Tempo Quickens
Only Brigitta and her parents knew about Martha and Julia. Barbara made it easy for Brigitta to smile during breakfast on Wednesday. Her parents were also able to hold their emotions in check.
Brigitta and Kurt were waiting by the kitchen door. "Ahem, Uncle Karl haven't you kissed Aunt Katia enough?"
"No Kurt, you'll discover kissing one day. You can never have enough."
"Karl, you better go. You don't want to be late."
"One more Katia," Kurt and Brigitta held their laugh. "I suppose I'm ready now." Maria was standing nearby listening. She took great pleasure from watching her brother and his wife.
The children gave their mother and sister a kiss and happily got in the car. Max was the next to leave. He would drive Gretl and Marta to their school. It was closer to town; he always had business to do there.
The third car was Sidney's; Georg's chauffeur. Liesl and Louisa went with their father to the university. They were dropped off first. Sidney then drove Georg to the history building. "Sidney, I'll need about an hour to prepare a research assignment for my students. I should be finished after you take Louisa to the secondary school."
"I'll be here."
He drove to the campus café and had a cup of coffee and a pastry while he waited. Louisa was right on time. She was bubbling with excitement. "Uncle Sidney, I really like my class. I think it will help me learn to be a better writer."
"You're already pretty good. Your books have sold well."
"I know. Little children really like them. I see we're here. Thanks for the ride, see you at home."
Sidney drove the short distance back to the university; Georg was waiting for him outside. When they arrived at the villa Karl was in the kitchen with Katia He was surprised to see Georg home so soon. "No class today Georg?"
"I arranged library time for them to do some research." He went looking for Maria.
"Karl, why did Georg cancel his class?"
"I don't know Katia; something is on his mind."
Georg heard babbling coming from the living room. He found Maria on the floor with Barbara. She was teaching her to hold and kiss her doll.
"Are my two best girls playing?"
"We are sweetheart." Georg took a seat on the floor opposite them; he had the soft ball in his hand. "Barbara, catch the ball."
Max had returned and found them playing with the baby. He stood and watched. It wasn't long before they noticed him. "She's learning Max. Did you see her throw the ball?"
"I did. Maria, it's almost time to pick up the children. Are you going to choir practice?"
"Max, I need you to bring the children directly home."
"Sure Georg, I'll leave in a few minutes." Max heard the serious tone of his voice. He knew something was troubling his friend.
Liesl was waiting for Max. "So you're the chauffeur today."
"How's John Liesl?"
"He's fine."
"Now Liesl, you can share with your Uncle Max."
"I really, really like him."
"That's itsy bitsy, I'll let it pass. I see your brother and sisters are waiting."
"Max's taxi, come aboard."
"Uncle Max, you passed the church. Today is Wednesday."
"Your father told me to bring you home."
"Why Uncle Max.?"
"I really don't know and that's the truth." Brigitta stared out the window.
Karl was waiting for them in the kitchen. "After you use the bathroom, your father wants everyone in the living room. And I don't know why."
The children hurried. "Liesl, do you know anything?"
"No Kurt, nothing."
"What about you Louisa?"
"Me neither, Uncle Sidney didn't say anything to me."
They were intrigued. Their feelings quickly changed to worry when they found Stefan and Phillip in the living room waiting for them.
"Marta, Gretl, come sit by me." They took their seat beside their mother on the settee. Chairs were pulled away from tables; everyone had a seat. Maria could tell her husband was nervous, his fingers twitched.
"Ever since that day we were chased from your mother's mountain, you have known something about the Germans. Most of you know they are now ruled by a man named Hitler. He's not a nice man children; he doesn't like your Jewish friends."
Maria wanted to help Georg. "Your father's right children. There have been men before him who also disliked the Jewish people. God has always provided for them. And he will do it again."
"Let me Maria, I heard about what was happening in Germany. I decided to help. I asked Dr. Greenburg to help me. He spoke with Rabbi Jacob. He told the members of his synagogue to think about leaving Austria and go to a country where they would be safe.
"When Martha was in Italy. She saw people from Austria there. And then they left the country a few weeks later with relatives or friends. But now others are leaving; people you know; Hazel, Marion, Jeremiah and Martha and Julia."
"Why Frau Martha and Julia; they're not Jewish?"
"The others are all Martha's best friends; she had no desire to live here without them."
"When are they leaving Father?"
"They're already gone Louisa; they left Sunday afternoon."
