Pitt pulled an overseas cap out of his suitcase and set it jauntily on his head. "That's one obvious conclusion."

A faraway look came into Lewis' eyes and he said softly, "I wonder what it could be and how much it's worth?"

Pitt turned and faced Giordino. "Al, contact Admiral Sandecker and ask him to research all possible lost or sunken treasure troves in the Aegean Sea within spitting distance of Thasos and send us the data as soon as possible. Tell him it's urgent."

"Consider it done," Giordino said. "It's eleven o'clock in the morning in Washington so we should have an answer by breakfast."

"Now we're getting somewhere," Lewis boomed. "The sooner I get answers, the sooner I can get the Pentagon off my back. Is there any way I can help?"

Pitt glanced at his watch again. "As the Boy Scouts say—Be Prepared. That's all we can do for the present. You can bet Brady Field and the First Attempt are being closely observed. When it comes apparent no one is being evacuated and the oceanography ship still floats out there on the Aegean, we can expect another visit from the yellow Albatros. You've had your fun, Colonel. It's my guess Commander Gunn's turn is next."

"Please tell the commander," said Lewis, "I'll give him whatever assistance I have at my disposal."

"Thank you, sir," said Pitt. "But I don't think it would be wise to warn Commander Gunn just yet."

"For God's sake, why not?" gasped Giordino.

Pitt grinned coldly. "So far, all of this is pure conjecture. Besides, any preparation on board the First Attempt would be a dead giveaway of our intentions. No, we've got to bait our unknown World War I ghost and bring him out into the open."

Giordino looked at Pitt evenly. "You can't risk the lives of the scientists and ship's crew without giving them a chance to defend themselves."

"Gunn is in no immediate danger. Our ghost pilot will undoubtedly wait at least one more day to see if the First Attempt departs before he attacks again." Pitt smiled until the mirth lines etched into the sides of his eyes. "In the meantime, I'll put my creative talents to work on a plan for a trap."

Lewis got to his feet and faced Pitt. "For the sake of those men on the ship, I hope you come up with a good one."

"No plan is considered foolproof, Colonel," replied Pitt, "until after it's been applied."

Giordino walked toward the door. "I'll run over to Base Operations and send that message to the admiral."

"When you've finished," said Lewis, "drop by my quarters for supper." Twisting his moustache, he turned to Pitt. "You're invited too. I'll give you men a real treat and whip up my renowned specialty: scallops with mushrooms in white wine sauce."

"It sounds very appetizing," said Pitt. "But I'm afraid I must decline. I have a previous dinner engagement…with a very attractive lady."