The Escape
To each adult's surprise they did get a few hours of sleep; whether it was good sleep was doubtful. No one had set an alarm clock; the gravity of the day ahead woke them around three in the morning. Maria quietly slipped out of her room to the bathroom at her end of the hall. After dressing, she put her nightgown, robe and personal items in her bag and set it outside her door.
Georg had come from his room. Maria saw him. He motioned to her to follow him. They went downstairs in silence. He quietly asked.
"Did you get any sleep?"
"I must have; I feel rested."
"Maria, we have a few minutes. I'm sure there's pot of coffee I can heat. Let's go to the kitchen."
They both saw the light on. "I should have known Katia would be awake."
She didn't hesitate to speak. "Georg, I thought we would travel better with a little food in our stomachs. I had plenty of pastries already made. The coffee and the water are hot."
She poured Georg a cup of coffee but asked. "Coffee or tea this morning, Maria?"
"Coffee is fine, Katia."
Neither sat; they were both too fidgety. They stood near the counter where they could place their cup as they ate a pastry. Georg knew it was time to begin to wake the children.
"Maria, I'll wake the boys."
"And I'll wake Liesl first. I think she is suspicious. I saw the look she shared with Friedrich."
"I did too. She's like her mama; she has a keen sense of subtle signs of bad news. Are you ready?"
"I am, let's go up."
These two went up the stairs as any concerned parents would do. Each paused outside the child's bedroom door; each took a deep breath and slowly turned the doorknob. Maria cracked the door open, she whispered. "Liesl, wake up dear."
She immediately sat up and turned on her bedside lamp. "What's wrong? Is Papa in danger?"
"Not immediate danger, but we do need to leave Austria."
"Oh dear, what do I need to do besides getting dressed?" She said rather calmly. Maria wasn't surprised at her demeanor. She answered her calmly.
"There's a travel bag in the hall; you need to pack a few dresses, underwear of course, a sweater and all your personal items. Also select a sweater to wear; you don't need your cape. You can add other things if you wish. You're papa is waking your brothers. I need to wake your sisters. Try not to worry, Liesl."
"I'll try. This is a huge surprise."
"I know it is."
Maria hurried to the next bedroom; she thought Louisa and Brigitta might be stirring. The boys were already in the hall, talking. She was correct; they both sat up the moment she opened their door. Louisa was reaching for the pull chain on her bedside lamp.
"What's going on Fräulein? Why is everyone awake before daylight?"
"Girls, things are happening in Germany which could affect your papa. He's decided to leave Austria before anything happens."
"Did you say leave Austria?"
"You heard correctly. There's no time to explain why. I need you get dressed and then select the dresses you want to take with you; don't forget underwear, socks, your personal items and a sweater. You also need a sweater to wear. Your travel bags are in the hall. I need to wake your sisters."
"Can we take other things?"
"Of course you may. Just don't make your bag too heavy to carry."
"Are you going to bring your guitar? I remember you told us it was a gift from your father."
"I'll ask your papa. I'll meet you downstairs."
Maria knew the little girls would be difficult to wake, especially Gretl. They didn't stir when she entered their room nor after she had turned on the lamp. She sat on Gretl's bed but spoke to Marta first.
"Marta, you need to wake up. We have a special place to visit this morning."
She rubbed her eyes. "Fräulein Maria that is you. What did you tell me?"
"We're going on a trip. As soon I can wake Gretl, I'll help you pack."
"Gretl, sweetie, you need to wake up." Maria patted her gently.
Marta helped Maria. "Gretl, Gretl wake up, we're going on a trip."
"Uh, a trip, Marta."
"Your sister's right. Go use the bathroom, both of you. I'll start to pack your things."
Stefan had left a bag for each of them. Maria put the few things she knew they would want in the bottom of the bag; for Marta it was her paper doll kit and for Gretl it was a few of her favorite books. Then she packed their underwear and socks, their extra sweater and some dresses. She had two on each bed for them to choose between to wear. Also on their bed were their doll and their sweater to wear.
They were now wide awake and they had seen their siblings. They were excited. Maria was glad.
Georg appeared at their door. "Are you ready, girls?"
"All ready, papa."
"Good, I sent you brothers and sisters down to the kitchen. Katia has pastries and juice waiting for you. I need you to eat quickly; we need to be on our way soon."
Maria was sure his last words were meant for her. She and the girls followed Georg. Stefan and Phillip were picking up their travel bags as they disappeared down the stairs. The girls had run ahead; Maria had a moment alone with Georg.
