1633:The Danish Scheme (28 page)

“Quite slender,” he said. “You are thinking we should let this folder continue to thicken, yes?”

Mike couldn’t help but smile. There were ways in which he and his sovereign, despite being born three and half centuries apart, were very much alike.

“I don’t see where there’s any harm being done, and it would be interesting to see what happens.”

Gustav Adolf studied the—still unopened—folder for a few seconds. Then tossed it onto his desk and rose from his chair.

“I agree. And it will help keep Christian from mischief. Or perhaps I should say, mischief that really matters to me. You will keep me informed, I trust.”

“Certainly.”

It was the king’s turn to smile. “I’ve seen some of Shakespeare’s plays, you know. I was particular taken with 
The Tempest.
 Oh brave new world, that hath such schemes in it.”