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The voice at the other end of the line was unfamiliar, but conveyed an unmistakable air of authority. ” “That is not important. ” For a moment, Vertutti didn’t grasp what his unidentified caller was talking about. Then realization dawned, and he involuntarily gripped the edge of his desk for support. ” he asked. “We probably don’t have a great deal of time, so please don’t mess me about. ” “The Vitalian Codex? ” Even as he said the words, Vertutti realized the stupidity of the question: the very existence of the Codex was known to a mere handful of people within the Vatican and, as far as he knew, to no one outside the Holy See.

I’m sorry. It’s the shock and . ” Timms rested his hand briefly on Mark’s shoulder. “It’s quite understandable, sir. Now, is there anything you want to ask us? I’ve a note here of the contact details for the local police force in Scandriglia. Is there anyone you’d like us to inform on your behalf? ” Mark shook his head. “No. No, thank you,” he said, his voice cracking under the strain. “I have a friend I can call. ” Timms shook his hand and handed him a single sheet of paper. “Sorry again, sir.

We were told the house would be empty. ” Rogan straightened up. “You’re right about that. Come on. ” Without a backward glance, the two men returned to the living room. Rogan picked up the hammer and chisel and continued to chip away at the remaining sections of old plaster above the huge stone lintel that spanned the entire width of the fireplace. The work took very little time, and in some twenty minutes the entire area was exposed. Both men stood in front of the fireplace, staring at the letters carved into one of the stones.