Copyright © 2000 HHT Irrevocable Trust. All rights reserved.

 

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Chapter 7

LEAVING MANILA, PHILIPPINES

 

DESPONDENTLY, Bill made reservations for a return flight to Palawan. He telephoned Nellie before leaving Manila to inform her of his problems and insisted that she stay with her relatives.

“Hi Nellie, I’ve met with disaster,” Bill said with a somber voice. “Did you hear what happened?”

“Yes, Edwardo told me.”

“What did he tell you?”

“He thinks Vanilo stole the bars,” she answered.

“Why didn’t he call me?—I’ve been waiting for him.”

“I don’t know, maybe he went back to Palawan.”

“I don’t like that at all. It looks like your uncle and all the others must have found another buyer without telling me. It made me look like a fool.”

Nellie quickly responded to defend her uncle, “No, my uncle would never do that.”

“Well, I’m flying back tomorrow. I’ll talk to your uncle, but that’s the last time I’ll trust your family.”

“Please, Mr. Bill, believe me. He did not cheat you.”

“Okay, but I don’t really know what to believe. I’d better return alone. I’ll let you know what happens.”

“I’d like to go too,” Nellie said with a pleading voice.

“I’m sorry,” Bill replied, “I have my hands full and don’t want to be responsible for you right now. You’d better wait for me to call you, okay?”

Nellie accepted Bill’s statement as the final word and wished him good luck.

Bill replaced the telephone receiver and turned toward the window. “This adventure is getting side tracked so far it isn’t funny,” he said to himself while staring into space. “I’d better get Doug over here.”

With that quick decision, he dialed the operator, gave Doug’s telephone number, then listened as Doug responded.

“Hi brother,” Bill said, nearly interrupting the operator.

Doug asked, “What’s happening? I thought you would be in Palawan—the operator said you were calling from Manila.”

“I’m still here but will leave in the morning. I’ve been thinking, you should come over to give me support and protection.”

“That’s interesting; I was thinking the same thing.”

“How about it? Could you get away from that desk?”

“You’d better believe it. I’ve about had it with this office work.”

“You’re missing all the fun,” Bill said, trying not to sound sarcastic.

“I could fly over and direct the transporting of the Orphans from there. I have the boat ready to leave Long Beach for Guam on a day’s notice, and everything is on standby. I’ve been ready for weeks. By the way when are you going to find those Orphans?”

“I’m doing all I can; you’d better get over here, and let’s wrap up this adventure,” Bill nearly shouted over the telephone.

Doug could tell by the emotional tone of Bill’s voice that he needed support. Doug had never heard Bill’s voice quiver before, but he knew from personal experience that life in the jungle, without the daily contact of fellow Americans, can cause mental distortion. Bill definitely needed relief immediately.

Doug replied, without hesitation, “I’m on my way. You get to Palawan and contact Teofisto, and I’ll meet you in a few days.

“That’s the best news I’ve had all month,” Bill answered. “I won’t spend much effort on the five gold bars, I’ll concentrate on the Orphans—at least until you get here.”

“Keep the faith brother; the Goodwin Brothers will triumph in the end,” Doug concluded, leaving Bill with much needed assurance.

Bill turned from the phone and began making plans to leave Manila.

 

PALAWAN, PHILIPPINES

 

Bill traveled directly to the hut of Nellie’s uncle. He found her uncle in a furious rage over the loss of the gold bars. They had been searching for Vanilo since Edwardo had returned with the bad news.

Evidently, Vanilo had switched the bars and left the island and gone to Mindanao. Edwardo’s cousin who lived in Mindanao had seen him there last week.

“What do you plan to do?” Bill asked.

“The family will take care of Vanilo, but not until we find the gold,” he answered.

“I have to go to my camp now; so you’ll have to take care of Vanilo. I’ll help if you sell the gold bars if you can find them,” Bill told Nellie’s uncle who sat shaking his head in dismay.

With that statement, Bill left for his base camp. Fortunately, Beth had maintained a dedicated vigil on the camp, and everything was in good order.

“Mr. Bill, it is good to see you. Teofisto has been calling. I think he has good news.”

“I could use some good news about now,” Bill replied. “When did he call last?”

“Last night at ten.”

“Excuse me for a few minutes, I’ll try to reach him.”

Beth turned quickly and left the hut, and Bill began adjusting the radio transmitter.

It was only a few seconds before Teofisto responded. “Hello, Mr. Batman. You took a long time.”

“Longer than I expected, and the results were negative.”

“That is too bad, Mr. Batman, but I have good news. I followed a man to a cave that I think holds the Orphans, but I haven’t checked it out yet.”

“What makes you think they are there?”

“We watched a man go inside a cave to check something. He stayed inside a short time and sat by the opening for many hours. Later, another man replaced him, and they covered the opening very carefully.”

“How will you get inside to be sure?” Bill asked.

“I think the guard stays only sometimes. When he leaves, I go inside.”

“That is good news. You be careful and don’t be seen; we don’t want to blow it now.”

“I will,” Teofisto assured Bill before signing off.

Beth prepared a meal for Bill and brought it to him with a fondness she had never shown. Perhaps, Nellie’s attraction to Bill had caused her to hide her feelings before, but now she and Bill were alone.

“Would you like some food?” she asked Bill as she presented him with a plate heaped with rice, vegetables and chicken.

She startled him when she spoke. Bill had smelled the food cooking earlier and anticipated the hot meal, but he was fully absorbed in his thoughts when she entered the hut.

“Hey, that smells good. Thank you, I didn’t realize how hungry I was ‘til now,” Bill said as he turned to reach for the plate. He was quick to recognize a difference in Beth’s countenance and spoke with a flirtatious tone. “You look nice today. Did you get lonely while we were gone?”

“Not too bad, Mr. Bill,” she replied with a giggle and turned to leave.

“Thank you for the food.”

“Your very welcome, Mr. Bill,” she said over her shoulder, flipping her hair as she turned to walk away.

“Come here and talk to me for a few minutes while I eat,” Bill said in a teasing way.

Beth seized the opportunity to be with Bill and sat on a small stool next to him.

“You cook very well,” Bill commented after taking his first bite of food.

“Thank you, Mr. Bill.”

The word “mister” sounded sexy every time she used it—at least it excited Bill. As he looked in her direction, he commented, “You’ll make a good wife for some lucky guy,” he said.

Bill was surprised to hear Beth’s next statement: “I’m available, Mr. Bill.”

Reaching toward her, Bill found himself caught in a moment of enchantment as Beth responded to the tender touch of his fingers in her silken hair.

They stood at the same moment and came together in a fond embrace with their lips coming together as if planned. Passion rushed through them, and they slowly lay down on the floor mat with Beth resting on top of Bill. The total body contact caused them both to exhale a deep breath together and embrace in a long-lasting kiss.

