144 | John W. Warner IV British counter-espionage units and military police were brutally efficient in their duties to the point of criminalitythough many Axis spies hadbeen rounded up anything to keep Cairo safe for the old guard; new boys, and their counter-spy prostitutes dressed as modern-day ‘Third Dynasty queens, their perfumed dresswear adorned with gold thread and patterns so intricate they would dizzy any man who noticed. And did they, he mused. Under strict orders to report directly to the hotel, Bea came in and saluted. No one had informed her of Churchills sudden arrival. For once, McMaster noticed, her uniform was ironed and neat. Guards stood by the doors. Tight security. Wearing a black Fez hat and casual desert uniform, Churchill stood, removed his cigar, and kissed her cheek. Seal those doors if you please, loungers and idlers have gravitated to Cairo in droves, and, cleverly dispersed amongst them, spies too. Gentlemen, my grandniece Beatrice, an intelligence officer under McMaster here. No mentions of her by you lot, ever, clear? She doesnt exist, a puff of fine sand in the wind. Not prone to fancies. Good to see you my dear. She smiled. Prime Minister, a pleasure as always. My dear generals, an honor. Blase murmurs. Churchill motioned. Sit, everyone, sit. Ah! Tea has arrived with brandy. Were saved once again by Gunga Din here. Despite the heat, hot tea remains the deepest dye in our fabric. A trusted and vetted Egyptian waiter appeared with an assistant, pouring hot tea for all. They left quickly. Head pounding a jazz rhythm, Bea sat next to Churchill, plucked a sandwich, and ate. Now what} Brass hat Cairo clubmen all, and they dont particularly like the looks of me. A general sipped tea, legs crossed. Prime Minister, as I was saying, cotton seed oil, wool, hide-tanning, metal works, and sugar production have all increased with local labor under our constant tutelage. Oil refining, metallurgical production, cement, and chemical works have blossomed handsomely as well. Were on the move up, supply-wise. Strikes will be attended to of course, and harshly. Good news is what I want to hear. Oblige me, said Churchill, pouring a thimbleful of brandy in his tea.