New Moon Rising: Company of Spies Book Iii

© 2011 Dr. Margaret S. Emanuelson. All rights reserved.

No part of this book may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted by any means without the written permission of the author.

First published by AuthorHouse 2/8/2011

ISBN: 978-1-4520-8185-4 (sc)

ISBN: 978-1-4520-8184-7 (hc)

ISBN: 978-1-4520-8186-1 (e)

Library of Congress Control Number: 2010914213

Printed in the United States of America

OSS, registered trademarks, by.permission of OSS Society Inc..

Because of the dynamic nature of the Internet, any Web addresses or links contained in this book may have changed since publication and may no longer be valid. The views expressed in this work are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher, and the publisher hereby disclaims any responsibility for them.

Contents

Acknowledgments

Foreword

Mission Firefly Conclusion

Part I OSS Headquarters London, England

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Chapter 9

Chapter 10

Chapter 11

Chapter 12

Chapter 13

Chapter 14

Chapter 15

Chapter 16

Chapter 17

Chapter 18

Chapter 19

Chapter 20

Chapter 21

Chapter 22

Chapter 23

Chapter 24

Chapter 25

Chapter 26

Chapter 27

Chapter 28

Chapter 29

Part II Operation Dirty Rat Switzerland

Chapter 30

Chapter 31

Chapter 32

Chapter 33

Chapter 34

Chapter 35

Chapter 36

Chapter 37

Chapter 38

Chapter 39

Part III Operation Dirty Rat Germany

Chapter 40

Chapter 41

Chapter 42

Chapter 43

Chapter 44

Chapter 45

Chapter 46

Chapter 47

Chapter 48

Chapter 49

Chapter 50

Part IV O.S.S. Headquarters London

Chapter 51

Chapter 52

Chapter 53

Chapter 54

Epilogue

References

Books by This Author

Acknowledgments

Though this story is fictional, the historical events which took place during the first six months of 1943 in World War II are based on fact.

New Moon Rising, Book III, Company of Spies, might never have been written had my readers not insisted on knowing what happened in the lives of the characters and the continuing saga of their own lives in a World at War.

Thus, Company of Spies has become a series of books about the fascinating exploits of O.S.S. Intelligence agents during World War II.

The shocking facts occurring many years ago have had great influence in shaping the future of the present world in which we live.

For their interest and enthusiasm and much needed help, I am grateful and for the contributions given to me by friends, family and colleagues; especially Charles Pinck, whose inspired creative leadership has continued to further the valuable contributions of OSS to history, the present, and the future.

A major contributor was Howard Dink Jackson, an old friend and colleague of my husband’s in Hargrave Military Academy; my friend who checked my rusty German, and several friends who read the manuscript.

My utmost gratitude goes to my editor, Ellen Sherwood, whose unbelievable patience, careful scrutiny and advice have been invaluable.

And so it is to those who assisted and my readers that I acknowledge my thanks as well as to my greatest enthusiasts: my husband Bill, and our children— Laura, Beau, Belford, Jeff,

And our angel—Roma.

New Moon Rising

Dr. Margaret S. Emanuelson

Book III: Company of Spies

For such a time as this…

Esther 4:11

Foreword

NEW MOON RISING IS THE story of unexpected events which occurred in 1943 in the middle of World War II, which confirmed the old adage, those who forget the lessons of history are doomed to repeat them.

The events that occurred at that time have proved to predict the historical events of today and are well worth attention.

That the injustices done at the end of World War I by the Treaty of Versailles was the protagonist which paved the way for the rise of Adolf Hitler in Germany, and the uprising of the Arabs in the Middle East world is hardly debatable.

But their collaboration with one another to bring about the extermination of all the world’s Jewry was totally unexpected.

Wars sometimes have strange and unexpected bedfellows, which set the stage for future historical events. In this case–could it be the next World War?

But as the story goes, into the fray to investigate those findings came the brave young lions, intelligence agents of the Office of Strategic Services, the O.S.S., who ventured into harm’s way at a time when their respective countries and belief systems were in critical jeopardy. They risked their futures and their very lives to rescue the world they knew from the onslaughts of an evil regime, the extent of whose power and malevolent intent had never before been seen in the annals of history.

Had it not been for them and for those who led them and provided their support, that evil would have remained unchecked, and, like a hungry fiend, would have spread throughout known civilization and swallowed up the world as they knew it.

Dedication

To Ross Perot

And to all other patriotic citizens who are and have served in all branches of the United States Armed Services, Intelligence, Special Forces, Strategic Services and private citizens who have and are continuing to fight for freedom, and to preserve and defend the precepts and principles upon which the United States of America was founded.