A loud knock on the front door suddenly interrupted the rapture. Beth jumped to her feet and quickly arranged her clothes and hair while Bill went to the door.

As Bill opened the door, he saw two policemen standing in front of him. One officer spoke, “Are you Mr. Bill Goodwin?”

“Yes, I am, what can I do for you?”

“You must come with us, sir.”

“What for, may I ask?”

“We are from the NBI and have received word that your visa has expired, and you are under arrest.”

Bill could not believe it. “There must be some mistake,” he replied.

“May we see your papers?” the officer asked.

Bill went to his packsack and retrieved a packet of papers. Quickly opening the packet he found his visa and handed it to the officer without checking it first.

“Yes, Mr. Goodwin, it has expired. See the date? You must come with us,” he said, showing bill the paper.

Bill reached for the visa and looked at the date with disbelief. It had expired last week, but who could have reported him? “I have to go with these men,” he told Beth. “If Mr. T calls while I’m gone, tell him to call back every hour until I’m here, okay?”

“What’s the problem?” Beth asked.

“My visa has to be renewed—no big deal,” Bill answered.

It didn’t seem like a “big deal” to Bill, but the NBI made it a big deal. When they arrived at the station, they forced Bill into a cell and locked the door.

“Wait, I need to make a phone call,” Bill pleaded.

“You can call later,” a police officer said and left.

Bill tried to analyze who could have known about his visa and guessed that it must have been Vanilo. He had trusted Vanilo who could have checked his papers while they prepared the gold bars. Vanilo probably wanted Bill expelled from the country.

Dusk came at the same time a police officer returned to allow Bill to leave the cell. “I need to make a long distance phone call. Is that okay?” Bill asked.

“Only if it is reverse charges,” the officer answered.

“Of course, I’ll call collect,” Bill said, totally infuriated. The officer handed him the telephone receiver.

Bill hastily dialed Doug’s number, hoping he would answer—it would be two o’clock in the morning in the States.

A groggy Doug answered the telephone and accepted the charges. “What is going on,” he asked before Bill could speak.

“Something that’s hard to believe. I’m in jail,” Bill answered.

“In jail?” Doug responded in disbelief.

“Yes, these ducks have arrested me on an expired visa.”

“You’d better get hold of an attorney, and I’ll send more money. It won’t amount to much, I’m sure.”

“Probably not, but I was trying to keep a low profile, and now I have to spend a night in jail.”

“Hang on, Bro., I’m leaving tomorrow.”

“I have good news, though. Mr. T is sure he found the Orphans,” Bill informed Doug.

“Maybe we can wrap this adventure up soon.”

“I hope so. I’ve had it with this country.”

“Give me a telephone number, so I can reach you if they keep you locked up for some reason,” Doug interjected.

Bill asked the officer for a number and relayed it to Doug, “Get over here as soon as you can. Thilafings are gelifittilafing dallaffanggerllaferollafus (Things are getting dangerous).” Bill spoke in their private language.

“I’m on my way in a few hours,” Doug replied.

“Don’t delay; I’m not sure what these guys have in mind,” Bill said as a last plea for help.

“Be sure to get an attorney to help you. I’ll send money to the local post office, and you might need to have an attorney pick it up for you.”

“Okay, I’ll be waiting.”

Bill hung up the telephone receiver and asked the officer, “Do you know a good attorney in town?”

“Yes, my cousin,” he replied with a smile.

Bill thought without expressing his feelings, “These relatives are beginning to drive me crazy.”

“Can we call him?” Bill asked.

“Yes, I’ll get him on the phone for you.”

The officer dialed a number and said a few words in Tagalog before handing the receiver to Bill.

“Hello,” Bill began. “I’m a United States citizen on a tourist visa and accidentally let my visa expire. Can you help me renew it?”

“No problem, but all offices are closed today. Maybe I could see you in the morning,” the attorney answered to Bill’s dismay.

“Can you get me out of jail tonight?” Bill asked.

“Not tonight. It is too late, but first thing in the morning.”

Bill glanced at his dingy surroundings; and accepting his fate, he lowered the receiver from his ear.

“That’s it for today,” he said to the officer. “Looks like you have a guest for the night.”

Without a word, the officer returned him to his cell and walked away. Bill sat on the edge of an old army type cot in the corner of his cell, consisting of a cot, table and one chair. “Not even a toilet, I guess I can go out the window,” he thought with disgust.

With that ludicrous thought, he lay on the cot, staring blankly at the ceiling. “Maybe this will be as good as the hut. You know ol’ Beth was beginning to look purty’ good. I wish she were here.”

With that thought, he began to doze, but the strange environment and thoughts of being locked in jail played tricks in his mind. Each time he would fall asleep, he would have a nightmare that caused him to awaken. It happened repeatedly until daylight finally arrived.

At 8a.m. an attorney arrived at the jail and introduced himself as Mr. Cojuangco.

“I don’t intend to spend another night in here; so do what you have to do to get me out,” Bill insisted.

“I have an uncle in Immigration; so he’ll take care of everything,” Mr. Cojuangco replied.

“Thank goodness for relatives,” I have money to pay you; it’s at my hut, but more is being wired to me.”

“That’s good; because we have to pay some fines and fees to several people.”

“Is this how everyone makes a living around here?” Bill asked.

Mr. Cojuangco smiled, knowing that the statement was true, and said, “Well, you know money makes the world go round.”

“Okay, but keep it down. I don’t have much money,” Bill said, trying to conserve his funds.

“How much do you have?” Mr. Cojuangco asked.

“Only two hundred dollars.”

“That’s not much. Maybe you get more later?” he questioned.

“I’ll get more, just get me out of here,” Bill demanded.

Mr. Cojuangco left; and after two hours, returned with a police officer who released Bill.

“How’d you do that with no money?” Bill asked.

“My uncle made a telephone call—I promised him five hundred dollars. You can get that much can’t you?”

Bill nodded affirmatively and thought, “Will this nightmare never end?”

 

WORLDWIDE HEADQUARTERS, USA

 

From his office in the States, ‘Big O’ had greased the wheels of justice by having Ernie extradited from the Philippines to Las Vegas, Nevada under the custody of the DEA. ‘Big O’ had learned from Doug, who had been informed by Pedro, that Ernie was wanted by the DEA for drug trafficking. He used his private plane to move the drugs from Columbia to the United States and had been identified by the DEA. ‘Big O’ pulled some strings to have Ernie removed from the Philippines—it was a smart move. With Ernie out of the picture, ‘Big O’’s team could retrieve the Orphans with one less worry.

As soon as the extradition was confirmed, ‘Big O’ telephoned Doug via the ST.

“You barely caught me before I left for the airport,” Doug said. “I’m going to Palawan to help Bill. I was just preparing to call you.”

