Hidden Passion, page 39
Rennie stepped up. “I will. David, would you go with Chetin and keep him and Mr. Yilmaz occupied?”
As David walked away, Rennie turned to Demir. “I wasn’t sure how much I should say or what you wanted to know. There’s far too much to express quickly or simply.”
She summarized for him the deaths and the so-called war within the Christian church and involving ancient documents, adding to what she thought he knew. She studied him. He seemed ready to pounce.
“Miss Haran, I don’t care about documents. They don’t hurt people. Tell me about who wants what, as far as you know.”
Rennie described what happened in Italy, first in Naples and then in Rome, focused on the people. She mentioned the new information about Sfumato. She said she didn’t know Yusuf or anyone else in Turkey.
“This is enough, Miss Haran. We shall learn more when Yusuf returns. Until then, we must get to know this room, access, and the people here.”
Istanbul, Turkey
Topkapi Palace
XIII / 2
The museum reception clerk noticed three men enter the main doors. One man, tall and thick in a black suit with a crisp white shirt and dark red tie, took cautious strides through the grand lobby of Topkapi. He paused and motioned to those at the entry. A deeply tanned elderly gentleman, distinguished in a form-fitting light gray suit, entered the hall with an elegant attitude accompanied by a third fellow, a clone of the first.
The clerk made a brief call, then came around the desk to greet the visitors. Charles Sfumato introduced himself and the purpose of his visit. Sfumato drifted away with casual grace. He scanned the great hall with an air of satisfaction, as if he approved.
The three men met for a quiet conversation. The first man removed a phone and made a call, then made a brief comment to Mr. Sfumato. The two support men maintained vigilant positions as their boss strolled, pausing at times to study the detail on a tapestry or table. Looking at his watch, the cuff of his linen shirt displayed a gold-wrapped silver coin with an Etruscan image.
All three turned with the sound of someone entering the hall from the side. Yusuf waved a warm welcome. Ignoring the two men at the side, he went straight to Sfumato, offering his hand and bowing.
“Sir, I’m pleased to see you again. Welcome to Topkapi Sarayi. I regret we’ve not been able to prepare for this delightful and surprising visit.”
“Thank you, Yusuf. I hope you can come to San Francisco again soon. Perhaps, our situation will work out and that your coming may be for a long time.”
Yusuf eagerly nodded and humbled himself with awkward abandon. “My hopes are that our arrangements will be fulfilled to your satisfaction.”
“I have every confidence in you. The product of your work will be memorable and forever secure.”
Yusuf again shook the hand of his possible grand benefactor. An unusual, joyful spirit seemed to be upon him.
“And, what are the plans, Yusuf? Will we have our prize today?”
Despite the doubts showing on the face of the chief curator, he eagerly replied, “It is very possible. We have much supporting evidence, so I know the treasure lies near. Would you like to visit the archives?”
A corner of the old man’s mouth moved, telling little. “It would be a privilege, my friend.”
Yusuf led the way to the elevator, followed by one of the support men, then Sfumato, and finally the other assistant. All was quiet on the way down to the facility. When they reached the door to the archives, Yusuf paused, noticing the door was not entirely closed.
“Is something amiss, Yusuf?” Sfumato asked.
“I don’t think so. Whoever has last come or gone failed to secure our door. Please, welcome to the treasure room, as some have called it.”
Yusuf held the door for the three visitors and upon closing it, he hurried past them. “Again, my apologies for not being ready for your arrival. This is, after all, a workroom.”
The sound of voices amidst the racks turned their attention toward the noise.
Yusuf called out, “Chetin, is that you? Is someone with you?”
The intern responded as he came down a softly lit aisle. “Yes, the director is here. So, also, are guests.”
Chetin, Aslan, and Demir appeared from the darkness. Behind them, came David and then Rennie.
As they arrived in the workroom, Sfumato and Rennie’s eyes locked onto each other. No one said anything for a deadly quiet interlude.
Aslan broke the moment open. “Yusuf, who are your guests?”
“Ah, Director, this is Mr. Charles Sfumato of San Francisco, USA. With him are his two assistants. Mr. Sfumato, this is the director of Istanbul’s Antiquities and Topkapi Museum Operations, Mr. Aslan Yilmaz.”