Preview:

Web of Spies

Book II: Company of Spies

Mission Firefly Conclusion

January 16, 1943

9:00 pm

Bern, Switzerland

The airport in Bern was teeming with travelers, planes, and vehicles when Abby and the others arrived; but they were driven straight to a runway on the side of the airfield, where their plane stood waiting.

Special accommodations had been arranged for Biff, his medical equipment, and his nurse, who were boarded first. Abby went over to him when the ambulance drove up. That shot will put you out till we reach London, Darling. See you there.

Already woozy, he smiled. She gave him a kiss and turned to Wiley, who had insisted on being next to Biff’s nurse to assist if necessary.

Thank you for watching over him, Wiley, she said. See you later.

Brett and Abby were the last to board.

The plane took off for London promptly at nine pm, with a deep sigh of relief from all hands aboard.

Abby turned to Brett, sitting next to her, and said, Well, we made it; we’re off to see the Wizard.

Yep. Down the yellow brick road again, he said with a grin.

We’ve been down a few, haven’t we! Sometimes, I feel just like Dorothy, caught up in a whirlwind, and transported to a place I never knew.

"I know what you mean. It’s a whirlwind alright—a cyclone of war.

And we’re caught in the middle of the eye."

We’re like little insects, tossed helplessly here and there by forces over which we have no control.

Brett said, "Oh, we still have control over the choices we make."

Oh yes, we do. I keep praying I make the right ones.

You always wind up doing the right thing, Abby. My confidence in you never falters.

I know, I feel the same way about you, she said, smiling affectionately.

She settled down in the seat and looked through the window at the lights of the beautiful Swiss city of Bern below, untouched by the ravages of war.

Her thoughts traveled back to her first days in Washington when she had met Biff at O.S.S.; how charming he was and how delightful and exciting their days then had been. She thought of their flight to Edinburgh and their life-changing experience in St. Giles Cathedral; the Christmas party at Mountford, where the duke had announced their engagement; and the old village church, where little Amy had received her miracle.

She thought of Suzanne and her Max and what a tangled web that had become; Baker Street and Colonel Mathersby; her assignment to France, and all that had happened there.

She thought of all the wonderfully brave people she had encountered along the way; how fear or failure never seemed to occur to them, how their undaunted courage was infectious.

As they flew overhead, in contrast to the lights of Switzerland, once-beautiful Belgium was blacked out below. She shuddered as she thought of its innocent victims—what pain and suffering they were experiencing.

The war can’t last forever, she thought. One day, we’ll defeat Hitler with all his puppets, and all the other tyrants, and our world will be free again. Then a new day will dawn, and the future will be bright and full of hope. We will sing a new song.

She thought of how naive she had been in the beginning, how idealistic, how willing to sacrifice her life for what she believed in— duty, honor, country—for a world freed from tyranny.

And now, after all the death and terror and devastation she had witnessed, the uncertain future with all its disappointments and personal losses that were bound to come, was she still willing?

She sat silently, gazing out into the black night. Suddenly the dark cloud moved away and moonlight illuminated the darkened sky.

Am I still willing? There’s no other choice. We’re good little soldiers.

And that’s what good little soldiers do. We’ll fight the good fight, and in the end, we’ll win.

She turned to Brett and smiled. Our battles are far from over yet, but God will find a way.

New Moon Rising

Book III: Company of Spies

Part I

OSS Headquarters

London, England

Chapter 1

January 16, 1943

9:00 pm

Bern, Switzerland

The flight over Switzerland encountered no problems, but by the time they approached the border of Belgium it became a different story. Flashes of antiaircraft fire surrounded them, some bursts coming close enough to cause the plane to quiver. Though he could not exceed the 10,000 foot oxygen safety level, the pilot gained altitude as quickly as possible and soon they were out of range.

Abby heaved a sigh of relief. Brett squeezed her hand. Don’t worry; I think we’re out of it now-–at least until we fly over the Channel.

I hope you’re right, Abby sighed. It would be a shame to have escaped the Nazis this far and be shot down when we’re almost back to home base.

We’ll make it, Abby. God will make a way. He turned to her and grinned.

Abby laughed. "I did say that, didn’t I? Well, He has so far—too late to doubt Him now."

Outside the window, the dark clouds hovered as they flew on through the dark night; she could hear the sometimes heavy rain hammering in torrents upon the wings of the aircraft.

