Beatrice rubs her forehead feeling a headache coming on and offers, "You MUST speak to someone about this Hugo, it isn't good for you to harbour such fears on your own. And what if it is true? Someone needs to be warned, like the Conte."

"I was going to write a letter to the Conte's servant, Valerio Saturnines, I've heard that Saturnines can perhaps 'get things done' but I wasn't going to tell the Conte about it." Hugo says and holds up his hand, "But I won't now, not with you working for him."

Beatrice asks "Why not speak to the Conte? I don't think it is wise to share information with his servant and not with him."

"What if the Conte and Don Aldo take offense by asking them?" Hugo answers. Beatrice asks a question and comments on Hugo's, "Why should they? They like Mercury but ... not to that extent."

"Perhaps, I feel out of the out of the loop here with no information," Hugo says angrily and pours the last of his grappa down his throat. Beatrice calmy speaks, "It is important we know if we are to have future dealings with Mercury Gandt. I have become aware that there is A LOT of activity going on here that you may not be first aware of. You are closer than you think to the centre of a lot of political activity that spreads beyond this little island."

Hugo Dieter asks "We are? On this paradise we are close to what?" Beatrice goes on, "Boats come here from many countries bordering the Meditarranean and beyond. It is a freeport as well so things are often done "unofficially." For instance, did you know that Aldo has been importing cannons?"

"I did hear that those 'guests' that followed us from Venezia to Sorrentina, the sbirri thugs, have left or escaped. Wait ... cannons you say?" Hugo frowns slightly mulling it over. Beatrice adds, "God knows what for..." letting her words hang in the air.

Hugo smiles and responds, "As a port there's no harm in having some defenses. I'm sure Don Aldo knows what he's doing. Unless, the sbirri ..... with the Conte here and Contessa Elena still missing ..... could he be preparing for something?"

Beatrice answers, "Hmmm, I suspect they are not for him. These are all speculations on my part but I think we are in thick of something that has to do with Austria. I shouldn't tell you this but the Conte is hoping I can serve him in the role of emissary to Austria! I know Vienna well and I speak the language."

"I offer you congratulations Beatrice, you will be a huge help to the Conte." Hugo says. Beatrice gazes affectionately at Hugo's fine profile and wishes he wasn't so worried, "Hmm I am not so sure about that ... but it will certainly be interesting," sighs deeply wondering what she has got into, frying pan to fire she thinks.

Hugo leans in closely to Beatrice, "Please don't discuss anything about Gandt to anyone, I wouldn't want the Conte to bear us any ill will. Especially you with your new job with him." Beatrice says "Of course I wouldn't! But I will ask him if he knows what has happened to Mercury. It will be interesting to hear what he has to say."

"I'm sure the Conte knows what he is doing, and you will do well but be safe above all things, please?" Hugo asks her gently. Beatrice smiles and nods, "Of course. I spend more time listening than talking." Hugo lifts his eyebrow and adds, "And yes, some SUBTLE inquiries to the Conte about Mercury might be helpful, I just would like to know what we are up against." Beatrice grins, "Very well, I will ask him as discretely as possible."

Hugo stands up and puts his now empty glass of grappa on the table. "I need to do something Beatrice, will you accompany me?" Beatrice nods and then they stroll off towards Hugo's rooms, just on the other side of the wall. He walks into his apartment and approaches his desk, sitting down in the chair while Beatrice sits down beside him.

As Hugo rummages through his immense piles of papers, Beatrice asks, "Will you write a letter?" Hugo shakes his head, "Not this evening my dear .... I want to destroy that letter I started to write to Valerio Saturnines about investigating Mercury, I don't want anyone to find it. I shall burn so there's nothing left to chance, and I think I shall be patient," Hugo pulls out the unfinished letter and walks over to the fireplace, tossing the letter into the flame and watches as the page curls while it burns.

Beatrice looks over watching the letter go up in flames and says to Hugo, "A wise decision I think. But I still feel you should talk to Professore Stern."

