Chapter 4
Marlene Reitter, in Paris, was also just beginning her breakfast. She nibbled at a croissant and picked up her bedside telephone. She asked the operator to get her a Kiel number. She went on nibbling the croissant till the call came through.
"This is the Petersen residence," said a voice in German.
"I want to speak to Mr. Petersen," said Marlene.
"I'll see if he's in. Who is speaking, please?"
She gave her name and waited. After a moment Per Petersen came on the line.
"Marlene!"
"Hello, Per. How are you?"
"Very well. And you? Are you coming?"
"Yes."
"When?"
"Today. We're flying at about half-past five. We'll be in Kiel about seven."
"We?"
"I have an assistant with me this time." She chuckled at the idea of the thought that obviously came to his mind. "A very pretty assistant."
"Why are you laughing?"
"You are wondering what she assists me in."
There was a momentary pause. "Yes, what does she assist you in?"
"She's my secretary."
"Oh." His voice sounded disappointed, "Your secretary. I see."
She laughed. "Oh, Per, it's a shame to tease you. She's also my assistant in matters of whipping."
"Is she, indeed? Since when have you needed one?" His voice now showed his eager interest.
"I don't really need one, but it's fun to have one."
He hesitated, wondering whether to say it or not.
Then it came out of its own accord: "Would it be fun to have two?"
"What do you mean?"
"Would it be fun to have two assistants?"
"Who would be the other one?" Her voice sounded ominous.
"My children's governess. She's also-" And the line went dead.
"Damn!" said Marlene, and held the receiver for a moment in her hand, wondering whether to tell operator to re-connect the call. She decided not to do so. Per Petersen would expect her for dinner. He would expect two guests, in fact, for dinner. There was no need to re-connect the call. She put the receiver back on to its rest. She was frowning. She would have liked to hear what else he was going to say about his children's governess.