____________________

January 17

1:30 am BMT

London

The plane landed with a gentle thud on the wet tarmac of the air station, and began its slowing roll to its final destination. I wonder if word got through of our arrival, said Abby.

Probably. I’m sure Alan Dulles has informed headquarters in London.

I was thinking of Beatrice. Do you think she’s been informed about Monty’s death?

I should certainly think so by now, Brett said. "They’re keeping it secret for now, but the Admiralty would have sent some of their own to inform her officially. He was quite an heroic figure in the British Navy, you know, and a duke at that."

Of course, that’s right. That would require the highest levels of protocol, wouldn’t it? I hadn’t thought of what an important figure he was.

Yes, I’ve noticed that about you. People’s importance to the world doesn’t necessarily impress you, does it?

"Not usually, but Monty was an exception. Do you suppose they’ve informed her that Biff is with us?"

Well, we’ll soon find out. The plane is coming to a full stop now.

The medics on the flight began to make preparations for debarking as the plane rolled to a full stop. Once the stairs were rolled up to the door of the plane, Abby felt a tug of anxiety.

What‘s coming next? she thought. And will we have the wisdom to know what to do with it?

Brett was first down the stairs to the tarmac, waiting to give her a hand down from the high bottom step. As Abby descended she looked out through the light rain.

A limousine, flags flying, was driving up and stopped several yards away, waiting for them. She saw a young naval officer open the door of the passengers’ compartment. Sir Robert stepped out, followed by Cameron, and then she spied Beatrice coming toward her, accompanied by the young naval officer.

Oh, my word, Abby said. Even at this hour, they’re all here to greet us.

Beatrice in all her regal elegance was dressed in the black of mourning.

She knows about Monty, Abby thought.

Instantly, her heart filled with sorrow for her. She took Brett’s hand as he handed her down to the slippery pavement and quickly walked to meet Beatrice.

Without a word they embraced. They looked at one another for a long time. There was no need for words.

Finally, Abby shook her head, I’m so sorry about Monty. What a tragedy for all of us, and for England as well.

Yes, my dear Abby, Monty will be remembered long and well. She stared blankly for a few moments; but now with Biff lost as well…. Tears began to fill her eyes.

Abby smiled, Oh, Your Grace. I am so happy to bring you a wonderful surprise. Look…. She turned and pointed to the door of the plane. The medics, with Brett’s and Wiley’s help, were beginning to bring Biff’s gurney down the stairs to the pavement.

Beatrice, confused, took one long look toward the plane; her mouth dropped open in utter amazement. She turned to Abby.

Oh Abby, darling, you found him and brought him home. What a wonderful gift. I shall never forget this day. Suddenly the expression on her face changed from darkness to light. Her step became purposeful as she started in the direction of the medics.

Wait, Your Grace, Abby cautioned. Biff doesn’t know about his father yet. Perhaps you shouldn’t tell him right away.

He hasn’t been told?

No, Headquarters hasn’t released the information to the public yet, and we felt that after all he had been through it was too much of a shock for him. But perhaps now that he is safely home, and can be settled in the hospital, he can be told.

I see. Then I won’t mention it until you’ve filled me in. Now, let me go to him, my dear.

Of course, Your Grace. Tell him I will come to the hospital as soon as I can.

Yes, my dear. Beatrice smiled and took off with a confident step. She had lost her husband but her only son had been returned to her.

Abby watched as Beatrice embraced her son. Her heart filled with joy for the both of them.

Another paradox, she thought; joy in the face of tragedy. Well, Dr. Warner said there would be days like this.

Turning to see Sir Robert and Cameron waiting for her, she walked quickly toward them.

Abby, you really pulled it off! Sir Robert said, with a hug. I had no idea you were off on such a wild goose chase until after you left. I hear it was hazardous to say the least. You’re a very fortunate girl that you were able to escape.

Yes, darling, Cameron said, embracing her, "you were very fortunate; and you brought Ma Mere out of France to safety. Thank you, darling, we were so worried about her."

Abby began to laugh, Well now, I’m not so sure who brought whom out. Cameron, your mother would make Sarah Bernhardt look like a novice. She played her part to a tee.

Then we’ll just see to it she gets an Academy Award, Sir Robert said, chuckling. She was always a great actress.

She’s all of that! Now, you know I must say goodbye for awhile. I see our driver is here to take Brett and me off again.

Yes darling, we know; we hope to see you soon, Cameron said, embracing her.

Sir Robert began softly in his rich baritone— "I’ll see you again, don’t know where, don’t know when…" and Abby joined in— "but I know we’ll be together one fine day," and Abby walked away, waving at them, laughing on her way.

