Newkirk was a professional. While changing clothes inside the boot of a car by torch proved cumbersome, he managed well enough. He felt relief. The past several days proved chaotic and frenzied. Knowing Hogan seized control of the situation reassured him. He hated being a prisoner but he loved serving his country.
He silently cursed as Schultz managed to hit every pothole in the road. Newkirk easily ascertained they were close when the car traveled on well-maintained roads, a practicality near hospitals. When the car stopped, he waited for Wilson's signal before emerging from the boot as a medical officer.
The disguise worked. Newkirk easily fooled the staff. No one questioned the forged supply requisition. As he walked about with a medic, he discreetly picked up a few handy items. Once in the supply room, he looked about for anything he should grab.
The medic said, "Penicillin is scarce. I don't have much."
"Even just a little bit," said Newkirk. "We have a sick man."
"You should bring him to the hospital," said the medic.
Newkirk said, "His fever is too high. I did not want to risk it."
The medic said, "Of course, Herr Doctor. I cannot give you a case but here is a carton." He handed Newkirk a small box.
Newkirk knew enough to read the box. Penizillin. He sighed, "I wish I could have some more but this should do for now." As the two left the supply room, Newkirk turned his head so Schultz would not see his face. Newkirk had an easier time getting his requisition filled because it was for a Jerry unit.
Schultz said, "This is most kind of you."
The orderly said, "Bah! Prisoners of war would steal milk from babies if they could!"
Newkirk kept moving. He had several small boxes including the penicillin. It was not a large or greedy order. He stowed the supplies in the boot of the car and covered them with a blanket. He wrapped the penicillin carton in a cloth and set it in the backseat. He had to wait for Schultz and Wilson. He saw a young nurse walking, looking somewhat tired.
"Guten tag," smiled Newkirk.
The nurse tried a smile and said, "Guten tag. Forgive me, Herr Doctor. It's been a long day."
"You deserve a good rest," said Newkirk. "I shall not hold you up but I would like to see you again, perhaps next time I am in town getting supplies."
The nurse smiled and said, "My husband might not approve."
Newkirk said, "Ah, what rotten luck on my part. He is a lucky man. I might like to meet him too."
"He is very busy," said the nurse. "His unit is away but my uncle looks after me."
Newkirk said, "I can see why. Oh, you've nothing to fear from me. Enjoy your day." He watched as the nurse resumed her walk. What a lovely bird. He heard a cough and saw Wilson at the boot of the car. Schultz started herding Wilson into the back seat. Newkirk quickly managed his way inside the boot.
That was too close, thought Newkirk. He should have paid better attention to the situation. Another moment and he could have been stranded. He found it extremely difficult changing back into his uniform in the now crowded boot. He was a professional. He was accustomed to quick costume changes from his days on the stage. He knew how to escape from the vanishing cabinet, a tight squeeze. He managed to do both within the boot of that car.
When he heard the familiar camp sounds and tomfoolery, Newkirk prepared to emerge from the boot. The blinding light shortly disoriented him but someone helped him out and his eyes readjusted. Schultz allowed the men to move the boxes into the infirmary, unaware that he had more parcels than what he loaded.
Wilson passed the carton of penicillin to Newkirk, who flew to the barracks. He handed it off to Hogan, who went down into the tunnel. He followed because he had to see it through. He was a good soldier and loyal subject to the king.
The two men stopped. Saunders was crying uncontrollably and Collins held her. Baker quietly said, "The general didn't make it."
Hogan snapped, "Damn it! We were this close!"
"Bloody hell," swore Newkirk. "It can't end like this."
Hogan said, "You did a good job, Newkirk. We just didn't have enough time."
Kinchloe arrived and looked at the strange scene. He said, "Colonel, the Kommandant wants to see you."
Hogan said, "Okay. As soon as it gets dark, I want a burial."
Newkirk watched as Hogan left. Their team did many impossible missions. Events did not turn out as hoped on this rare occasion. He was angry. He knew it was not their fault. Even though Hogan turned the tide and seized control of the situation, it was too late.
#HH#
As Hogan supervised the burial, he remembered the last one when Hercules did not survive. Another man assumed identity as Hercules while the real one lay buried in an anonymous grave. Hogan did not want a private graveyard. He wanted victory. He could not afford a lavish funeral scene in the woods. It had to be quick and with as much respect as possible considering the environment.
The Underground waited for instructions. Hogan opted to send out Collins with the changing of the dogs. As he quietly returned to camp, he reflected on life choices. He chose this life. He was a good commanding officer. Hogan would not tolerate another unit acting rogue and arrogant in his area of operations.
Everybody was exhausted and Hogan put everyone in for the evening. No operations anticipated or planned, Hogan went to bed. Even London did not bother with assignments. It was a rare thing for him to shut down the radio. Resistance and Underground units regularly shut down but he always managed to have someone man the radio just in case.
