“Yes, or know anything about it.”
“The enemy’s network of spies is vast and endless. Without doubt they have radio connections with every large city.”
“You keep hinting that the papyrus carries a secret message or something. You surely don’t think a message written so long ago means anything to this generation?”
“There are those who do. I can find you men who will tell you how this war is to end. They found it all written out in the Koran, or the Bible.”
“You’re not clearing things up much.”
“Let’s forget the whole business,” he suggested. “We accepted no responsibility, only agreed to try to get the roll to America. Well, at present, it appears that we have failed. The sun is lower now. My friend’s garden will be delightful. Let us sing while we may.”
The garden was all that he had promised, and more. Having arrived at a massive, iron-bound gate in a wall, they tethered their donkeys, then knocked. The gate swung open and they stepped inside.
“Look up,” said the Colonel.
“How gorgeous!” Mary exclaimed as her eyes feasted themselves on the scene that lay above them. Up a steep slope ran two stone walks. Between these walks a small stream of crystal-clear water gurgled and danced over bright colored tiles.
Between the walks and water were narrow flower beds all aglow with blossoms.