Chapter 2

January 17

2:00 am

London

Their driver delivered Wiley, John, Brett and Abby to the secluded back entrance of the Regency, where necessary accommodations had been set up for John and Wiley. After a word or two with the others, Abby and Brett were taken immediately to their rooms to settle in.

At last, Abby said. I never thought our ‘safe house’ would look so good.

I know, Brett said. No one could be happier than I to get you out of France.

"No one except me! Abby laughed. In fact, I’m downright euphoric!"

Colonel Mathersby is here. He’s waiting to greet us, Brett said, unlocking her door. And the big brass will be debriefing us tomorrow.

Good old Colonel Mathersby! You know, I’ve actually missed him, she chuckled. Will General Donovan be here tomorrow?

I’m not sure. The only word I got was the big brass would be here.

I wonder what’s up. It must be something important.

I think you’re right. Anyway, we’ll see. Colonel Mathersby is waiting for us, so freshen up and I’ll meet you in the conference room.

What time is it? she asked, yawning.

2:35 am, my pet; 3:35 in Bern.

Ye gods! When do we sleep?

Brett laughed, Sleep? Never heard of it!

Okay, you old meany, I won’t be long. She heard him laughing as he closed her door.

Ten minutes later found Abby entering the conference room. Colonel Mathersby met her at the door, beaming with pride.

Congratulations, my dear. You have accomplished a splendid undertaking. Headquarters is very pleased and so are the rest of us. Now, come have some coffee and grab a sandwich before you retire. I know you must be exhausted. So I will let you two go for tonight.

Thank you, Colonel Mathersby. I’m sure I could never have done it without the help of many others. But I must tell you, I’m certainly glad to get my feet on English soil again.

You’ve had a very harrowing experience, my dear. I think you should grab a bite and get to bed immediately.

That’s very thoughtful of you, Colonel; actually, I’ve had no sleep for three days.

Yes, well, tomorrow several of the people from headquarters will be here and we will get a complete debriefing then. I will leave you now. Take care of her, Brett.

You bet, Colonel. Come on Abby, eat up. I’m as exhausted as you.

I’m ready, said Abby, grabbing several sandwiches and a pot of coffee.

Do you intend to drink that coffee out of the pot? asked Brett, amused.

Never mind, I have a cup in my room. ‘Always be prepared,’ you know.

Okay, I’ll take the other pot. I’ve already had enough of the sandwiches. Are you ready, my sweet?

Ready, as you go, she gave him a playful look.

Very well, mademoiselle, we’re off to the races again.

_________________

January 17

9:00 am

Abby walked in to find Wiley and John, as they sat around the conference table, finishing their debriefing and having breakfast with Colonel Mathersby and Brett. They rose to greet her as she walked in.

Hear, hear! was their cry, accompanied by vigorous applause.

Goodness, you boys, you were part of it, too.

Don’t be so modest. You were the leader, John said. We know what you did.

"Thanks, John, but I know what you did, too. And if it hadn’t been for you, Wiley, Biff would have died in that forest."

Wiley smiled, To tell the truth, we were both almost gone. If it hadn’t been for those Jedburghs who got us flown out, neither of us would be here.

The Lord found a way, didn’t He? Abby said, giving Brett a look.

Brett, grinning, handed her a cup of coffee with one hand and pulled out her chair at the table with the other.

Immediately, before she could sit down, Colonel Mathersby came to her and took both of her hands in his. He was glowing. My dear, we are so proud of you. Allen Dulles has just filled me in. Mission Firefly is now a complete success.

Yes, Abby, said Wiley, tell us about it. Bifford and I weren’t there, you know. Our mission was ‘Flytrap.’ We were stranded on the beach in Normandy.

Yes, my boy, said Colonel Mathersby, we’ll make sure you two can compare notes later, but for now we need to pay attention to the present.

Yes, sir, Colonel, said Wiley.

Very good, my boy, said Colonel Mathersby.

Wiley, you and John will be debriefed first today at 11:00. The car will pick you up to take you there. An armed guard will take you downstairs to the back entrance and accompany you to your destination.

Who will be there, sir? Wiley asked.

You will be informed, my boy, once you’re there.

Abby, you and Brett will be picked up at 1:15 for your debriefing. Apparently there is some reason the brass are doing this in sequence.

I’m glad you explained, Colonel. I was wondering why they don’t want to see us all together. Brett pushed back from the table and looked at Abby.

Oh, you know how they are, Brett. They probably have some ulterior motive, Abby said, stretching.

