Mystery and Mayhem and St Marks

Mystery and Mayhem At St Mark's

A Sequel

by

Joel

Seq: 24:

Some of the Characters Appearing or Mentioned: Mark Henry Foster The story-teller: Newly graduated. Tristan (Tris) Price-Williams His well-proportioned boyfriend. Francis Michael Foster Alias Toad/Gobbo Mark's younger brother Adam Benjamin Carr Mark's cousin: newly appointed History Fellow Ivo Richie Carr Ditto, as his twin, safely married diplomat Sophia Carr Their mother in Dorset George Carr Their father: A farmer Victoria ['Tory] Carr Ivo's wife George Henry Carr Ivo and 'Tory's new-born son Sir Henry Machin 'Tory's father, something in the City Lady Mary Machin 'Tory's mother Ignasz Zendener The hotel manager in Strelzen Tomas, Igor, Frantischek; Receptionists and students Aloys zum Adamszberh Rector of the Rodolfer University Jerzy zum Adamszberh His son, studying at Cambridge Tadeuz Galenosz A botanist, also at Cambridge Herr Diesselhorst A relieved Minister of the Interior Dr Claude Valentin Organist of the Cathedral of St Vitali Andrei zu Glottenberh Rothenian Army Officer [Special Services] Lucasz Voynovich Rothenian Army Officer [Signals Division] David Vinodosj Secret police

Tuesday Morning

The night before Jerzy and Tad had taken us to a real, old, Rothenian rustic inn just by the river which specialised in fish dishes and a very good local-brewed light beer. Both had been in really bubbly moods and their cheerfulness had been quite infectious. We twitted Jerzy on the way he had seduced the three lads with his charm. His response was rather rude as he said he'd noted their definite sexual arousal when Tris was talking to them. I pouted and said what about me. 'Drooling' was his considered opinion. Tad asked where? Jerzy said from the wetness of lips and certain quiet rearrangements he would leave him to guess.

To change a rather arousing subject we then heard Tad's plants were thriving and his other things were growing well, too, we were informed. We didn't enquire too closely what, but it turned out these were more specimens he had fertilised artificially. Jerzy made some more rude comments and got a thump for those. We heard that Jerzy's supervisor had praised him over a chapter he'd written and his Grandfather had sent him some money as Stepan was coming to visit on Thursday for the weekend. A bit of speculation over what might happen to him took fertilisation as a main theme! From the comments it seemed both Jerzy and Tad had major plans for his complete seduction. Pity we couldn't be there to help as our return was scheduled for Friday so I could be in Cambridge on Saturday for my BA degree conferment ceremony. 'Spoil sport' was Tris's comment when I said he certainly wasn't being left behind as he was due to go to work on Monday if he had passed his exams. He had forbidden his Mother from opening any envelopes! When we took the tram back to the hotel we were happy, replete and slightly not sober. But, being good, red- blooded and youthful that was no bar to a most pleasant session of quiet but intense love-making. A little more than slightly exhausted we both slept like logs. It was only the insistent ringing of Tris's little alarm clock at eight in the morning that made us surface.

I slid out of my bed and joined him. "Another interesting day, no doubt," I said as I kissed the back of his neck as he was still leaning over to silence the clock.

He let out a long breath. "As long as the Cardinal doesn't take too long opening the box."

I snuggled closer. "Bit like that telly programme. All the audience yelling 'Open the box!'."

"Well, I don't suppose we'll have much of an audience. Ivo'll be there and no doubt Father Artur will be hovering." He turned over to face me and we had to shift a bit so I didn't get shoved off the edge of the bed. "He's strange. But he grows on you."

"Yes," I said, "I just wondered that first time I met him, you know, when he translated for me. He just seemed to pop up. He's always around and he knows a lot and he doesn't reveal much." I put an arm round Tris and held him gently. "That reminds me. That Ministry man mentioned 'guardians' and said he'd come to that later. He never did and no one asked any questions about it."

"I guess most of them thought it was a minor point. Much more interesting for the military and for the police that a major criminal had been found. And I bet getting a load of up-to-date free equipment and a stash of money is much more important than some esoteric historical notion for most of them."

"There was interest in the gold disc," I said. "Father Artur was making notes when it was mentioned and he was studying that photo of Brett holding it very intently."

"Yeah, but that was Father Artur, he's a priest and a medieval historian, so he would be interested. I expect the others thought it was something put in the mausoleum like a crucifix or a picture of the person who had died. Like all those tombs in Italy. Pictures of the departed."

"But, don't you remember, all the soldiers, including Andrei, crossing themselves when they saw it."

I felt Tris shrug his shoulders. "But Saint Fenice is revered so that was a natural response."

"But I felt something, too," I said, "It was as if we were being protected." I had felt that familiar warm zephyr.

Tris twitched. "Yep, I know what you mean. I must admit I felt something, too. I can't explain it. Like I can't explain things when I'm at Ulvescott."

"And those toughs being Tasered. That was no secret military device. That happened before the helicopters arrived."

Tris put his arms round me. "I know, I know. I just can't explain it."

"That's what I mean we were protected. I'm sure that wasn't man-made."

Tris's hug tightened. "Too much to contemplate. Perhaps we should talk to Father Artur."