As Aslan shook hands with the visitors, he commented to Yusuf, “Are these the visitors you expected? Forgive me, Mr. Sfumato and gentlemen. Sometimes, the man at the top knows less than anyone.”
“I fully understand, Director,” Sfumato responded. “Ambiguity adds a consistently unique flavor to management, wouldn’t you say? And, I see there are other guests here.”
“Yes, also unexpected. This is —”
“Forgive me, Director. Miss Haran and I have met. It was in regard to another significant find. Miss Haran, a delightful surprise.”
They maintained a stiff distance between them.
“Yes,” she replied. “A surprise, indeed.”
Sfumato glanced at the others. “And, Director, we have others here? I’d be pleased to meet them, also.”
“Of course, this is Umit Yildirim. He’s with the government and has been conducting a project, I guess we could say a research project. And, with Miss Haran, is her friend David. You might know his grandfather, a Professor Matthew Justus.”
Although Sfumato’s face gave no reaction, it was difficult to miss the continued look of shock in Yusuf’s expression.
Finally, Aslan again took the lead. “What is the reason for your visit? It is quite remarkable we all find ourselves here in the archives. On limited arrangements, we have noted researchers participate in our work here but never casual visitors. Perhaps, we should all return to the conference room on the main level where we might be more comfortable.”
Sfumato responded, “Director, it’s indeed a privilege to be in this place where the hard work of discovery becomes the revelation of understanding. You and your colleagues are to be applauded. Since we are here, could we be informed of any updates and see some of the work you are pursuing? It would be a profound gift to us. We have come a great distance. Perhaps Miss Haran and the others have had a chance for that delight.”
“Of course, for a few minutes, that would be fine. We welcome any distinguished visitors who are friends of Yusuf. Yusuf, we were in the old sections back there. That might be of interest to your guests.”
“Yes, Director, that’s a good idea. Gentlemen, please follow me and I’ll be your guide to the collections.”
As they passed one another, the intensity between Rennie and Sfumato remained, despite a polite handshake and greeting in passing.
***
When Yusuf’s guests disappeared into the stacks, Chetin suggested that Rennie, David, and Demir might like to visit his work area in the storage room. Aslan agreed, but continued to study the departure of Yusuf and his arrivals.
When they had a moment alone, Rennie said to David and to Demir, “I can’t believe it. He’s here, now. Something’s going on. This is no coincidence.”
Chetin appeared wary but enthused that people would have an interest in his work. He led them into the storage room and provided a general overview of the layout and processes of how property enters the storage facilities from the freight elevators and ultimately proceeds into the archives review rooms. From there, selected pieces go upstairs into displays as needed.
Aslan entered the room. “Chetin, you’ve recently come upon another item. I’m sure Miss Haran will be interested.”
The intern didn’t move. “Sir, this is still new, it’s ah, —”
“Please, go ahead. You will find them quite well informed.”
With careful attention to detail, Chetin presented the worktable where he was currently reviewing items of interest. He referred to the Constantine collection of artifacts that was largely intact and not fully researched. He pointed to some obvious artifacts that caught the eye.
Aslan interrupted him, “Chetin, show them the unique items you set aside.”
Chetin wrung his hands and bit his lip. “Sir, these are—”
“It is my wish.”
Rennie sensed Aslan was pushing to reveal something special.
It’s here! she thought.
Conversations of the other visitors arose in the main room. Aslan made a quick pivot and left the storage room.
Rennie asked Chetin to show them what he had found. As he laid them on the table, she asked him if others knew of this. He responded that only the director had been informed.
With shaking hands, he displayed the latest find and stepped back.
Rennie and David moved closer.
David asked Chetin, “And, what did you find of interest here?”
“It mentions certain parties of significance. There’s the Emperor Constantine, of course, and then a person who played a key role in the first Council of Nicaea, one Eusebius of Nicomedia.”
“Interesting,” David continued, “but other than the names, what’s so meaningful? What do they say?”
Chetin again wrung his hands and turned toward the entry door to the storage area.
Rennie knocked her knuckle on the table to get Chetin’s attention. “Excuse me, we’ve spoken to the director and he wants us to know everything.”
Chetin stepped around the table and pointed to the plate David was closely examining. Rennie joined them as Demir held back, surveying the overall situation. Chetin used his notepad to deliver a brief, focused summary of the key points.
