The Moses Virus Read Online Free Page B

Caroline’s office. “Thanks for coming, Tom,” Caroline said. “Gabrielli’s secretary telephoned to confirm that he’ll call at 10 a.m. They asked for us to let them sort through Doc’s belongings as part of the investigation. I told them I’d take the request under advisement.”
    Caroline continued. “Tom, have you given any more thought to what was going on yesterday with Doc’s and Eric’s deaths? Eric’s parents and Doc’s sister will surely be asking, and they probably won’t buy the official explanation.”
    “I’ve been thinking that the arrival of an Italian Hazmat team points to some kind of chemical substance—likely a dangerous one—that caused their deaths, not a collapse of the roof of the passageway,” Tom replied.
    A look of concern flashed across her face.
    The telephone buzzed. “Lieutenant Gabrielli,” Lucia announced.
    “I’ll put it on the conference phone,” Caroline said.
    “Ciao, Lieutenant Gabrielli, I’m Caroline Sibelius, director of the American Academy, and I have Dr. Tom Stewart with me. We’re at your disposal.”
    “Thank you. I’m sure you have seen the newspapers this morning?”
    “Yes, but as I understand it, there was no collapse of the passageway,” Caroline said.
    “We had to adjust the story for the media because the deaths involve details we don’t want widely known.”
    “Can you please be more specific?” Caroline asked.
    “I’d like to, but I cannot.”
    Tom broke in. “Two of our friends and colleagues died yesterday. We need to know the reason why.”
    “I’m sorry, but the results of the autopsies must be kept confidential until the investigation is completed. Dr. Stefano Pulesi, senior director of the Laboratory for Communicable Substances, will be handling this stage of the investigation.”
    “What does this tragic event have to do with communicable substances? I thought this was a routine police investigation.”
    “Again, it’s a matter of some . . . sensitivity. I’m sure Dr. Pulesi will be able to explain more.”
    “Does this mean that our Academy excavation will be suspended?” Caroline interjected.
    “Yes, Signora. I’m afraid so. The passage will be sealed until further notice. We have posted guards there to prevent any curiosity seekers.”
    “Is there any danger to anyone who was there yesterday?” Tom asked.
    “There’s no danger. We’d like your help, however.”
    “How can we help?”
    “We’d like to interview the members of the team present at the dig yesterday, including you, Dr. Stewart.”
    “I’ve already told the police what happened,” Tom said.
    “Yes, but perhaps there is some small fact you’ll recall that will give us a lead. It’s all part of the procedure.”
    “Understood. When can we pick up Doc’s and Eric’s remains?” Caroline asked. “Their families would like to make funeral arrangements.”
    Gabrielli was silent for a moment. “I’m afraid that we had to arrange for the cremation of the bodies due to the nature of the situation. The ashes will be available later today.”
    “Cremated? On whose authority?”
    “By order of the Italian Security Agency.”
    “With all due respect, Lieutenant Gabrielli, this is entirely unacceptable. The families expect to take possession of the bodies and will be in Rome later today. I must contact the American Embassy.”
    “Your embassy has already been informed. I’m sorry, but there was no other way. Dr. Pulesi will be in touch concerning the interviews.”
    “Under the circumstances,” Caroline said, “I’m afraid we need to contact our attorneys before we can cooperate further.”
    “That is unfortunate. It will only delay matters.”
    “Good day, sir.” Caroline hung up.
    Caroline and Tom looked at each other in astonishment. Tom offered, “First the cover story, now this. It doesn’t add up.”
    “It’s a mess any way you look at it. I’ll need to tell the rest of the group not to speak with this Pulesi or any other