She reveled in the views as the alpine mountains melted into the Swiss countryside.

“Darling, finish your dinner and we will go to our observation car,” I suggested, almost conspiratorially.

She looked at me questioningly.

“You’ll see, finish your dinner.” With that, she went to work on her meal.

I ordered coffee to be delivered to the observation car. Then, after she declined dessert in anticipation of a view, I escorted Eva up the narrow staircase. She stopped dead when she topped the stairs, causing me to run into her. I laughed as she stood mesmerized. Urging her forward she began turning in a circle to take in the entire view.

“Alexsander, we can see everything around us,” I moved her along, escorting her to our booth in the upper section of the car. Equally taken by the view in front, we repeated the same process as we had at the top of the stairs until I could finally seat her.

I found myself full of joy watching her. She needed to be spoiled badly. Life still held so much for her to experience and enjoy. We needed to get things running smoothly so I could begin taking her on trips.

“Alexsander, may I have a cocktail? A French 75³, perhaps?” Her voice had a giddy quality.

“Of course, my dear,” I motioned for the attendant, who disappeared immediately to procure Mademoiselle’s cocktail. I, however, stayed with my coffee. If we were to be on this train overnight, I would have happily joined her, but with the transfer in Zurich, I wanted my faculties about me. We spent the entire afternoon in the observation area. Evangeline hid her condition well from the casual observer, but I knew her. Tipsy would be putting it mildly. As we neared Zurich, I shut her private party down and moved her to my compartment. The porter had already prepared everything to be transferred to the next train. He assured me he would handle everything. I need only get her and me to the train. The gentlemen had earned every bit of the generous tip I left him with as he saw us onto the next train. The new porter, obviously a friend of our last one, guided us to our new accommodation. I caught sight of our previous porter running back across the platform to the train we had come from.

The new porter showed us to the dining car while he prepared our berths. After some coercion, I convinced Eva to split a sandwich and dessert with me. Two glasses of water later, and she was quite herself again.

“Oh my, Alexsander, I apologize for my behavior,” she said, sipping a coffee.

“Nonsense, we would still be drinking and having a lovely time under different circumstances. We need more trips, Eva, more time together. More observation cars with cocktails.” I kissed her forehead.

“Oh yes, I would love that. Where shall we go, Alexsander? Where can we go?”

“Anywhere except Germany, my love. You choose the destination, and we will go.” As the words came from my mouth, a funny feeling crept through me. Why? What caused this strange sensation? I suddenly remembered what Fritzy had said. After we finished eating, I encouraged Eva to return to our compartments. As before, the new porter had done an outstanding job. The flower from the previous train seemed to have found its way to this one. We both freshened up and dressed for bed. Eva brought me a brand-new set of silk loungewear. They were a very striking light blue, matching the color of my eyes, she said. She had shopped extensively to find the right color. They were comfortable; the color did not matter at all, but it made her happy.

I joined her in her berth. This would allow me to leave and slip into my bed once she was asleep. “Darling, we must speak about my headaches.” I took one of her hands. “The nightmares are on and off, as are the headaches. I lost consciousness again when I saw a photograph of a man. A particular man, and there is more.” I recounted the entire story. The trip to the hospital, the visit to the countess, Gerhard Schmidt, all of it.

“What does all this mean? We have only questions without answers. Are you in danger? Does the voice tell you if you are in danger?” Eva sat in front of me, concerned, touching my arm softly.

“Yes and no, it is hard to explain. I am still learning her language, if that makes sense. I know she wants me to spend time with you.” I laughed, Eva smiled and kissed me.

“Well, I am exceedingly grateful she is not a jealous spirit,” Eva jested.

“Enough for now. Let us put these things aside and enjoy the feeling of one another. Tomorrow, we will consider all of these things again.” I tucked Eva into bed, laying on top of the covers. I threw a light blanket over myself, moved so she could put her head on my chest, and wrapped my arm around her. She sighed and snuggled in.

I awoke to a knock. Eva had turned over and was still asleep. I quickly and quietly made my way to the door. The porter had come to check on our needs one last time before turning in. I met him at my door, assuring him we were turning in for the night. I locked my door, turned out the lights in both rooms. I left the door cracked open between our berths, and climbed into bed. The sounds from the train drowned out her breathing, but I would swear I could feel her presence there in the next room behind me. As I drifted off to sleep, I heard the voice of the mysterious lady from my dreams say, Stay with her, that was it, nothing else.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Paris vs. Eva

I awoke Eva an hour and a half before we arrived in Paris. Like a whirlwind, she flew from bed, grabbed items, left to the lavatory, returned, grabbed more things, left, and returned. She then shut the door, shuffled, banged, sighed, and cussed repeatedly. I mistakenly offered her coffee, help, or anything she wanted. Each offer was rebuffed with obscenities and annoyance for me not having woken her much earlier for her to make a proper appearance in Paris.

From my point of view, her behavior was unwarranted. She had left a courtesan, why would her appearance matter? Now she was an extremely wealthy lady in her own right. Additionally, there was the betrothal to a prominent family with significant wealth and power. The only person's opinion that mattered was hers. Who cared how she appeared in Paris? This point of view did not go over well at all. It did not escape my attention that the disembodied voice did not show up to help with this dilemma. My lovely Evangeline, quite frankly, seemed to be dropping her basket.

The porter appeared, began preparing my berth, and looked at me when she let out a particularly vulgar expression that we both overheard. He laughed and went back to work. I tipped him well and left with instructions to let the “lady” know I would be in the dining car when and if she should inquire. He assured me everything would be ready upon arrival at the station. All of our things would be forwarded to the hotel. Once again, I needed only to relocate my betrothed. All else would be handled.

While having coffee and reading the paper, I tried to recall the name of the agent meeting us. Some friend of Eva and Reneé, but the name escaped me. Hours away from the meeting, I let it go for now. The train began to get slower and slower. What in the world could that woman be doing? Eva entered the dining car and took my breath away. I would venture a guess she took every man’s breath away in that car.

She wore a royal blue satin blouse and skirt combination that accentuated every part of her in ways I am unable to find words for. Her gorgeous black hair was tied up in a scarf that somehow matched the blue yet did not come close to the color. The hair tumbled down in curls in precisely the right ways. She was highlighting her graceful face, neck, and collarbone in an almost sensual way. Her silk stockings hugged the curve of her legs in, well, I had no words, traveling down to the thinnest set of stiletto heels I had ever seen on a woman. They had her practically on tiptoe, yet they were the most sensuous shoes I had ever seen. Every accessory perfectly accentuated her ensemble: belt, purse, necklace, earrings, scarf, bracelets, shoes. My God, I felt like the luckiest man ever born. When had the train stopped? I stood, taking her arm, and trying to close my mouth. Judging from the smug smile, she had gotten exactly the reaction she wanted. Our porter had a station attendant awaiting us. Judging from their veiled looks, I was not the only one aware of my betrothed’s sultry beauty. Our porter sent an attendant to escort us to the automobile sent by the hotel.