"Louisa and Brigitta asked if I was bringing my guitar."
Georg didn't let her finish speaking. "Of course you can."
"Then I need to go get."
"I'll wait for you."
Georg took it from her and handed it to Stefan who was nearby. No words were needed. He proceeded to the front door with it.
The conversation among the older children didn't let on their thoughts. Liesl spoke to Marta and Gretl. "I saved your favorite pastry for you. You can sit at the table and eat it."
They had finished when Phillip appeared. "The cars are out front, sir."
"Thank you, everyone should use the bathroom before we leave; we have time."
It didn't take them long; there were several bathrooms to use. Maria and the little girls were the last to exit the house. The entire group fit comfortably in the two cars. Georg didn't even ride in the front seat. He knew he shouldn't be visible; although he didn't expect there to be any other cars on the road this early.
The sky was still dark as they approached the airport. Stefan followed behind the car driven by Sidney. He drove on to the tarmac and parked a few meters away from the airplane. They positioned each car so the headlights would be directed towards the plane.
Friedrich, who was sitting in the front seat of Sidney's car, exclaimed. "Are we going to fly out of Austria?"
"Yes, we are. You can get out but please don't talk very loudly."
Their papa was there to remind them. An attendant waited at the foot of the ladder to help them board. He had already opened the cargo bin. Stefan and Phillip placed all their travel bags there. Maria's guitar was secured so it wouldn't slide around. Another attendant closed the compartment. He along the other were there to drive the cars away after the airplane had taken off.
Now reality had set in; no one had a voice right then. Very quietly, the older children began to board. Dim lights along the center aisle helped them to see as they found a seat.
The two little girls were next to board. Georg had instructions for them. "Girls, hang on to the handrail. Take your time. Marta, Fräulein Maria is behind you. And Gretl I'll walk up behind you."
He had to give Gretl a little boost on the last step. They each took a seat by a window. Maria and Katia sat with them. As soon as the others had boarded the attendant came on board.
He spoke to them. "Please listen to my instructions for securing your seat belt. Each of you has a seat belt like the one I'm holding. Now watch me as I put the flat metal end into the special clasp. It will click when it is in place. Find yours and copy what I just did."
He waited. He saw Maria helping Gretl and Katia helping Marta. The attendant raised his belt. "Now use this loose end to pull the belt tight. It shouldn't be too tight to be uncomfortable. I'll walk around and check each one."
He did and commented. "You follow directions well; you are now ready for takeoff. It will be noisy when the plane's engines start. At first the plane will move slowly down the runway; then it will pick up speed. That and the noise may scare you. When you no longer feel the plane traveling down the runway, you will know the plane is now flying.
"You won't feel the plane moving. Most passengers can tell the plane is flying by looking out the window and seeing the ground appear to be moving. Our entire trip will be in the dark. The sunrise will follow us because the plane travels slightly faster than the sun rises. The sun will be rising when you get to your destination.
"When the pilot begins to bring the plane down, you will feel the plane slowly descend. The plane may bounce once or twice as it touches down. Then you feel the pilot put on the breaks. The force will push you into your seat. The pilot will guide it to a safe place for you get off. Are there any question?"
He heard none. Georg had stood. He offered his hand to the man and these words. "Stay safe."
"I will sir. The American has already given me my exit plans." He exited the airplane. Once on the ground he moved the ladder from the plane. The pilot came from the cockpit to close the door and secure it.
"I'll have you in the air shortly. Sit back and enjoy your trip."
Everyone, including the children, had relaxed. Now they were excited and voiced it. Georg and Maria heard multiple times. "I can't believe we're riding in an airplane. This is so exciting."
When the engines started, there was a large puff of black smoke emitted. Then those whose seat looked out over them were able to see the propellers begin to move. They watched them until them until they were twirling so fast one could not see the individual blades. Soon it was as the attendant had described.
The airplane's speed down the runway was frightenly fast. It made everyone tense as they held their breaths. Perhaps they were wondering if the plane would really get off the ground. No sooner had that thought formed they felt the airplane incline slightly as the front wheel left the ground and in seconds the other wheels had left the ground. There was no more rumble sound or vibrations.
The plane continued on an incline as it climbed to the proper altitude. Everyone felt it level off. They had begun to calm down. The noise from the engines still made conversation difficult except with the persons around them.
Neither Georg nor the other navy men knew very much about flying. Georg did use his extra loud voice to speak.
"I believe the pilot has the plane where it needs to be to take us to Switzerland. All we can do is sit back and relax."