In the morning, Hogan and his men put on their best faces. Brody was not his man but was his responsibility. Hogan saw hundreds of men safely escape out of the country. He was in command.
At roll call, he saw Saunders trying to feign a casual look. Hogan noticed she tried to hide the puffy eyes. He had to get her out of the country. She was not Tiger. Despite what Collins said about her, she mourned the loss of her commanding officer. If Klink noticed, Hogan could easily pass it off as being upset at the lack of rescue.
When roll call concluded, the men went about usual business. It was unusually cold. Hogan sat in the main room while several played cards. It was all in fun, as Hogan did not allow the men to play for money when Newkirk sat at the table.
Newkirk said, "I throw down the queen of diamonds and the three of hearts, and you picked up the three."
Saunders said, "Sorry, my mind isn't in this game today."
LeBeau cheerfully said, "Who wants some strudel?" The warm aroma was invigorating. Carter passed out some plates and LeBeau merrily doled out portions to the men.
Hogan said, "This is really good."
Schultz arrived, a matter of excellent timing. His eyes widened and he said, "Strudel."
"Have a piece," said LeBeau.
"Danke," said Schultz. "Oh Colonel Hogan, the Kommandant wants to see you."
Hogan said, "Can't you see I'm eating?"
Schultz said, "The Red Cross sent in a Christmas shipment. The truck arrives in a couple of hours."
Christmas – Hogan forgot about the yule season. He said, "I hope your boys at the depot didn't raid the packages."
Schultz shrugged, "I'm sure they're too busy enjoying gluhwein."
Hogan went to see Klink. He saw Hilda setting up some decorations around her desk, which betrayed the usual military decorum of the office. She smiled at him and he briefly felt weak in the knees. He loved playing the kissing game with her.
Klink was in an especially good mood. He smiled, "Come in, Hogan. Would you care for a cigar?"
"You're in a good mood," said Hogan.
Klink said, "Ah, but the goose is getting quite fat as we speak. I have a small favor to ask of you."
Hogan said, "If the Red Cross packages haven't been tampered with, I'll ask LeBeau to cook that fat goose for you."
Klink said, "That blabbermouth. Very good."
Hogan asked, "Who's coming to dinner?"
Klink said, "Just us, my dear Hogan. General Burkhalter will be with his family. Colonel Wagner might stop by for some herring salad on the eve but he wishes to be with his men. It is a difficult time for soldiers. I almost felt ashamed for inviting him."
Hogan asked, "Did he forgive you?"
Klink said, "Yes. I know there are differences between the infantry and Luftwaffe. I admire him."
Hogan felt an overwhelming sense of desire to disgrace Wagner, a professional soldier who had a hand in Brody's demise. He could not let that feeling interrupt his dealings with Klink. He said, "I'm sure we'll all manage to make a merry Christmas."
Klink said, "That's the spirit!"
Hogan sighed, "Christmas pudding, presents under the tree, colorful lights – maybe we'll even see Santa Claus come down the chimney."
Klink said, "I know. We are unable to see our families. Together, we shall make the best of it. I suppose we can suspend certain hostilities."
Hogan said, "You mean not try and escape."
Klink said, "Many a man has tried it on the eve. Perhaps you will arrange something to keep their minds off it?"
"It's a little short notice," said Hogan. "I'll let the men know."
Klink said, "That is all, Hogan."
As Hogan left, he realized the holiday meant other troubles besides escape. Some men became so despondent with their imprisonment they took their own lives. He did not think that a concern at his camp. His men fully supported the mission. He decided some type of activity would be prudent.
Then he saw Schnitzer arrive. He knew his men had everything under control. Hogan knew how to get men in and out of the country. He hoped he had a new ally. He tried visualizing mannequins falling out of trees spooking the infantrymen. That was a clever trick.
Hogan returned to the barracks and saw Kinchloe playing rummy with Saunders. He said, "The Kommandant wants us to do something to celebrate the holiday."
Kinchloe said, "Ah yes, the annual Christmas show. I had forgotten about that. At least now we have a soprano for the Glee Club."
"You'll regret it," said Saunders. "I'm not a very good singer."
Hogan said, "You haven't heard the Glee Club."
Kinchloe said, "LeBeau can carry a tune."
Hogan laughed. That was true. LeBeau had a wonderful mix of different talents. He also had his limitations. LeBeau constantly suffered from the cold and was claustrophobic. Having been a prisoner the longest, the Frenchman should have suffered the worst of depression but instead he was an energetic man. Hogan admired his passion, fighting for a free France.
"He also has a pair of hands," said Saunders.
Hogan said, "We've been prisoners a while, my dear Colonel."