The next few minutes were lost in contemplation of something just as strange. How two people could love and cherish each other so completely. That deliberation over we got up, sated or satiated, and got ready for the day. We had an invitation for coffee at Ivo and 'Tory's to say cheerio to the two mothers-in-law. Hopefully, we might get some lunch as well before going to the Legation to retrieve the box and make the journey to the Cardinal's Palace. We dressed casually first to go next door for breakfast. In Reception Tomas was busy showing a pair of the Germans a map of the city. Sightseeing we surmised as they were dressed a bit more soberly. As the pair went out of the hotel Tomas turned to us and held up a finger.

"Please, you see Cardinal today?"

How the Hell pardon - how did he know? Answered straight away. He must have seen the look on our faces. He held up his mobile phone.

"All boys have handy. We talk all time. They say this afternoon. Now, I ask. You want trousers pressed? I do. Make very smart!"

Tris looked at me and nodded. "Good idea. Thanks, I'll go and get them." He disappeared up the stairs.

We'd noted a stairway down and Tris had explored that at sometime and reported on a utility area with washing machines, dryers and ironing equipment, plus a fully equipped kitchen. Probably a throwback to when the hotel did it's own laundry and served breakfasts.

Tomas was ready for a chat. "I good. My Mutti teach me. Work in hotel would be useful she say. I do, I mean, did for American and he was very happy. He say I better than Solly someone. I do not know him." He pointed to the rack with the brochures. "You like Zenda?"

I said we had enjoyed the visit and it was a pity he and Igor couldn't have joined us.

He shook his head. "I do not like that palace. Town OK. Castle OK. Palace no! I was lost there when little and got frightened. I think I saw ghost and screamed. Not good for little children."

"But the story is good. And now you have a King."

His face brightened. "That is very good. He at school in England. Near you?"

I explained carefully that he was at Oxford University. Like the Rodolfer and that I had met him. I didn't say how or why, but that he'd visited the College I was at in Cambridge. I wondered if I should show him the postcards I had upstairs. Sometime. I would leave Tris to explain!

Tris appeared with our trousers. "Be careful," he said, "No burnt holes, eh!"

Tomas laughed as he carefully took them. "Ready soon. I wait for Franzi then do."

We took our time over breakfast. We had to as most of the German party were already there and were keeping Jelka and the other waitress very busy as plates of cold meats and cheese, baskets of bread and pots of coffee were ferried in. We were welcomed with waves and nods. They were a happy lot and the incident of the bed had not been forgotten as every time one of the ladies got up fingers were pointed at her chair and hands pumped up and down. Priapus and his paramour were not around and I just wondered if her husband was present.

As we had time to spare we went for a little wander and watched the people go past again. "No fat hairy man watching us," said Tris. No, just a pleasant morning and people going about their business.

On return to the hotel Tomas had done his job for us. Yes, beautifully done and, no doubt, better than Solly someone! Tris tucked a couple of multi-krone notes in his pocket as he said he didn't want anything. "For the Spa!" Tomas laughed and pointed at Franzi who was at his usual job of putting out more brochures. "We go tomorrow. New boy come here today as well."

We went up to the bedroom and Tris fired up his laptop. A couple of e-mails from Brett with attachments showed the happy couple surrounded by the Stags all in top hats and tails. Another from Frankie wanted to know what we had found as a present for him, with a 'p.s.' at the end for Tris. 'Your Mum disobeyed orders and you've passed. Your Dad says you have grounds for damages'. As I had been convinced it would be a foregone conclusion all I said was 'As expected' and then gave him the most loving hug and kiss I could muster. We had to hurry after that and checked that each looked presentable. Luckily we had clean shirts and we'd both brought College ties with us so we didn't think we looked too bad.. As we could hardly carry the box in it's wrappings when we collected it I slung my bag over my shoulder, but not before Tris had put Herbert the Bear in it's box into it as well. So, looking very smart, we said cheerio to the lads and Ignasz and sauntered off towards Ivo and 'Tory's.

What a reception! The ladies did a double take seeing two so suave young Englishmen, suited but not spurred! "Just for us?" Aunt Sophie said, "Though I must say my pair scrub up well on occasion." A muffled 'Mum!' from Ivo who was holding George Henry wrapped in a voluminous woollen shawl. Notwithstanding that greeting we dutifully kissed both and Tris immediately got the box out of my shoulder bag.

"Look what we found!" He extracted the furry toy and held it up in front of George Henry. "For you, from us!"

The ladies laughed and Ivo took the bear and held it up. "I think you're getting a bit broody, mate. Anyway we've decided to ask you and the other object if you would consider being Godparents...."

Poor Ivo, being kissed in front of his Mum! Actually we both kissed him and I pinched his bum as well for calling me an object.

Anyway, the line-up of Godparents was going to be impressive. Not only us but Adam, Andrei and Lucasz, plus 'Tory's two sisters. Where? Here at the Anglican Church two Sundays ahead. Yep, we could put off Italy, or even fly there from here. Oh, yes, a family do. If Dad wasn't fiddling, he, Mum and Toad would be coming. Otherwise, Mum and Toad. And I could mentally hear Toad chuntering 'Why not me as well?'. Still, I expect they would have more kids and he could have second helpings.

'Tory came in while all that was going on. She got kissed as well. "All this excitement. It'll be bad for him." By him she meant Ivo. "At least he knows how to change the babe." Ivo wrinkled his nose.