Years of absence from Paris did not reveal any improvement in the traffic, but our chauffeur did an outstanding job. We arrived at the Hotel Ritz Paris in good order. Upon entering the lobby, we were immediately met by our hotel attendant who led us directly to the elevator. The attendant apologized profusely and repetitively about their inability to provide a penthouse suite. Father had made the arrangements, so I was unaware of the request. He finally stopped after my constant reassurance that the accommodation provided was sufficient. After all, the suite we were in had rooms we would never even use.

At last, everyone exited the suite. The rooms were prepared, and items had been unpacked and put away. Things were sent off to be pressed, shined, etc.

I found Eva standing in front of a huge window overlooking the city. As I came next to her, I slipped my hand into hers. Tears were streaming down her face.

“My darling,” I said and pulled her to me. How insensitive. I had not even considered this was likely her first time returning to this city since she had escaped her previous life. “Please see this as an opportunity to heal from the life you survived. I am here to help you in any way you need.” She buried her head in my chest and sobbed until no tears were left.

When she finally found the strength to pull away, I kissed her cheeks, which were salty with tears. I crouched down to look into her eyes and said, “You may have left as an abused child, but you return a queen, Evangeline. You were always a queen, my love. You had no way of knowing it.” She fell into my arms again. I swept her up and carried her over to her room. Laying her gently on her bed, I kicked my shoes off and lay beside her, holding her. She fell asleep at some point. I removed her shoes, covered her with a quilt, and closed her door.

Stepping over to my room, I showered, shaved, and changed. I sent word that I would like my suit, shirt, and tie to be laundered. When the gentleman arrived to collect my garments, I explained that the mascara and eyeliner might be too difficult to remove. If that should be the case, I would be fine with them procuring new items. The gentleman looked wounded at my implication he could not remove the stains.

The front desk rang inquiring about the admission of Jacques Laurent III to our suite and within a few moments, the attendant we were assigned was at my door presenting Monsieur Laurent. I slipped Jean, the attendant, an envelope containing a telegram to be sent at once.

"Monsieur Laurent, c'est un plaisir de faire votre connaissance. Veuillez excuser mon français, je trouve peu d'occasions d'utiliser la langue ces dernières années." I thought it appropriate to introduce myself in French first and hope he would allow me to continue in my vulgar German. I did not care for French myself, nor was I proficient at it, as I explained in my introduction.

"Monsieur Rieser, je vous assure que votre français est impeccable. C'est un grand plaisir de vous rencontrer. J'ai entendu de merveilleuses choses à votre sujet. N'hésitez pas à utiliser votre dialecte natal si vous préférez. Je suis assez familiarisé avec l'allemand." Laurent replied.

As I hoped, he deferred to my preference for language, thankfully. While at university in France, we had all learned how much our vulgar language was abhorred. Therefore, we all went out of our way to speak French as poorly as possible. Now, it seemed petty, but our treatment here after the war had been less than pleasant. After all, we Austrians were at fault for the entire thing. Something we also suffered hearing about every day.

I assured Monsieur Laurent not all the information about my stellar character was accurate as he had stated in his introduction. We made light small talk while I showed him to the receiving room by my rooms. I preferred to leave Eva to rest.

“Where is my beloved Eva?” he inquired as if reading my mind.

“She is detained with other matters. You will forgive me if we keep our business between us.” I left no room for argument, and Laurent seemed happy to continue our discussions.

“The apartments Madame Reneé has chosen are in an excellent area of the Marias district. Are you familiar with our fair lady, la ville lumiere, monsieur Rieser?” Laurent inquired.

“Only enough to make my way as a tourist, Monsieur,” He seemed a genuine fellow. Well-dressed, very well-dressed. Stylish hair, I detected a touch of makeup. Short, well, by my standards. Five feet nine inches possibly, although, I thought him closer to five feet eight inches, Eva’s height. Yes, perhaps even an inch shorter. Brown hair, well-groomed mustache, a plethora of jewelry, all gold.

“Allow me to make arrangements for inspection. Whom would you prefer to have at your disposal, if anyone? Am I wrong in my guess of your abilities in architecture?”

“Not at all, monsieur. However, I would prefer a reputable mason join us with other necessary tradesmen to inspect the property thoroughly. How long will it take you to prepare?”

“Please, call me Laurent, or if you prefer, Jacques. The formality is appreciated but hardly necessary. If you will forgive me, I have anticipated your needs. Here are copies of their credentials. They are available as soon as tomorrow morning if you wish.”

“Tomorrow morning would be ideal; thank you, Laurent. I am indeed grateful Madame and Mademoiselle are acquainted with you. Thank you for acting as our agent in this matter.” I stood, extending my hand. Laurent met me immediately, rising from his seat. I motioned toward the door to the main entrance.

“If you would allow me, Monsieur Rieser. I have made arrangements at Le Grand Vefour for supper tomorrow evening. If you and Mademoiselle would do me the honor of joining me?” Laurent stood his ground, awaiting an answer. Le Grand Vefour was not a dining experience to turn down.

“Thank you, Laurent, what an honor. We would be delighted to join you.” I would make it up to him if Eva did not feel up to it. With the agreement for supper, he moved into the central vestibule, and goodbyes were said. We agreed upon nine o’clock in the morning. Laurent would meet us in the lobby. As Laurent left, I rang for Jean to attend to me.

A light knock signaled Jean. “Jean, were you able to get the telegrams off?” I asked, motioning him into the same receiving room. I took a seat, but he remained standing. “Please, Jean, take a seat. You will drive me mad if you lord over me while we speak.” Jean looked stricken and sat on the very edge of the chair opposite me. “Jean, sit down; do not perch; please sit in the chair.” He scooted back and made an impression in the seat. He still looked like he would jump out of his skin at any moment, but I surmised it was the best he could manage.

“How may I be of service, monsieur?” Jean started to stand, and I waved him down.

I felt as if I were training a pet. A sigh escaped me. “Jean, please arrange for an auto with a chauffeur for nine o’clock in the morning. Then we will require the same auto and driver tomorrow evening. Contact the legal secretary Gräf Otto Von Rieser arranged for at Gide Loyrette Nouel. Inform them we will inspect the property at half past nine tomorrow, the 19th. Also, we should have a package arriving anytime from a printer with the Von Rieser crest. Please see to it those supplies are brought up immediately. I want dinner in our suite this evening. Please provide a thorough menu with current offerings from our immediate area as soon as possible. Any questions?” As I finished, I was struck with the impression of a puppy with a bone. I wrestled momentarily with the need to laugh. Hopefully, my eyes had not betrayed me. Jean beamed, snapped to attention, assured me everything was well cared for, and headed for the door.

“Oh, Jean, find me a bottle of Bärenjäger too.” It seemed a terrible thing to do to him. Yet I wanted to see just how good he was. After all, you had to be the best to be a personal attendant here.