"Do you honestly think I should?" Hugo asks. Beatrice replies, "Yes, I honestly do! He is totally to be relied upon," and watches as Hugo brushes a lock of hair from his face in exasperation. Beatrice smells the smell of burning hopes and says, "I hope your suspicions are wrong. Let's hope so. Mercury, despite all his faults, is a good person I think."

Beatrice gives Hugo a gentle hug and smiling back at her Hugo says, "Thank you my dear Beatrice and I will think about meeting Don Aldo and asking him about Mercury Gandt, but for now I shall be patient."

"Hugo, don't leave it too long ... if he is a sbirri agwent, we should be aware of it," Beatrice says and releases him from the hug. Hugo responds, "I understand ..... please don't fret ... I will take care of it," and kisses Beatrice's hand, gently. After Hugo bows and wishes her well, Beatrice insists it's time for some rest, for both of them.

Beatrice smiles and curtsies, "Buona sera dear Hugo," wanders out the door and disappears into the night.

Hugo heard something earlier in the day here in Rocca Sorrentina, something quite surprising and he needs to speak to Beatrice right away. Hugo finds Beatrice in her apartment, dusting of all things, and tries to settle himself before beginning. Things don't quite start off so well, as fatigue and suspicion have worn Hugo's temper a bit thin these days. Hugo barely gives Beatrice a chance to say hello before he begins asking her the question that he needs an answer to.

"Hello Beatrice, you look lovely dusting," and grins at her slyly. Beatrice offers Hugo a beaming smile while putting down her dust cloth and teases, "It brings out the best in me."

"Beatrice, I was at the cafe today and I heard some news ... about you," Hugo begins tentatively. Beatrice smiles sweetly and replies, "Oh? What did you hear? I hope it was good."

"Lady MacBain mentioned that you have a new position here on the island? With the Conte Foscari?" says Hugo as he can't help but look troubled. "Yes, I am very pleased. I will finally able to earn some money," Beatrice replies and seeing the pained look on Hugo's face nervously adds, "Are you concerned Hugo? Do you know something I don't?"

Hugo leans over and takes Beatrice hand, patting it carefully, "No, not at all Beatrice. I was merely surprised to hear it from Lady MacBain and not you is all." Squeezing her hand once again, "Honestly, there is nothing to fear," and murmurs to himself, 'I hope.'

"It has been a while since we have seen each other. But I do hear you in the middle of the night-pacing!" Beatrice exclaims, with her beautiful brown eyes widening. "I haven't seen much of you lately, now I know where you've been hiding," Hugo answers in a flat tone of voice.

Beatrice visibly bristles at the way Hugo is speaking to her, "I have not been hiding Hugo, just busy, the Conte Foscari has a lot of correspondence to write." Attempting to lighten the atmosphere Beatrice patiently asks, "Would you like something to drink? Coffee, tea, wine?"

Hugo says quietly, "I'm genuinely sorry if I've offended you Beatrice, I've just had some things on my mind is all. Have I still been keeping you up at night?"

"Not too much, but I AM aware you are preoccupied with something. I hope you feel comfortable sharing your concerns with me." Beatrice replies and watching Hugo carefully she adds, "We ARE old friends, aren't we?" As the two of them have been standing for the conversation up until then, Beatrice looks around her apartment and asks Hugo, "Where shall we sit my dear- on the sofa for now?"

Hugo starts to walk over to the sofa and waits for Beatrice to join him, "Of course we can sit, perhaps it is time I tell you what has been worrying me ...." Beatrice settles herself in front of a chair and sits down, "Please have a seat. There is some grappa to drink. I hope you enjoy it, the Conte gave me a bottle he brought from the south."

Hugo sits down on the sofa and holds the glass of grappa and takes a big sip before beginning. He looks over and sees Beatrice has gotten herself some coffee and she sips it quietly. He knows he must finally tell her what's been bothering him, but it won't be easy. With the grappa giving him some courage he takes a deep breath, "Alright dear Beatrice ..... I've been wrestling with some thoughts and suspicions of late. I haven't told you anything before because well, I honestly don't know the truth, yet."