"Don't worry, dear," his Mother said, "You were just like that once."

After that coffee was served and both Tris and I were allowed to hold George Henry. He opened one eye and then the other and snuffled his nose. He smiled. Or was it wind. It didn't matter, I just wondered if I could ever be like Ivo? I looked at Tris and really smiled. I had him. Fatherhood was not for me, I thought. At least, not yet!

Yes, we did get invited to stay for lunch which was rather hurried as the ladies had to get to the airport. Kisses, hugs, and they were off in a taxi. No train for them, too many bags according to Ivo!

We walked with Ivo to the Legation and were warmly welcomed by Mr Marriott. It was Miss Grant's turn to be glad-handing somewhere - increasing the entente cordiale or equivalent in Rothenian! Just before half-past two he opened the safe and I took the box out. I opened the wrapping to see it again and wondered what it held. Rewrapped, I placed it carefully in my bag which Tris then held as we went downstairs for the car journey. Andrei was to be our driver again. We solemnly shook hands. No hugs as the soldiers on guard were watching. He was in his officer's uniform but as Ivo had explained he was on secondment. Ivo sat in front with him with us on the back seat. Tris was still holding the bag and placed it on his knees as we set off at twenty to three. The guards came smartly to attention, ported their rifles and saluted.

"Traffic shouldn't be too bad," said Ivo looking at his watch, "I've told Andrei to drive carefully so as not to upset the old maids in the back." I saw Andrei's shoulders heave. "Must say you do look quite smart. I put my College tie on as well." I got a slight impression dear Ivo was a little agitated. Silence fell and I looked at Tris. His lip curled and he winked. Meeting a Cardinal. It all seemed a bit unreal.

We soon skirted the Rodolfsplatz and were sailing along the Domstrasse toward the river, the bridge and the old town. I was just about to say to Tris that we hadn't visited the Osten Tor which looked interesting when the car braked sharply and swerved to the left out of the right-hand lane. The windows on the driver's side, my passenger side, shattered as bullets or something whizzed past me. Instinctively I curled up and rolled down in the wide gap between the front and back seats. I felt a sharp jabbing pain in my left arm but glanced up at Tris who was lolling against the window on his side. His eyes were closed and I could see blood. "Tris!" I screamed and tried to put out both hands but I couldn't reach him as the car swerved crazily again and there was a sickening thud and a crunch somewhere outside.

Ivo was shouting something at Andrei who had got the car on an even keel again. I heard "To the hospital! Quick!" He had his mobile out and was dialling. I couldn't hear who he was speaking to. As I got up again I glanced out of the broken window on my side. I think I saw a motor-cycle on its side and a black car smashed into a lamp post or a tree. I shook my head. Around the motorcycle and near the car there were lads with bicycles on the ground. I heard a moan. It was Tris. I slid along the seats. His nose was bleeding and there looked like a gash on the right-hand side of his head.

"You OK?" I asked. He looked rather dazed and didn't reply immediately. He was still clutching the bag. I held onto it, too. Very clearly I heard a voice. A woman's voice. "Do not waver. Have no fear." I shook my head and looked around. It was as if time stood still for a moment. I saw Ivo holding his mobile. Andrei was gripping the wheel. We were travelling very fast, almost as if we were flying. The moment passed and the car swerved again and stopped. The doors were flung open and the next thing I knew I was on a hospital trolley. I heard myself calling out "My Tris, don't let him die!" I must have passed out. Shock, I suppose.

I remembered slightly having my jacket, then my shirt removed. I just about remembered having an injection and someone putting stitches in my arm. I came to after that as a nurse was bandaging my arm. "Where's Tris?" I asked. I turned my head as the orderly just pointed. Tris was on a trolley next to me in the same cubicle. Yes, he was breathing as another male nurse was swabbing his bloody cheek and another man, I assumed a doctor, was looking at the side of his head. I was still clutching the bag. "What happened?" No response from the nurse but he smiled at me.

A rather dishevelled Ivo came into the cubicle with two large policemen flanking him. "Mr Marriott's going to do his bloody nut! That was his favourite car!" What a time to worry about a car. But, no, it was Ivo's way of trying to defuse the situation. "Anyway, the pair of you are OK. You've got a scratch and luckily his head's so thick they think he'll recover in a couple of year's time once it's stitched."

"Is Tris really OK?"

Ivo gripped my right hand. "Of course he is. He banged his head against the window when dumbcluck swerved and must have hit his own nose and made that bleed."

I'll dumbcluck Ivo when I'm off this trolley! "And Andrei?"

"Moaning because he's got a jacket full of that toughened glass from the windscreen. He's dancing about out there like Tinkerbell spreading fairy dust! And don't ask about me!"

"Are you OK?" I asked at last.

He put his head near mine. "Bloody shaken up. I had a feeling something might happen. Andrei was a bit tense, too." He gripped my hand tighter. "He saved us. No doubt."

"I heard a voice," I whispered.

Ivo's beard stroked my cheek as he bent even closer. "So did I."

"What about the Cardinal?" I asked. No good. Ivo had straightened up and was speaking to the policemen in Rothenian. One held up his walkie-talkie and went out of the cubicle. The doctor had finished looking at Tris and came over to Ivo. Another conversation in Rothenian. The doctor gave me a thumb's up and went off.