 

“Alexsander?” I heard Eva ask. Arising from my seat at the desk in the study, I hurried toward her voice. She stood just at the threshold of the door leading into her bed-chamber. Her hands held the door frame as if bracing herself. The look on her face was one of disorientation.

“I’m here,” I said, reaching out for her as I approached. She grasped my hands as if dizzy. I led her to the large Chesterfield closest to her. Seating her, I retrieved a glass of water and returned to sit beside her. “Sip a little water, Eva,” she listened to me and took some small sips. Then she gulped the entire glass. I refilled the glass, and returning, she drank the whole glass again. “Eva, have you eaten or drank anything since arising this morning?”

She looked at me, thinking. “No, I don’t believe I have.” With that, she motioned for another glass of water. I searched around the dry bar, found a pitcher, and filled it. Returning to Eva, I set it on the table beside her. I went round and rang Jean, requested a large pitcher of ice water and additional buckets of ice, and asked him to bring supper. The ice, water, and multiple pitchers of ice water arrived within minutes. They were placed throughout the suite. Supper was selected from a nearby restaurant and would take more time. I had reviewed menus and relayed those choices sometime earlier. I was pleased with my additions, anticipating Eva awakening with a healthy appetite or none at all. I wanted to be prepared for each contingency.

Eva finished another glass of water, set the glass down, and sat back. Looking more herself, she surveyed the room, touched her hair, looked down at her clothes, and ran to her room with a cry. I followed slowly, listening for warning signs not to approach, but none came. Entering her bedroom, I peeked around her dressing area to see her fussing with her face, hair, and makeup. French vulgarities were being whispered under her breath. “I see you lurking. Why did you not say how terrible I look?” She clicked her tongue at me, rose, and stripped as she walked by into the wardrobe. “Where are we to go this evening?”

“Nowhere, everything is taken care of. We are dining in this evening.”

She peeked around the corner. “You spoil me, Alexsander, and I love you for it!” She ducked back into her wardrobe. I stepped into the dressing room, relaxed in the knowledge I would not be tossed out. Moments later, she appeared in her silk loungewear, a robe tossed over her arm. “Please excuse me while I engage in a light toilette.” She shooed me gently out of her room and shut the door.

I went to the study to finish the letter I had been composing. An acknowledgment had come from the legal secretary, as well as Laurent. All plans were firmly in place for the morning now. As I signed the letter, Eva knocked on the door frame.

“May I come in?” she asked, hesitating in the doorway.

“Of course, darling, always.” I stood and moved around the desk to lead her into the room and seat her.

“I need my clothes freshened and pressed before morning. Is there someone we pay to do this?” She looked up into my face. I leaned over and kissed her sweet mouth. Ah, our wedding day could not come soon enough.

“There should be a stand by your door, have you seen it?” Eva thought for a moment and nodded yes. “Simply place anything you need to be laundered, mended, or shined on the hanger or shelves, and they will be taken care of. Would you like me to have a lady’s maid brought in for you? It would only take a moment,” I said, kneeling next to her. “It was thoughtless of me not to have you bring one of your young ladies along.”

“Oh no, Mother insisted I bring Sara, but I declined. I wanted to go alone, just you and me.” Eva laughed.

“I will send for someone.” I rose and headed toward the telephone.

“No, it isn’t necessary, darling, I’ll manage,” Eva said after me.

“No, you will not. You will be spoiled. I will only have her come in the morning and evenings, okay?” I accepted her giggle as affirmation and placed a call. Jean was delighted one of us had come to our senses and asked for assistance. “Lucie will arrive in the morning to see to your every need.” I bent over and kissed her hand. “Now, let us head into the dining area. Our supper should be arriving quite soon.”

“Oh, shall I dress?” Eva seemed so uncertain of herself. I had never seen her with so little confidence.

“My darling, if you would like to dine naked sitting in the middle of the table, then you shall.” With that, I swept her up, carried her into the little informal dining area, and plopped her delicious rump right in the middle of the table. Centerpieces and place settings went all over. She broke into contagious laughter, and before I knew it, we were both consumed. Laughing so hard, our ribs ached.

A short while later, our supper arrived. I admitted the very tall gentlemen while Evangeline left to don appropriate clothing. It was not something I relished doing. However, the proprieties must be kept in place. Those in service gossip, as all people do, in one way or another. Our family name meant something, even here, and it would not due to tarnish with outright untoward behavior. I left to wash up, arriving just in time to seat Evangeline in her chair. The waiter stood patiently. Once seated, we began with the wine, then the escargot en route. Eva cried out with glee when he announced it. Then came a tomato bisque I did not care for. Cream and tomatoes together should be listed somewhere as a sin. A trout amandine was served for Eva and, for me, a Chateaubriand.

Eva insisted she was much too full for dessert until he uncovered the selections I had made for her. After all, we were in Paris. Indeed, I had barely scratched the surface, but I had made a good showing. The large tray contained Profiteroles, a small choux pastry filled with ice cream and topped with chocolate sauce. Puits d’amour, pastry filled with jam and topped with caramel. Mousse au chocolat, pain d’epices, and a spiced honey cake. Chocolate custard pots. Brioche, citrus tart, walnut tart made with caramelized walnuts, and many more. I had chosen thirty in all.

Watching her take bites out of the first one then another and another brought me a feeling of sheer joy. She never ate a whole dessert. One was a pear tart, which she insisted I have, knowing my penchant for pear schnapps. Not wanting to disappoint her, I consumed the tart without explaining why schnapps and pastry bore no similarity. Finally, we retired to the sitting room together.

All the staff had quietly left. The suite was all ours. Eva moved out of my arms and took a seat on the chair opposite me. With her panic attack this morning, I knew she would need to talk things through at some point. I felt it coming after our uncontrollable laughter in the dining room. I understood that these were demons she must wrestle with and had tried to give her space. The only course of action was to let her know I was at her disposal. Now we had come to it.

“When Reneé and I left Paris…” She sat silent for a few moments, gathering her thoughts. “Well, we stole, Alexsander. We always say we saved the money, but you could work in this business until you were dead and barely scrape together enough for an apartment. Our mistress suddenly became quite ill. We understood too well what would happen without her shielding us from… well, we shall not speak of that.” The quiet slipped in again. I took advantage and retrieved a schnapps for both of us. So far, the honey liquor I had asked Jean to provide had not appeared, but I had faith in him. I said nothing, allowing her time and space. Eva accepted the drink, sipped at it, then rolled it between her palms.

“We were young, Alexsander, not so young as once, but still young enough to be in extremely high demand. Especially as a pair, we commanded a high fee together.” She hesitated, sipping her drink again, thinking, and this became the routine through what she needed to say. To her credit, she masked over details brilliantly.