The room was absent of any sound. For a few seconds time seemed to stand still. Everyone was trying to compute this information. Maria put her arms around Marta and Gretl and drew them close to her.
"I know it's difficult to understand. By leaving now, they're safe. It was planned. Eventually they will go to America."
"Why there Father?" Kurt asked for all of them.
"There's an ocean between them and Hitler."
"Children, we can't remain sad, Barbara won't be happy. Now we can have choir practice. You still need to sing on Sundays. Liesl you take over, I'll see if Barbara is awake."
Georg followed his wife. "Thank you Maria; another of thousands of reasons I love you. I'll sit with you." They kept their door open and soon the sound of their children's voices floated up the stairs.
John didn't find Liesl at the church. He had Martin bring him to the villa. "Mrs. Katia, is Liesl here?"
"Everyone is here. Liesl is conducting choir practice. They should be finished soon. I'll let her explain."
John knew. He and Martin had talked on the way to the villa. He heard Maria. "Very good children, we must try to live normal lives. Your father told me, the future won't come any quicker if we constantly worry about it."
"John, I'm so glad you're here." She grabbed his hand. "Let's go to the sitting room and we'll talk."
"Liesl, I know about the group of people who have left. Martin told me."
"It's so sad John and I'm afraid it's going to get much worse."
"I know Liesl but your mother is right; we must try and live normally." They shared a gentle kiss. "Come on; let's see what the others are doing."
The children did their best. Barbara helped immensely. It was hard to be sad around a bubbling happy baby. John stayed until Martin returned for him about nine o'clock. The sweethearts said goodbye with another tender kiss.
The next day, everyone went about their normal activities. The children went to school; Georg to the university and Karl taught his class.
Georg was in his office. "Excuse me Captain; Headmaster Adler is here to see you."
"Send him down Marlene." Georg could only wonder about the reason for his visit.
"This is a surprise Headmaster Adler."
"Now Georg, I thought we decided on first names."
"Yes Jerome we did, what can I do for you."
"I came to check on Louisa. I always want to know how my students do when they take university classes early. But today I also have another reason. Brigitta's history teacher brought her news article to me. I had my secretary type a copy for me. It's very good. I won't spoil Brigitta's opportunity to show you herself.
"I want to publish it in our paper. I'll remove her name and replace it with 'Secondary Student.'"
"I need to think about it."
"I expected you would, I'll be back in a couple of days."
Georg knew Brigitta would find him as soon as she got home and she did.
"I received a perfect mark."
"I'm not surprised. It was excellent. Have you read in class yet."
"No, we do that on Friday."
"I'm sure your classmates will be impressed." Brigitta didn't tell a soul; not even her siblings. Although, she was sure her mother knew.
Georg was still undecided about having Brigitta's article published. He was certain students from her class would tell others that Brigitta had written it. He sought council from Sidney. They talked after Louisa was dropped off at her class.
"I'm not sure Georg. Let me arrange a meeting with James."
Sidney returned to town after delivering Louisa to the secondary school. He and James had a secret meeting place; the same time each weekday morning. He drove there and sounded his boatswain's whistle and waited. James came out of the grove of trees.
"Georg needs to speak with you. Brigitta did a school assignment on Hitler. Headmaster Adler would like to publish it in the school newspaper; he told Georg he would replace her name with secondary student."
"Jerome would want to publish it. He despises Hitler. Bring him to your old apartment after his last class. I'll be there."
Georg was waiting for Sidney as he always did. "All arranged Georg, my old apartment." Georg took the stairs from the alley. James was waiting. "How do you feel about having your daughter's letter published."
"Proud but worried."
"Understand completely, young people do need to hear it from one of their own."
"Thanks James, you've made my decision easy, I'll give Jerome my answer."
"The news of the group's leaving is all over town. Maybe many more will be encouraged to leave. You'll be pleased to know the group is already in Mittersill. They should cross the border into Switzerland tomorrow."
"That is good news."
"How's Maria handling all this?"
"She and I are coping. Barbara is a big help; she's a wonderful diversion."
"Give her my best, I'm sure we will meet again soon. You leave first."
The best friends shook hands before Georg hastened down the back stairs to his waiting car. He would wait until he spoke with Jerome again before sharing this with Maria. He still wanted to protect her.
Brigitta's history class that Friday was her first class of the day. She would be last to read her article. It surprised none of the students that Headmaster Alder took a seat in the back. Each child received applause but Brigitta received a standing ovation. They also knew she had earned the highest mark.