Beatrice leans forward, patting Hugo's hand now. It was her turn to reassure him, "Ah, perhaps I can help." Beatrice says as Hugo looks at her and can't help but smile, she looked so pretty with her butterfly curls, primping a bit in the chair.

Hugo musters up his courage and finally comes out with it, "I think Mercury Gandt is a sbirri agent." Beatrice puts down her coffee and gasps, "But, why? I thought they were his enemies."

"Well, one of my last contacts in Venezia informed me that Gandt was seen entering and exiting the headquarters of the sbirri. He never even came to the ship to see us off! We left Venezia with his letter for us to come here to safety which was much appreciated but still," Hugo attempts to keep his temper in check, quietly seething with anger.

"I assumed he was detained," Beatrice stated a bit more calmly now, perhaps trying to soothe Hugo's temper. Hugo laughing and smugly states, "Perhaps, but he was detained by whom. I doubt it was in a brothel, he barely had enough money when we met." Beatrice carefully asks, "Have you spoken to anyone else about this?"

"No, most of my contacts in Venezia are long gone now .... I haven't been able to find out anything else about Gandt or his activities," Hugo looks down in defeat and answers her. Beatrice, looking as though she's mulling it around in her mind finally answers, "This is most perplexing. What would have changed his mind?" Hugo practically bursting with anger now, "Money, how else could he stay in Venezia so long. Unless someone else is paying his way?"

"Money? Well, I think he had a boatload of debts ... but he was so found of us ... um ... of all of us," Beatrice answers and runs her hair through her curls in perplexity. Hugo answers quietly, "I understand Beatrice, perhaps I am being too hasty but after so many sleepless nights thinking about this, but I am inclined to trust my instincts."

Beatrice makes a suggestion and asks, "Have you spoken with Professore Stern? I would think he would bring a level head to this entire situation." Hugo shakes his head, "No, I haven't .... I didn't want to intrude on our hosts since they seem to have a bit of a soft spot for him. I apologize if I've upset you and that was not my intention."

Hugo strolls along the cool stone walkways of Rocca Sorrentina. He regrets being remiss in certain duties, or rather, his manners but only a bit. A letter should have been written much sooner than this, yet Hugo has let his business dealings and especially the raven haired beauty, Beatrice, happily distract him. Hes been thoroughly enjoying some leisure time and her company.

Hugo also cant help the feelings hes been having of late, as if a dark stone is in the pit of his stomach. Its time to get thisletter finished as he arrives at his destination and sits down, putting quill to paper. He is not quite sure what to write, but he doesnt wish to keep Beatrice waiting too long. Beatrice stands nearby, patiently waiting, as Hugo is steadfast in his task.

Quickly perusing his writing, Hugo lays down the quill and is somewhat happy that the letter has been written. He looks up and smiles at Beatrice and she looks back at him expectantly. Hugo hasnt shared his doubts about their new friend with her, and he certainly isnt about to ruin the plans for this night either.

Ready for an evening stroll Hugo? Its another lovely night and the air will do us some good. Beatrice asks and then smiles sweetly.

Of course my dear, I needed to finish this letter first, Id like our friend Gandt to not feel as if hes been forgotten. We do owe him some gratitude. We are safe here and Elisabetta is doing so well. Hugo replies with an imperceptible tinge of misgiving. He looks down again at the paper and contemplates what hes just written.

Hugo rises and he and Beatrice start off to wander the island, as they often do in the evening. They pause and look East across the water in the direction of Venezia, unspoken words of the past there and how far they have come. Hugo is overcome with emotion and kneels before Beatrice, kissing her hand and looking up into her beautiful eyes. She smiles and welcomes his touch.

Not many more words are spoken between them, content to walk and just enjoy the peacefulness of Sorrentina. They find a quiet spot and sit on the ground to relax after their meandering walk. Soon after, Beatrice beings to yawn and excuses herself for the night for some blissful slumber. Hugo promises to join her soon enough. She goes off to her chambers while the orange sunset has turned into a purple night.