That’s what I’m afraid of, Brett wrinkled his forehead.

Colonel Mathersby rose from the table. Obviously, Bifford will have to be debriefed in the hospital, whenever he is able. Very well then, you people have your instructions. I will accompany Wiley and John. Remember, we must be on time, so I will dismiss you now. Carry on!

The group dispersed to carry out their projected assignments.

Brett grabbed Abby’s hand. Come on, Abby, we can get a bite of lunch before they pick us up.

Okay. Your room or mine? she asked.

Maybe your room this time. You can finish unpacking, while we’re waiting for the waiter.

Good idea. Let’s go.

Brett unlocked her door and picked up the phone to order lunch. Mademoiselle, will you have rhinoceros or hippopotamus for lunch today?

Oh, Brett, you rascal, a shrimp salad will do.

My pleasure, Your Grace.

Okay, you can just knock that off, right now!

Yes, ma’am, he grinned. Shrimp salad it is.

Beginning to take things out of her luggage, Abby said, You know, I have a very strange feeling that something is wrong.

Yeah, me too, he frowned. I have the same feeling; what do you think is up?

I don’t know, but I have a thousand questions. For instance, what ever happened to Trevor? Did he defect to Russia or is he on a special assignment? And what are we going to do about Suzanne? Did they track down her papers?

I’d have to agree, Brett said. "There are too many loose ends flying in the breeze about too many people. Maybe we’ll have an opportunity to ask the big brass."

I doubt it, Abby sighed. All they want to do is interrogate us, as though we didn’t need to know anything else. It’s infuriating.

Brett chuckled as he went to the door. The waiter quickly delivered their food and left.

Now, now, ‘need to know’, my pet.

Need to know, my foot! And I’m not your pet!

Okay, Abby. Sorry, I guess I hit a nerve.

I’m just tired, Brett. I guess I’m not up to playing games today.

I know, my pet. The past two or three weeks have been absolutely exhausting. But more so for you—with all the stress you were under and no sleep at all. So, why don’t you eat up and take a little nap before we go. I’ll wake you up in time. He picked up his plate and opened the door. See you later.

Thanks, Brett, she said, stretching, you’re a dear.

Chapter 3

January 17

1:15 pm

Accompanied by an armed guard, their driver picked them up at the Regency promptly at 1:15. Forty minutes later, Abby recognized the gates of the beautiful old estate grounds as they stopped for the guard to check their credentials. As they drove down the long driveway, Abby turned to Brett. I know this place, she said. We’ve been here before.

Yes, it’s good of the old gentry to offer their homes for such clandestine operations. But then, the British are very generous when it comes to protecting their own country.

"Noblesse oblige? Still, it’s very gracious of them. I’m not so sure I’d like to have a lot of curious military intelligence jerks inspecting my fine paintings and other valuables."

I’m inclined to agree with you, said Brett, but most of the people who come here are in the same class as the owners. They know the value of precious possessions.

Just the same, one’s home is one’s castle. I’d say they’re making a major sacrifice.

Hardly more than we! he frowned.

Touché. You have a point, she grinned.

I see we’ve arrived, Brett said as the guard opened the door and stood, saluting. Brett, in full uniform, got out of the car and returned his salute. He bent down and spoke to Abby. Come on, Abby, girl, I’ll help you out.

When they reached the front entrance, the armed guard checked their credentials and waved them on. Second floor library, sir, he said, saluting and pointing to the stairs.

Here we go. Brett took her arm.

Down the yellow brick road again! I wonder where it’s going to lead this time. She looked up at him.

He smiled. Round and round it goes, and where it stops, nobody knows.

I think it stops at the nut house, Abby said, laughing. These Orientals are softer than my bed at the hotel. We could take a little nap, she said, as they climbed the long staircase.

It’s tempting, all right, Brett yawned, but I don’t think it would fly.

Another armed guard stood at the heavily carved doors of the library. One side was open.

They’re ready for you, sir, ma’am, the guard said, saluting.

As they walked in, General Donovan, Colonel Mathersby and another British Colonel, and what appeared to be two military attachés rose to greet them. General Donovan returned Brett’s salute and offered his hand.

Brett, good to see you again, he said as they shook hands. He introduced the two around. This is Colonel Henley, director of MI6, and his aides, Major Colin Riess-Jones, and Major Robert Montague Sinclair. I think all of you know Commander Brett Whitney, and this is the delightful young woman you’ve been waiting to meet, our special agent, Miss Abigail St. Giles.