"I must comment," the headmaster said. "All your articles were very informative. We need to thank Brigitta for writing a very compelling article on the formation of Hitler's mind. Carry on professor."
Jerome wasted no time, he hurried to the university. He was there in plenty of time; he had to wait for Georg to finish his class. "Come with me to my office Jerome."
"Let me tell you Georg. Your daughter received a standing ovation from her classmates."
"That makes my decision even easier; the young people in her school need to hear from one of their own. When will it be published?"
"I held a spot for it; it will be in the first edition in November. It will be published on Wednesday."
"Good, it will give me time to prepare her brother and sisters."
"Is Friedrich doing well?"
"He is. Maria and I are still amazed. He's a true research scientist."
"I had that feeling when I encouraged him to go to the university early."
"I'll tell him you asked about him. Our letters go to Vienna often. I better go, I need to see Maria."
They walked out to their cars together. "Sidney, get me home fast. I need to see Maria. I hope Barbara is still asleep." Sidney had them on the road out of town in no time. In a few minutes the car was kicking up dust on the lane to the villa.
Katia heard it squeal to a stop. "Why the big hurry Georg?"
"Wanted to get home before Barbara woke up."
"You'll find her sewing in the front sitting room."
"Hi, sweetheart."
"You're home early Georg, anything wrong?"
"No, I wanted to talk to you before Barbara woke up. Brigitta's article received the highest mark in her class. She also read it in class today and received a standing ovation."
"She must be very proud."
"There's more Maria. Jerome Adler wants to publish it in the school's newspaper."
"How do you feel about it?"
"I was worried. So I spoke with James. He thinks young people should hear the facts from one of their own; so do I. Jerome saved a spot for it in next edition of the paper. It will come out on Wednesday. You know Maria, we must tell everyone."
"Do you have a plan?"
"I will ask Brigitta if she will read it tonight after dinner."
"That's a good idea. I need to check on Barbara. I'm sure she's awake."
"I'll go with you."
Georg spent a few minutes with his angel. He went back down to intercept Brigitta. She was anxious to talk to her father as well. Their eyes connected. Georg motioned with his head for her to join him in his study. The others happily went upstairs.
"Did Headmaster Adler speak to you Father?"
"Yes, did he say something to you?"
"No, he listened to everyone read their articles. But he had a comment about mine. It's hard to impress him; he was really impressed with my article."
"He told me you got a standing ovation."
"Yes, I was speechless."
"Brigitta, I want you to read it to everyone tonight. I don't want your siblings to hear about it from others tomorrow in school. Will you?"
"I can Father. I understand now why you encouraged me to write it." Georg watched his middle daughter walk away. He still found her maturity difficult to believe.
At dinner that evening, Georg noticed everyone had finished eating. "Don't run off yet. Brigitta has something to share."
She took a deep breath. "My history teacher gave us an assignment to write newspaper articles on current events. My subject was Hitler. It was very difficult to write. Father encouraged me. He wants me to read it to you. Brigitta began.
Who is Adolf Hitler? Everyone appeared to take a deep breath. At the last paragraph she took a deep breath.
Hitler now has his sights set on Austria. He has a fancy name for his plans, Anschluss. It's only a matter of time. Then we will live under his spider flag and must address everyone by saying, Heil Hitler. And all our Jewish friends will disappear to one of his camps.
Georg broke the silence. "Brigitta doesn't boast, but I will. She received a perfect mark and when she read it in class today her fellow students gave her a standing ovation."
Maria was overwhelmed with pride. "Now I know why. That was excellent. Brigitta you should be very proud."
"I am Mother. There's more. Headmaster Adler asked Father's permission to publish it in the school's newspaper. It will appear in Wednesday's edition."
"But it won't have Brigitta's name. He'll change it to secondary student. Her classmates will know it's hers; I'm sure there will be some talk. As I told Brigitta, she wrote nothing that hasn't already been published."
"Now remember what we told you before; we can't be sad. You should sing for Barbara. Then maybe we can play charades."
After a quick refresher course, they did play charades. Since there was school in the morning the game had to called. "We had so much fun tonight Father. Can we do this again tomorrow."
"I think charade queen wants to win again."
"That's right Brigitta, you know too many book titles."
"Tomorrow we'll change the categories. Mary Poppins says spit spot up the stairs." Maria had had the last turn; she was Mary Poppins. The children were belly laughing as they went up the stairs.
