“It shall be done, brother.” Francesco rose from his chair, his arms encircling his brother in a firm embrace, a silent promise of loyalty.
“You know I always strive to emulate you,” Eugenio breathed.
Francesco’s smile was a tacit acknowledgment of his younger brother’s compliment.
“Grandfather always held you in high regard, Franco.”
“He thought the world of you too, brother.”
A moment of silence ensued, a testament to their unbreakable bond and mutual respect. Their brotherhood was paramount, superseding any mission from the Black Nobility. Yet together, they were unstoppable—they held the world’s fate in the palm of their hand.
Chapter 36
2 August 1934
The Art of War
#26 Attack where he is unprepared.
President Paul von Hindenburg has died. His already declining health simplified the process for the assassin who administered the overdose of morphine, sealing the president’s fate.
Upon his death, Hitler abolished the Office of the President and declared himself both Chancellor and Führer of the German Reich. He has become the absolute dictator of Germany. Nothing can stand in his way.
Secretary of State,
Archbishop Eugenio Pacelli
Chapter 37
21 September 1936
Vatican City
Francesco rushed into his brother’s office and said, “Your Excellency, there’s been a change in your itinerary.”
“Francesco, we are brothers. There’s no need for such formalities.”
“It is out of respect, brother.” Francesco’s voice carried a note of reverence.
“Yes, well. What is this change?”
“Your summer retreat to Switzerland has been cancelled. Instead, you will go to the United States for a series of high-stakes meetings.” Francesco’s words hung heavy in the air.
“Is this the Council’s doing?”
“Yes. Your unofficial American tour will include private meetings with influential archbishops. We are also orchestrating a potential meeting with President Roosevelt, although that confirmation is still pending.”
Eugenio’s gaze held steady on his brother. “And what is my mission there?”
“Your mission is three-pronged. First, you will rally the support of President Roosevelt and the United States. Second, you are to extend an invitation to the U.S. government to establish formal diplomatic relations with the Vatican and accept a papal nuncio. This will forge a direct line of communication between the Vatican and President Roosevelt. Last, you are to reassure President Roosevelt that Reverend Coughlin’s recent verbal onslaughts by were not sanctioned by the Holy See. There will be a private discussion with Coughlin, instructing him to cease his tirade over the airwaves against the U.S. president.”
“When do I leave?”
“The first of October. A team of your most trusted allies is being meticulously selected and briefed on the tasks at hand.”
Eugenio’s eyes reflected the weight of the impending task; he studied his brother, his mind engrossed in the intricate details of this monumental undertaking.
“When you arrive in New York, you will be staying at the Grand Inisfada Estate in Long Island, the home of Genevieve Brady.”
Eugenio furrowed his brows. “I am unfamiliar with this woman.”
“She is the late wife of Nicholas Brady, a duke of the Holy Roman Church. She will act as your bridge to the influential and powerful elite of America.”
Eugenio nodded. “I appreciate you orchestrating this crucial mission, Franco.”
Francesco paused, his gaze intense and penetrating. “This assignment, brother, is a turning point for the Vatican’s future. Do you comprehend the sheer scale of this visit?”
“I do understand the gravity of the situation. I assure you, I will not let you down, brother.”
“Excellent. If you should have any questions, do not hesitate to summon me.”
Chapter 38
8 October 1936
New York Harbor
The majestic SS Conte di Savoia ocean liner sliced through the waters of the Hudson River, making its grand entrance into the bustling New York harbor. Awaiting its arrival was an esteemed apostolic delegation led by a formidable assembly of bishops, high-ranking clergy, and distinguished civic representatives. The Vatican Secretary of State was not just greeted by these dignitaries, but also a buzzing swarm of journalists, photographers, and Catholic reporters, all eager to document this momentous occasion and probe Pacelli about the intentions behind this unprecedented visit to the United States.