"OK," said Ivo, "He's gone off to get the medical photographer as he thinks evidence will be needed so your and his damaged beauty will be immortalised. Now listen, they want to keep you overnight. " As I started to protest he held up a hand. "Shut up and listen. You've both been given a shot of something, you've both had stitches in, but they really want to keep both of you in because of shock. You may not think so but we've all been through quite a traumatic occasion. They're going to check Andrei and me as well so we'll be around at least until you're in bed." The policeman came back. More talk. I looked at Tris. He was fully round now. The nurse was dealing with his cut head.

Ivo bent down to my level. "My friend here says the Cardinal has been informed. There have been three arrests and, thanks to a posse of lads none of the miscreants got away. I think the lads will be offered places in the next Rothenian rugger international as the tackles were spectacular according to matey here."

"Who were they?"

That question was answered as another policeman, laughing his head off, headed a procession into the waiting area as Ivo pulled back the curtain of the cubicle. Igor, Pyotor, Yniold, Tomas and Frantischek stood in a row staring at Tris and me and looking very much the worse for wear. Our Baker Street Irregulars!! Their once clean and tidy clothes were torn, a couple of knees were bloodied. Tomas sported the beginnings of a black eye and Igor and Pyotor had bloodstained fists.

Ivo went up to each and hugged them. If Tris had a mystical effect then Ivo's beard must have added to it. Each had a starry-eyed smile as hugs were reciprocated. Ivo said something and they all, quite spontaneously, crossed themselves.

He turned to a rather intrigued and bemused group of policemen and nurses, and us. He said something first in Rothenian and two of the policemen also crossed themselves.

"I just said a grateful thankyou to the lads and said we were all safe because of the blessed Saint Fenice. You heard her and I heard her...."

"...And I heard her, too!" It was Andrei who swept the lads with a great wave of his hand and came over to us. "We are safe. I am waiting for news and instructions." He swayed and the male nurse next to me grabbed him. Andrei stood up and raised a hand. "Even I wondered what might happen." He looked at Ivo. "Your SAS taught me to drive. Was it OK?" Even Ivo had nothing to say. He grasped Andrei's hand in both of his and the smile said it all.

Just then a photographer came in and took photos of us and the line-up of injured lads. The policemen and Andrei talked together and I asked Ivo to get the nurses to check the lads when the photographer had finished. Two more nurses, female this time, came through and the lads were ushered into other curtained cubicles.

Ivo came and leaned on my trolley. "Bloody hell," he said, "I feel sick!" My male nurse carefully took his arm and sat him down and gave him a receptacle. Shock had got to him as well. The nurse went to the cubicle opening and the doctor soon came in. I couldn't quite see what he did but he was also asking him questions. His jacket was removed and his shirt sleeve rolled up and he waited until a nurse brought a phial of something. I shut my eyes as he had his injection.

Andrei came in. Yep, that tough guy looked a bit pale, too. He was also given the once over by the doctor. The doctor made some notes on a clipboard and then was wagging his finger at the pair before he left. Andrei stood up and came over to me. "He says we have to take it quietly for the next couple of days." He smiled. "First time I've been under gunfire for real."

"Was I hit. I can't feel anything in my arm." Would I be able to play again was my worry.

Andrei questioned the nurse who indicated a metal bowl and a syringe.

"He says you have a punctured flesh wound, a muscle tear which should heal quickly. It has been stitched. Not a bullet hole, probably a piece of sharp metal. He says you can't feel anything as you have been given an injection. I think it may have been part of the window frame of the car that did it. We were sprayed by bullets from a Uzi or something like that." He looked solemn. "We were not hit. At that range, why not?"

"Not luck," I said, "We were being protected. And you know by whom."

He gripped my right hand. "I know. I will go to the Cathedral when I leave here. I left my beliefs behind as a boy but there are some things."

I moved so I could release his grip and then held his hand. "It is strange but I know what you mean. We must talk and you must come back to England and Tris and I will take you to a very special place."

He nodded. "Ivo has said about that special place. He wants to take 'Tory and George Henry there as well. That baby is special, too. He smiles when I hold him. Ivo says it's just wind but I know." He smiled. "I want to meet your brother, too." I gripped his hand harder and he winced.

I managed a laugh. "My brother will want to meet you, too. He'll be here for the Christening and he'll take charge."

"I have a young brother like that. He is seventeen and at school in the town I come from. Our name almost. Glottenburg it is now." He smiled. "He has a good job this summer vacation. He's a page-boy at the Palace. He looks very good in his uniform."

"Is he going to join the Army?"

He shook his head. "He wants to become a doctor. He is a clever boy but he plays tricks on me so I call him die Krote."

I just burst out laughing. I knew that. In Wagner's 'Das Rheingold' Alberich changes himself into something small when he puts on the Tarnhelm the second time and is captured. 'Eine Krote', a Toad! Young brothers must be all the same! Another bond between us. He laughed when I told him and we gripped hands.

The doctor came back in and there was more talk. Andrei explained. "He says we all have to stay overnight. He may give me an injection if I do not feel well. It is for our interest. The porters will take you up to a ward. Ivo and I will be in the next one."