General Donovan, you can’t be serious, said Colonel Henley, aghast. "Do you mean to tell me that this is your special agent? Your mysterious lady operative?"

Donovan’s eyes crinkled with amusement. You mean the one you want to snatch away from us?

But this is incredible! I met this young lady at the Christmas Eve Ball at Mountford. That evening, the duke announced his son’s engagement to her. And now I find that she’s working for you in O.S.S. I’m appalled!

Abby smiled, I remember you, Colonel Henley. I think I’d have to agree with you. I, too, am appalled.

The men reacted with a titter of laughter.

The general chuckled, Why, yes, Colonel Henley, we are careful to hide our secret weapons. And this one is certainly Top-Secret.

"I can see why, General. By Jove, I can assure you, if we had her on our staff she’d be Top-Secret, too. He grinned. Well, don’t worry, we won’t give her away. We wouldn’t want to lose her expertise either."

Good, Colonel, I’m glad we’re on the same page. He shifted his attention. Abby, my girl, is there anything you can’t do? Congratulations! Mission Firefly is a great success. It was pretty risky for you, but I knew you could do it.

Thank you, sir. It’s good to know that I still have your confidence.

General Donovan smiled and held out his arms. Come here, Abby, and give your ‘Old Man’ one of your famous hugs. If anything, my confidence in you has gone up another hundred percent.

As they embraced, Abby looked up at him, Oh, no, that sounds pretty ominous. Don’t tell me you’re getting ready to send me off on another wild goose chase.

No, my dear, there’s plenty to do right here, for the present. But then, if you’re anxious to go again…

Never mind, the kindest thing you could do is assign me a week of sleep, she said.

"Sleep? What is that? I never heard of it."

That’s what Brett says, Abby said.

That’s what we all say, he chuckled. But in your case, I think it’s warranted for you to have a day off. Seems to me, you have a few hospital duties coming up.

That’s right, I do, don’t I? She’d almost forgotten.

Yes, Bifford will need your attention. The general sat with his hands together, an old familiar gesture. We’ve been filled in about Bifford’s and Wiley’s rescue; but it must’ve been quite a surprise when you found them in the hospital in Bern.

Just one of God’s little coincidences, Abby said, her eyes twinkling.

He nodded, You seem to have a direct line to Him, my dear. How you managed with such a nasty communication problem was rather remarkable, to say the least. But we know by now how resourceful you are.

Well, I’d have to admit it was a little tricky. We couldn’t use our short wave because the Nazis were driving all around the area with their short wave radio finders. It was much too dangerous. But Brother Mercury saved the day, Abby said. That bird flies like the wind, you know. He’s the one who flew all of my messages to headquarters.

Colonel Mathersby actually laughed, Yes, my dear, we’ve heard about your involvement with the Brothers and their pigeons. Ben told us that you went to the monastery disguised in a nun’s habit.

Abby smiled, remembering. Yes, one of the Franciscan Sisters insisted that I take it in case I might need it. And as it turned out, I did. As a matter of fact that’s the only way I managed to sneak Ben out of the castle. One of the brothers brought me a monk’s habit for him. You should have seen the two of us; I’m sure we were a sight to behold. After that, I began to call him ‘Your Omnipotence.’

The group had been listening intently, with all seriousness. Now, laughter rang around the room. Colonel Henley was struggling to keep his composure within limits.

To be truthful, she continued, I had a terrible time with the head dress. I couldn’t get it on. In fact, Ben had to do it. I felt like I was in an iron mask. But when I complained, Ben said, ‘Now, now, this will teach you silence, patience, and fortitude.’ I almost hit him. Abby joined the laughter.

It’s good you can see the funny side, Abby, Donovan said.

Yes, Dr. Warner once said it could save your sanity.

It seems to have saved his. I can see that you’re very fond of the brothers, aren’t you?

Oh, yes, I don’t know what we would have done without them, and their prayers. The brothers are of the order of St. Francis; Father Francis is their priest. They are all wonderful people. I was amazed to find that the French have such a sophisticated and intricate underground, people from all walks of life. I could not have pulled it off without their help. And there were so many others. They helped me fly John and Jinx out.

Yes, we know about Jinx, the general frowned. Go ahead, Abby.

Abby continued, Then Doctor Fernand helped me arrange the ambulance to drive the two female agents, Erika and Monique, the Countess and me over the French border to Switzerland.

Quite a feat—all six of you out.

Yes, General, thank God we all got out.

But weren’t you arrested crossing over the border? That must’ve been frightening for you, he said.

I’d have to say the word ‘frightening’ is a gross understatement.