Rennie looked into David’s eyes. “We are so close.”
Chetin responded, “I agree.”
Sensing a common understanding, David said, “Chetin, where did these come from? I mean, among what other materials?”
“These over here on this shelf. There are some large items, a box and then document folders used for the initial preservation of documents.”
David went to the shelf. “May I?” he asked, pointing to the folders. “I have some experience with this.”
Chetin seemed uncertain but agreed.
David carefully opened a folder and laid several plates on the shelf.
Rennie pointed to the box. “Chetin, what’s in this?”
“I don’t think it has been opened. Typically, a box will hold heavy or large items. We never find any documents in them.”
David held up a plate and shifted it for better lighting.
“Yes, the lighting back here is not good. I think it’s our budget. The basic needs are often cut.”
As David studied the document in the plate, Rennie slid a fingertip along the joint in the box separating what looked like a cover from the base. It was sealed shut.
“Chetin, would you open this please? It’s probably nothing but a vase, but while we’re waiting —”
“Yes, I believe I can do that. Let me get the proper tool.”
A desk telephone in the main room rang. Everyone stopped. The group in the storage room went to the door to see Yusuf answer the phone. He spoke little and with hesitation. He turned to the director.
“There are more guests.”
Rennie mouthed the words, “Oh, God.”
Yusuf turned to the director. “Sir, now I think it’s best that we all go up to the conference room.”
Aslan responded, “Yusuf, I will go and you update Miss Haran and our other visitors on the special find you have. I will return in a moment.”
The group shifted in place as Aslan left the facility. All eyes went to Yusuf.
Sfumato and his men stepped away into a private conversation as Yusuf showed to Rennie, David, and Demir the document on his desk. He explained they were reviewing what appears to be an agenda item for the Council of Nicaea meeting and the purpose of this item to be testimony from women of the churches of Corinth and Rome.
Rennie said to Yusuf, “So, this means there is a letter somewhere from the apostle Paul and maybe letters from these women?”
Sfumato announced from across the room. “Yes, Rennie, that’s exactly what the document indicates. The question is whether those are here in this room.”
Inside, Rennie rode a wave of anger. She needed power. She hated those with it, but now she needed it. She looked at Demir.
Sfumato and his men approached the worktable. He pointed at the document. “This is a treasure in itself, but it’s circumstantial. The piece that has been sought for two thousand years is hinted at.”
He turned to Yusuf. “But where is it?”
“It’s here, sir, somewhere. We’re close. It’s here.”
Sfumato snickered. “My friend, it is said that ‘close’ only counts with hand grenades and love. We don’t need close. We need results. Isn’t that what we agreed?”
Demir now spoke. His low flat tone began with a gurgle and ended strong. “And, ‘agreed’ means what?”
All eyes turned to him.
Sfumato responded, “I’m not sure if we are fully acquainted. What again is your role or position here?”
“The question—” Demir began, and then the entry door to the main archives room opened with its screeching announcement.
Aslan entered, followed by Father Angelotti and Busca.
“Oh, dear God,” Rennie said aloud. She put a hand over her mouth.
As the Vatican visitors entered the room, their smiles turned into expressions of shock.
Sfumato said with a laugh, “We’re gathering quite a party here.”
Aslan spoke with unusual strength. “Distinguished guests, I don’t know what this is about, but perhaps you all come for what may be common interests. Is this so?”
“Thank you, Director,” Sfumato answered. “And, I believe we may all know each other, or at least most of us. Am I right, Father, and Rennie?”
Istanbul, Turkey
The Archives of Topkapi Museum
XIII / 3
Aslan divided the group to diminish the apparent tension among the parties. He told them he understood their shared interest in what documents might be found, and that all parties would be given the current status of any new finds. He recommended that Chetin take Rennie, David, and Demir into the storage facility while the guests from the Vatican and from California be briefed by Yusuf. After that, any added questions or suggestions could be addressed. He said he would rotate between the two groups.
Returning to Chetin’s desk, Rennie’s attention to the antiquities lying around them vanished. She gathered with Demir and David to discuss what ties and possible conspiracies might be in the works between Sfumato and Angelotti.
Demir answered, “Don’t forget Yusuf.”
Chetin gasped and stepped back.
Demir said, “And, you?”