Hugo is yet restless and fully mulls over the nagging suspicions now that he is alone. Perhaps the delay in writing Gandt is also because of his feelings. He reaches into his pocket and produces his recently written letter, needing to read it once more. It sounds polite enough and without a hint of mistrust.

Sighing loudly, Hugo decides to send the letter to Mercury as soon as possible. If anything Hugo was polite and didnt like to leave any loose ends in any endeavors he attempted. Furrowing his brow and looking around, he makes a decision. He needed information from Venezia but didnt feel comfortable going back there on his own. Many of his own contacts back in Venezia were probably not going to help him. The sbirri and Cristofoli were not going to be too fond of a meeting with Hugo and they were still after the missing Contessa Elena. Hugo simply couldnt stomach the sbirri, he felt he was still paying some penance in his soul for his own dealings with them.

Hugo thought of Don Aldo and Conte Foscari, they were most gracious and welcoming. Many of the valets and servants were forthcoming and helpful. An idea forms in his mind because of a name he has heard spoken around the island very often. A certain gentleman, currently in Venezia, who was known for particular abilities may prove useful. Hugo wonders if a letter to the gentleman to find out about Gandt and a promise of some ducats would prove useful in his quest.

Would circumventing his hosts mean risking expulsion from here? The gentleman in Venezia was known to both the Conte and Don Aldo. Hugo dreaded the thought of going back to England or finding another port if his plan was discovered. But, he needed to know what Mercury Gandt had been up to in Venezia. What of the ladies? Would they suffer for Hugos decision? Beatrice and Elisabetta were settled and happy here, how could Hugo in good conscience jeopardize that?

Thoughts, plots, counter-plots, deceptions and subterfuge were making Hugos head swim and feel as if he were back in Venezia at that moment. Hugo returns to the villa and sits down once again at the desk. This letter begins awkwardly as hes not sure how to proceed. He must know what Gandt is up to but if the Conte or Don Aldo find out, he hopes the repercussions wont be too severe. Again, he puts quill to paper and starts slowly

Hugo stops after writing the last sentence. Hes completely torn and undecided. Placing the letter in the desk drawer under some other papers, he cant write anymore and will think about it again at another time. The letter to Gandt will go out by courier but this one, this letter to Saturnines, the Conte Foscaris own servant, needs careful thought and preparation. Business, Hugos business needed some attention so with the other letter tucked away, he begins tending to other matters long into the night.

Hugo wipes his brow with a cloth, tired, puzzled and still angry at the turn of recent events. He pauses and goes to his journal, writing his thoughts of the events that unfolded over recent days. Sitting down at the desk, Hugo inhales deeply and runs his fingers around the back of his neck in an attempt to soothe himself. Beatrice must be slumbering at this late hour and can offer little comfort. And so the story continues, he murmurs quietly to himself in the quarters of his ship as he begins to write.

Journal Entry 3 ^rd of May

Leaving, we were finally leaving Venezia at long last to sail to Rocca Sorrentina. Beatrice has nursed her poor sister, Elisabetta, back to health after her imprisonment at the hands of the sbirri, the secret police. My dealings with Cristofoli, the head of the sbirri, had reaped some rewards and secured her release.

Beatrice was overjoyed at seeing her out of prison, but heartbroken at her appearance. Elisabetta was agentle girl, so gaunt and pale and half starving being in that awful place. The ladies were both doing better now, having been taken in by the shared excitement of our departure. Elisabetta looked much better thanks to Beatrice and some much needed rest and pampering. As we boarded ship and set sail, they were waving and happy while strolling on deck.

Surprisingly, Mercury Gandt was not there to see us off at the harbor. He did make good on his promise of a letter of introduction for those in charge at Rocca Sorrentina. Mercury had it sent by courier instead of making an appearance. It was curious, very curious that he neglected to see Beatrice, Elisabetta and myself on our way. Since I had helped Gandt with some information about his misspent youth in England, I thought we had formed a bit of a friendship but it could simply be that things are not always as they appear. There were troubling rumors in Venezia, my new friend was allegedly seen having some contact with the sbirri. It seems that Gandt has decided to ignore my warnings and has jumped headlong into the pond with the sharks?

