***
The sum offered in the dispatch to the embalmer ensured that he indeed dropped everything to catch the small shuttle vessel operating between Genoa and Monte Vista. Upon his arrival, he was sworn to secrecy by one of the bishops and he was secreted into the palace whilst seated on the floor of an enclosed carriage. The embalmer and his tools were ferreted to the top floor of the palace. The embalmer’s remaining requirements were discretely arranged for by the duke. He set to work. In another room on the top floor, Jason and the two bishops continued preparing the manuscript which was to comprise the joint edict.