Chetin’s face twisted in fear. “No, no! In fact, Yusuf remains unaware of this last find, the letter from Eusebius to the emperor. The director told me to not say anything. I don’t understand any of this!”
The eyes of Demir met Rennie’s.
“How do we proceed?” she asked.
Demir pulled out his phone. “No signal. I must make a call. Chetin, is there a phone here in the storage area?”
“Yes, over by the freight elevator. Come, I’ll show you.”
Rennie and David could hear the mumbles of but not understand the conversation in the other room.
David whispered, “This could be history.”
Rennie responded, “Yes, Mr. Justus, but consider the danger.”
She gasped and pushed away from him. “What, Rennie? What?”
“You said this could be history. Maybe, it’s a repeat of history.”
She looked at the shelf. That’s it.
“What do you mean, Rennie? A repeat of history?”
She grabbed his shirt with both hands. “David, your great grandfather, Matthias Justus found the letters from Jesus in an overlooked box on a shelf in the storage area of the British Museum.”
They turned as one toward the unopened box.
“Could it be?” he asked.
Chetin returned. “What?”
David took the box off the shelf and set it on the worktable. “Chetin, we need this opened.”
Rennie’s mind raced through memories and images. The potential discoveries inside the box and the threats of those in the other room pushed her to the limits of her self-control. She felt the protection device in her pocket.
The intern took a tool from a drawer and slid the box into position.
Rennie noted how cluttered the area was.
“Is there another table we can use, cleaner and maybe near the back?”
“Yes, there’s another one. Good idea.”
Chetin carried the box down an aisle, made a turn and then another to find the lonesome, empty workspace in dim light.
“Do you need help with this, Chetin? When I was young, I helped my grandfather, Professor Mathew Justus, handle some of the antiquities in his care.” David sounded reassuring.
“Thank you for asking, but this should be easy.”
Applying the tool with a simple flip of the wrist, the box lid popped up. Rennie and David bent over, trying to see the contents.
Chetin was amused. “Yes, the air in there is probably from the fourth century. How does it smell?”
They ignored him. David touched the lid and shifted it away from the container as Chetin put on a pair of cotton gloves.
Lying in the box beneath a cut of fine white linen was a leather bag the size used by a courier or messenger bag.
As David walked away, Rennie turned to Demir. “I wasn’t sure how much I should say or what you wanted to know. There’s far too much to express quickly or simply.”
She summarized for him the deaths and the so-called war within the Christian church and involving ancient documents, adding to what she thought he knew. She studied him. He seemed ready to pounce.
“Miss Haran, I don’t care about documents. They don’t hurt people. Tell me about who wants what, as far as you know.”
Rennie described what happened in Italy, first in Naples and then in Rome, focused on the people. She mentioned the new information about Sfumato. She said she didn’t know Yusuf or anyone else in Turkey.
“This is enough, Miss Haran. We shall learn more when Yusuf returns. Until then, we must get to know this room, access, and the people here.”
Istanbul, Turkey
Topkapi Palace
XIII / 2
The museum reception clerk noticed three men enter the main doors. One man, tall and thick in a black suit with a crisp white shirt and dark red tie, took cautious strides through the grand lobby of Topkapi. He paused and motioned to those at the entry. A deeply tanned elderly gentleman, distinguished in a form-fitting light gray suit, entered the hall with an elegant attitude accompanied by a third fellow, a clone of the first.
The clerk made a brief call, then came around the desk to greet the visitors. Charles Sfumato introduced himself and the purpose of his visit. Sfumato drifted away with casual grace. He scanned the great hall with an air of satisfaction, as if he approved.
The three men met for a quiet conversation. The first man removed a phone and made a call, then made a brief comment to Mr. Sfumato. The two support men maintained vigilant positions as their boss strolled, pausing at times to study the detail on a tapestry or table. Looking at his watch, the cuff of his linen shirt displayed a gold-wrapped silver coin with an Etruscan image.
All three turned with the sound of someone entering the hall from the side. Yusuf waved a warm welcome. Ignoring the two men at the side, he went straight to Sfumato, offering his hand and bowing.
“Sir, I’m pleased to see you again. Welcome to Topkapi Sarayi. I regret we’ve not been able to prepare for this delightful and surprising visit.”