Hopefully the wayward Contessa, the missing Elena Foscari, had the elusive Mr. Gandt otherwise occupied. How one woman can cause so much trouble for so many is quite an interesting puzzle. His supposed visit to the sbirri headquarters could have been a mere coincidence. Gandt shared he had no knowledge of Contessa Elena at our gambling evening with Beatrice but perhaps Cristofoli was just assuring his honesty?

Excitement and gaiety were alive and well aboard ship. Beatrice and Elisabetta had settled in and were happy and hopeful about our new adventure. Calm seas and the promise of a fresh start for all of us in Rocca Sorrentina livened all of our moods. Cristoforo Cristofoli, Venezia and the past haunted memories for all of us would soon fade away. Later on in the day as we made way out of the harbor and into the open sea, I couldnt have dreamed how wrong I was. Our departure did not go unnoticed and our happy goodbyes soon took a more sinister flavor.

We had unwanted guests.

Pirates, pirates of all the creatures of Venezia were aboard my ship. We had genuinely hoped for a clean get away from that place and Cristofoli with his sbirri minions. A fight ensued and the ladies were afraid of being kidnapped, sold into slavery or taken to the dreaded prison where Elisabetta had lanquished. There were only two scoundrels and they seemed to prefer terrorizing and toying with us. Cruel jibes uttered from their lips as they taunted, A gentleman in Venezia sends greetings and safe journeys to you all. Rocca Sorrentina is a lovely place. Cristofoli, the bastard, it had to be him. He must be the mastermind behind their arrival. Keepingtrack of us,he even knew where we planned to sail.

He must have sent these two underlings but how? I was certain they werent members of the crew and they were repelled before they even attempted to steal Beatrice, Elisabetta or even some cargo. After a brief melee there was an answer to my question, we had been followed. The pirates were sailing a small vessel, shadowing us perhaps or even waiting in the currents just to further manipulate the ladies and myself. The scoundrels made a hasty getaway to their ship and headed straight back to Venezia. More taunts and jibes were carried on the wind as their forms grew smaller and smaller, moving away for us.

Faster, we needed to move faster to leave. It would not be prudent to turn the ship around to Venezia and run straight back into the fire, so to speak. Beatrice and Elisabetta needed to be safe, enraged as I was. While standing at the rail of the ship in an attempt to calm myself, Beatrice gently took my arm and spoke, Rocca Sorrentina awaits us, let us be gone of Venezia and those people. Beatrice turned and began to walk away, quickly returning to Elisabettas side and soothing their rattled nerves. The women recovered their emotions somewhat and we pushed forward, even joining me at the wheel for some diverting conversation and thoughts of our future plans.

The rest of the voyage had us wary and a bit on edge, the crew kept a careful watch and we waited to see our new home on the horizon. We hadnt been followed again and the rest of the voyage was uneventful. And suddenly, there it was Rocca Sorrentina appeared out of the sea and we all breathed a careful sigh of relief. Our arrival was quiet and peaceful, and I sincerely hoped this new port would be good for business. Beatrice and Elisabetta embraced happily at the dock while I watched and we were all happy and thankful for a safe journey.

Hugo lowers the quill and his thoughts drift a bit. Someday, perhaps the events on the journey shall have to be dealt with and he hoped Cristofoli would leave them in peace. But for now, he gathers his emotions and rises from the desk. Walking across the room, he opens a trunk and organizes his belongings. The letter of introduction from Mercury Gandt was in his hand and the appropriate inquiries must be made. He hopes the administrators of Rocca Sorrentina would be forthcoming and agreeable. Hugo places the letter back into the trunk and peers out the ships window once more, looking over the night and his new surroundings. A new beginning for us, he utters, almost whispering and climbs into bed.

.Hugo opens his journal, rubbing his eyes weary but hopeful. He sighs deeply and feels the weight of the city crushing in around him. Raising his quill, he realizes his journal is keeping the game of cat and mouse still unfolding fresh in his mind. And perhaps, helping him plan his next move so Hugo reaches over to smooth the paper and beings to write..