Georg then directed a question at Maria and Katia. "How are my little girls?"
"Marta let go of my hand a moment ago."
And then Maria spoke. "Gretl relaxed her grip on my hand but she's still holding it. Take off was a little scary, even for me."
"I think everyone would admit to being a tad bit scared, Maria. It's amazing that a big object like an airplane can fly like a bird."
"It is, Georg. Maybe one day all of us may learn the physics which make it possible."
Soon the smooth ride began to make everyone drowsy. They had been awake since three in the morning. They began to succumb to their eyes closing; they rested their heads on the seat back. Marta and Gretl each had an arm to rest against. All but the captain slept.
He was on watch; it was his nature. No one knew how long they had napped. It was the pilot's voice which woke them. Each flinched as they rubbed their eyes.
"We are about to begin our descent to the airport in Bern Switzerland."
Friedrich announced. "Look out the window everyone. The sky is getting brighter."
His words brought on the exclamation from several. "I can't believe we got here so soon."
Brigitta was glad but also worried. "I hope the landing isn't as scary as the pilot described, bouncing on the runway doesn't sound like fun."
She was close enough for Georg heard her. "Yes, I know it may seem scary. We have a very experienced pilot at the controls. I'm sure he will set the plane on the runway with as little bouncing as possible."
It was a very slow descent. It was Kurt who spoke next. "The land is getting closer everyone; I can see trees and now houses."
The pilot spoke again. "I will have you on land in five minutes. Prepare to feel yourselves being pushed back into you seats."
Now everyone knew they were about to land. Those by the window could see the runway. The plane was still traveling very fast. As the attendant had told them, it bounced twice before the wheels remained on the ground and the pilot applied the brakes.
The sensation felt made everyone think, will it be able to stop. They were almost holding their breaths when they felt it slow. The pilot had to turn to head back to the debarking zone. There it came to a complete stop.
Again the pilot spoke. "You may release your seatbelts. I'll be in the cabin monetarily to open the door."
And he was. He asked. "Did you enjoy your flight?"
He heard a chorus of, "We did."
Brigitta added. "The landing wasn't as bad as I thought it would be."
"Thank you, young lady, I take great pride in a good landing. I'm also glad you enjoyed your flight. Georg, you're American contact will greet you."
Georg stood and again took hold of his hand to thank him. He followed the pilot down the ladder. He saw the dignitaries.
One stepped forward with his hand extended. "Allen Dulles, Georg, I'm usually called Dulles around here. But I answer to both."
"Pleased to meet you, Dulles." The two men exchange a firm handshake which gave Georg confidence.
As the others were getting off the plane, Dulles quickly explained. "Georg, you won't stay long in Bern. Your train for the coast of France leaves at ten. I'm sure your group didn't have time for a decent breakfast. I made reservations at a restaurant near the station. The bus which is approaching will be our transportation there."
Erwin and Sidney had heard. They directed everyone to board the bus. Stefan and Phillip transferred their bags and Maria's guitar to the belly of the bus.
Georg stood at the front and announced. "Our train doesn't leave until ten. We're going to have breakfast first."
He heard Kurt. "Thank goodness, I've starved."
"My youngest son, Dulles, he's always starving."
"Not surprising, Georg, I remember being that way. My mother thought I had a bottomless pit for a stomach. Sit with me so we can talk."
The two men found seats together in the back of the bus. Dulles filled Georg in on the remainder of their travel.
"The train will get you into Calais in time to catch the five o'clock ferry to England. The cruise port is within walking distance. The RMS Queen Mary will be waiting for you. It's a big ship. Her traveling time is only four full days.
"You will be met by my brother, John Foster Dulles, when you arrive at the port in Baltimore. It's a city close to our nation's capital, Washington, DC the letters stand the District of Colombia. Even I don't know all the details. I assume you will stay in a hotel before you are taken to your final destination in my country."
"It matters not where we go in America. All of us are extremely pleased with your country's willingness to accept all of us. I am sure there have been many who preceded us."
"There are, Georg. Like many of them, you have information we can use. I see we have arrived at the restaurant."
Kurt immediately stood. He had seen the restaurant. "Let's get off. My stomach is making noises."
Kurt we've heard her stomach before; you won't faint."
"Very funny, Brigitta."
Sidney defended Kurt. "I must agree with Kurt. Follow me everyone."
Sidney went off first; he was there to help the others. Dulles and Georg were last. Dulles was now the leader. He spoke to the maître'd. "Reservation for Dulles, sir."