Saunders said, "I see. Well, I'm sure it's all for the greater good so count me in."
As the team entered, Carter said, "The bird is away."
Newkirk said, "Blimey, she's sitting right at the table."
"I meant that major," said Carter. "Sheesh!"
Hogan said, "We're putting together a Christmas show. Can I count on the Glee Club?" There was some hemming and hawing at the notion. Hogan teased, "Too bad. I found a soprano." The tones changed to excited affirmations.
LeBeau asked, "Do you know La Marseillaise?"
"Allons enfants de la Patrie, le jour de gloire est arrivé…"
For a moment, Hogan saw happy men. Not everyone knew the words but the enthusiasm was contagious. The singing became too boisterous as Schultz entered and cried, "That is verboten!" It failed to stop the singing.
Hogan said, "The Glee Club is warming up."
"Colonel Hogan, I beg of you, not this song," pled Schultz.
"Let them finish the chorus," smiled Hogan. He knew Schultz was following orders. The men needed to relax. He needed to relax without lowering his guard. He did not want to orchestrate a Christmas truce such as the famous one of 1914, but at least he could offer his men something decent. LeBeau led a rousing cheer.
Schultz said, "That's better. Colonel Hogan, the Red Cross truck is here."
The men excitedly rushed out of the barracks. Hogan knew the procedure. The men formed up in ranks, anxiously awaiting their names to be called. A Red Cross representative stood calmly recording the transactions. The ranks slowly thinned until just a handful remained. Hogan set his package by the barracks door. He had to make sure everyone received a package. One person remained standing, but the guards raised the tailgate of the truck.
Hogan approached the Red Cross representative and said, "What about Colonel Saunders?"
The representative said, "I do not have him on the list."
"She's a she," said Hogan as he gestured towards Saunders.
The representative lowered his head and said, "I am sorry. We did not know. She is American?"
"Yes," said Hogan.
The representative said, "I see. I shall make certain to inform my supervisor and send a wire to the authorities. Regrettably, I only have enough packages for the names on the list. She is new here?"
"Yes," said Hogan.
"This is an unusual place for a woman," said the representative. "I may be able to bring a package if there are extras, but you realize what that means."
Hogan nodded his head. Extra packages meant someone died. It also meant that it contained men's supplemental garments. He gestured for Saunders to approach and said, "The Red Cross didn't know you were here. There's nothing for you."
Saunders said, "I understand sir. Did we receive any medical care packages?"
The representative replied, "Not today. This was a special shipment for the holidays."
Saunders said, "I see. Well, we do need additional medical supplies. I run a professional medical operation. Whatever you can manage would be greatly appreciated."
The representative said, "I am sorry, Fraulein."
Saunders said, "There will be a next time. Merry Christmas."
The representative said, "Froehlich Weihnachten."
Hogan watched as Saunders returned to her barracks. He retrieved his package and headed to Barracks 3. Schultz almost made a protest, knowing the Kommandant did not want men inside the women's barracks, but let it go.
As Hogan entered he said, "They don't know you're here yet. It'll be alright."
Saunders said, "You don't have to give up your package. I'm sure the men will share chocolates and coffee."
Hogan said, "Keep it. I'd rather they not shower you with chocolates and coffee." Saunders laughed and Hogan felt good. He added, "LeBeau is an excellent chef. I'll make do."
Saunders asked, "Do you want the cigarettes?"
Hogan said, "I thought you'd rather have them."
Saunders said, "It's an indulgence but I've no right…"
"Think nothing of it," said Hogan. "You're here for a while. I'll make you as comfortable as I can and I'll keep you safe."
"You're a decent man," said Saunders.
Hogan stood and said, "You haven't seen the kissing game with Fraulein Hilda." He left and went to Barracks 2. As he entered, the men stared at him. He asked, "What's going on?"
LeBeau said, "You don't have your package. Bravo."
Hogan said, "There'll be another." The men watched as he entered his room and closed the door.
Carter said, "He's always thinking of us."
LeBeau said, "Oui. He is a good man."
Newkirk said, "We'll just have to do something nice for him."
Carter excitedly said, "I know! Let's blow up the Bad Kissingen Bridge!"
Newkirk said, "Don't be daft. They're not done rebuilding it."
Kinchloe said, "Alright, let's start a collection of things. Louis, I'm sure you'd love to cook up something special for the Colonel. Peter, see what the gang's willing to donate. Andrew, start making some bombs. We'll find something to blow up."
"Now you're talking," said Carter.
#HH#
Hogan wondered what troubled the Kommandant enough to summon him after lights out. It was highly unusual. He entered the office and saw Klink practically slumped in his chair with defeat. He asked, "Is something troubling you?"
"Frau Linkmeyer is on her way," sighed Klink. "Ooh, that…"
Hogan said, "Eh, it could be worse."