Journal Entry 13th of March

Beatrice sent word of her plan to host an evening of entertainment in the apartments here in Venezia. I knew for a fact she was hopeful for news of her sister, Elisabetta, languishing in prison. The news I was to deliver was not the most optimistic.

Upon my arrival, I was surprised to learn that this Mercury Gandt fellow was to be joining us for the night. Beatrice had informed him of my involvement and thought it prudent that we at least meet face to face.

Once we had settled in with pleasantries, Beatrice offered us wine and Gandt suggested a game of cards. I dealt a swift blow at the start by announcing that Cristofoli had decided to stall and not agree to any meeting with me. Elisabetta would remain in that filthy prison until the secret police, the sbirri , and their leader, Cristofoli, deemed fit to make a deal. Cristofoli seems determined to find the elusive Contessa Elena Foscari, even at the cost of innocent lives.

I fear that the strain of Elisabettas imprisonment is starting to show. Beatrice is anguished at the thought of her sister in that place. Beatrice was at first distraught and somewhat quiet and Gandt was extremely sympathetic to her plight. He stated he had no idea of the whereabouts of Contessa Foscari, the root of the troubles he and Beatrice have encountered recently.

I eyed Gandt from across the table and wasnt quite sure what to make of him. Beatrice assured me of his favorable nature and that I should trust him. I was still unsure. The wine was flowing freely, at least on my part, and I had to remember myself. It seems the strain of the latest turn of events is wearing on me, call it what you will, simple worry for Beatrice and Elisabetta or impatience for us to be on our way.

Mercury Gandt then seemed quite interested in my background. And at times, Beatrice was trying to coax it out of me along with him. Perhaps it was a way for Beatrice to take her mind off her troubles and Mercury was being a gentleman. Beatrice was an enchanting hostess, even in her distress. Her formal title of Duchess, I keep neglecting to use since she and I are so close and so familiar. Neither Mr. Gandt, nor myself, seemed very forthcoming about our histories. Some generalities of course, both of us being from England.

The evening proceeded along well enough, I couldnt help but smile a bit when Gandt lost a round of cards to me. In my memory I wonder if that was some sort of ploy, to let me win at first, he does fancy himself a gambler. Gandt later appeared to loosen up, slightly, so I went along with him.

We made a bit of bargain, this Gandt fellow and myself. Gandt has offered to write a letter of introduction to his friends in Rocca Sorrentina, paving the way for easier access to that port for my business. Gandt, in turn, asked me for a favor. He asked me to locate and check on the welfare of a certain gentleman in England, a gentleman of some standing. I informed him I will do what I can and let him know when the answer arrives. But, he still owes me those ducats from the card game.

One can only hope that Cristofoli will meet me soon and agree to Elisabettas release. My small token will be enough to convince him, I pray. Beatrice and I can sail to Sorrentina with Elisabetta and be done with this place. I certainly wish that Mercury Gandt keeps his end of the bargain and writes to them. I would hate for myself and the ladies to arrive at Sorrentina without proper introduction.

..Hugo lowers the quill and leaves the journal for now. He goes to bed, hoping for a less fitful sleep and some peaceful dreams ..

.Hugo again puts quill to paper but not before taking a large mouthful of wine. The day has been somewhat eventful with the story that dear Beatrice has related. Hugo knows full well that he has some demons of his own ..

Journal Entry 11th of February

After the gondola ride to the caf in Venezia, Beatrice finally began to relate some of her reason for sending for me. Shewas nervous as the waiter and barkeep seemed to be keeping an extra close eye on the both of us.

I must digress and say she looked lovely as ever. Watching those large eyes of hers and gentle hands brought back a few moments of delicious memories for me as we spoke. Her soft perfume and skin nearly made me forget myself. Besides, if I do her a favor andhelp her, she will owe me in the future.