It was all quite speedy. Tris and I were in a two-bed ward and I saw Ivo and Andrei being escorted into the one next door. I hadn't worn pyjamas for years but I was soon in bed and looking at Tris who seemed just as dozy as I was. There was more kerfuffle as a rather distraught 'Tory appeared, first going into the second ward and then when she had seen us looking comfortable calmed down. Another visitor next door was Andrei's Colonel. He came in to see us as well. His English was rudimentary but 'Tory did the translating. He was both devastated and extremely happy he said. We should not have to experience such things, but they were confident they would be arresting some rather interesting people. He was still with us when a protesting male nurse was more or less elbowed aside by a very het-up Father Artur. Here were we, supposed to be shell-shocked, or whatever, being invaded.

But no! It certainly wasn't Father Artur. Dressed the same, cassock, dog- collar and all, but I knew it wasn't him. 'Tory and the Colonel were standing stiff and silent.

"Where is the box?" the apparition shouted in perfect English. "Give it to me!"

No way. The box was safe in my shoulder bag and that was in bed with me. But, staring at the red-faced cleric I felt in the bag and pulled out a photograph. How it was chosen amongst the half-dozen or so I don't know but I knew it was the one of Brett holding the St Fenice disc high above his head. I held the photo up high as well. There was a dazzling light. The cleric turned and was gone. The male nurse came in looking rather shattered. He said something rapid to the Colonel who seemed rather dazed. 'Tory was her composed self. "The nurse says he went straight through a closed window. No broken glass."

There was silence then the real Father Artur appeared. He wasn't red-faced, ranting or raving, but just out of breath. The male nurse was on his knees crossing himself.

"I got here as fast as I could. The Domstrasse is closed off. Are you alright? His Eminence is mortified. It was all I could do to stop him coming." He looked at the Colonel then at 'Tory. The Colonel still seemed dumbstruck. "What did you see?"

'Tory looked him up and down. "Well it certainly wasn't you. I think we've been visited by something else. I don't know a name for it. A demon perhaps? And Mark got rid of it with that photo."

Father Artur picked up the photo. After studying it he put it down on the bed, bent his knee and crossed himself. "All is well now, Madame," he murmured as if to himself. Then louder to all of us. "I was afraid that something like that might happen."

Two others came into the room. Both in pyjamas. Ivo and Andrei. Andrei went up to the Colonel and spoke to him quietly in Rothenian. The Colonel nodded and went and knelt in front of Father Artur who placed his hand on his head and closed his eyes. There was a pause in time.

Father Artur smiled as the Colonel stood up and said something.

"The Colonel knows about such things," he said as Andrei moved over to stand by his boss. "He experienced something like that recently. I cannot tell you what because I have to obey the seal of the confessional and he of instructions we have both been given. All I can say is that we are a strange country with strange happenings."

'Tory was not to be outdone. "Is this about the disappearances we aren't supposed to know about?"

He smiled. "Exactly. But that is all I am permitted to say." He raised a hand. "Someday, perhaps. And I promise there will be no cover-up. His Eminence has his instructions, too." He looked around. "You have things safely." This directed at me and there was a hint of a wink. He looked at the Colonel and spoke in Rothenian. We waited as when he finished the Colonel nodded. "I have asked him for you to be protected fully and if all is well we can meet at the Cathedral on Thursday." He looked at 'Tory. "Perhaps we should go down and talk to the boys. They were very brave. We shall have to arrange new clothes." He turned to the male nurse who was still on his knees and looked as if a night in bed to relieve shock was also needed. He placed a hand on his head, too, and must have said a blessing. The nurse was up and quite radiant as he held the door to let 'Tory and Father Artur through. The Colonel spoke to Andrei then went out, too.

Ivo and Andrei came over and sat on the edges of our beds. "What did you see and do?" Ivo asked as he picked up the photo. We tried to explain. Yes, they'd seen a flash of light but wondered if it was lightning as there had been dark thunderclouds outside. We looked towards the windows. No clouds now. The doppelganger, or whatever, had gone. It hadn't got what it wanted. I carefully slid the shoulder bag up the bed beside me. I opened it slowly. I knew this would be a test. A test of what? I knew I had complete faith in Ivo and Tris. I opened the bag and took the wrapped object out. Andrei was looking at it with such an intense stare. Cautiously I unwrapped it and held it up. The polished wood seemed to glow. Andrei's face was a picture. A picture of devotion. "Fidentia," he whispered and held his hands up and entwined his fingers. There was complete silence. I slowly wrapped the box again and put it back in my bag. We all relaxed.

"Thank you, Mark," he said and came over and kissed me on the cheek. It was rather awkward sitting up in bed but having pushed the bag down beside me again I put my good right arm round him and kissed him full on the lips. We both had tears running down our cheeks as I let him go and he went to Tris to receive his blessing of love as well.

"Please," he said, "When Lucasz comes he must be one with us as well."

I asked him why he had said 'Fidentia'. He said it was part of his family's coat of arms and it was something that just came into his mind.

Again there was a slight kerfuffle in the corridor. It was 'Tory leading a tribe of now cleaned-up but still rather tattered warriors. Bits of plaster adorned faces, fingers, fists and knees. There was no stopping them even though the male nurse followed them in. All four of us were hugged and kissed even though we were all male and seventeen plus, with one Her Majesty's Commercial Attache and another a middle-ranking Army Officer. I suppose as we four were in pyjamas this conferred equality. 'Tory and the nurse just stood and laughed.

