Chapter Six
The 7,000-Mile Argument
Two days later, with Honey Bates’ instruction packet and tickets for the Trans-Siberian Railroad tucked inside my overcoat, I waited for Jack Smith to land at Mrs. Roman’s field. When I strapped on my backpack and hoisted the two heavy suitcases, Mrs. Roman kissed me on the cheek. She personally chose Nastassia Ryder/Natasha Vronsky to inherit Russleder, and the Czarina herself was sending me to assist the Countess.
“Good luck!” A tear glistened in her eyes. She tucked a thick letter-sized envelope inside my coat pocket.
“What’s that?”
“Rubles. I saved them for this occasion. You’ll need Russian currency as soon as you reach Vladivostok. The dollar is weak now.” Stepping back, she surveyed me. “I’m jealous!”
“Thank you.” I kissed her on the cheek.