“Is there a problem?” ‘Big O’ asked.

“Only jungle fatigue and Visa problems,” Doug answered in a matter-of-fact tone of voice.

“Visa?” ‘Big O’ questioned.

“Only an expiration date. A few dollars will handle it.” Doug added, “It sounds like they are getting closer to the orphans.”

‘Big O’ thought for a few seconds then commented with pride in his voice, “I hope so, but the reason I called is that I removed a major obstacle from the program.”

“What’s that?”

“Ernie Whittle is on his way to a Las Vegas jail.”

“You’ve got to be kidding.”

“I didn’t tell you about it until it happened; because I wasn’t sure I could pull it off.”

“Quit holding back,” Doug said with unending curiosity.

“I learned that Ernie’s rap sheet stretched a mile long and was evading arrest by the DEA.”

“I remember Pedro telling me that he thought Ernie was wanted by the police, but I forgot that I told you about it,” Doug said.

“Well, I remembered and decided to take action. You know I have government connections; so I placed a couple phone calls, and the next thing I knew he was in handcuffs.”

“That is great news—I can’t wait to tell Bill.”

“Good luck on your trip. Let me know when you arrive in Palawan.”

“That’s for sure. See ya later.”

Within two hours of the call from ‘Big O’, Doug was on his way to Manila. He had received no further communication from Bill; so he could only hope that Bill worked himself out of the jail. After the midway stopover in Hawaii, Doug landed in Manila at 3:30 a.m..

 

This brings us to the period of time when Doug Goodwin single handedly aborted a coup attempt against President Aquino. His heroic efforts would never be known to the world, but would only be recorded in the Goodwin Brothers’ journal.

 

That unexpected and highly unusual turn of events would cause Doug five days delay. The airport had been damaged and remained closed for repairs for three days after the rebel attack was crushed. Doug attempted again to reach Bill on his ST but received no answer.

 

PALAWAN, PHILIPPINES

 

Bill was free on bail and heard of the rebel attack in Manila through Beth, who had gone to town for supplies and brought him a newspaper. Bill read the details of the uprising with a much anxiety. He realized that Doug would be delayed for a few days and could only hope that Doug was safe. Bill had mistakenly forgotten to retrieve his ST from its hiding place; so he had failed to recognize Doug’s call.

That same day, Teofisto managed to sneak inside the cave being guarded by the Indians and identify the Orphans, which were in stacks on wooden planks.

Teofisto’s excited voice burst from Bill’s radio, “Mr. Batman, Mr. Batman, come in—come in!”

Bill rushed to the receiver and answered, “This is Batman, come in Mr. T.”

“I have good news. The Orphans have been located. I repeat, the Orphans have been located.”

“Affirmative, that is good news. Stand by, Doug will be here soon and we will give you further instruction.”

“We need supplies.”

“You remain with the Orphans. Send Mario for supplies.”

“Roger and out.”

Bill sat in amazement. “Why is the good and the bad always so closely related. It’s great that we have found the Orphans, but where is Doug?” he asked himself.

 

MANILA, PHILIPPINES

 

Doug sat with the straggled masses at Manila International Airport. Hundreds of men, women and children wanted to leave Manila, but few planes were leaving. Doug had argued two hours with a ticket agent and finally made reservations on a plane with no assigned seats. “Have they over-booked the flight?” he asked the agent.

“Maybe, sir,” the agent answered. “Be sure you are early in line.”

Early in line meant staying in the airport terminal all day and getting to the boarding gate at least three hours before boarding. Doug carefully calculated his moves and checked his watch every few minutes. Four hours before departure, he pushed himself through the crowd and sat on the floor near the gate. To his frustration, a line had already formed, but he was within the number that would board the plane.

The hot tiring hours crept away slowly. Doug wanted to close his eyes and rest; but knowing that he risked being pushed out of his favored position, he fought fatigue. As the last hour approached, hoards of people also approached, and Doug was forced to stand and defend his place in line. Even the line dispersed into a vast crowd. By that time, Doug had joined in with the pressure tactics to move to the front. If he relaxed for a second, someone would squeeze ahead of him. Many people even tried the technique of saying, “excuse me”; a polite way of saying “I plan to move ahead of you, so please let me push you aside”.

Doug was familiar with the ways of third world countries and held his position fairly well. At least when the door opened, he was among the first fifty people who darted down the ramp. Finding a seat was a miracle, but he plopped into the first available seat and sat like a man determined to withstand any amount of pressure.

For the next thirty minutes, he was pushed and struck by people, boxes, bags and kids. It always amazed him how these, polite and gentle people, could turn into a wave of flowing sand sweeping over anyone in its way when they wanted to go somewhere.

Eventually the plane filled, and people ceased their moving around. Doug closed his eyes and rested his head on the back of the seat as the roar of the engines exploded, and the plane began to move—he was on his way to Palawan.

The trip was bouncy and a thrill-a-minute. Like the time when someone opened a warm can of Pepsi on his trip to Hanoi a few years ago, and the spray covered half the population of the plane. As if one can of Pepsi wasn’t enough to teach the lesson, a new can would be popped every few minutes.

While thinking, “These people are crazy.” Doug closed his eyes and must have fallen asleep, for it surprised him when he realized the plane was descending. Normally, the pilot would announce the descent. Doug could only hope his perspective was correct, and that the trip was near an end.

Looking out the small window to his left, He was pleased to see the ocean and a fairly large island below. The plane banked to the left and descended quickly into an approach pattern, and landed within fifteen minutes.

Doug anxiously departed the plane and dragged himself with the crowd of people to the terminal. He had sent a message of his arrival to the local telegram office but was not sure Bill would receive it until he saw Bill’s grinning face above the crowd.

Doug waved; and Bill waved excitedly, pushing his way against the tide of passengers until he was within arms reach of Doug.

“Man, what a sight for sore eyes!” Bill shouted.

“What a fine mess you got me into this time!” Doug replied, as their hands met in their familiar handshake.

Bill exclaimed, “I’m glad you’re here, Bro.; I was beginning to experience battle fatigue.”

“I could tell by our last telephone conversation that you had it.”

While they continued walking with the crowd, Bill said, “Well, some good news anyway. Teofisto has located the Orphans.”

“Is he sure?”

“Yes, he’s touched them with his own little brown fingers.”

“Man, that is good news. Here’s some more, ‘Big O’ has eliminated Ernie from the picture,” Doug commented.

“Is that right? How’d he do that?”

“Had him extradited from Manila to Las Vegas on drug charges.”

“I remember Pedro told us Ernie was in trouble.”

“Well, Pedro’s comment to us and my comment to ‘Big O’ caused him to contact authorities and instigate the extradition.”

“What about Charley?”

