“What I will do is get you invited as a houseguest at the Daughtrys’ home in the Village. That will give you access and time. You were told you’d be here in the city for a week or so, correct?”

“That is correct, but I am concerned about such a long stay, Your Eminence. I have not allowed myself to be in the occasion of sin since I moved in with the brothers.”

“You’ll be too busy to worry about being in the occasion of sin,” James assured him. “As I said, this will not be an easy assignment. In fact, it may not work, but it is imperative that you try your best. I tried, but I have failed. I’m entirely confident, however, that in his heart of hearts, Dr. Daughtry is a devoted Catholic. He just needs to get back in touch with that aspect of himself.”

“What if Dr. Daughtry and his wife repudiate me?”

“That’s a risk we have to take,” James said. “I still have some power with my friend, which I will try to use to advantage to keep him from spurning you. Besides, I’m going to be completely up front with him by telling him exactly why you are there, so there will be no surprises. God has picked you to be the savior of Blessed Mary’s reputation and her standing in the Church as being free of sin and therefore worthy to be assumed into heaven body and soul.”

“When can I start this mission?” Luke asked, eager to begin.

“I believe you can start later today,” James said. “Here’s the plan. I will have one of my secretaries take you over to the cathedral, where I would like you to pray for guidance from the Lord for this role you are about to undertake for Mary and the Church’s benefit. While you are there, I will go out and prepare your reception. I could do it by phone, but I think in person will be better. If I’m unsuccessful getting you invited to spend the night and hopefully a good portion of the week at the Daughtrys’, then you will stay here with us in our guest room. Fair enough?”

“I’m grateful to be given this opportunity, Your Eminence.”

“It is I who am grateful,” James said, picking up his phone and asking Father Maloney to come in.

Although still not positive this plan B was going to work, James felt better than he had since the arrival of the ossuary. At least he had a plan and was doing something. Returning to his private apartment, James changed back into the civilian clothes he wore the night before at the Daughtrys’. He could even recognize an olfactory reminder of the evening’s wood fire on his sweater. It was a pleasant aroma, which reminded him of his retreat at Green Pond.