“I will indeed,” reassured Melville. “Your code name, as well as the mission’s code name, will be Double Eagle. As you know, the doubleheaded eagle is on the official crest of the Romanov family. Reilly has developed a plan that I’ve approved. I’ll let him brief you on this plan after you both leave here.”
Melville then stood and walked over to the corner of his office where a small chest sat on the floor. Opening the lid, he reached into the ice that filled the chest, pulled out three bottles of Guinness beer and brought them to his desk. After opening the bottles, he handed one to each of his guests and lifted his own. “Gentleman, a toast! To the success of Double Eagle!” All three raised their bottles and lifted them to their lips. They stayed for about fifteen minutes making small tal