“We believe he is in San Francisco. ‘Big O’ ran a check through his government sources, and there is a record of Charlie’s passport coming through customs last month.”

“That eliminates two of our major problems, doesn’t it?”

“You’d better believe it,” Doug replied. “Where’d you dig this thing up?” Doug commented, as they approached an old 1949 automobile.

“It belonged to Ramos before he and Harry abandoned me,” Bill answered.

“‘Big O’ heard that Harry was back in the states and trying to avoid him,” Doug informed Bill.

“I had no idea where he ended up. All I knew was that he had gone to Mindanao to check on some gold.”

“Through the grapevine, ‘Big O’ learned that C2 met Harry in Mindanao, and they were cheated out of over $160,000.”

“I can’t believe that he would cross ‘Big O’ like that.”

“He’s in it right up to his neck now. ‘Big O’ feels responsible for his betrayal, and Harry has to answer directly to him on that one.”

 

WORLDWIDE HEADQUARTERS, U.S.A.

 

Unknown to Doug or Bill, Harry was about to be reamed out by ‘Big O’.

Anxiously awaiting word from the recovery team, ‘Big O’ stayed near the telephone, afraid to leave the room all day. As the sun went down, he became extremely uneasy.

“Something seems wrong,” he said to himself while picking up the phone. He dialed C2’s number and counted off five rings before he heard the somber voice of C2’s wife.

“Hello?” She said with a question.

“Have you heard from C2?” ‘Big O’ asked in haste.

“Yes he’s home but went straight to bed.”

‘Big O’ took a deep breath of air and exhaled with relief. “Good, at least he’s safe. I’ll call him in the morning.”

Returning the telephone receiver to the base, ‘Big O’ stared out the window with a disconcerted attitude. “That’s not like C2. He normally would have checked in immediately, something is definitely wrong, and where the hell is Harry?” he said aloud to himself.

Picking up the phone again, ‘Big O’ quickly called his secretary.

“Hi, have you heard from Harry?”

“Yeah, he came in last night. Didn’t you talk to C2?”

“No, he went directly to bed. He must have been completely spent, but I’m worried.”

“Well they had some problems,” the secretary began: “They must have abandoned Bill, and Harry is going back in a couple days.”

“Let me in on what happened,” ‘Big O’ said with ‘a desire and need to know’ tone of voice.

“They lost $160,000.”

“Are you sure?” ‘Big O’ questioned.

“Yeah, they made an exchange by lowering the money down a hole to a cave, and the bars were raised in a bucket. The only problem was that they discovered later that the bars were brass not gold.”

“They’ve messed with the wrong man on this one,” ‘Big O’ responded. The Big O took it this fiasco very personally, after all he was the one who had selected Harry to make sure nothing went wrong.”

“That’s for sure. Harry is gearing up for war. He has night vision binoculars and all the accessories.”

“I don’t mean the Filipinos, I mean Harry and C2. Let’s not talk on the phone,” ‘Big O’ said: “I’m in San Diego right now, but I’ll come to you in the morning.”

‘Big O’ hung up the phone in dismay. “Where is Bill, and what is he doing for six o’clock protection?” Those and many other questions flowed through his mind that night, making sound sleep impossible.

Not needing an alarm clock, ‘Big O’ arose at 4:30a.m.—hurriedly dressed and headed toward the San Diego airport. The 7:10 Southwestern Airline flight left on schedule, and ‘Big O’ flew toward Las Vegas.

His secretary met ‘Big O’ at the air terminal and immediately began filling in the details of Harry’s Philippine fiasco.

“They had met a man by the name of Ramos in Palawan; and while they were waiting for Teofisto to locate the Orphans, Ramos took Harry to Mindanao to meet the natives who had forty tons of gold bullion,” The secretary said in his usual somber toned voice. “Harry was told about the tribe of natives who have had gold for forty-five years. They lived in constant fear for their lives. The government would arrest them and probably have them imprisoned for selling gold in the Philippines.”

“I know it’s illegal to sell gold in the Philippines. They also have the risk of being murdered by rebels and other opportunists,” ‘Big O’ added.

“Exactly true. In fact, Harry was told that the chief’s son had his throat cut on their last business deal. Well, Harry convinced the natives that he had the financial means to purchase the gold.”

“That’s when C2 must have gone over there. Did they really loose $160,000?”

“I’m not sure. For some reason Harry told different stories.”

“I can’t believe he would do that without telling me.”

“I’m sure that he and C2 planned to keep the gold for themselves.”

“Hey, he doesn’t need to do that. He can take any amount that he wants—one hundred million, fifty million. How much does he need?”

“Well maybe I have it wrong. I hope it’s only a misunderstanding.”

“How can we get the full picture?”

“I’ve set a meeting with Harry today. We have to remember those guys have been through hell and paranoia must have set in. They actually believed that they were on their own with no support here, back home.”

‘Big O’ stared into space as they drove along the busy streets of Las Vegas. He felt confused and saddened that he had such unfavorable feelings. Then, he spoke aloud, voicing a philosophy that has pulled him through many bad situations and has always proven to be true: “This is just the down cycle of this venture. No matter how bad it seems, if we persist, everything will work out okay in the end.”

“After driving in silence for several minutes, the secretary broke the somber silence by expressing his thoughts aloud, “After all C2 lost his money down that hole. He is the one who feels stupid, mad and frustrated all at once.”

“Did you tell me on the phone the natives were going to give them the gold even after they have cheated them?”

“That’s what I heard. The natives said that they were only testing them to be sure they weren’t from the government. At least that is what they heard from a relative. I guess they never did find the men with the money”

The rest of their conversation, while traveling, revolved around not knowing the complete facts yet. Finally they reached the assigned rendezvous, a building in the middle of nowhere. It was a perfect spot for the “Worldwide Enterprises headquarters”.

‘Big O’ was shocked when he saw Harry. Harry’s normally friendly attitude had shifted to one of a sullen, withdrawn nature. His squinting eyes were smaller than usual, and his mouth was expressionless.

“Hi Harry,” ‘Big O’ said in his usual friendly manner as he shook Harry’s hand. “How’s it going?”

“Just fine,” Harry replied. The icy atmosphere that surrounded Harry was hard to ignore.

The Big O said. “Let’s get outa’ the sun.”

Both men walked inside the building into a comfortable air-conditioned atmosphere and sat around a table in the middle of the room.

Big O got right into the business at hand. “I know the basic details, but there are some things that must be resolved.”

“That’s right,” Harry agreed under his breath.