“Thank you, Yusuf. I hope you can come to San Francisco again soon. Perhaps, our situation will work out and that your coming may be for a long time.”
Yusuf eagerly nodded and humbled himself with awkward abandon. “My hopes are that our arrangements will be fulfilled to your satisfaction.”
“I have every confidence in you. The product of your work will be memorable and forever secure.”
Yusuf again shook the hand of his possible grand benefactor. An unusual, joyful spirit seemed to be upon him.
“And, what are the plans, Yusuf? Will we have our prize today?”
Despite the doubts showing on the face of the chief curator, he eagerly replied, “It is very possible. We have much supporting evidence, so I know the treasure lies near. Would you like to visit the archives?”
A corner of the old man’s mouth moved, telling little. “It would be a privilege, my friend.”
Yusuf led the way to the elevator, followed by one of the support men, then Sfumato, and finally the other assistant. All was quiet on the way down to the facility. When they reached the door to the archives, Yusuf paused, noticing the door was not entirely closed.
“Is something amiss, Yusuf?” Sfumato asked.
“I don’t think so. Whoever has last come or gone failed to secure our door. Please, welcome to the treasure room, as some have called it.”
Yusuf held the door for the three visitors and upon closing it, he hurried past them. “Again, my apologies for not being ready for your arrival. This is, after all, a workroom.”
The sound of voices amidst the racks turned their attention toward the noise.
Yusuf called out, “Chetin, is that you? Is someone with you?”
The intern responded as he came down a softly lit aisle. “Yes, the director is here. So, also, are guests.”
Chetin, Aslan, and Demir appeared from the darkness. Behind them, came David and then Rennie.
As they arrived in the workroom, Sfumato and Rennie’s eyes locked onto each other. No one said anything for a deadly quiet interlude.
Aslan broke the moment open. “Yusuf, who are your guests?”
“Ah, Director, this is Mr. Charles Sfumato of San Francisco, USA. With him are his two assistants. Mr. Sfumato, this is the director of Istanbul’s Antiquities and Topkapi Museum Operations, Mr. Aslan Yilmaz.”
As Aslan shook hands with the visitors, he commented to Yusuf, “Are these the visitors you expected? Forgive me, Mr. Sfumato and gentlemen. Sometimes, the man at the top knows less than anyone.”
“I fully understand, Director,” Sfumato responded. “Ambiguity adds a consistently unique flavor to management, wouldn’t you say? And, I see there are other guests here.”
“Yes, also unexpected. This is —”
“Forgive me, Director. Miss Haran and I have met. It was in regard to another significant find. Miss Haran, a delightful surprise.”
They maintained a stiff distance between them.
“Yes,” she replied. “A surprise, indeed.”
Sfumato glanced at the others. “And, Director, we have others here? I’d be pleased to meet them, also.”
“Of course, this is Umit Yildirim. He’s with the government and has been conducting a project, I guess we could say a research project. And, with Miss Haran, is her friend David. You might know his grandfather, a Professor Matthew Justus.”
Although Sfumato’s face gave no reaction, it was difficult to miss the continued look of shock in Yusuf’s expression.
Finally, Aslan again took the lead. “What is the reason for your visit? It is quite remarkable we all find ourselves here in the archives. On limited arrangements, we have noted researchers participate in our work here but never casual visitors. Perhaps, we should all return to the conference room on the main level where we might be more comfortable.”
Sfumato responded, “Director, it’s indeed a privilege to be in this place where the hard work of discovery becomes the revelation of understanding. You and your colleagues are to be applauded. Since we are here, could we be informed of any updates and see some of the work you are pursuing? It would be a profound gift to us. We have come a great distance. Perhaps Miss Haran and the others have had a chance for that delight.”
“Of course, for a few minutes, that would be fine. We welcome any distinguished visitors who are friends of Yusuf. Yusuf, we were in the old sections back there. That might be of interest to your guests.”
“Yes, Director, that’s a good idea. Gentlemen, please follow me and I’ll be your guide to the collections.”
As they passed one another, the intensity between Rennie and Sfumato remained, despite a polite handshake and greeting in passing.
***
When Yusuf’s guests disappeared into the stacks, Chetin suggested that Rennie, David, and Demir might like to visit his work area in the storage room. Aslan agreed, but continued to study the departure of Yusuf and his arrivals.
