Читать книгу The Errant Child - Ozzie Logozzo - Страница 21

Rome, central Italy Vatican City

Three men in uniform are arguing. It is a common occurrence in Italy. Disagreements over soccer games or politicians run rampant throughout the populace. This time it is very different.

“I have to see the Cardinal.”

Lieutenant-colonel Giacomo is insistent. He is pleading with the guards to forego procedure this one time.

The Swiss guardsman maintains his position. “Commander, the carabinieri have no jurisdiction here. You know the protocol. We cannot let you in without permission. You do not have the

requisite pass.”

“Listen to me. I have critical news for

Cardinal Pio and the whereabouts of two families that he is expecting. For God’s sake, he is my uncle and you know that.”

“Maybe so but we can’t break the rules.

Maybe in Italy but this is the Vatican.”

Before the give-and-take advances further, Emilio, sucking a lollipop, re-enters the tunnel from behind the guardsmen and intrudes on the exchange.

“It’s ok. Let him in.”

Emilio’s grin is for the guardsmen. He winks at his nephew.

Giacomo is shocked. He is stunned to see his

uncle and the professore’s brutal enforcer.

Emilio approaches Giacomo and looks deeply into his face.

“You look frazzled. You must learn not to take your job so seriously.”

Emilio plants a caressing schiaffo (slap) across the side of Giacomo’s surreal expression.

“See you at the wedding, Giacomo. Oh, do clean up matters for me. Pio’s office is a mess. Ciao ragazzo. We have much to talk about. Later.”