“Monsieur Laurent favored Reneé; he too was quite young, but his family is incredibly well off. Much like you, he wanted for nothing. He was raised in the aristocracy, yet with a heart. At first, we talked ourselves out of stealing from him, but eventually became increasingly desperate. He always brought large sums of money so he could settle his bills without his family name becoming involved. Reneé felt she could appeal to his sense of chivalry. She begged for a loan of money, but Laurent had another proposal. He would set Reneé and me up in an apartment. We would need to entertain him and who knew who else at his whim. We considered it but could not see any difference from our current circumstances. We planned carefully. Laurent came to the house every Saturday night without fail, and we were kept on standby specifically for him. When we felt everything was ready. We drugged him with a high dose of sleeping powder, stole his purse, and slipped away. He slept until morning, as expected. When Madame Louise came to extend or end our time together, depending on Laurent’s wishes, we had been gone for almost 11 hours.” Eva rose, took my glass, and refilled both before returning to her place.

“To leave us with enough money to buy a place and travel as far as possible, we were left with several destinations. Not knowing if Laurent would even bother to look for us, we ran to the place we thought least likely to be followed, Austria. The country had been ostracized and was financially vulnerable with a large homeless population; it would be easy to disappear if we needed to. We boarded the train disguised as peasants in the cheapest seats. We kept quiet and did not look at anyone, terrified to be recognized by every man who passed us. Most of the trip took place at night. Originally, we intended to go to Vienna, but we fell in love when we saw Innsbruck, the Alps. The train stopped at the station, and we took the risk of getting off. The rest you can piece together.” She took another drink, sitting back in her chair.

“Returning to Paris after all this time, the skyline, the smells, the feeling of the city, it all became a little too much. I never thought to return here ever again. The ghosts haunt me, such horrible memories, and yet without them, I am not myself. And Reneé, my dearest friend, would not even exist if it were not for the terrible suffering we endured here.” She sighed a heavy sigh.

“I will not pretend to like Paris, but it is a beautiful city under the right circumstances. While here, I intend to show you a side of Paris you did not have the opportunity or luxury to enjoy. However, you need only say so, Evangeline, and I will sweep you into my arms and take you from here.” I hesitated, watching her. Something in her face seemed to ease at my words. “As to Laurent, he visited this afternoon. He sent you his best, quite disappointed not to be greeted by your beauty, I should imagine. Normally, I do not care, but in this instance, I need the rest of the story in order to deal with these circumstances. I hope you understand, my darling.” I leaned over to place a reassuring hand on her knee.

A look of shock briefly crossed her face when I divulged Laurent’s visit. Hopefully, the fact she was kept so insulated as to not even know about his visit brought her some sense of security.

“Laurent was paid back every franc we stole, with the going rate of interest, within five years of our departure. He sent word through our agent that he bore no ill will, missed us desperately, and wished to remain in contact. Reneé still had his heart, it seems. In the beginning, we were doubtful about his feelings. However, in time, he learned our location. We discovered this when he visited the house one night unannounced. Andre recognized and almost killed him before we realized what was happening. We had sent for Andre, you see, he also was close to us here.” Eva stood, moved to the window, and looked out over the city lights. I joined her and placed an exceptionally light hand on her back. She continued.

“Laurent still paid us a small fortune for our services, or shall I say, Reneé’s, without the wagging tongues and prying eyes of Paris. He was free to enjoy Reneé without the complication of my company. He would come once a year or sometimes twice, always on extended stays for a month or two. Over the years, we learned to trust each other. He assisted us in bringing new stock our way from the streets of Paris. We invested in a few businesses with him here, nothing untoward, true upstanding businesses. One was real estate, Reneé convinced me after she doubled her return in a year. When you requested help, he was the logical choice.” With that, she turned and encircled my waist with her arms. “Austria is my home. I have no desire to be here, but I agree. I want to experience the Paris you hear about from tourists coming here on holiday. I trust you to whisk me home at a moment's notice, though.” She laid her head on my chest.

I kissed the top of her head. “I promise to take you home immediately if you request it, but let me spoil you, Evangeline. Let me treat you like the queen you are, my love.”

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The City Of Lights

Breakfast in bed, seamstresses, facials, anything a woman could consider luxury or pampering would be happening for Eva that day. I arose at my typical five o’clock and began making arrangements. Lucile, her lady’s maid, arrived at half after six. Eva would not accompany Laurent and me to the property, however, after my instructions to Lucile, she would join us for supper to be spoiled rotten and dripping in opulence. I left no doubt in Lucile's mind about the amount she would make for taking care of my Eva properly for the time we were in Paris. I left a note with Lucile to give Eva that expressed my undying love and insistence she spend the day being pampered while I attended to business matters.

I had received confirmation from Fritzy that Karl had left on the train. Will had made it to our cousins safely and then to the train. Henry should be reappearing today. Fritzy planned to drive out to the meadows in the late morning. Of course, he sent his love to Eva.

At half after nine, I ventured to the lobby to await Laurent. He arrived early, a credit to him. He looked around me but had the good manners to say nothing about Eva not joining us. Upon waking this morning, I had chosen to use the direct approach with him. As Eva said, we were on a similar playing field in our upbringing. Man-to-man should work quite well.

Once comfortably engaged in the automobile, I minced no words. “Laurent, thank you for your efforts on my behalf. I am grateful to you for taking the time to procure a possible property for my venture. As for Eva, she will join us tonight. I will speak frankly. Mademoiselle Evangeline Allard is my betrothed. She is to be treated as nothing short of royalty. I appreciate your efforts on both of their behalf, and I know you will understand what I mean when I say that Evangeline will leave Paris with her head held high in awe of the city of lights, as you so adequately name her, having experienced no reminder of anything less than the splendor around her from either of us.”

Laurent broke into laughter, extended his hand to shake mine, and pulled me forward, kissing me quickly on each cheek. “Oh Jim, you are everything my lovely Reneé says you are. A pleasure, honestly, it will be as you say. Mademoiselle will experience nothing but the absolute best Paris has to offer. You are both my guests. I will make arrangements for an unforgettable, perfect experience for Her Highness. You will, of course, have approval of everything I submit for consideration," he broke into the most joyous laughter. Laurent truly seemed like one of the happiest men I had ever met.

We arrived at 335 Rue de Poitou. An entourage of tradesmen awaited us in front of the building. Everyone made their way inside, introduced themselves, and expectations were discussed for each trade. The mason, who seemed to be in charge, issued orders, and everyone scattered immediately, heading up the stairs while we took the elevator. The top-down approach was best, we were told by the mason, and we took his advice. We would to the very top and work through each apartment, then go down to the next floor to repeat the process. The building sat empty. I made no inquiries into evictions but prayed a silent prayer that no one had been left homeless. The better part of the day went by. In the end, our leader would put together a report on each trade, what work had to be done, and how urgently it needed to be done. The legal secretary, Laurent, the owner, and I will receive the report by morning. Then we could negotiate. One thing remained, and it would allow me a further measure of Laurent.

