think it was important enough to tell us that. They had found out about that Arab that we were trying to get married to Fazzi's daughter. They were even thinking of doing something like that themselves. However, you screwed up their plans on that. They even thought about enlisting you as an agent, but turned down the idea." Bill said.

"How come they didn't?"

"Well first of all they try to use only one of their own people for this type of work. Secondly, you have to be kidding, use an American soldier! One who shows up at a Mosque in uniform? One who just happened, 'so to speak', to fall into the pot? Not even the CIA or Hollywood would dare come up with a stupid plot like that. It's too obvious. The Arabs think we are stupid, but not that idiotic. Not even Mossad, which is known for crazy hair-brained plots like that, would have attempted anything like it. At one time one of their agents penetrated deep into Syrian intelligence. He was able to rise to such high political and social heights that he was being considered for the post of Minister of Defense, which at that time was the steppingstone to the Presidency. In the past we have often had to ask for their help and we will continue to do so in the future. It has taken us a long time to develop Arabic speaking agents and we still don't have many that we completely trust. You are one of the few. We don't want to loose you! Be careful!"
I will Bill-I got to get going, please give my regards to the guys in the office."

Joseph eased his car back onto into traffic and then took Route 3 through the Lincoln Tunnel into the city. He made his way downtown and found a parking lot near the theater. He walked over to the ticket office and informed the cashier who he was. An usher directed into the wings of the stage where he was able to watch the play. Rich was on stage and it was the last act. After the final curtain call he came over to Joseph and the two of them went to his dressing room.
Rich closed the door and grabbed Joseph and the two of them kissed and clung to each other. "I missed you so much, Joseph. Dad told me about the meeting. Everything is going good-isn't it?" Rich asked.

"Everything is wonderful. We can talk about all it in the car. Do you want to go to Long Island tonight or tomorrow?" the soldier asked.

"It's up to you. I did pack an overnight case, but we could go to my place and get a good night's sleep or go to the Island right from here. I did tell mom to expect us tonight, but we can call and I'm sure she will understand."

"Tell you what, I hate the thought of trying to find another parking lot tonight in the city. Let's go tonight. We can spend Saturday there then I can get you back in time for Saturday's performance and we can sleep late Sunday and I can go back to base late Sunday evening or early Monday morning." Joseph suggested.

"That sounds good. It will be a wonderful treat to wake up two or three mornings in a row with you next to me in bed." Rich said. "Oh by the way before I forget, Frank sends