“In my opinion, I cannot think it likely these are truly the Urim and Thummim spoken of in the Pentateuch. No one even knows what exactly the Urim and Thummim were, but legend and tradition say that they were gems of great value whose hues and shades changed, growing lighter or darker, depending upon whether good fortunes or ill were forecast. The one, which has been said to be the Urim, is a great clear diamond of fifteen carats—priceless by any standards, but rendered all the more so by its reputation of being from Aaron’s breastplate itself. The second, the Thummim, is a smaller stone, also a diamond, of some twelve carats, and of a gorgeous pale blue. Truly it is one of the most spectacular gems I have ever laid eyes upon.”

“I am overwhelmed, Heziah,” said the baron. “The very thought of it is astonishing.”

“Also in the box,” the rabbi went on, “are two ancient dreidels, as well as several minas of precious metals, two of pure gold. Two or three are said to be from the time of David and Solomon, and even to have been used by Solomon personally in the settling of many of the thorny matters brought before him. I am not sure. But there is strong evidence to suggest that the remaining stones are actually the ones used in Nehemiah’s day to reestablish the tribes.”

“Both also are items used to determine God’s will in ancient times, if I am not mistaken.”

“Exactly, Baron. Do you see why the Nazis would be anxious to get their hands on them?”

“Of course.”

“Not only are they valuable in and of themselves, not to mention their historical value, but such a one as Hitler would give anything to possess objects with reported oracular and divine power, either to know the will of God, or to predict the future. I do not know whether Hitler is aware of their existence, especially so close to Berlin. But the box and its contents are known of, that much I believe. I have been sought ever since fleeing my native Poland by what I can only think is a demonic power. Wherever that box is, there could be danger.”

“They are safe,” reassured the baron.

“You do not want me to remove them now that you know what the box contains?”

“I cannot think of any place these Jewish treasures would be safer than where I have them.”

“Preserving them is vital to our Jewish past and heritage. I hope one day to take them back to Israel when a new temple is built.”

“Back to Israel?” repeated the baron.

“Someday our nation will form again in Palestine. Whether a generation from now, or a thousand generations, the land will be known as Israel once more. God has promised it.”