She suggested we move further down the PiazzaSan Marco and I couldnt help but comply. In our new spot she told me a tale of her poor sister, Elisabetta, imprisoned unjustly and caught up in a scheme she was innocent of. Beatrice was beside herself with worry and rightly so. A gentle woman in a prison is a horrid proposition, especially in Venezia. I raged inwardly at the mention of the sbirri , the secret police and the name of the barbaric chief, Cristoforo de Cristofoli.

Beatrice spoke of her sister being used as a pawn in the games of Cristofoli. The Foscari family, well known in Venezia, seems to have misplaced their Contessa Elena. Cristofoli has imprisoned Elisabetta to forcedear Beatrice to divulge her whereabouts.

Beatrice assured me that she has no knowledge of Contessa Elena and further mentioned her friend, a Mr. Gandt, who was even beaten and used as a pawn as well. I cannot help but wonder what magic this Contessa holds over Cristofoli.

Poor Beatrice, she ended up in tears near the end of the tale. I consoled and reassured her that I would do the best I could to help her and her sister. She was hopeful that I could help so I finally divulged a few secrets of my own.

Beatrice leaned in as I revealed that I knew the city fairly well, having several business dealings being in the trade of tea and indigo. The port here had served not only my respectable diversions, but the not so respectable ones. I had dealt with this Cristofoli in the past, padding his pockets so that my real trade would be less noticed. Those ridiculous sbirri are his mindless minions after all. But my real trade, opium, is a valuable commodity and one needs discretion above all else.

On a particular occasion, Cristofoli had me clean up a mess for him. He had someone of importance in the city disappear and I aided him after the fact. I found it vile and disagreeable but in the end it gained me more freedom for my ships so I did comply. Not being stupid, I managed to keep a certain trinket off the poor soul, a ring should I ever have need of some, shall we say, leverage over Cristofoli?

I further shared with Beatrice that Ive become bored of this city and the brutality of it. Again, its bad for business and I look forward to finding a new harbor to work from. I will offer to exchange the ring for the release of her dear sister, Im sure that Cristofoli would only be too happy to agree.

At least, if this Contessa Foscari is not more valuable of a prize?

I will arrange a meeting with Cristofoli and see if he will comply. I shall arrange passage for Elisabetta, if released, and offer safe passage to Beatrice. Beatrice mentioned Rocca Sorrentina as her choice of safe haven. She also mentioned that I myself may enjoy Rocca Sorrentina as my new home.

And regarding this Gandt fellow, Beatrice seems fond of him but worries about his thirst for vengeance. Contessa Elena seems to have made more than one enemy. Perhaps it might be entertaining to leave Gandt here in the city with some ducats that I can provide. Beatrice has said he's a gambler, a man after my own heart. Gandt can perhaps further his own ends and maybe keep Cristofoli more engaged with this Contessa mystery. Travel with us or remain, Mr. Gandt can make his own choice when the time comes.

Hugo pauses a moment and then decides to end his journal entry for now. He finishes his wine, takes a deep breath and stands, walking over to the window. Hugos mind wanders back to his own dealings within that once shining city and considers the plans about to unfold..

.......Hugo sits down after much weary travel and business to write in his journal. He sits back and takes a deep breath and watches the candle flicker for a moment before beginning.Raising the quill, he smoothes out the page as he starts his entry.....

Journal Entry 3rd of February

My business of late has kept me from giving you some needed attention. As always you, my old journal, keep my thoughts clear and sorted.

I have been called upon to help an old friend of the female persuasion. She sent word to me not long ago from Venezia,but seemed to hesitate to reveal everything in the message. I cannot help but smile to myself however, one hopes it won't cost much coin in the end. Perhaps I'm being cynical but in the end, it's always the coin that speaks the loudest.

Although, one does have secrets ..... but the secrets one holds over others can often be the best kind. One can make of that a pun, it would seem. It's a 'toss up' between the coin and the secrets, which one holds more value? Until next time .....

........ lays down his quill and rubs his eyes and considers what the future may hold. Hugo leans over and blows out the candle and decides to sleep. He cannot help but recall the swish of satin and the smell of fragrant perfume of the dear lady that requires his attention. Hugo drifts off to sleep with the face of the woman in his memory, her substantial charms not far behind.