Once back in the auto, I directed our driver to 10 Rue Pavee. The driver looked in the rearview mirror briefly and then straight ahead. Yes, I thought, I was well aware of where we were going. Unless I missed my guess, he would have relatives who knew that address if he himself was not often there. Laurent, too, seemed to know the address but said nothing. The poor fellow seemed to struggle to suppress his facial expressions. A few minutes later, we arrived at the address. I begged Laurent's patience as I attended my errand. He gladly acquiesced, saying he had a favorite shop just across the street he would be happy to have time to visit.

Upon entering the synagogue, I sought out the Chief Rabbi. A delightful man, if I may say. With a gentle hint at my purpose, he led us through long, winding halls down into what seemed to be the underbelly of the building. Eventually, we ended up in a small, sparsely decorated room. I wasted no time being honest with him about my purpose in France. Tears came to his eyes for a brief moment. Gratitude was expressed despite my mistaken religious views. We had a fantastic conversation over the next hour. They would help those who wanted to stay as much as possible. Those who wished to move on to other locations in other cities or countries would also be assisted as much as possible in these changing times. I made arrangements for contact between us and Franz if I was unavailable. As well as funds to assist with needs. After many offers to join them for an evening meal, I politely dislodged myself and returned to our vehicle. Laurent assured me he had only recently returned to the car also, and the driver returned us to the hotel, where I offered my farewells and returned to my suites, checking in on Eva on the way.

Reservations were for eight o’clock that evening. Once again, he would join us in the lobby of the hotel. A nap would be required for me to be out until morning. The sitting room adjacent to Eva’s bedroom contained three women and an entire clothing shop. A lady sat at Eva’s lovely feet, painting her toes. She reclined in the strangest chair with things all over her face. I shushed the ladies so they would not disturb her and quietly made my way to my rooms. Divesting myself of my clothing, I decided to put on the silk pants in case someone stumbled into the wrong room. Then I climbed between the sheets. In moments, sleep took me in her arms.

 

Shadows, no, it was fog, fog drifted in front of me. I walked forward slowly, listening, relying on my other senses, and closing my eyes. Just in front of me was the sound of water. I opened my eyes and looked down into a stream. Clear water ran fast in the small stream. I peered into it. A rock protruding from the creek caught my attention. Specifically, the swirling spot where the water rolled off the rock to rejoin the water around it. The swirling held my attention. The pattern seemed familiar. I found myself sitting in the grass beside the stream, watching this spot intently.

“Nothing is set. We all have other doorways. You may choose another doorway. You are choosing even now.” The lady from the mirror was there speaking to me. She stood across the stream from me. Sitting, she reached out and swirled the water with her hand. It turned a different way.

“I don’t understand,” I said, staring at her and the water.

“There is no nightmare. We are here in the unconscious, watching the flow of life. Have you noticed the peace?” She looked at me, waiting for an answer.

“The feeling is soft, like love, a welcome feeling.” I closed my eyes, and Eva was there beside me. She did not interact but merely sat beside me.

“You have chosen love. Keep choosing love and change the doorway.” She stood.

“No, wait,” I stood up, “please, I have so many questions. How do I save everyone? How do I protect everyone? What about the laughing man in the mirror?” I reached out toward her as she began to fade into the fog.

“Choose love, Alexsander. Choose a different doorway.” Her words were a whisper, and she was gone. I jumped over the creek and ran into the fog. Which way, which way had she gone? I ran left. The fog hurt my lungs. It was hard to breathe. “Where are you?” I screamed into the mist. Suddenly, I was falling, the ground beneath me gone.

“Alexsander, wake up!”

The voice shouted so loudly it hurt my ears. I sat straight up in bed, wide awake. My body was covered in sweat. The sheet and my silk pants clung to me, my heart was pounding in my chest. I fell back against the pillows. The room was dark, with a bit of light streaming in from the city lights below. I stared at the ceiling, trying to settle myself down then switched the lamp on next to the bed a few minutes later. Half after five, I had better check on Eva. I splashed water on my face, put on a robe, and went to find her. Ladies scattered as I entered the sitting room. One explained Eva was in the next room having her hair done. I stepped into the doorway of the room. “Eva,” I called.

“Oh, darling, please do not come in yet. I am having my hair done. Oh, Alexsander, wait until you see me. What an extraordinary day!” she called, her voice filled with excitement.

“Quite all right, my love, please be ready by seven o’clock. Our reservations are for eight.”

“I will,” she called back.

With that, I returned to my rooms, called for coffee, and went to the lavatory to begin my preparations. Just hearing her voice made me feel better. A grounded feeling. I thought of Fritzy and suddenly remembered the journal. I stopped my preparations and went to retrieve it from the drawer by my bed. Moving to the study, I wrote down as much of the dream as I could remember. Most of all, I tried to convey the feeling of peace that came over me. The feeling that everything was right and correct in my world. I put the journal next to the bed and returned to the lavatory.

Just before seven o’clock, I made my way to Evangeline’s rooms again. Only Lucile was left now. I could hear them talking and giggling. What a beautiful sound, I thought. The piles of, well, everything, were gone. After another round of giggling, Lucile stepped into the sitting room. “Excuse me, Monsieur, I did not realize you had come in. Mademoiselle is all arranged,” Lucile said as Eva opened her door and stepped into the room. Arranged did not touch what Eva was at that moment.

Stunning! Like the moon itself! She wore a diamond and sapphire tiara, a matching collier ras-du-cou across her décolletage, topped off with matching earrings and bracelets. Her full-length silk gown was the same stunning sapphire color and was set off with white trim, full-length white silk gloves, and shoes. Her black hair glistened in cascading curls down the back of her neck, framing her face just so. Her green eyes flashed fire, and I found myself restraining my baser urges. I crossed to her, “My lady, I find I must ask you once again,” and I dropped to my knee, “Please allow me the privilege of being your husband?” Lucile cried out. Eva giggled like a girl and grabbed my arm, lifting me. She firmly planted a kiss on my cheek with her painted red lips. Then she and Lucile spent the next few minutes trying to get the red off my face, which brought me to laughter. It was like one of the funny comedy routines you would see in the motion picture houses.

At last, I wrapped Eva in a full-length white mink coat. I offered her my arm, and proudly led the way to the elevator. The white mink made everything else genuinely light up. “These items are only on consignment, Alexsander. The staff Lucile brought in arrived with a pile of packages, all filled with outfits, accessories, jewelry. It was a magical experience. They fitted the dress for me at my request. I will purchase it myself. The other items will be returned.” Before I could protest, the elevator doors opened to the grandeur of the lobby. Heads turned for the most stunning woman in Paris, Mademoiselle Evangeline Allard.

Eva stopped in her tracks. I had to pull her forward slyly. “No, my darling, you shall own every item you have on, down to your garters,” I said, returning to our conversation while guiding her over to Laurent.