"Yes, sir, right this way. The private dining room is ready. Follow me."
Georg heard and motioned with his hand to follow him. "This is really nice." Georg heard his eldest tell everyone.
"Nothing is too good for your father, young lady."
"I speak for my brothers and sisters. We appreciate your hospitality."
Georg stood proudly as Liesl spoke; he would thank her later. No one was really surprised that the menu had many Austrian favorites. Maria had taught them about the peasants of Switzerland and those of Austria being related.
Only Kurt ate with gusto; he filled his bottomless pit as he ate his last pastry. Soon it was time to depart. They did take time to use the restaurant's facilities. The bus driver had them at the train station in a matter of minutes.
Everyone thanked him. A train station attendant came to help them with their bags. Stefan made sure the guitar wasn't accidently left behind. Dulles handed Georg their tickets. He used the leather portfolio the boys had given him for Christmas and placed it in his inside pocket of his suit coat.
Dulles came aboard to wish everyone safe travel. "One day I will return to America. I will come visit you. Till then enjoy the remainder of your trip. I know my country will welcome you when you arrive there."
Again he and Georg shook hands. He left the train. Georg found a seat and the train began to pull out of the station. They had about a six hour ride to the coast of France. It had already been a very long day. Their nap on the airplane didn't stop them from falling asleep on the train.
When they woke, Gretl voiced the question on everyone's mind. "Papa, is there a bathroom on the train?"
"Yes, sweetie there is. Maria, she may need help; follow me to the rear of the car."
A sign on a door had the word, lavatory, written on it in bold letters. "Georg, do you know that word?"
"No, I don't. But I'm sure this is a bathroom. Let me take a look."
The door opened into the room. Georg took one look and spoke. "It's small Maria but it is a bathroom."
He held the door for Maria and Gretl. Gretl entered first. Maria had to crowd her so she could close door. Gretl's need was urgent. When she finished she asked. "How do I flush the toilet?"
Maria had a look. "Maybe you push this big button." Maria reached around her and gave it a push. When she did, they both heard the noise of the wheels on the track. Maria was tall enough to see into the toilet.
"Oh my, I can see the ground." Maria had no idea that their waste emptied directly on to the tracks. "Gretl, wash your hands. Then I'll open the door for you. I need to use the toilet."
Gretl exited to others standing in the aisle. After everyone had had a turn. Georg announced. "We are about an hour from the coast of France?"
He heard several say, "So soon."
"The train was traveling at a high speed while most of you slept." Georg informed them.
Then he heard from Friedrich. "Papa, if we're coming to the coast, I know that means we are near a body of water. Where are we going now?"
"Everyone, listen to me. We will cross the English Channel on a ferry boat."
Friedrich immediately spoke. "So we're going to England."
Georg decided it was time to tell them their final destination. "Yes, we are, but not to stay there. Docked on the coast of England is a big ship which will take us to America."
"I never dreamed when we studied the country, we would one day go there."
"Liesl, not even I ever held that thought. The American government needs me to share all I learned from my days on the submarine during the Great War."
He didn't share with them the dreadful truth. He knew all of Europe would one day be engulfed in a war greater than the previous one. He was certain war would never come directly to America. He had no crystal ball to tell him how America would be involved in the fighting.
Everyone was talking among themselves. No one but Georg felt the train begin to slow. As the brakes were applied, the screeching sound alerted everyone. He heard Kurt. "We're at the coast everyone."
"Kurt's correct. When we get off, please stay together. I will need to obtain directions to the ferry."
It was another passenger from the train who told him. "Sir, follow us. We're all taking the ferry. It's not far."
One of the men carried the youngest girls' bags. All the others were able carry their own without a struggle. Stefan guarded Maria's guitar. They approached the ferry's bridge where an attendant stood to take their ticket. Georg spoke to him.
"Here are fourteen tickets for my group."
Sidney was at the end of the line. He heard the man say. "Fourteen." Sidney responded. "Yes, I'm the last person in the group."
He hurried to hear Georg's directions. "Let's go on the top deck so we have a good view of our trip."
All except the three naval officers were very excited. None of them had ever seen a large body of water nor, of course, a ferry boat. Georg didn't have time to warn them about the boat's departing horn. When it blew, everyone was startled.
As the boat picked up speed so did the wind. It chilled everyone. They were forced to retreat to the level below where they stayed until the ferry docked at the Port of Dover. They didn't need directions to where the cruise ship was docked. They followed the crowd,
FYI: The fact about the train's toilet is true. My research surprised me.