Klink said with exasperation, "How could it get any worse?"
"You could be going to the Russian front," jabbed Hogan.
Klink shook his head and said, "That's looking pretty good to me right now."
Hogan said, "Cheer up. The Glee Club is warming up for the Christmas show."
Klink said, "I heard they were singing La Marseilles. I'll overlook the transgression for now but be warned. If they so much as start a note, I'll cancel the show."
"Fair enough," said Hogan. "What do you intend to do about Frau Linkmeyer?"
Klink said, "I don't know."
Hogan said, "You could get lucky." Klink looked confused. Hogan continued, "Her car could get hit during an air raid." Hogan saw the look change on Klink's face to a broad smile. Yes, he was fantasizing it. Hogan added, "You could just marry her and be done with it."
"You're a terrible man," said Klink.
Hogan said, "Your only other option is to find another girl."
Klink said, "Where am I going to find another girl?"
Hogan suggested, "Fraulein Hilda."
Klink said, "That's entirely out of the question." Hogan feigned a look of confusion. Klink said, "She's going to a party. I think she has her eye on some officer in town."
Hogan said, "Well, you better think of something. You're getting ready to go into battle. You need a game plan. Just tell her how you really feel."
Klink started pacing and said, "It's not that simple. She's Burkhalter's sister."
Hogan said, "Too bad Colonel Wagner is so busy. Maybe he'd like to meet her."
Klink said, "He has too much good taste for that. Besides, he's spending the holiday with his men." His tone softened, "He's spending the holiday with his men – as should I."
Hogan said, "Now you're talking."
Klink said, "You may go."
"Glad to be of help," said Hogan.
Knowing Frau Linkmeyer was coming, Hogan understood the circumstances. Klink would be unbalanced the duration of her visit. For some reason, she fancied Klink. Burkhalter introduced her to several officers but she preferred returning to Stalag 13. This was a time of year to be with family, not out trying to seduce an unmarried officer. He entered the barracks and saw his men abed.
Kinchloe asked, "Trouble?"
"Frau Linkmeyer is coming."
Kinchloe laughed, "Good. We have orders."
"Not so good," said Hogan. "She has a nasty habit of doubling the guards."
Kinchloe said, "London says the Underground is bringing in a defector. We just have to hide him a few days."
Hogan said, "We can manage that. Any idea who's defecting?"
Kinchloe said, "Not yet."
"It's always a fun time with London," Hogan sighed. "When's he expected?"
Kinchloe said, "Midnight at the Hofbrau."
"I could use a beer," said Hogan.
Several men volunteered to accompany Hogan. He decided to keep it simple and chose Newkirk. Hogan did not want to arouse undue suspicion. At such a late hour of the evening, military personnel would be tucked away for the night in barracks. He decided civilian attire was more appropriate. The two men would go as factory workers ending a late shift. Hogan carefully glued his fake mustache into place.
The Hofbrau was not too far from camp, fortunately, as Hogan did not have an opportunity to requisition a car earlier in the day. It was cold but not snowing. The two men quickly made their way to the Hofbrau and bided their time over a beer. Hogan saw the local Underground contact Eckhart enter the bar with a nervous man in civilian attire wearing glasses and carrying a satchel. Eckhart saw Hogan and approached.
"Please join us," said Hogan.
"Danke," said Eckhart. The agent sat without any trouble but his passenger stumbled into the chair.
Hogan said, "It is a good night to rest."
Eckhart said, "Such is the season."
Hogan did not need the code phrase but was reassured by it nonetheless. He asked, "What can I do for you tonight?"
"This is Doctor Fredrick Eichmann," said Eckhart. "He has been conducting research and wishes certain persons to benefit from it."
Hogan said, "I see. We're happy to oblige."
"Good," said Eckhart. He turned to Eichmann and said, "You can trust these men with your life."
Eichmann said, "I hope so."
Eckhart stood and cried, "The hour! My wife is going to kill me. Guten abend."
"Guten abend," said Hogan. He watched as Eckhart left. Then he looked at Eichmann. The man was a nervous fellow.
Eichmann asked, "What next?"
Hogan calmly said, "We'll take care of things. Relax. We do this all the time."
Leaving proved interesting. Hogan realized Eichmann was a klutz and hoped he was an exceptional scientist worth taking such a risk. The three men made their way through the woods.
Eichmann asked, "Where are we going?"
Hogan said, "We have a unique operation, Herr Doctor. What kind of research do you specialize in?"
Eichmann said, "Atomic."
Hogan was impressed. The man had to be a genius. He said, "That's interesting. Shh, we're getting close."
As the trio neared the camp, Hogan saw flurry of activity within the compound. Something alerted the guards. Then he heard the dogs barking. Had someone escaped?