While the children were in school Saturday morning, all the adults spent time together. "Georg, what does all this mean?"
"That the clock is ticking faster. We will know more by the end of November; Germany will hold another election. For now, we continue with our lives; we pray a lot. We will find strength from each other now they we are all on the same page."
Isabel took that as a signal to begin to get rid of things. She had really listened to the last paragraph of Brigitta's article. She started in her room. She didn't have many clothes; only a few dresses that she wore to church and her two fancier ones; one she had worn to Maria and Georg's wedding and the other for Katia and Karl's. She set them aside in her wardrobe. She also began to make a list of items she wanted to locate. It made her feel sad but she knew it was necessary.
The children were a little mopey Sunday morning. Their spirits lightened after Father Martin spoke to them. "I know children; all about Martha and Julia and the others. I'm sure your parents have told you we can't be sad for them. For those of us still here, we take one day at a time. God will provide; you must believe it."
He prayed. "Dear God, give these children joyful hearts so their singing will bless all who hear. Amen."
Father Martin also spoke to his congregation. "We live in times when evil once again has threatened God's chosen people. You also may have already heard and have noticed that Martha and Julia are not with us today. They are safe with the others. They were among Martha's best friends. I believe she prayed and God answered her. We must continue those prayers."
Upon leaving the church, Maria heard the comments of others. "I'm so glad Father Martin spoke about our friends. It's still hard, but I feel comforted in knowing they are safe."
Eleanor and Audrey stood beside Maria. Eleanor touched Maria's arm gently. "I heard you found out from Brigitta."
"Yes, that's true. Georg and I knew they were leaving. I met with Hazel and Marion on Saturday. I felt it; they couldn't tell me or anyone. I too am very grateful they're safe."
"Did you know Belle and Franz are visiting friends in Italy who are leaving soon?" Maria was jolted by her words. "No I didn't Audrey. Does that mean they are leaving with them?"
"No Maria, they'll be back midweek. We need to plan a lunch date."
Maria relaxed. "Yes, we do, soon."
"Mrs. Maria, I was sent by Kurt to ask if you were finished visiting."
"John, were you sent to tell me he was hungry?"
"He used the word famished."
"I better go before my son dies from hunger."
"May I escort you, Mrs. Maria?"
"What a privilege to have a handsome young man escort me." Their laughter was heard by all.
"Liesl's has herself quite a beau."
"Yes, she does Eleanor."
"Mother, are you stealing John from Liesl?"
"He's a fine young man Gretl. But my heart belongs to your father and always will."
"Just checking mother."
"You sound like Brigitta." Gretl giggled and walked away. They hurried home so Kurt could indulge.
"Aunt Katia, this was scrumptious. I should last a few hours."
"Thank you Kurt, I think you and Uncle Karl were having a contest."
"No darling, only famished. Now I can help you with the dishes."
"I'd be delighted to have your help my husband."
Maria always enjoyed hearing their loving banter. She was happy for her brother as he was for her.
Everyone was making an effort to lead a normal life. Brigitta was eagerly looking forward to Wednesday. The school newspaper was printed on Tuesday night and was always waiting for the students on Wednesday morning. This Wednesday would be no different.
At breakfast that morning, she asked. "I want to get the first copy of the paper. Can we leave in a few minutes, Uncle Karl?"
"Your wish is my command."
"Come on everyone, get your school bags."
Maria and Georg stood at the kitchen door and watched them leave. "I think she's excited."
"She should be, Maria. It's a nice feeling to have an article published in a newspaper; even if it is about Hitler."
Max soon left with his two charges. Sidney was waiting for Georg and the girls. He took the girls to their classes and then Georg to the History Building. Georg found a surprise outside his office door; a copy of the secondary school's newspaper.
He opened it and was astonished to find his daughter's article on the front page. His first thought was about Brigitta; I hope this doesn't frighten her.
Brigitta and Kurt were the first students to arrive. They found the paper box outside the library completely full. Brigitta took the first copy. "Oh my, Kurt look, my article is on the front page."
"Of course it is Brigitta."
"Headmaster Adler, you startled me. I never thought it would be so prominent."
"I wanted to be sure your fellow students could easily find it. It's an important article. Have a good day children."
"See you this afternoon Brigitta." Kurt headed for the physics department; Brigitta to her history class. Her fellow history students complemented her again.
Georg arrived home before any of the children. He only had one class on Wednesdays. "How nice, you're here in the kitchen. I found this outside my office door." He handed Maria the paper.