The“ Big O” shook his head in disbelief. Harry was a soldier in the Special Forces and everything he did was planned to the ultimate. Plans were never supposed to change without general approval from headquarters. Now he was looking at treachery and betrayal that made him cringe. He proceeded to chew Harry out with uncontrolled language. ‘Big O’ spoke with an unwavering voice of authority. His message was unmistakable. Harry had screwed up by allowing the circumstances to control his thinking. “Putting a hundred and sixty thousand dollars down a rat hole is the most asinine thing I ever heard,” ‘Big O’ continued. “Did you have your head up your ass or what? The first move in any basic operation is to have your flanks protected. You should know that by now. How could you do such a stupid thing?”

Harry’s explanation of the dismal events didn’t add up. It was obvious that he was hiding the real reason he and C2 proceeded without instructions: they wanted all the gold for themselves. Greed had set in and had bit them in the butt. Harry and C2 had decided to eliminate the team from the project though the team had brought it together. It was true that C2 had put about one hundred sixty thousand dollars cash down a “rat hole” that was supposed to contain gold bullion worth over forty million dollars, but that had been his choice.

They decided to proceed according to their selfish motivated plan and abandon the team. With a sudden move, ‘Big O’ stood and demanded, “You’re a disgrace, Harry. Get out of here before I lose my temper.”

Harry left without comment, knowing that any response would evoke the wrath of ‘Big O’, and he didn’t want a show down.

“I’ll take care of him later,” ‘Big O’ commented to himself.

 

PALAWAN, PHILIPPINES

 

Bill and Doug bounced along the rough road heading to Bill’s hut. As they pulled into the clearing around the hut, Beth stepped into view. Doug first looked at her, then Bill, then back to Beth.

“You sly old fox,” Doug said after a slight pause.

“It’s not what you think,” Bill quickly responded.

“Sure, tell me another one. I thought you had it rough over here.”

“She only cooks my food. She’s Teofisto’s cousin,” Bill tried to explain.

“So what, they’re all related anyway,” Doug said. He enjoyed giving Bill a bad time, but in reality, he had complete faith in his brother.

“Come, let me introduce you,” Bill said after stopping the car.

“Hello Mr. Bill. Is this your brother?” Beth asked.

“Yes, this is the other half of the Goodwin Brothers, Doug.”

“It’s good to meet you Mr. Doug,” She said, having difficulty pronouncing the word “Doug”.

“You can call me Douglas, like Douglas McArthur.”

“Oh, yes, Douglas McArthur,” Beth repeated, suddenly recognizing the meaning of the word “Doug”. “Do you want me to cook some food?”

“That would be good,” Doug answered.

“Bill proceeded to unload the car, and Doug wandered around camp, enjoying the calm and quietness. After Doug’s bags were safely inside the hut, the Goodwin Brothers sat around the outside table and began another session of discussing all the events that have transpired to them, individually.

Doug could not resist beginning with his version of how he singularly ended the coup attempt on President Aquino. “If it hadn’t been for me throwing those hand grenades the rebels would have taken over the entire Makati financial district.”

Bill, knowing that Doug was speaking in jest, listened in amazement at the details of the event. “It sounds like you were the Bruce Willis of the Philippines. Remember how he wiped out the terrorists in the movie Die Hard? It took him all night, and you did it in one fatal swoop.”

“Well, didn’t you know that I taught Bruce everything he knows,” Doug replied with a laugh.

“You always seem to top me in excitement. I’ve only survived a dozen life threatening experiences: typhoons, volcanoes, poisonous spider bites, and attempted assassination a few times.”

“Yes, but you had Beth,” Doug interrupted in jest.

“Don’t forget Nellie,” Bill added.

“Nellie?”

“She’s Beth’s sister. We’ve taken boat tours together.”

“It’s a good thing I got here when I did. Now we can concentrate on the mission at hand.”

“That brings up Teofisto. I told him you were coming. Let’s get him on the radio.”

Bill led Doug to the hut and fired up the radio. “Batman calling Mr. T,” Bill repeated several time.

“Mr. T here, over.”

“I’m glad to reach you. How are you doing?”

“I’m okay, but getting hungry. Has Mario arrived yet?”

“Not yet, is he coming?”

“Yes, I sent him for more supplies while I watch the Orphans. He should be there soon.”

“I’ll take care of him and send him right back. How are the Orphans?”

“Safe and sound. I watch them as closely as the guards.”

“That’s good news. Doug is here and we will make plans to acquire the Orphans soon. Ernie is in the U.S.; so we don’t have to worry about him anymore.”

“That sounds good, Mr. Batman. I am okay, but we should do something with the Orphans quickly.”

“Should we return with Mario?”

“Negative, it is too dangerous for you.”

“We will stay here then, for now. After Mario returns, we need to meet with you.”

“Have Mario guide you half way and wait for me.”

“Does he know a safe location for us to meet you?”

“Yes, he will show you.”

“That’s a good plan. We’ll travel part way with him and wait for you.”

“Okay, Mr. Batman.”

“Roger, we’ll call you when he arrives.”

“Roger and out.”

Bill turned to Doug and asked, “Does that sound like a good idea?”

“I think so. We might as well get on with it. What do you have in mind for the natives with the Orphans?”

Bill thought for a few seconds before answering, “I don’t want anyone to be killed over this. The natives are committed to guarding the Orphans and will protect them with their life; so we have to out-fox them.”

“I haven’t got a good feel for things over here yet; so I’ll rely on your judgment,” Doug commented.

“I’ve thought a great deal about this, and honestly believe that we can trick the natives into thinking that we represent Ernie and Charley. If we can do that, they’ll turn the Orphans over to us without any problems.”

“How can we do that?”

Bill then began outlining the plan he had devised, and it seemed doable. “First let’s get Suwat’s team over here on standby in case it turns out to be a war. Even if we are successful without confrontation, we need Suwat to protect the Orphans during relocation anyway. Remember, the rebel forces are somewhere in that area and could finance their entire rebellion with that gold. They would create an all out war if they caught wind of our project.”

“I see…Suwat and his team can serve three purposes: protect our backside, transport the Orphans or retrieve the Orphans by force.”

“That’s right; then, we can advance our project as planned,” Bill added.

“I need to have the ship leave Long Beach right away—it’ll take ‘em ten days to get to Guam and another five days to Thailand; then four and a half to Palawan,” Doug explained.

“I feel for the first time, it’s coming to place. Teofisto has touched the Orphans, and our entire team is chomping at the bit,” Bill stated with an obvious excitement.

“I’d like to see the Orphans myself, but I’ll have to take Teofisto’s word for it.”

“I’m sure we can. Mario will be dragging into camp any time now, and we can drill him before we contact ‘Big O’.”

 Bill was accurate in his estimate of Mario’s arrival. They had barely finished eating, as Mario walked out of the jungle.

“Mr. Bill,” Mario said as he stumbled and fell.

Leaping to their feet, Bill and Doug rushed to his assistance.

“I’m okay, just weak,” Mario reassured them. “Haven’t had much food.”

“Here let us help you, friend,” Bill said, and supported him while Doug placed Mario’s arm around his shoulders and walked him to the table.