When they had a moment alone, Rennie said to David and to Demir, “I can’t believe it. He’s here, now. Something’s going on. This is no coincidence.”
Chetin appeared wary but enthused that people would have an interest in his work. He led them into the storage room and provided a general overview of the layout and processes of how property enters the storage facilities from the freight elevators and ultimately proceeds into the archives review rooms. From there, selected pieces go upstairs into displays as needed.
Aslan entered the room. “Chetin, you’ve recently come upon another item. I’m sure Miss Haran will be interested.”
The intern didn’t move. “Sir, this is still new, it’s ah, —”
“Please, go ahead. You will find them quite well informed.”
With careful attention to detail, Chetin presented the worktable where he was currently reviewing items of interest. He referred to the Constantine collection of artifacts that was largely intact and not fully researched. He pointed to some obvious artifacts that caught the eye.
Aslan interrupted him, “Chetin, show them the unique items you set aside.”
Chetin wrung his hands and bit his lip. “Sir, these are—”
“It is my wish.”
Rennie sensed Aslan was pushing to reveal something special.
It’s here! she thought.
Conversations of the other visitors arose in the main room. Aslan made a quick pivot and left the storage room.
Rennie asked Chetin to show them what he had found. As he laid them on the table, she asked him if others knew of this. He responded that only the director had been informed.
With shaking hands, he displayed the latest find and stepped back.
Rennie and David moved closer.
David asked Chetin, “And, what did you find of interest here?”
“It mentions certain parties of significance. There’s the Emperor Constantine, of course, and then a person who played a key role in the first Council of Nicaea, one Eusebius of Nicomedia.”
“Interesting,” David continued, “but other than the names, what’s so meaningful? What do they say?”
Chetin again wrung his hands and turned toward the entry door to the storage area.
Rennie knocked her knuckle on the table to get Chetin’s attention. “Excuse me, we’ve spoken to the director and he wants us to know everything.”
Chetin stepped around the table and pointed to the plate David was closely examining. Rennie joined them as Demir held back, surveying the overall situation. Chetin used his notepad to deliver a brief, focused summary of the key points.
Rennie looked into David’s eyes. “We are so close.”
Chetin responded, “I agree.”
Sensing a common understanding, David said, “Chetin, where did these come from? I mean, among what other materials?”
“These over here on this shelf. There are some large items, a box and then document folders used for the initial preservation of documents.”
David went to the shelf. “May I?” he asked, pointing to the folders. “I have some experience with this.”
Chetin seemed uncertain but agreed.
David carefully opened a folder and laid several plates on the shelf.
Rennie pointed to the box. “Chetin, what’s in this?”
“I don’t think it has been opened. Typically, a box will hold heavy or large items. We never find any documents in them.”
David held up a plate and shifted it for better lighting.
“Yes, the lighting back here is not good. I think it’s our budget. The basic needs are often cut.”
As David studied the document in the plate, Rennie slid a fingertip along the joint in the box separating what looked like a cover from the base. It was sealed shut.
“Chetin, would you open this please? It’s probably nothing but a vase, but while we’re waiting —”
“Yes, I believe I can do that. Let me get the proper tool.”
A desk telephone in the main room rang. Everyone stopped. The group in the storage room went to the door to see Yusuf answer the phone. He spoke little and with hesitation. He turned to the director.
“There are more guests.”
Rennie mouthed the words, “Oh, God.”
Yusuf turned to the director. “Sir, now I think it’s best that we all go up to the conference room.”
Aslan responded, “Yusuf, I will go and you update Miss Haran and our other visitors on the special find you have. I will return in a moment.”
The group shifted in place as Aslan left the facility. All eyes went to Yusuf.
Sfumato and his men stepped away into a private conversation as Yusuf showed to Rennie, David, and Demir the document on his desk. He explained they were reviewing what appears to be an agenda item for the Council of Nicaea meeting and the purpose of this item to be testimony from women of the churches of Corinth and Rome.
Rennie said to Yusuf, “So, this means there is a letter somewhere from the apostle Paul and maybe letters from these women?”
Sfumato announced from across the room. “Yes, Rennie, that’s exactly what the document indicates. The question is whether those are here in this room.”
Inside, Rennie rode a wave of anger. She needed power. She hated those with it, but now she needed it. She looked at Demir.