"It's on the front page Georg; everyone look. Oh my, I hope Brigitta wasn't frightened."
"I had the same thought Maria. I think Jerome wanted to be sure the students saw it. He wants everyone to know about Hitler's plans."
Karl added. "I heard a lot of buzz. Everyone was talking about the article."
"I need to get to choir practice early."
"Why Maria?"
"I want to see Brigitta."
Maria left Barbara in capable hands. She never had to worry about her; she was happy around all the adults. Karl drove Maria to the church. He waited with her until Max arrived with the children.
"Hello children, Brigitta are you alright?"
She saw the copy of the newspaper in her mother's hand. "Yes Mother, but I was surprised."
"I wanted to be sure. For those of who don't know, your sister's article is on the front page. It's going to receive a lot of attention. Students will take it home and show it to their parents and friends. Now, I think Liesl wants you to warm up your voices."
"We are very proud of Brigitta. It's time to warm up our voices. We'll start with the Do-Re-Me scales."
Maria and Max sat in the back of the room. Max took the paper from her and read the article again. Then relaxed and listened to the children sing.
While Maria was gone Georg stepped outside and summoned the sentinel. Josef came out of the trees. "Word spread fast Georg. We know Brigitta's article was on the front page."
"Do you think the Germans know?"
"It's too early to know anything. James is on top of it; he receives information from our spies everyday."
"That's comforting. Keep me informed please."
"James will see to it." Josef disappeared into the trees. And Georg tucked this piece of information away.
Life began to resemble normal. Audrey had arranged a luncheon for the four ladies. She sent Alfred to the villa for Maria that Thursday. Barbara was already down for her nap; Katia and Isabel would tend to her if she woke up early.
The others were already there when Alfred drove up. He escorted Maria inside.
Belle greeted her with a hug. "How's the family Maria?"
"Trying to live a normal life."
The ladies sat down to lunch. Sophia had prepared a wonderful meal. The conversation was light at first. Then Audrey spoke. "Does everyone miss Hazel and the others as much as I do?"
There were nods all around the table. "But we all know it was necessary. And we know they are safe."
"That's true Maria. Harold tells many more have left; people we don't know. I know they have your husband to thank."
"Yes, he could do no less. I need to share something with you. It's possible you could hear it from others."
"Is it the school's newspaper article?"
"Yes."
"Say no more Maria. I believe we all know who wrote it. Your daughter's secret is safe with us."
"Georg helped her. Is anyone thinking about their future?"
"We are," Belle answered. "Franz is preparing for me to go to Switzerland. He'll stay behind for now and become a more active member of the Austrian Intelligence Service."
The ladies gulped. "When?" They asked together.
"Very soon, I'm going to Bern. I will work for an American, Allan Dulles. I will plan all his receptions."
"Georg met him. He's helped many escape from Germany. He helped our friends too. He arranged safe passage to America for them. Georg told me he will continue to do so for as long as he can. Belle, all of us will miss you dearly. As I constantly remind myself; God has a plan. We must have faith."
Maria left after giving Belle another big hug. It felt the same as it had with Hazel. Maria knew she would leave soon.
All the children occupied the family for the remainder of the day. Maria couldn't wait for her private time with Georg. They knew each other so well.
"What's on your mind Maria? You looked like you were anxious for our time together."
"Did you know Belle is going to Bern to work for the American?"
"I didn't but I'm not surprised. Everyone is trying to make a difference."
"I tried to be supportive by telling them to have faith in God's plans."
"That was the best response you could have given. Now it's our time." The couple found sleep after a married interlude.
In the morning Max was in for a surprise. He found Franz Isenhart waiting for him by the covered area where they parked the cars. "Are you the sentinel today Franz?"
"Not exactly, did Maria mention that Belle was going to Switzerland soon?"
"Yes, she didn't make a big deal of it; said it rather matter-of-factly."
"Starting Monday, I will be your driver. James's orders."
"What's happening Franz?"
"The rumbling is getting louder. James is being very cautious. I'll be here early to put the children at ease."
He left Max. His mind was active. He had thoughts that he would share with Georg very soon. The children brought him out of his trance. "Is this Max's cab sir?"
"Gretl, why are you calling your uncle sir?"
"To make you laugh. You had a serious look on your face."
"Uncle Max was thinking. Everyone in the car, you don't want to be late."
Maria heard it all. It pleased her that the children were in a good mood. Their good mood continued that afternoon. "Can our uncles take us to the park?
