Chapter 1 – Déjà Vu All Over Again
The timing could not have been worse – or better – depending on your point of view. Of all the times to come down with yet another cold! Though it did play right into the Colonel's cover story, didn't it? Oh well, he could use some rest and recuperation following his capture and imprisonment by the Gestapo. What a bloody near thing that was! Thank goodness the gov'nor rescued me! Not that he had ever had any doubts on that score but he had sat in that damp, dank cell much longer than he was comfortable with. But his mates had come through as usual, and he ended up safely back at the Stalag (albeit with the beginnings of a nasty cold).
"The next sound you hear will be very loud!"
"We did it!"
"Yeah, another day, another munitions dump."
"Oui Colonel, and we also got Newkirk back!"
"Well let's face it, no day's perfect."
The team hurried out of the area just after the munitions dump exploded, and were soon clambering down the tree stump entrance to the emergency tunnel.
Kinch headed off to check the radio while Carter and LeBeau cleaned up and changed from their blacks back into their uniforms. Newkirk flung off his hat and coat and then sat down heavily on the bench. He dropped his head down into his hands. He felt someone clasp his shoulder and he looked up to see the concerned face of Colonel Hogan.
"How're you doing?"
"I'm fine sir. Just bloody tired. And 'ungry. Could use a bit of somethin' to eat. Room service at Chez Gestapo is ruddy awful."
LeBeau called from the adjacent room, "Give me a minute mon ami…I will get you something."
"Thanks Louis." He sneezed unexpectedly.
"Geshundheit!" shouted Carter. "Are you coming down with a real cold Peter?"
"A real cold? As opposed to what Andrew, a false cold?" He rubbed his nose as he spoke.
"I'll fill him in Carter." Hogan sat down next to him on the bench. "Newkirk, to cover for you, we told Klink that you were laid up in my quarters with a cold. By the sound of things, you'll be sleeping there for the next couple of nights and days as well. You've also been excused from roll call until you're better, which works out good; that'll give you a chance to rest up after this little adventure. After you eat, change into your nightshirt and head for the bottom bunk in my quarters."
"But sir – where will you be?"
"I've been sleeping in your bunk. A few more nights won't kill me."
"Are you sure Gov? I 'ate to move you out of your quarters." He sneezed a second time, then once again, shivering involuntarily.
"Yes I'm sure. Especially since it sounds like you really are coming down with a cold."
"You might be spot on Gov. I'm right knackered."
LeBeau emerged from the alcove, back in uniform. "Come mon ami! I saved you some dinner."
"Ta little mate." He bowed his head wearily before he got up, hoping he could make it up the ladder.
"C'mon Newkirk. Let me give you a hand."
"Thanks Gov."
He barely stayed awake for as long as it took to wolf down the food LeBeau gave him. Then he ditched the civvies for his nightshirt and headed to the Colonel's quarters. He paused in the open doorway, exhausted. The Colonel was already there, clad in his pajamas and robe.
"Bottom bunk Peter."
"Thanks Colonel," he mumbled as he gratefully slid beneath the blanket.
"Get some rest soldier." Hogan headed out and then turned. "By the way there's an extra blanket on the top…" He smiled. Newkirk was already out and lightly snoring. Well, at least we won't need to use the record! the Colonel thought to himself. He gently shut the door and noticed LeBeau hovering nearby.
"How is he Colonel?"
"Exhausted. Out like a light the moment his head hit the pillow." He motioned LeBeau over and draped an arm across his shoulders. "Louis, I'm putting you in charge of 'Operation Get Newkirk Healthy'. Are you up to such an onerous task?"
"Oui sir! It will not be the first time."
Hogan grinned. "I know! But I want him to stay in bed until he's completely recovered. Understand?"
"Yes sir." LeBeau headed to his bunk, then turned back to face Hogan. "Colonel, is there any hazardous duty pay involved here?"
"Not that I know of but I'll be happy to recommend you for the Croix de Guerre."
LeBeau chuckled to himself as he turned and headed for bed.