I should think so. Tell us what happened.

"Very well, I’ll start at that last night before. Everything worked like clockwork when we began. At 11:30 I put an emergency call in to the operator to notify Dr. Fernand to come immediately—that the Countess was having a stroke.

"I had prepared Monique and Erika and supplied them with nurses’ uniforms so that they would be ready when Dr. Fernand came with the ambulance. It was driven by Antoine and another member of the resistance.

"Everything was fine until we were about half way on the mountain road to Switzerland.

"All of a sudden we were stopped by some SS officers. I tried to persuade them that Pierre and I were leading the ambulance to the hospital in Switzerland with a critically ill patient, but when they investigated behind us, there was no ambulance there. Antoine had had trouble with the brakes and the ambulance had stopped just in time before going over the edge of a cliff.

"I was finally able to persuade one of the SS officers to investigate. He found them about a mile and a half behind us and sent his mechanic back to fix the brakes.

After that the head officer was kind enough to detach a detail to follow the ambulance in case it broke down again, and gave Pierre and me a lead escort to the border station.

The General shook his head, The best laid plans of mice and men…

"You’re quite right, General; the entire plan was risky enough, as it was, but what I didn’t know was that the Nazis had suddenly been put on Red Alert. I never knew that, until we got to Allen Dulles’ office in Switzerland. When we finally arrived, he told us that earlier that Sunday evening before we left, a group of French and German dignitaries were returning to Vichy. There were several automobiles following one another, some distance apart. It appears that Monsieur Laval’s car was behind that of General La Fouche.

"I believed that he had murdered Theresa Fontaine, two nights before. You remember her, General—that British reporter for the London Times."

Oh, yes, you were suspicious of her from the beginning. If I recall, you thought you saw her in our surveillance tapes.

"That’s right, I did, didn’t I? Well, it appears that she was murdered on Saturday night, the night before we left. I know because Pierre Laval came to the castle twice on Sunday. First, to inform us of the murder of Theresa Fontaine, and the second time with some lame excuse of finding a cigarette case that had belonged to General La Fouche.

Actually I knew that cigarette case had a hidden camera in it, because she was at the Countess’ concert on Friday evening, surreptitiously taking pictures of us and casing the castle.

General Donovan began to laugh, "Oh, yes, that cigarette case. Allen Dulles told us that you had found a microfilm in that case, and to hide it before you came across the border, you stuck it in your jar of cold cream."

A burst of hearty laughter rang around the room.

Well, after all, General, I could hardly put it in my purse or my luggage for the enemy to find. She gave him a mischievous look.

No, he chuckled, I suppose not. But you girls certainly have unusual methods.

"Yes, I suppose you boys would think so. Anyway, to get back to my story, Monsieur Laval was on his way to Vichy following the car carrying General La Fouche. Suddenly he saw a tremendous explosion and as he approached, he realized that the explosion had been the automobile of General La Fouche. He had been thrown free of the car but his neck was broken. His driver perished with the car.

"I had known that the Germans were on high alert and that we needed to be very, very cautious. But after General La Fouche’s car exploded, obviously the entire French/German leadership became very paranoid. I understand that it was Pierre Laval personally who immediately shortwaved all of the border stations to go on red alert.

"So, of course, by the time we got to the French border station, they were suspicious of everyone and paranoid as well.

"I could tell that the colonel in charge had not slept for at least two days, probably because of another incident a week before where they had just arrested one of our agents and tortured him unmercifully before killing him. So, of course, after Laval declared Red Alert, by the time Pierre and I arrived in the Countess’ car with no ambulance behind us, obviously they were not taking any chances.

"The Colonel in charge was extremely discourteous and absolutely refused to accept the idea that the Countess could be important enough for him to care whether she might be in danger of dying. To be sure, he wasn’t about to listen to anything I had to say. Turns out, he would not listen to Dr. Fernand either.

"But suddenly I knew that there was only one way out of this dilemma. And that was to let the colonel know that he might be in serious danger of offending General von Haas Baden. He happens to be the Kommandant in charge of all German border station security. I know him. He has always been a highly respected aristocratic German general.

"The colonel in charge was already highly agitated when we arrived, and I suppose my protests in trying to get him to call the Kommandant were more than he could handle.

So finally, in a fit of rage, he ordered my arrest and the guards took me into custody, immediately. Frankly, I was terrified!

I would’ve been terrified too, my dear, knowing what the Nazis do to prisoners. But for a woman… I don’t want to think about it!