"You can ask them, I don't mind but it's too cool for Barbara."
Max had heard them ask. "I'm game children. Let me find Karl."
"Sure Max, let me get my jacket. I assume we're driving."
"We are. Is everyone ready?"
"Ready for what?"
"John you're just in time to go to the park with us."
All the children were a snug fit in the car. No one minded; Liesl and John loved that they were so close together. The park was a perfect diversion. For two hours they played; swings, monkey bars, see-saws and the jungle gym; there was even an open space for a game of freeze tag.
Maria and Georg spent quality time together; but not intimate time. Barbara may have been napping. Maria had learned she did not sleep very soundly in the afternoon. They decided not to chance it. Instead Georg started a fire in the fireplace; the couple sat close on the settee, smooched and talked.
Isabel had rested for a while. She walked passed the open door of the master suite and found Barbara awake. She brought her down stairs. "Look who I found awake?" Isabel sat her on Maria's lap.
"Georg, you better put on some music; or she will be unhappy until the others return."
Katia had prepared Chef Johan's famous soup and dumplings. It was greatly appreciated by the outdoor people; they had gotten rather chilled. Karl had the fire glowing again in no time. The evening was filled with games, including another round of charades.
"I heard the clock Liesl. Martin should be here soon; good night everyone."
"Goodnight John."
Liesl walked him to the door. They ended their affectionate kiss as the headlights beamed on the front door. "Will I see you tomorrow?"
"Of course, silly." She stood and watched the car disappear. I never knew love would feel this wonderful.
Sunday was not a day for standing around after church talking. It was a biting cool misty morning. Father Martin stood inside to greet everyone as they left. Maria paused long enough for him to admire the baby.
"She seems to grow every week Maria."
"I know. I already have a pile of clothes she can't wear. Let me wrap her up and hurry to the car."
Stefan and Phillip had a nice fire already flaming in the living room. "Can we eat in here? We can pretend we are camping." Maria tussled Kurt's hair.
"You can sit on the floor but Barbara still needs her highchair."
"I know Mother. I'll get it."
The family spent the entire day there. The four younger girls put on a fashion show; complete with music for the fashion parade. Marta even had her pink parasol.
Max found a few moments alone with Georg. "Did you know I have a driver now?"
"Not surprised; I believe I know who; Franz Isenhart."
"You're correct."
"That's one reason Belle went to Bern. It's all part of intelligence gathering and security. James does his job well."
"He's coming a little early tomorrow; so he can talk to the children."
"They understand more now; it won't alarm them."
"We better join everyone, before we are missed."
They weren't missed. Max was in time to hear all their silly songs and some of the hand games all the children played.
"I'm glad they can laugh Katia."
"So am I Karl. Look at Barbara she looks like she's trying to copy them."
John again heard the hall clock. "It's that time again. I don't think I have ever laughed so much. I never played any hand games."
"Next time I'll teach you."
"You think I'm teachable Liesl."
"We'll see. I'll walk you to the door." They never heard the giggles or saw the smirks from the other children.
Monday morning was chilly; not the kind that chilled you to the bone. The sun had replaced the mist. Franz drove up quietly and waited by the car. He could hear Max. "You need to get in the car."
"It's early Uncle Max. Are you anxious to get rid of us?"
"Not really, follow me please." Max was driving all the younger children today. Karl wasn't teaching a class this morning
The children looked at Max and then Franz. "I want you to meet my driver, Herr Isenhart."
"Can't you drive anymore Uncle Max?"
"Certainly I can, Gretl, Captain James thought I needed a driver to make sure I stay out of trouble."
"Franz, you have a tall order."
"I know Maria. Now children, let's not be so formal. Why don't you call me Uncle Ike? It's a name used by all my nieces and nephews. Is that alright Maria?"
"It's fine Ike." The children snickered.
"You sound like Belle." Maria smiled.
The children had been safely delivered to school. Max and Franz were on the return trip. "Are you living at your villa all alone?"
"No Max, Belle and I closed it up. We worked on it for weeks. I had Lawrence take a lot of clothes to the Abbey. He heard the sister tell another. 'Some one else must be leaving.' Father Martin knew a family who could use our towels and linens.
"We shipped our silver and china and Belle's desk to Bern. We ate out the last few days. I'm living at the Bittingers cottage. It's hidden; an ideal location. Audrey promised Belle that Sophia would feed me. Tell Maria not to worry. Belle is fine. Home Max?"
"Yes, until three."