Tomas was most forthright. "We thought you all dead. We want to see you at Cathedral so wait to cross bridge. That arsehole man on motorbike. Pyotor saw gun and shouted. Your car knocked him and Pyotor hit. Those other men we got. Car hit tree. They try to run. Big man. Igor hit and Yniold kick him in..." He stopped and looked at 'Tory who raised a hand to indicate 'go on'. He didn't need to go on as Yniold's screwed-up face conveyed the pain the man must have felt and he then raised two fists in an act of triumph. "I catch little man when he run." Tomas pointed down to his torn trousers. "My Mutti will scream if I tell."

Franzi went over to Tris. "I so sad if you dead. I kick bastard man in head. He not kill you." He leaned over as Tris put an arm round his shoulder.

"You were all very brave," Tris said, "We don't know who wanted to kill us, but they didn't. We have to thank the Captain as well. He is a very good driver. Andrei, you saved our lives."

The lads gazed at Andrei who blushed. "I did as I was taught," he said.

Mr Marriott was our next visitor. 'Tory said she would take the boys to a shop she knew. I thought pity Unc hadn't got an outlet here yet. But the lads would receive outfits as soon as I could arrange it. Mr Marriott took one look at the line-up, took out his wallet and flicked a card at 'Tory. "All bills to be sent to the Legation." Well, well, well. I hoped Her Maj or the Chancellor of the Exchequer would not flinch at his generosity with the country's taxes. They filed out bearing their injuries with pride.

James Marriott looked at Andrei. "The Legation's second best car. Tell me all."

He gave a very succinct account of what he remembered had happened. It was Ivo's turn next. Succinct, too, no flannel. We were asked if we had anything to add. We said about the visitation by the apparition and he nodded and took more notes. Then Tris just reiterated that we owed our continued existence to Andrei's driving. I couldn't resist it and added, "and Saint Fenice!"

Mr Marriott looked at me sharply, then smiled. "A good combination." He walked over to Andrei and shook his hand. "Thank you on behalf of all I represent." He then hugged him. Andrei, though in pyjamas drew himself up to attention and saluted.

"My duty, Sir."

"More than duty," Mr Marriott said. "I'll leave you in peace. I heard some details from the doctors below. I have to report to your Ministry." This last to Andrei. "There seems to be rather a mopping-up operation going on. Two in one week might seem excessive, but there, yours is a strange country." He hugged him again. "Danke, mein freund."

We were on our own again. I was just about to say I was starving when a trolley was pushed in and a good meal was served. Andrei laughed as the young waiter left. "It should be good. We are in what you call the Private Wing. And I think my government is paying!"

After eating, Ivo was rummaging in a locker and found a pack of cards. We taught Andrei to play Gin Rummy and were rather miffed when he started to win. "I am good at cards," he said.

"Sign of a misspent youth," grumbled Ivo who had just lost two biros and a five krone coin he had also found in the locker.

Our only interruptions over the next hour were by our attentive male nurse who took pulses and made notes on charts. Just after eight o'clock Lucasz appeared. After checking the rest of us were OK he led Andrei off to the other ward. Certain speculations ensued as to the use Andrei's bed might be getting. I asked Ivo if I should phone home. He said I should, but be circumspect. Tris made some remark about me valuing my foreskin and I said the bang on the head must have made him deaf, even if years of self-abuse hadn't made him lose his sight. Not much self-abuse with you around was his riposte. I was just about to ask about last year when we were apart when my phone chirruped. It was Mum. How were things? All I could say was that we were OK but had plenty to tell on Friday. She said we'd better check planes as there was news of a strike of desk-clerks and flight-attendants. She said Gran, the English one, had sent me Granddad's BA hood to wear on Saturday and I was to buy one for myself at Ede and Ravenscroft which Gran said she would pay for. I would need a graduate gown for later as well. A present from her and Dad.

With Andrei out of the room I remembered something else. Igor being tested for any STD signs. Ivo rang for the nurse who was there within seconds. At the end of the conversation Ivo said if he came back tonight or in the morning he could have a blood sample taken. No problem. I phoned the hotel and Ivo spoke to Ignasz. He said he'd seen things on television and the boys were all missing except for the new lad. He would tell Igor to phone.

Our final visitor was Mr Marriott again. Ivo was still in with us as Andrei and Lucasz hadn't surfaced! He said he was in the process of filing a complete report to the Overseas Ministry at home but he doubted if anyone would get round to reading it until Thursday fortnight! He was most interested in seeing the prints of the photos I had. He looked at the one found in the house. When we explained how that was found by one of the soldiers and had apparently dropped almost at his feet Mr Marriott smiled.

"I think that is what is called an 'apport'. I have read of such happenings in connection with psychical research. Apparently things appear without any material reason. I would guess you are surrounded by a cloud of manifestations, both good and bad. The good are winning, I think. You have the Lady Fenice to thank for that. You may not realise it, Mark, but you are what is called a 'conduit'. Someone chosen as a link, as it were, between different worlds." He shook his head. "You may not believe but I think you will agree the evidence is there."

Ivo came over and sat beside me on my bed. "We know things happen. Our family is bound with numerous others and we are all under protection. Our guardians have gone before but there is a tangible link through generations." He turned round to me. "Show James your birthmark and I'll tell you something else."