“Beth!” Bill shouted, “Mario is here and needs some food.”

Beth rushed from the hut; and with only a glance at Mario, began preparing a plate of chicken and rice. Bill brought him a jar of water.

Mario showed his appreciation with a smile and choppy English, “Many thanks, I had a much hard trip.”

“Don’t try to talk now, just eat and regain your strength,” Doug told him.

Mario looked at Doug as if he knew him but wondered who he was. Not waiting to ask, he began drinking and eating the rice. He paused briefly between bites to thank them and then devoured the food. It is amazing how these Filipinos can survive on so little food—rice and vegetables with a little chicken is their daily diet, morning, noon and night.

“I talked to Teofisto a few hours ago,” Bill stated. “It sounds like you have done a great job.”

“Thank you. We found the Orphans!” Mario exclaimed.

“That’s great. I’m Doug, Bill’s brother,” Doug said, introducing himself.

“Good to know you,” Mario said and repeated, “We found the Orphans.”

“Did you see them?” Bill asked to get his direct response.

Mario answered, without hesitation, “Yes, I touched them.”

“How many are there?” Doug questioned.

“Very many, maybe three hundred,” came the reply.

Doug and Bill glanced at one another with satisfaction and a smile. Both were thinking the same thing, “Let’s get this adventure wrapped up.”

“We are planning to bring in the forces,” Bill said to the approval of Mario. Mario had been on surveillance long enough. He, too, was ready for the end.

Mario finished eating, washed himself at the outside faucet and lay on a mat to rest.

The Goodwin brothers visited until late that night, explaining their personal experiences since their last meeting. “This project has been like a Yo-Yo,” Doug commented.

“Did you know the Filipinos invented the Yo-Yos to kill enemies and wild chickens,” Bill said.

“Can you imagine how little I care,” Doug said, pushing Bill on the shoulder in jest as he stood and walked to the hut.

Sleep came quickly and everyone slept soundly. The following morning, they ate breakfast and prepared to contact ‘Big O’ by ST. It was 5p.m. in the United States; so ‘Big O’ should be at the Worldwide headquarters. Beth went with them to replenish their supplies, but Mario remained at the hut.

 

WORLDWIDE HEADQUARTERS, USA

 

‘Big O’ was happy to hear from them and especially elated with the news that they were nearly ready for action. He had arranged for a large yacht to leave Long Beach eight days ago…It should be in Guam in two days, and Suwat was on standby. “That sea captain Doug lined up reneged on me,” ‘Big O’ began to explain. “He started giving me a ramalama lip jam about rough seas and bad weather, then disappeared with the $50,000.”

Bill’s heart sank as he listened, “Will the yacht be as good?” he asked.

“Don’t worry, I’ve taken care of it,” ‘Big O’ explained. “It’s a one hundred twenty foot yacht—bigger and faster than the other, and the captain, Capt. Scott is solid.”

Doug and Bill’s emotions flipped from gloom to excitement. “That’s awfully good news.”

“I felt an urgency and when I heard that they were sure where the Orphans were, I didn’t want any delays. I can’t travel to Thailand right now because of the political unrest in the country,” ‘Big O’ explained. “I’ll have to wire funds to Suwat and meet him in Hong Kong.”

“We’re isolated out here,” Doug replied, “What’s going on in Thailand?”

“Hundreds of pro-democracy demonstrators were shot by the armed forces, and prime minister Suchinda has gone into hiding at an air force guest house with the nation’s supreme military commander Marshal Kaset Rogananil,” ‘Big O’ continued.

“Wasn’t Suwat planning to use Rogananil for assistance?” Doug asked.

‘Big O’ answered, “No that was Gen. Noonpackdee, Suchinda’s brother-in-law, but he’s hiding too. Anyway, we won’t be going to Thailand for anything right now.”

“What about the bank account I set up when I was there? Will we be able to use it?” Doug asked.

“Not until the unrest settles. An American in Thailand right now would be considered an intruder and wouldn’t be safe.”

“Have you talked to Ken about an alternate banking plan.”

“In fact I just called him last night. He’s working on his connections in St. Kitts-Nevis.”

“Isn’t that near Antiqua and Barbuda?” Doug asked.

“Yes, Ken has banking connections there with a special brotherhood corporation at Turks and Caicos. He had planned to use them anyway; so there won’t be a problem.”

“I’ve always left banking details to Ken; so I never worry about it. Meanwhile back here, Bill and I are about to meet with Teofisto and discuss the situation with the natives. We’re considering the possibility of me going to the native chief and pretending that Ernie sent me to move the Orphans, but I’m concerned that they might check with Charley and blow my cover.”

‘Big O’ interrupted Doug with a startling announcement, “Man, I forgot to tell you about something. Yesterday, there was an explosion on a commercial Philippine jet airliner while it was landing at the Honolulu Airport. The newspaper reported that all the passengers were killed, and a metal case containing over five hundred thousand dollars in diamonds was discovered in the wreckage. I have my people checking it out—I have a gut feeling that Charley was on that plane.” Then, ‘Big O’ described other details of the crash.

Doug was caught with complete surprise, “I can’t believe it. That sucker might have gotten what he deserved—wouldn’t that be something!”

Bill, who stood next to Doug, observed his sudden change of expression and tried to grasp the reason for his excitement. “What’s up?” Bill asked, trying to get in on the conversation.

Doug brushed him aside indicating he would tell him soon and continued talking with ‘Big O’. “Maybe he was killed by the military generals, so that they could keep the rest of the diamonds.”

With that comment, Bill began to surmise that they might be talking about Charley. “Was it Charley?” he whispered to Doug.

Doug nodded affirmatively, and Bill backed away in amazement.

‘Big O’ agreed with the possibility and changed the subject back to the project at hand, “I’m nearly positive you’d be safe dealing with the natives. If Charley was murdered, the natives don’t have anyone to deal with anyway. I’ll check on Charley, and you let me know what Teofisto says.”

Doug agreed to contact ‘Big O’ again the next day and ended their conversation. The instant he hung up the receiver, Bill jumped to him with a myriad of questions about Charley.

“Was Charley killed?” Bill asked hopefully.

“‘Big O’ isn’t sure yet. There was an explosion on a Philippine Airliner while it landed in Honolulu. Investigators found a case of diamonds; so there is good possibility that they belonged to Charley. Maybe a bomb was planted on the plane.”

Bill had overheard Doug mention the Filipino military generals and agree that they were the most likely suspects. “There could have been several hundred million dollars in diamonds in the gold Buddha,” Bill stated with a contemplative expression.

“You’d better believe it. They’d easily wipe out Charley for that kind of money.”

“What did ‘Big O’ say about our plans here?” Bill asked Doug.