“Mademoiselle, I have never had the pleasure to witness an angel fallen from heaven. May I be so impolite as to introduce myself? Count Jacques Laurent III, entirely at your service.” Laurent said, finally divulging his true title and absolutely in line with their previous conversation. He bowed so profoundly I thought of a circus acrobat bent literally in half, but he executed it beautifully, gently pressing his lips to her hand. At the same time, his other held his cane-epee, his saber disguised as a cane. A weapon I always admired.

Eva began to curtsy, but I held her firm, whispering, “You simply nod your head, my dear, as if he matters not at all.” She did so and even looked away at the end. Laurent laughed, and in French, he declared her the most perfect creature ever created in heaven or earth. We escorted Eva to the automobile and headed to Le Grand Vefour.

Once in the auto, Eva and Laurent greeted each other appropriately. “My darling, I meant every word I said. You are exquisite. I believe you have finally found the life and the companion you were always meant to have. Which I would like to elaborate on further, if I may call on you in between your future husbands' list of tasks we are completing?”

“But of course, Jacques, you are always welcome wherever my home may be,” Eva said graciously. It piqued my curiosity, but I said nothing. Eva would share it if she felt it was something I should be aware of. The count went on about the fantastic dinner we were about to have and the clubs we would be visiting throughout the night. Then he made inquiries about Reneé. I had the distinct impression the count found Reneé somewhat more than just intriguing. The word love flitted through my head, but that would be absurd. Or would it? Look at the Romans, Greeks, and many other civilizations. A rabbit hole I chose not to drop into at that moment. All of this transpired in French, and I was forced to put aside my vulgar language and converse in French for the night.

Everywhere we went, Eva found herself received the same way. As we entered, the dining room turned like a flock of starlings twisting as one in the air, beginning with those closest to her and rippling through the room to allow everyone present a moment to stare at this stunning creature. Men found any and every plausible reason to make an introduction. Women followed along, trying to gather information on whom this newcomer could be. You could see in their eyes the relief whenever her fiancée was introduced. We dined, danced, and drank our way through just a few of the best places in Paris. The count was kind enough to give us the following night off, but would expect us again at the same time the night after that.

At four in the morning, we arrived at our suite. Poor Evangeline was entirely wiped out, I had to undress her and tuck her into bed. I rang the desk with instructions to leave us in peace until noon. Then I went off to my chambers, changed into the silks, and returned once again to her room. I threw a blanket on the bed and scooted her into the middle with mild whimpers of inconvenience on her part. Then I lay on top, pulled the blanket over me, and pulled her close. The soft whimpers became a sigh, and sleep came like a shot. If she awoke in the night for any reason, I would be beside her to protect her from any demons that might come calling.

 

 

At noon, I was shaving when coffee and an extensive choice of food arrived. I finished, left my collar folded down, and went for the coffee first. I set my cup down, prepared one with cream for Eva, and quietly slipped into her room with it in hand. Lucile was about somewhere, so I did not do anything inappropriate. I wafted some steam from the coffee toward her cute little nose. She stirred, “Mmmm, do I smell coffee?” She did not open her eyes, so I set it on the stand beside the bed and kissed her forehead. She snuggled back into the covers, and I left her. Just as I walked out of the room, Lucile appeared.

“Oh, Lucile, please, may I see you for a moment?” She followed along. I requested she track down every owner of every item in Eva’s possession last night and procure them for me. Then, any dresses, hats, gloves, and so forth she had obviously admired would also be purchased. Additionally, she would need another gown with accessories for the following evening. Lucile looked pleased with my requests. After I had finished giving her the list of tasks, she whisked off like a fairy godmother about to make all Eva’s dreams come true.

Heading back to coffee and food, I lifted the cover on the tray. Thank God, eggs, crisp potatoes, crisp onions, and crisp bacon. “Bless you, Greta,” I said to no one. I should write an entire guide for anyone trying to order these things all at once in the morning in Paris, but I believe it would be useless. After dining, I finished dressing and left for my appointment.

The automobile took me off to the designated meeting. Laurent was obligated to bring the owner, so he had left me to travel alone that day. The building owner wanted more than it was worth, of course. The tradesman had done an outstanding job on the list. My legal counsel broke everything down for the owner in a way that allowed him to understand just how little anyone with a brain would pay him for the building. The owner's legal countered with all the reasons the building was a deal at the asking price. Negotiations began in earnest and went into the evening. I broke away briefly to call the hotel and check on Eva. Everything was fine. Lucile had ordered her an extravagant meal, seeing to all her needs. The seamstresses were just finishing alterations for some of the outfits she would receive. Planning was in the works for tomorrow night's gown. With everything going well there, I was forced to return to the meeting. Finally, we called a halt around seven o’clock, agreeing to begin again at nine o’clock the next morning.

Laurent asked me to a quiet supper just down the road at what he assured me was a quaint bistro. Indeed, quaint might have been a generous description. However, the food was outstanding. Most of the talk revolved around the day's events. Eventually, his conversation wandered off in an unexpected direction.

“Jim, do you know Madame Reneé quite well?” he inquired with a curious tone that left no doubt about the actual question.

“Indeed, we have known each other for many years, in most circles we would be considered close acquaintances.” I hoped that answered the question sufficiently.

“Thank you for your honesty, Jim. I would ask your counsel to confide in you if I may?”

“Certainly,” I replied, a little intrigued. What counsel could I possibly provide?

“When you decided to be with Mademoiselle,” he said, looking around as if for eavesdroppers before leaning in to continue, “how did you circumvent your family?”

Ah, yes, then my intuition was spot on. He wanted Madame Reneé as his wife. Well, hmm, would that be the correct term?

“Absolution,” and I took another bite.

“Absolution from the church?” Laurent went the color of chalk.

“Indeed, she is in penance currently. We will not be able to take our vows until May. However, finding a less-than-reputable priest would have been easy for me. We could have been married quietly, with no one the wiser. Eva needed more, deserved more. She deserved to walk in the light with her head held high, as a Gräfen or duchess, if you will. No secrets, no shadows, with absolution, no one would be allowed to inquire. Otherwise, I could bring the priest in to quell any judgments and let us be completely honest. No Catholic wants to be on the bad side of the clergy.” I finished the last sentence laughing. Laurent joined me, amused by the truth of it.

“Brilliant, Jim, simply brilliant!” His mind looked busy behind his eyes.

“May I be so uncouth as to inquire if Madame returns your level of affection?” I asked. It seemed a bold question, but he had invited my counsel.

“Aww, my Reneé,” he said in a breathy way. His eyes took on a distant, captivated look. If I had not known better, I would have sworn he was staring at her just over my shoulder at that very moment. “She does, Jim. I know it is probably hard to believe. I am not much to look at, I know. She is so charming. It must seem an odd match. Well, along with other complications. No one needs to know those. However, she refuses to risk my family name with the scandal. I have pleaded with her; I will willingly relocate to Austria, or anywhere she likes if only she will marry me.”

