‘Well, Fritzsche? You seemed to be about to say something more.’

‘You know, now that I come to think of it, there was something else. Someone else was there at the same time as Hanna Reitsch.’

‘You mean General Ritter von Griem?’

‘No, not him. Someone I had never met but had heard of because of his famous exploits with the Waffen-SS. A man called Julius Boden. Standartenführer Boden.’

‘So an SS colonel was there – was that unusual?’

‘No, not unusual. The place was full of loyal SS men. But Boden’s presence was different. He was a man of action, not a courtier so I was surprised to see him. Everyone in Germany admired him and I, personally, had broadcast reports about his daring and courage. He was like a movie star. Clever, brave, charming, handsome and athletic. He had it all. I believe that while at university in Göttingen, he was known as a great runner at eight hundred metres and might have gone to the 1940 Olympics. Women loved him.’

‘Was he married?’

‘No.’

‘Parents? Where are they?’

‘I’m sorry, I have no idea.’

‘Apart from hero worship, Herr Fritzsche, why are you mentioning him now?’

‘Because I saw him conversing with Hanna Reitsch. Talking secretly, like conspirators. And when she had gone, so had he.’

‘Then it is possible they took Hitler together, is that what you’re saying?’

‘It has to be a possibility, Herr Professor. Doesn’t it?’

‘And where would I be likely to find Standardenführer Boden?’

‘I have not the slightest idea. I don’t even know if he is alive.’

‘You said you were willing to talk to me, Herr Fritzsche. I took that to mean you would cooperate to the utmost of your ability. If you really do help me, it would demonstrate your remorse. It might even sway the judges at your trial. So try giving it a little more thought . . .’

His eyes were closed. He seemed to be thinking hard, either trying to dredge up a memory, or perhaps deciding what was safe to reveal. Suddenly, his eyes opened. ‘You know there is someone who might – just might – be able to help you. Someone of the same wealthy Bavarian class. I am certain they were good friends.’

Chapter 22

Chapter 22

Lieutenant Heck arrived at the British Military Hospital with the words of Sergeant Wainwright hot in his ears. They had spoken on the phone two hours earlier. ‘My private delivered the German lady safe and sound to the BMH, Lieutenant.’

‘Good man. Did she see a doctor?’

‘Yes, she saw someone – a doctor or a nurse, I’m not sure which. Apparently they were extremely kind, even though they were worried that there was little they could do for the poor woman. They intended to sedate her and give her a good night’s sleep before seeing a trick cyclist. In the meantime, they would take the dead child away for a proper burial.’