“He agrees with us and wants us to proceed. He already has a huge yacht on the way to Guam and will meet Suwat’s team for immediate activation. Man, Suwat is in the middle of a mess in Bangkok.”

“What kind of mess?”

“Total uprising by the population. They’ve overthrown the Prime Minister and protesting by the thousands.”

“Can you believe this world? It changes by the minute. We’ll never be able to stop rectifying injustices.”

“I haven’t mentioned our next possible adventure.”

“I hate to ask, what is it?”

“Recovering stolen art treasures in Germany.”

“How in the world did you get involved with that one?” Bill asked with signs of fatigue showing in his face.

“Remember Kirk Schneider? Well, he called—thinks he knows the location of the Amber Chamber.”

“I remember reading about the Nazis dismantling the Amber Chamber in St. Petersburg and moving it somewhere.”

“That’s the same one and is worth a fortune.”

“Can we finish this fortune before we begin worrying about another one?”

“Sure bro.” Just thought I’d let you know we’re not retiring yet.”

“Retirement is the least of my concerns right now. Let’s go meet with Teofisto.”

The Goodwin Brothers left to retrieve Beth from the local market. She had stocked up with enough supplies to feed a small army. She undoubtedly sensed the coming of Suwat’s team, although she had never been told—Filipina women seem to have a sixth sense when it comes to feeding their men. 

Mario was still recuperating from his ordeal the day before; but like most Filipinos, he was extremely resilient.

“Hi Mr. Bill. I need to hurry some food to Teofisto—he is out,” Mario said as they were unloading the car.

“We’ll call him right now and leave as soon as possible.”

“You going too?” Mario questioned.

“Yes, Doug and I are both going part way; then Teofisto can meet us. We are planning to go immediately.”

Mario was elated with the news. His life had been spent in the local jungles, but he was tired of watching the natives and avoiding detection. “I know a good place to meet. It is by a cliff on the way,” Mario suggested.

“That’s fine. Let’s get packed,” Bill said.

While Mario and Beth prepared supplies for Teofisto, Bill contacted him on the radio. “We’re set to leave in fifteen minutes,” Bill said. “Doug and I will travel part way with Mario, and you can meet us later.”

“That is okay, nothing new here. The Orphans are safe and sound.”

“I have a lot to tell you; so we’ll see you soon.”

Teofisto made his usual reply, “Roger and out,” and Bill proceeded to pack the radio and prepare for the trip.

Doug prepared his travel pack and carefully packed the nine-millimeter pistol that he confiscated from the rebels in Makati. He counted six ammunition clips and placed them in a zippered pocket of his trousers. He felt good that he had risked stashing the gun and ammunition in his bag at the Manila Airport. Fortunately, the security check on the inter-island flights was extremely loose because of the bad weather and military confusion. 

Within an hour, they were on their way. As they walked on narrow paths through the dense jungle, Doug had flashback memories of his harrowing Saipan jungle experience. On this trip, he would remain close to an experienced guide. The narrow trail snaked its way through the dense foliage nearly disappearing at times. Mario, with his “long-blade” knife, hacked the overgrown vines to facilitate their movement. The heat bothered Doug more than Bill—being acclimatized to the environment had its advantages.

They traveled several hours before reaching an outcropping of basalt columnar formations that formed huge cliffs. “This is the place Teofisto wants you to wait for him,” Mario explained.

“He knows how to find this spot?” Doug asked with a justified degree of question.

“Oh-oh, he will find you?” Mario answered without reservation.

Bill watched Doug survey the area and smiled. “You have no faith in these jungle fighters?” he said.

“Ya’, I have faith and much hope. I hope he’s right,” Doug replied.

“Don’t worry, Mr. Doug. Teofisto will be here in maybe tomorrow.”

“Well, maybe I won’t worry then,” Doug said with a laugh, making fun of the Filipino’s use of the word “maybe” without Mario being aware of it.

With that brief exchange of dialogue, supplies were divided, and Mario continued alone. The Goodwin brothers selected a shallow cave in the side of a basalt column and established a campsite.

“We’re not as alone as it appears, brother,” Bill said to Doug. “I have my trusty radio to connect me with Teofisto.”

“I hope nothing happens to Teofisto or Mario before they lead us to the Orphans,” Doug said, raising a new concern in Bill’s mind.

Bill set his radio on a flat rock and began calling Teofisto. At first, there was no answer, but with a clicking sound and a slight whine, Teofisto’s voice finally responded.

“Mr. T here, Mr. Batman.”

“Mr. T, it is good to hear your voice. How are you?” Bill asked.

“I am fine, Mr. Batman. How are you?”

“Hot and tired, but maybe okay. Doug and I are waiting at our rendezvous location. Your friend is on his way to you.”

“That is very good—I am without food.”

“Sorry to hear that friend. He just left us, so will be there soon. We will wait for you to come to us. Can Mario operate the radio?”

“I showed him, okay, he can operate.”

“That’s fine. Leave the radio with him when you come. We need him to inform us of any problems.”

“Roger. No problems now.”

“That is good. Come as soon as you can. We have many things to discuss.”

“Roger and out,” Teofisto replied and clicked off.

“He loves that radio,” Bill said to Doug as he packed the radio in its bag. “It makes him feel important.”

“Like the man said who dressed in a tuxedo when he went for his vasectomy, ‘If I’m going to be impotent, I want to look impotent’,” Doug joked.

“I missed your sense of humor over here,” Bill said with a touch of sarcasm.

Together, they cleared their sleeping area of rocks, and Doug built a fire to warm the food that Beth had prepared. “Why doesn’t this food spoil sooner?” he asked.

“You know, that monosodium glutamate they use. It kills the bugs.”

“How about the humans?”

“Probably, but a slower death.”

“I see what you mean. Let’s wrap this adventure up soon and get back to the Sizzler.”

“You’ve only been here a few days. How about me?”

“I’m just kidding; you’ve paid your dues,” Doug said with a sincere tone of voice. “Let’s hurry with our meal. I don’t want to have a fire very long…there might be rebel forces around here.”

“They’re usually further south, but you’re right. We must be careful.”

They rushed through their meal and were sitting on their bed-rolls when Doug said, “It’s about time…we’ll find out whether we can pull this charade off without a battle or not.” Doug then looked at Bill and asked, “Do you still think these natives will buy the idea that Ernie sent me?”

“They’ll buy it. You only need to act positive…mention the location of the bars and pay them.”

“You’re probably right. Actually, they have no way to check on me. Ernie is off the islands, and hopefully, Charley has gone to meet his maker.”

“We’ll discuss it with Teofisto and make initial contact with the natives. Then, we’ll wait for Suwat and the boat to arrive. After everyone is in position, we’ll pay the natives off and relocate the Orphans, and head for Saipan.”