“Laurent, do not relocate to Austria. Switzerland, perhaps, to remain close. Surely you are aware of the current dangers to Austria?” We both declined dessert, accepting coffee while the table was being cleared.

“All the more reason to bring her away. You must help me, Jim. My parents have passed. I have only a lone uncle and, of course, cousins now. There is no reason we cannot manage this. Employing a fellow invert for her lady’s maid would be so easy. I have thought of everything. My estates are extensive, and she could live a life of luxury with me. As you say, enough money will procure a quick marriage.” He threw his hands up and sighed. “Still, she will not come to me.”

“Perhaps it is Paris that she will not come to.” I gave him a look I hope conveyed exactly what I meant. “When someone has experienced demons around every corner of a place, why would they ever return?”

“My God!” he exclaimed much too loudly. Looking around, he expressed his apologies to the room. “You have put a finger on the very thing I am floundering for. Reneé hates Paris. She was, well, there were difficulties in her young life. Before Evangeline, that is, Eva truly saved Reneé.’ I could not have survived the atrocities, but of course, this is not a suitable conversation, nor are they my secrets to tell. Thank you, Jim. I believe you have given me the footing I needed. Time will tell.” Laurent gave a little laugh. The plans he was making at that moment played out behind his eyes.

My driver dropped him at an elegant apartment building. Laurent invited me in for a nightcap, but I declined with the excuse of needing to attend to Eva. Agreements were made for coffee in the morning before our meeting, and the driver returned me to the hotel.

 

 

 

One Last Dance

The morning brought rain. I preferred snow, but the warmer temperatures were not unwelcome. Eva had waited for me the previous night, she was full of stories of treats, fittings, baths, a massage, and more. Seeing her brimming with joy brought me an immense amount of peace. I slept with her the same way I had the night before. I was there to chase any fears away during the night. Once again, though, she slept like a baby. I returned to my room, lay on the bed, and fell asleep. An hour later, I awoke. A dream floated just out of reach, a shadow but no clear memory and no headache.

The clock showed almost six, late for me. I arose to find coffee awaiting me in my sitting room. Shaved, dressed, and ready to go, I went to the study and arranged to put a call through to the Meadows. I then reviewed the brief for the meetings that morning. Father’s choice of legal representation was impeccable, as always. Sometime during the night, the brief was delivered by courier. The telephone rang. Klaus was on the other end.

“Good morning, Mein Herr. What may I assist you with?”

“Good morning, Klaus. Is Herr Franz up and about yet?”

“Indeed, he was, but they departed a half hour ago. Herr Franz said he would be contacting you this evening.”

“Thank you, Klaus, that will be fine.”

“Oh, Mein Herr, my Greta wishes to please send her regards to Lady Eva.”

“Of course, Klaus, and she returns them. Take care, my friend.”

Where had he gone? Would Henry already have left? He had only just arrived. Perhaps something had happened. I stopped before my mind could become too entangled. I needed to be focused that morning. We required this building, and I wanted to keep the cost reasonable. My eggs, potatoes, onions, and bacon appeared at half past seven. In the dining area, one look told me it was a different chef, and I called for Jean. He appeared moments later. I explained the problem. He left, exasperated and apologetic. Coffee and Laurent arrived directly after him.

We went through the pleasantries and sat in the dining room for coffee.

“You may not be able to bring him down much lower, Jim,” Laurent advised, trying to prepare me for our next round of bartering.

“I believe counsel will win the day,” I said confidently.

Eva appeared, looking for the entire world like her lady's maid had done her hair and makeup and pressed her outfit before she even got out of bed. We both stood to receive her.

“You are ravishing this morning, my dear,” Laurent said, assuming his graceful hand-kissing gesture.

“Good morning, my darling.” I chose her forehead for my kiss.

Eva hugged me, thanked Laurent, stole a piece of bacon from my discarded breakfast, and took a seat with us.

“May I sit in? A discussion of business rather than color palettes is precisely what I need this morning,” she said sweetly. I handed her a coffee with cream. “You spoil me so,” she said, sipping her coffee and closing her eyes with pleasure. Down boy, I thought to myself.

“Then you are in luck, my dear, for we are discussing the acquisition of a building here in the city,” Laurent beamed.

“Of course, I am privy to why we are in Paris, my darling count,” Eva said as gently as possible, yet still conveying the do-not-indulge-me voice.

Poor Laurent looked at me with mild surprise as he was simply following my instructions to keep her as shielded as possible.

“We simply choose to spare you the details. No one is implying you are anything but a worthy adversary when it comes to business or people,” I said with mirth.

Eva must have realized her misstep. “My apologies, Laurent. I appreciate all of the efforts both of you are making on my behalf. Honestly, though, I would relish the details of negotiations on the building.”

Feelings smoothed, I nodded at Laurent, and he launched into the entire building condition. The owner's monetary desires, his unwillingness to participate in repairs, etc. While they discussed how to conquer Paris, my food returned. Thankfully, it arrived exactly how I had received it the previous morning. Jean, all apologies, assured me it would not happen again. He then produced the bottle of BärenJäger I had requested, beaming like a proud hunting hound returning the kill to his master. He presented the bottle of liqueur to me as one might show an engagement ring. I stifled a laugh, thanked him profusely, and gave him high praise for managing to procure something surely not available anywhere in France. He then secured it in the bar for me with a look of complete satisfaction.

Laurent looked at my food, spit out vulgar French words, and covered his mouth.

“Do not say a word, either of you. I like my breakfast exactly like this, and certainly do not want a croissant.”

They both laughed and broke into a tirade in French about my food, everything about my food, and finishing with their high opinion of me despite my habit of eating burnt food in the morning. I ignored them, enjoying every bite and coffee. Eva took Laurent off to see her latest items while I finished eating in peace.

Afterward, Laurent and I donned our coats and hats and gathered our umbrellas. “Remember to nap, darling. Laurent is spoiling us again tonight.” I kissed her thoroughly and we headed down to the lobby.

Negotiations were heated. I had met privately with my counsel before the meeting, giving him permission to proceed unrestricted. Therefore, most of the day, I sat observing the battle of wits. In the end, he obtained the building for less than even I had expected and received agreement to many of our stipulations. Laurent and I had made a little wager in the automobile on the way over. He winked at me in acknowledgment as everything came to a close.

“My driver will call for you promptly at eight o’clock,” he said as we parted ways.

Back at the hotel, I found Eva just getting out of the bath. She also planned to rest. Lucile arranged to return at six o’clock. I had a light snack, divested myself of my clothes, and climbed into bed. I was slipping off to sleep when Eva climbed in beside me.

“A poor idea, my love,” I said, trying to rouse myself.

“Ssshhhh,” she said, running her fingers along my temple and cheek. Sleep took me at once.

