The Dig

Most benevolent 'Alexander',

Words cannot express the gratitude I feel at this wonderful opportunity you have extended to us. I must admit, when my contacts told me that Ulbricht had personally selected our expedition to join the tour of East Germany's Mining operations, I was confused. After all, your country is not known for its mineral exports (and since the tour is in the northern districts). Please forgive my ignorance, as I am new to the world of political intrigue and international secrecy; our firm is eagerly anticipating our time at the dig site. Enclosed is a list of materials my men will need to finish the excavation (we will supply the rest), as well my personal notes on just what we can expect to find. Rest assured, there will be more than enough money to go around when this operation is over.

Your secret helper,

'Napoleon'

Our Hidden Fortune

It was, in my humble opinion, the most decadent and expensive celebration I had ever attended. The gentlemen gleemed from head to toe, and the ladies were enthroned in lace and satin. What a glorious night it was indeed! Wine and spirits flowed like a river, as did the latest news of commerce in Europe. Why I can scarcely conceal my glee at the fortune our company has stumbled upon in the country you discussed in your last letter. The final preperations are very much in order, and if lady luck smiles upon both of us my friend, our children's children will need not worry about money ever again. Now the effort of putting together words on paper has left me lightheaded (I fear I may have indulged a touch last night), and I shall clo-

[The rest of the letter has been burned away.]