“It feels good to hear those words,” Doug said to the agreeing Bill.

“How much are you going to pay the natives on the first meeting?”

Doug unconsciously felt the bulge in his front pocket and replied, “I have 20,000 pesos here.”

“That is plenty. Teofisto will be your interpreter, and he will remain with the natives after you leave to protect our interest.”

“What about Mario?”

“I planned to have him remain in hiding with the radio; so he could keep us informed.”

Doug expressed a familiar theme, “I love to see a plan come together.”

“It’s coming, brother,” Bill added. “I was beginning to have my doubts a couple weeks ago.”

“It only took me to pull it together,” Doug joked.

Bill would never admit it, but he tended to agree with Doug. He found it interesting that his mental anguish had disappeared since his brother had arrived. “You’re right…it takes a team,” he responded.

Darkness moved in, and each brother lay in silence, occupied with his personal thoughts. Sleep eventually came and the long night began. Bill was accustomed to falling asleep at dusk and arising at dawn, but Doug had not yet adjusted. Doug, therefore, slept restlessly and awoke about 4a.m. fully awake. He lay for the next two hours reviewing in his mind the message he would have Teofisto translate to the natives. It was simple: he had been sent by Ernie to pay them and arrange to move the Orphans on a boat that would be there within three weeks.

The morning twilight had barely arrived when Doug heard the sound of brushes moving in the jungle below. He leaped to his feet, grabbed his gun and pulled on his trousers.

Gently shaking Bill, Doug awakened him. Doug placed his hand over Bill’s mouth long enough to make him aware that he needed to be quiet and slipped on his boots.

Doug crept into the foliage for cover, and Bill pulled himself behind the rocks. They listened in silence without detecting further movement, thinking that it possibly could have been a wild boar, when suddenly, from behind Bill’s back, he heard, “Mr. Bill, it is me.”

Turning toward a familiar voice, Bill saw Teofisto grinning in a broad smile. “Come here my friend,” Bill said with authority, “and see my long lost brother, Doug.”

Teofisto slid down a narrow ravine and ended at Bill’s feet. Bill placed his arm around Teofisto’s shoulders as a sign of friendship and waited for Doug to return. Doug heard voices and returned in a few seconds.

“Remember my brother, Doug?” Bill said to Teofisto.

“Happy to see you again, Mr. Doug,” Teofisto responded.

Doug initiated a friendly handshake and showed his pleasure at meeting Teofisto again. “You look more tired than when I last saw you in Manila,” Doug said to Teofisto.

“Very tired, Mr. Doug, but I have been faithful,” he replied with a forced smile.

“You’ll get your reward in the end,” Doug said with assurance.

Bill turned and walked toward his bed, laughing to himself as he thought, “I hope his reward isn’t a kick in his rear end.”

Teofisto pulled a small package of cooked rice from his pocket and began eating.

“Here, let’s cook some hot breakfast,” Bill said. “Is it safe to start a fire?”

“Yes, very safe. There are no rebels for a long way.”

“How far?” Doug asked.

“Maybe forty-four kilometers,” Teofisto answered.

“We’re okay here, but that isn’t very far away,” Bill added, “How far to the native village?”

“Maybe six hours.”

Doug looked at the tired looking Teofisto and hesitatingly asked, “How soon can you return to Mario with me?”

The proud Teofisto answered without delay, “Anytime, Mr. Doug.”

Doug looked at him with admiration and said, “Let’s eat, and you can rest. I want to get there before dark.”

“No problem,” Teofisto said.

Teofisto ate and slept on Doug’s bed. As if living with an internal alarm clock, he awakened with a start and hurried to Doug, who was visiting with Bill. “I’m ready to go now,” he stated.

“I thought you’d sleep a week,” Doug said with a smile.

Teofisto recognized Doug’s comment as a compliment and replied with a grin, “I’m tough—I don’t need to sleep.”

“You’re my kind of man,” Doug responded. “I’ll sleep for both of us.”

Doug rolled his bed and set it beside his pack. “Let’s talk before leaving; so Bill can give his input,” Doug said, speaking to Teofisto. “Here’s the plan. You and I are going to meet the Indian chief, pretending that Ernie has sent me to deal with him.”

“Maybe he will check with Ernie,” Teofisto suggested.

“That’s the good part. He can’t check with Ernie; because Ernie is in jail in the United States.”

“That is good. I didn’t know.”

“If we can negotiate for the release of the Orphans without a battle, it will be a lot better,” Doug continued. “I need you to interpret for me. Can you speak the Indian dialect?”

“They will understand some Tagalog, and I will understand some of their words.”

“Enough to carry on a conversation?” Doug questioned.

“No problem,” Teofisto said.

“Will he understand English?”

“Maybe, a little.”

“Okay, here is what I will tell him, with your help. Ernie sent me to pay him some money and arrange to move the bars—we’ll have to call them bars instead of Orphans when we talk to the Chief. Then, I will give him ten thousand pesos. If he accepts our story, I want him to show us the bars; then I will give him ten thousand pesos more. How does that sound so far?”

Teofisto nodded his head in agreement without speaking.

Doug continued, “We should be safe to disclose more of our plans after he has shown us the bars. You will then help me explain that within three weeks I will bring a boat to the beach, and his people can help us load the boat. I’ll need to know how much money Ernie promised to pay him…can you ask him?”

“I will ask without you asking, and he will think I am only curious,” Teofisto said, showing good insight.

After that statement, Doug felt secure with Teofisto. “I want you to remain with the tribe until we come with the team,” Doug explained. “Mario will hide in the jungle with the radio and will be our link. You can relay a message through him if anything happens. Is that okay?”

“Very good, Mr. Doug…no problem,” Teofisto agreed.

“We’re out of here then,” Doug said, standing quickly.

“You keep in touch,” Bill said with a stern tone of voice.

“Don’t worry, Bro., you’re never out of our thoughts,” Doug said sarcastically.

“Maybe I should go instead of you,” Bill suggested.

“You’ve had enough adventure. I’ll give you some relief.”

“Okay, but be careful. I’ll wait until you meet the Chief and report in; then I’ll head back to call ‘Big O’.”

“Sounds good to me,” Doug said, full of enthusiasm. “Don’t get lost on your way home.”

“I’ll be okay. I charted the course with my compass and have the GSC if I have trouble.”

With that, Doug and Teofisto walked into the dense jungle and disappeared from view. Bill sat knowing he had a long wait.

Late that night, near midnight, Doug’s welcome voice interrupted the silence of the night as the radio receiver picked up his transmission. “Mr. Batman. Mr. Batman. Come in Mr. Batman.”

Bill grabbed the microphone from the radio pack and answered, “Batman here. Is everything okay?”

“No problems. Only beat to a pulp from the arduous hike.”

“I told you I should have gone. You’re too soft.”