Vienna Blood

79

On Herr Losch's desk was a small ornament made of silver and gold: compasses, opened over the arc of a circle inscribed with strange letters. It was the only item in the room that suggested the significance of their whereabouts. As for Herr Losch himself, he reminded Rheinhardt of nothing more subversive than a bank manager or tutor. It was difficult to believe that he was the most senior Freemason in Vienna: Venerable Losch-Grand Master of Humanitas.

“I am most grateful for your consideration, Inspector,” said Losch, “and I can assure you that I will take the utmost care.”

The cadence suggested that the audience had come to an end.

Rheinhardt wondered whether his explanation had been adequate.

“He is an extremely dangerous man,” said Rheinhardt. “And quite mad.”

“Indeed,” said Herr Losch, stroking his white Vandyke beard. His gaze flicked away to register the time on the table clock.

“I would be happy,” Rheinhardt persisted, “to provide you with police protection on the twelfth.”

Herr Losch smiled and said, “Thank you. But that won't be necessary.”

The smile faded and the pulse on his temple suggested that he was becoming annoyed by Rheinhardt's continued presence.

The inspector sighed.

“Herr Losch, the palace is treating this matter very seriously. My superior was received by the court high commissioner this morning.”

“And that is how it should be. Now, if you will excuse me, Inspector, I have some business to attend to.”

Herr Losch rang for his servant and the double doors opened.

Rheinhardt rose from his chair.

“Ah, Hugo,” said Losch. “Would you be so kind as to accompany Inspector Rheinhardt to the door?” The servant bowed. “Good day, Inspector.”

“Good day, Herr Losch. Should you change your mind with respect to my offer, I can be contacted at the Schottenring station.”

“Of course. Thank you again.”

When Rheinhardt had left the room, Herr Losch removed some notepaper and a pen from his desk. In a hurried hand he began to write: The security office may be on to us. I suspect that they have heard something about the twelfth. I think they will try to follow me. Must go into hiding. Elysium is the only safe place now. Let others know. He scratched a symbol in lieu of a signature, folded the paper, and slid it into a plain envelope.