Sfumato and his men approached the worktable. He pointed at the document. “This is a treasure in itself, but it’s circumstantial. The piece that has been sought for two thousand years is hinted at.”
He turned to Yusuf. “But where is it?”
“It’s here, sir, somewhere. We’re close. It’s here.”
Sfumato snickered. “My friend, it is said that ‘close’ only counts with hand grenades and love. We don’t need close. We need results. Isn’t that what we agreed?”
Demir now spoke. His low flat tone began with a gurgle and ended strong. “And, ‘agreed’ means what?”
All eyes turned to him.
Sfumato responded, “I’m not sure if we are fully acquainted. What again is your role or position here?”
“The question—” Demir began, and then the entry door to the main archives room opened with its screeching announcement.
Aslan entered, followed by Father Angelotti and Busca.
“Oh, dear God,” Rennie said aloud. She put a hand over her mouth.
As the Vatican visitors entered the room, their smiles turned into expressions of shock.
Sfumato said with a laugh, “We’re gathering quite a party here.”
Aslan spoke with unusual strength. “Distinguished guests, I don’t know what this is about, but perhaps you all come for what may be common interests. Is this so?”
“Thank you, Director,” Sfumato answered. “And, I believe we may all know each other, or at least most of us. Am I right, Father, and Rennie?”
Istanbul, Turkey
The Archives of Topkapi Museum
XIII / 3
Aslan divided the group to diminish the apparent tension among the parties. He told them he understood their shared interest in what documents might be found, and that all parties would be given the current status of any new finds. He recommended that Chetin take Rennie, David, and Demir into the storage facility while the guests from the Vatican and from California be briefed by Yusuf. After that, any added questions or suggestions could be addressed. He said he would rotate between the two groups.
Returning to Chetin’s desk, Rennie’s attention to the antiquities lying around them vanished. She gathered with Demir and David to discuss what ties and possible conspiracies might be in the works between Sfumato and Angelotti.
Demir answered, “Don’t forget Yusuf.”
Chetin gasped and stepped back.
Demir said, “And, you?”
Chetin’s face twisted in fear. “No, no! In fact, Yusuf remains unaware of this last find, the letter from Eusebius to the emperor. The director told me to not say anything. I don’t understand any of this!”
The eyes of Demir met Rennie’s.
“How do we proceed?” she asked.
Demir pulled out his phone. “No signal. I must make a call. Chetin, is there a phone here in the storage area?”
“Yes, over by the freight elevator. Come, I’ll show you.”
Rennie and David could hear the mumbles of but not understand the conversation in the other room.
David whispered, “This could be history.”
Rennie responded, “Yes, Mr. Justus, but consider the danger.”
She gasped and pushed away from him. “What, Rennie? What?”
“You said this could be history. Maybe, it’s a repeat of history.”
She looked at the shelf. That’s it.
“What do you mean, Rennie? A repeat of history?”
She grabbed his shirt with both hands. “David, your great grandfather, Matthias Justus found the letters from Jesus in an overlooked box on a shelf in the storage area of the British Museum.”
They turned as one toward the unopened box.
“Could it be?” he asked.
Chetin returned. “What?”
David took the box off the shelf and set it on the worktable. “Chetin, we need this opened.”
Rennie’s mind raced through memories and images. The potential discoveries inside the box and the threats of those in the other room pushed her to the limits of her self-control. She felt the protection device in her pocket.
The intern took a tool from a drawer and slid the box into position.
Rennie noted how cluttered the area was.
“Is there another table we can use, cleaner and maybe near the back?”
“Yes, there’s another one. Good idea.”
Chetin carried the box down an aisle, made a turn and then another to find the lonesome, empty workspace in dim light.
“Do you need help with this, Chetin? When I was young, I helped my grandfather, Professor Mathew Justus, handle some of the antiquities in his care.” David sounded reassuring.
“Thank you for asking, but this should be easy.”
Applying the tool with a simple flip of the wrist, the box lid popped up. Rennie and David bent over, trying to see the contents.
Chetin was amused. “Yes, the air in there is probably from the fourth century. How does it smell?”
They ignored him. David touched the lid and shifted it away from the container as Chetin put on a pair of cotton gloves.
Lying in the box beneath a cut of fine white linen was a leather bag the size used by a courier or messenger bag.