I heard someone speaking. The bed felt so good. Laying still, I listened. Female voices whispering to each other. As I came out of sleep, I recognized Lucile and Eva’s voices.

“Yes, I think so. I will be right over to begin getting ready.” I heard her coming back toward the bed.

“Turn the lamp on, would you, my dear?” I asked. She let out a little noise.

“Oh, Alexsander, you scared me. How long have you been awake? We were trying to be quiet. I should have stepped out of the room,” she said, coming over, switching on the lamp, and sitting beside me.

“Nonsense, are you off to prepare for tonight then?” I adjusted the pillows to sit up.

“Yes, Lucile was just checking with me to see when I would like to start.”

“Very well, I will not keep you.” I sat up and kissed her. She turned, climbed on top of me, and kissed me deeply. I grabbed her, rolling over and pinning her under me. The fever of her body hit, and I lost myself, hands trying to find buttons, lips looking for tender places. Then Eva sat up quickly, looked at me, grasped her heart, and said something about seeing me naked being too much. She promptly left the room. Indeed, I was very naked and in desperate need of her. Where was that damn pitcher of ice water?

 

 

A half-hour before departure, I donned my tuxedo and accessories. The timing was perfect. Eva appeared in the vestibule as I was heading to her room to escort her. Once again, she amazed me. She wore a similar silk gown to the previous night, but more elegant somehow, perhaps the cut of the open sleeve on the shoulder. A bright white silk once again set off the crimson red of the dress, jewels, and gloves. Her hair was piled high on her head tonight, begging me to remove her jewels and kiss her lips to her collarbone, down to her beautiful full breasts. “Scheisse!” I said. Eva looked down as if something were wrong with her outfit. “No, my love, you are beyond radiant. The problem is me.” She followed my gaze, blushing, which I found fascinating. After all that she had been through, she was still able to blush at something so ridiculously male. “As you can see, you are such a radiant creature, I have no control over myself.” I buttoned my jacket, slyly adjusted myself, and reached for her hand. “Rubies suit you, Evangeline, my love.” I wrapped her arm around mine, took her to the door, placed her mink coat around her, and turned her toward the mirror opposite us.

The white mink against the red silk made the blue from the last dress seem dull. She shone like a beacon across the room. A little gasp escaped her, “We are the most beautiful couple I have ever seen. I know that sounds terribly vain. Father, forgive me.” She made the cross sign. I laughed and swept her around to the door. Tonight, the elevator contained other occupants. One gentleman struggled to stop staring at her, but there was nowhere else to look due to his position in the elevator. Finally, he stared at his shoes. She felt stiff as a statue. I whispered cute little sayings in her ear until she began to giggle. Her body relaxed, and I eased her fingers on my arm. She must have realized the death grip she’d had and relaxed her fingers.

Again, we stepped off the elevator to a stunned crowd. And again, Laurent made himself known, performed his incredible bow, kissed her hand, and tonight, Eva executed her curt nod with precision. Our evening began at Le Jockey Club, Laurent deftly taking us to the most popular and elegant establishments once again. At two in the morning, we still had not gone anywhere we had already been. Laurent assured me that if we stayed a month, he could see we never frequented the same establishment twice.

In one club there was a cabaret I do not recall the name of. A gorgeous lady, perhaps in her late 20s, found me at the edge of the loud crowd against the wall. She did not realize Eva had stepped into the ladies’ room, and I had chosen this spot to await her, as it offered an unobstructed view. Being a little the worse for wine, she made no pretense about her intentions. I leaned forward and whispered to her, “My wife will not appreciate your advances.” She reared back laughing and, with a distinctive slur, said, “I don’t give a damn what your wife thinks, you just unbutton those pants, and I’ll take care of the rest.”

Much to the lady’s regret, Evangeline walked up as the words left her mouth. Eva pulled the belligerent woman into the lavatory by her arm. When she reappeared, she was alone. “Should we move on to the next establishment?” I asked.

“It would be for the best.” She smiled and calmly led the way back to Laurent.

We finished off with a late night or, I should say, early morning supper. We were laughing and joking like old friends. It was a comfortable experience. It was no surprise when Laurent began waxing melancholy for Reneé to be there with us.

“Perhaps our prior discussion is best shared with Eva,” I suggested. He thought about it momentarily, nodded his head yes, and began to quietly pour his heart out to Eva, recounting our conversation from the previous evening.

“Oh Monsieur, Reneé adores you. She has always adored you, but as you say, it is impossible. Reneé detests Paris in a way, well, you understand. Have you explained to her that she could live anywhere she wants?” Eva took his hand as she spoke. She was so gentle with him, like a mother to a child.

“No, I have only begged her to come away with me. I assured her she shall want for nothing. With my parents gone, she will be a great lady with estates and titles. No one need know anything about her indiscretions.” Laurent seemed close to tears.

“There now, I propose you go to her, declare your feelings, and provide a thorough explanation of her options. She may look at the prospect in another light once you have disclosed your willingness to have a home elsewhere.” Her words brought joy into his eyes. He smiled and laughed.

“Very well, I will depart with you. With your permission, of course.” He looked at me.

“We will be happy to have you along. Although, we will have to leave you in Feldkirch. We have an appointment in Vaduz at the end of the month.” I put my arm around Eva and pulled her in to kiss the top of her head. “Now, let us get some rest. We have much to do tomorrow, well, today.” We made our way back to the auto. Laurent deposited us at the hotel and continued home.

Once in our rooms, I assisted Eva with her hairpins, jewelry, and dress. Then I went to my room to change. We assumed our same sleeping arrangement. As we lay relaxing into each other, I asked, “Does Reneé truly have feelings for Laurent?”

“The same as my feelings for you, my love. She fell in love with him on our first night together. Of course, you cannot allow yourself those feelings. We have discussed this.” She snuggled closer.

“Will she relinquish her current life and go with him?” I found myself genuinely curious.

“I believe, under the current circumstances, if he gives her workable options and marries her, then yes. As he says, it is easy to hide the things that need to be hidden, especially with his wealth.” Eva’s voice became softer. She would begin to drift off now. I prompted her to roll over and wrapped myself around her. Thankfully, the large quilt helped keep a decent barrier between us. Her breathing told me she had fallen asleep. I lay awake thinking how lucky we were. If anything at all had been slightly different we would not be here, if I had died in the war, if she had failed to escape Paris, if she had not come upon Reneé that night. If Laurent had not frequented the brothel, carried so much money, and insisted on the two of them. If I had never gone against God and utilized her establishment in Innsbruck. A million ifs.

The lady warned me to choose the door of love. Is that an if? If I do not stay with Eva every day, then what? What about Franz, Will, Karl, and Henry? What about Schuschnigg? What about all those who want out, want to save their families, themselves? Isn’t that love? Protecting them is an act of love. I drifted off, seeing a hallway of doors in my mind. Each door has two large letters on the front. Like numbers on apartment doors, except these were all the same. Each door had IF in ornate writing.