Beneath a Scarlet Sky

by Mark T. Sullivan

“The United States of America appreciates that, General Leyers,” Corvo said. “I think there’ll be something on paper and signed in less than a week, maybe even sooner.” Leyers nodded. “Until then. Wish Mr. Dulles my best.” Pino translated, and then added, “He has been burning documents across northern Italy for the past three days.” Corvo cocked his head. “That true?” “Yes,” Pino said. “They’re all burning documents. All of them.” “Okay,” the OSS agent said. “Thanks for telling me.” Corvo shook the general’s hand, and Pino’s, and then he was gone. Pino stood there for several awkward moments before Leyers said, “What were you saying there just before he left?” “I asked him what Connecticut was like, and he said it was nowhere as beautiful as Italy.” The general studied him. “Let’s go. I have an appointment with Cardinal Schuster.”