Ow! I just had pyjama trousers protecting my modesty! But I slid out of bed and sat beside Ivo. I carefully pushed my trousers down with a hand circumspectly cupping my genitals and held my thigh out towards Her Majesty's Representative. My birthmark was very conspicuous.

Ivo put a hand on my arm. "Mark, I wasn't going to tell you this yet. At least until you learned to change George Henry." He turned to James Marriott. "My Mother has that birthmark. Neither my brother nor I have it." His smile was exultant. "My son George Henry has it. It has passed through me to the next generation. I am so happy. He'll be special as well."

Quite spontaneously I turned to Ivo and hugged him, my balls and dick on full view, but who cares! "You're special, too, and you know that!"

We had to go through the family tree for Mr Marriott who had visited Ulvescott on some diplomatic mission in the past to consult the Sheikh. He laughed and said he wasn't surprised given the motley group in residence there. "Dr Thomson had quite a reputation when I was a student. His books were a must read even for those not doing French and his son put my shoulder back after I dislocated it in a College match. And he's got that birthmark so you say? Well, it's quite a story, eh?"

Wednesday

We had plenty to think about when he bade us goodnight and Andrei and Lucasz finally emerged with that particular look on their faces. However, the doctor came back and said Lucasz should go as we had to take a sedative pill so we could have a good night's sleep. I guess he was afraid we might relive some of the things we'd experienced. It did mean I had a long, dreamless sleep and when I woke in the morning just wondered where I was. Tris was still sound asleep in the next bed and I needed a pee. We did have an en-suite so I was quickly relieved. Back in bed I dozed again. I was awakened quite suddenly by an anguished cry from the room next door. A male nurse came in and held up a hand. "No worry!" He was gone. I knew that cry had come from Andrei. Tris was also awake now We both padded barefooted to the door. In the next room the Colonel was standing by Andrei's bed accompanied by someone I took to be an even more senior officer by the extra braid and shoulder decorations. Andrei was sitting on the side of his bed with his head in his hands. Ivo was sitting beside him with an arm round him. Andrei looked up and spotted us. He said something to the senior officer in Rothenian. He nodded.

"A dreadful thing," Andrei said. "The General has told me one of our young officers has shot himself. He lost his money at the Casino and has betrayed his country! It was because of that we were ambushed."

Gradually we got the story. The Lieutenant came from a very well-connected family, but had begun visiting the Casino with friends and had lost ever-increasing amounts. The owner had put pressure on him to repay but he could not. In the end he had spilled all he knew about our visit which he knew about as he was attached temporarily to the Signals Unit. He thought we had valuables to deliver and these could be used to pay off his debts if the Casino owner's heavies got hold of what we were carrying. What he didn't realise was he was signing his own death warrant, even by his own hand. The Casino owner had been sold the other stolen documents and was puzzled what they all meant. The Lieutenant had translated some things for him which gave him quite erroneous ideas about what the documents really said and he had set up the ambush after blackmailing the officer to supply him with two weapons, one of which was the Uzi used on us, which he thought would leave him in the clear. Hearing of the attack the officer had written a confession and had driven off into the woods and shot himself.

The General was as stunned as Andrei and the Colonel we thought. Ivo translated as he said the Casino had been raided, the owner had jumped off the roof and had also died, and they were rounding up a good number of minor criminals. Not only that, they had uncovered stashes of drugs and evidence of a widespread prostitution ring and the abuse of young immigrant boys. He was quite forthright and said there were a number of businessmen and others who would be prosecuted.

Andrei was quite devastated. He knew the young officer and his family well. He was worried about Lucasz who had been training him in advanced electronic techniques. When he asked the General about this he shook his head and said he didn't think security had been compromised but it was being checked on. He looked grim when he said there were too many evil people around and he was sure there would be a shake out. There were other officers as well who had been habitues of the Casino!

Poor Andrei. I think Tris and I were over the worst and here was Andrei pole- axed, as it were, again. But, his military training came out. He sat up straight. Ivo translated what he said. "Sir, I am ready for whatever happens. My King, my country, my family and friends come first!"

The General saluted then shook hands with the other three of us. He then said he was so sorry to bring such news but it did close another chapter in the country's story. I wasn't so sure. There seemed to be so many factions at work. I just wondered if it was the same in Britain? From time to time there was news of gangs being busted, the Kray Brothers, the Great Train Robbers, bent policemen and so on, but these seemed minor when compared with what was happening here. Max and Jak, in what was not really a light-hearted moment, had said that a good computer programmer could lay his hands on millions because many finance houses and banks had lax security. But this seemed to be pretty low level. Were there larger, more secret, forces at work undermining our own democracy?

After the two officers went our breakfast time was rather subdued and it wasn't until past eleven when the doctors said we could go. My jacket sleeve and shirt were torn and bloody and there were bloodstains on Tris's shirt and jacket. Our best! Ivo used his mobile. Tomas had been instructed by Mr Zedener to find tops in our wardrobe and he came pounding up the stairs having been sent by taxi. He was rather taken aback seeing four more or less nude hunks drying themselves after showering and shaving. That is, not Ivo, although we had advanced on him with our safety-razors. Yes, Tomas knew a good tailor who would mend and advise on dry- cleaning. He said there was big news on the television which we hadn't bothered to watch. Five minutes of that told us only that the Casino had been raided, the owner was dead and a number of arrests had been made. Interestingly, a very relieved looking Minister of the Interior was interviewed. "He's off the hook over something," Ivo said when he'd finished translating and Tomas had gone off clutching our clothes. He looked at Andrei. "Bet it's the boys. Have you heard rumours?"