I didn’t dare think about it either, said Abby. I had no idea where my little blue pill was. All I could think about was how I could get out of there with all my people.

Yes, keep your eye on the ball. Good show, Abby. We understand you really stood up to him.

Well, I suppose I did. I was petrified, but I couldn’t let them know I was afraid, now could I?

The General chuckled, "No, a good bluff is worth its weight in gold. But from what Dulles said, you actually threatened that Nazi Colonel."

"Now that I think of it, I suppose I did. It was the only thing I could think of to do. I just happened to know that the Kommandant of all Nazi border security was a close friend of the Countess. He had attended her daughter Cameron’s birthday parties as a young child and was devoted to her mother.

"I kept requesting that the Colonel call the Kommandant to verify our credentials. But he resented being told anything at all by a woman. He considered it impertinent—an insult.

"And so, suddenly I realized that if he refused to let us through, and he thought the Countess should die because of it, he would be in big trouble with the Kommandant. I simply told him that the life of the Countess was in his hands. And that I wouldn’t want to be in his shoes when the Kommandant found out that he had caused her death by delaying us so unmercifully."

The General shook his head, Incredible! You took a very big risk, my dear.

"I know. But I had to do something! He was absolutely furious with rage. But then, he stopped and began to think of the consequences for him if what I was saying was actually true, and so he decided he would check it out. I could see his struggle and his reluctance to call the Kommandant. It was 3:45 am, but he finally decided to do so anyway. It was too much of a risk for him."

I can see why, said Colonel Henley.

Yes, he was pretty upset by then. But after that phone call he became as courteous and humble as a little mouse. His infuriating arrogance disappeared completely. He even called the Swiss border authorities to give us an escort to the hospital.

"He did that? Unbelievable!" Colonel Mathersby looked at her, astonished.

Yes, he actually did. I was so surprised, I really had a horrible time controlling a nervous urge to laugh. But I couldn’t afford to intimidate him further.

I should say not, said Colonel Henley, his eyes twinkling. He must have received some harsh orders from the Kommandant.

That’s what I thought. He looked very sheepish after that phone call, Abby said, remembering.

The General cleared his throat, and smiled. Dulles said that in briefing Pierre, the Countess’ chauffeur, told them about your arrest at the border station. His very proud comment was: ‘She’s just a chip off the old block.’

Abby smiled, Pierre is priceless; he knows that the Countess is my great-aunt, and he is devoted to her. The Countess has many admirers all over Europe. So that’s quite a compliment. Pierre is not only a treasured member of her staff, but he is also a spy for her and the underground. It is really amazing how we were able to work together to accomplish this mission.

The General smiled, Implausible, yes, but you did it. You got all of them out to safety.

"Yes, all….except Ben. I regret that I could not get him out. But his wounds were too dangerous to move him. However, I was able to get him to the brothers at the monastery. They will hide him and treat him until he is well again."

But Ben was not part of your assignment.

No, but he’s suffered so much loss already, I would love to see him safe and happy again.

You did all you could, Abby, Brett said. But if I know you, you would have gotten every patriot in France to a safe place before you could be stopped. We would have had to establish an entire new International State to contain all the innocent patriots, Jews and dissidents and all the other victims that you would rescue.

A paroxysm of hilarity surrounded the table. Colonel Mathersby was guffawing uncontrollably.

Well, why not? I think that’s a magnificent idea. She gave him an impish look. "On the other hand, perhaps we should round up all of the enemy and put them in concentration camps. Then the legitimate occupants of these countries could enjoy their freedom."

Hear, hear! all said, still laughing.

I think I’d like to see them dealt a heavier blow than that! Colonel Henley struck his fist on the table.

Don’t worry, they’re going to get their just desserts, Donovan said, emphatically. Just wait ‘til we get through with them!

And we British will be there with you all the way, said Colonel Henley.

Hear, hear! sounded around the table.

Yes, indeed a happy thought, said Colonel Henley. And you, Miss Abby, you must know how grateful we British are that you got our people out of harm’s way. Congratulations on your success."

Thank you, Colonel Henley, she said.

You’re more than welcome, my dear. You have our deep appreciation. He stood up. Now, why don’t we take a little break? I see luncheon is about to be served.

Lovely idea, Abby smiled.

Donovan joined her. I’m famished, too, he said.

I think we all are! The colonel stood up. We can serve ourselves from the buffet and continue.

A few minutes later all were seated at the conference table once more.

Abby decided to chance a few questions. General Donovan, can you tell me, what’s happened to Jinx and the others? She watched as Brett gave the General a glance.

"I think Dulles has