“His father was ill, advised. The village priest who kept the family records was a bit of a drunkard. He had heard the story of the tsar's daughter surviving, and used it to pry vodka money from Razov's father.”

“So there were no descendants from Maria.”

“I didn't say that.” Petrov's lips widened in an enigmatic smile.

Austin raised an eyebrow.

“The Grand Duchess Maria had two descendants who are still living. A man and a woman. I've talked to both of them. They are happy in their lives and aware of the repercussions that would result if they revealed themselves. I will respect their wish for privacy. Now I have a question. How did you know Razov was headed to see Lord Dodson?”

“We searched his yacht and found some papers indicating that the crown had been sent to Dodson's grandfather. We hopped a NUMA jet to England. Razov was traveling alone, luckily. I don't think he wanted anyone to know he had to steal the crown. Sorry we couldn't save it.”

“Don't be. It's probably better off where it is. If ever an inanimate object harbored a malignancy, that was it. Every one of those jewels was paid for with the blood and sweat of the serfs.” Petrov watched a hawk making a lazy circle over the river and said, “Well, Mr. Austin - ”

“Kurt. We're beyond formalities.”

Petrov saluted. “Until we meet again, Kurt.” He kicked up the throttle and raced down the river until the boat disappeared around a curve. Austin resumed his rowing and was back at the boathouse in a few minutes. He stowed the scull and climbed the stairs that took him to the main level. Stripping down to his shorts, he made a fresh pot of Jamaican coffee and gathered the ingredients for a gourmet breakfast.

“You're certainly an early riser.” Austin turned to see Kaela Dorn coming down the stairs from the turret bedroom. She was wearing a silk pajama top and a smile.

“Hope I didn't wake you,” Austin said.

She came over and inhaled the fragrance from the coffeepot. “I can't think of a nicer way to wake up.” Her brow wrinkled as she traced some of the scars on Austin's tanned back with her fingers. “I didn't see these in the dark last night.”

“You had your eyes closed.”

“So did you. I must say we made up for all those dates we didn't have.”

“Hope it was worth the wait.” She kissed him lightly.

"Was it ever.”

The coffee was ready. He poured two steaming mugs, and they went out on the deck overlooking the shimmering river, The air was fresh and clear. Austin raised his mug in toast, “Here's to your new career with CNN.”

“Thanks to you, it never would have happened without my exclusive on the Ataman plot, I'm going to miss Mickey and Dundee, though. I don't know how I can repay you,” He gave her a Groucho Marx leer. “You already have.”