Andrei laughed. "All round the barracks. Little boys ten krone, bigger ones are twenty! If he's looking like that it seems like a whispering campaign was getting at him."

Ivo nodded. "Even 'Tory's heard it. Her version was BOGOF, buy one get one free! I don't know where she got it from."

Yep. 'Tory had told us, too. Not quite in that detail. So, perhaps he wasn't quite the smarm-pot we'd imagined. But! A couple of English ex-politicians sprang to mind.

There was a military car waiting in the courtyard for Andrei. "I'll have to make another report," he said as he saluted us and got in.

Ivo hailed a taxi which deposited us at the hotel and he said he'd better go and placate 'Tory before losing more paternity leave at the Legation. I'm afraid Tris just whispered 'Balls' and got almost a Toad sneer in exchange. I tried a bit of soft soap. "May we come and see George Henry this afternoon?" He nodded and smiled. All sneers gone. I wondered if fatherhood would have the same effect on Toad in due course.

Two of the patched-up crew awaited us in the lobby. Igor and Franzi were sporting identical tops and pieces of plaster on eyebrows and even looked very smart in non-Unc cargoes. Mr Zedener said he was glad to see us as the lads had told him in graphic detail what had happened. Franzi held up the leg of his cargoes to show the knee bandage he had on. I had to wear a sling so really looked a wounded warrior while Tris had a patch on his temple where he'd been sown up and a black bruise across the bridge of his nose.

"We come to Cathedral tomorrow," Franzi said, "Father Artur said we must. No bad men." He smiled. "My father says I was brave. That is good."

I looked at Mr Zedener who raised his eyes heavenwards and smiled. "They get reward so my friend in the Police says."

"We hope so," Tris aid, "They were all very brave." The lads beamed. We would have to find a Sherlock Holmes book for each with the Baker Street Irregulars mentioned.

We both phoned home with abbreviated versions of what had happened. Mum was quite intrigued and hoped not too much damage had been done to my best suit! No she hadn't seen any news. I think Mum was more concerned about the impending airline strike. "We'll be there," I finished with as I clicked off my phone.

As both of us were wearing off the effects of any sedation we'd had we lolled about for the rest of the morning. We had lunch at the restaurant next door and before that I did do a bit of maths. There was something which had stuck which one of the Master's students had talked about. I was sure it could be taken further. I was rather glad I could still think as the result was a very elegant set of equations leading to a final quantity which was quite unlike anything before it. I puzzled to see if I had made an error in my reasoning. No. I saw another way of tackling it and it resolved itself to exactly the same. James Tanner would have to check it, too!

Tris was immersed in a book all morning. He said with all that had happened he hadn't had a chance to do any reading. In fact we were both feeling a lot better after lunch and said we would go and see George Henry. Surprise, surprise, who should be regaling 'Tory with the tale of yesterday for the seventh time, she said, were Yniold and Pyotor sitting either side of a grinning Ivo who was holding George Henry. But first, with 'Tory carefully unpinning him, we were able to inspect the birthmark. Sometime, I thought, I'll annihilate you dear cousin, as Ivo insisted I dropped my cargoes and display my thigh in tandem. At least I had undies on this time! Tris had his digi camera so photos were taken. No, the lads didn't laugh, they were quite fascinated with the demonstration and the story. Tris went off with them to download the pics onto Yniold's computer to be sent to Adam at Ulvescott and Toad at home.

With the lads out of the way Ivo said Mr Marriot had 'phoned him to say he wasn't to come to the Legation today and had rung him again after lunch. The news was quite colossal in terms of government. There had been a clear out of a number of minor functionaries in two of the Ministries. Mainly to do with bribes for planning permissions but also with downgrading possible prosecutions by civil servants in the Ministry of Justice. Ivo said it was like our Crown Prosecution Service and a lot of cases were being uncovered which hadn't gone forward. If that had already been done in one morning what else would follow? How far upwards would it go. Mr Marriott had also said the Casino's finances had been frozen but there must be a lot of money hidden away in foreign accounts.

We then discussed what we should say to Curt. There was no doubt if the hereditary titles had not been abolished then he was truly Baron Stewpot of that Ilk, or whatever, as each son, as happened in Europe rather than Britain, immediately took the father's title. Yes, he and his father would have been styled Baron Wildenstejn of Walmershech and would be successors in the ancestral home. I said it would probably be best to contact Dr Stein after we had seen the Cardinal tomorrow to tell him about it all. But, we didn't know what the outcome of that meeting might be.

We were all invited down to the Schreiber's for dinner that evening and the abbreviated story had to be told again. I watched as Frau Schreiber talked to Pyotor. Yes, Yniold's Mother had accepted him.

Finally, Ivo called a taxi for us and we arrived back at the hotel. Tomas was there with our jackets and clean shirts. "That is unsichtbar, I think you say invisible." He displayed my sleeve. There was no sign of the tear. "He is good?" The bill was for twenty euros for everything. "I take tomorrow," he said as we bade him and Mr Zedener goodnight and climbed the stairs ready for bed.

To be continued: