First Among Equals

[Lady_Mornington]

(Please note that this is a semi-open thread. PM Gagonthis or myself if you want to join in the race to become the next Prime Minister)

"...earlier today Prime Minister Barker asked the Queen to dissolve Parliament and call for elections to be held at the earliest. Prime Minister Barker is not likely to remain leader of the Labour Party..."

The news didn't come as a surprise to Victoria Darcourt, MP for Ashby and junior member of the shadow cabinet. Barker's insistence to force Britain to join the European Monetary Union had been the last drop and the situation could had gone critical when a considerate number of Labour MP:s had voted against Barker. The result could only be one and it wasn't that Victoria was displeased with it. There were other aspects as well, the unpopular war in Iraq and the subsequent terror bombs in London had not exactly endeared Baker's government to the British voters, never mind a number of more traditional Labour MP:s

Victoria had been a Conservative for most of her life, it practically ran in her blood. Her father had held the seat for Ashby before she did and her grandfather, Victor Darcourt, had been a member of Eden's government and later been raised to the Peerage for his services to Queen and Country.

Politically speaking Victoria belonged to the social conservative ranks of the Tory Party, her father having been one of Mrs Thatcher's harshest critics and advocating the traditional Burkean values over the neo-liberalism of the Iron Lady. She had clearly positioned herself within the One Nation faction, and her outspokenness on issues such as immigration and the continued military support of the War on Terrorism. It was not that she had always scored points within the party but she had managed to build up a reputation as both informed on the issues and balanced in her opinions.

For the past year and a half she had served as the shadow secretary for European issues, and as such she had been highly critical of Barker's government in her speeches in Parliament. Victoria had never been a supporter of the movement towards the federal super-state that Brussels seemed to favour, which had balanced the criticism that she had suffered from the the ranks of the Tory Party for her other views.

She listened with half an ear to the news broadcast as she flicked through her diary, Barker's resignation would mean a lot of re-scheduling and she surmised that there would be a lot of scheming in the corridors of Westminister. There were a few plausible candidates within the Labour Party but it was too early to speculate. Nonetheless her money was on .......

Victoria was interrupted by the shrill tone of her mobile, pressing the button and half-expecting to hear her father revelling in the news but the caller turned out to be someone entirely differently.

"Good evening Darcourt. I trust you've heard the news?"

It was the sullen voice of the Chief Whip Arthur McCallister, showing his usual dislike to communicate over the telephone.

"I have indeed, but surely you didn't ring just to tell me that?"

The speculations had been rampant even before the news were made public and Victoria guessed rightly that McCallister knew that she knew this.

"No it's about Tomlinson. He is hmmm indisposed due to a medical condition. I am not of a mind to discuss the issue over the phone Darcourt, and I would deem it a personal favour if you would be so good to get over to my place. I will tell you when you get there. Shall we say in half an hour? Good I'll see you there."

McCallister terminated the call before Victoria had a chance to reply. Michael Tomlinson, the Leader of Her Majesty's Loyal Opposition indisposed. Now this was more critical than Barker's resignation. Tomlinson had been a compromise, old enough to appeal to the elderly voters and bland enough not to scare away the middle-class. The man had a heart condition, but surely.

No it was no point in speculating and being called to a meeting with the Whip at this time of night must bode for something more than mere formalities. Victoria quickly got dressed and picked up her briefcase before stepping out in the street and hailing a cab.

This could be very interesting indeed.

 

[gagonthis]

"...earlier today Prime Minister Barker asked the Queen to dissolve Parliament and call for elections to be held at the earliest. Prime Minister Barker is not likely to remain leader of the Labour Party..."

Colin Robinson paused in the middle of removing his cuff links as the story played. He gave a heavy sigh at the news, expected though it was after the events of the past few weeks. The rising soldier body count in Iraq had been one thing, but forcing the UK into the European Monetary Union had been a brash and bold move that had backfired heavily on the Prime Minister and his party. "Bloody fools..." He mumbled as he returned to dressing himself.

It wasn't that Colin was against the European Union, far from it, he was one of its most adamant supports, only his support was given through the back channels of politics rather than public displays. Barker's decision to support the measure despite the obvious disdain even amongst his own party had clearly shown just how out of touch Barker had become with the nation he was supposed to govern. Now their party would have to scramble to patch the hemorrhaging wounds left by Barker's blind political bumbling.

Colin had been a member of the Labour party since college. The son of a middle class family, he had attended Oxford with the hope of pursuing studies in business to one day take over his father's successful manufacturing plant. Instead he found himself being drawn to the world of political science through the writings of thinkers such as Voltaire, Rousseau, Smith and others. It was the words of Marx and other socialist writers that struck a chord with him the most. He joined the Young Fabians, quickly proving himself an able leader as their Chair. He entered a life of politics shortly thereafter and rose through the ranks to become one of the more recognizable faces within the Labour party. He was known for his zealotry over issues related to the work class, but was also seen as even-handed and diplomatic when the situation required.

He finished undressing, changing into some clothes for a quick workout before bed and then turning the television off as he heard the phone ring. He was surprised it had taken this long for someone to call him. He fished his mobile out of his pocket and saw it was indeed the Chief Whip of his own party. Colin and David Richards had often butted heads, Colin often voting his opinion, rather than that of the party. He flipped open the phone and place it to his ear.

"Morning, Richards." He said as way of greeting.

"You heard the news I take it?" He asked, sounding very tired, Colin wondered how many other people he'd already spoken with today.

"Of course, but it's not entirely unexpected, so I trust there's been other developments?"

"Yes, yes there has. Tomlinson has taken ill. There's speculation the Torys are scrambling to find someone new to head the party. Their confusion could give us the chance we need to get reorganized, Barker's resignation might not be our death knell yet. I'll call you with more details tomorrow morning, but keep your schedule clear for the day." He said before disconnecting the call.

Colin put the phone back in his pocket. He'd have to move some things around, but this was definitely good news. Colin mentally ran down the list of people likely to take Tomlinson's place and he gave an amused chuckle at the name that came to the top of his mind.

Things were definitely going to get wild in the next few weeks he thought to himself as he left his house, beginning his evening jog.

 

[Lady_Mornington]

Victoria Darcourt MP

The cabbie had been the chirpy kind who gladly offered Victoria the patented solution to the current political situation in the UK. It was all because that the country had thrown the doors open to all and sundry and that Barker and the rest of the leeches in Westminister were all too happy to see foreigners forcing honest working Englishmen out of work.

She didn't reply to the endless litany but tried to focus on the implications of Michael Tomlinson's exit from the political stage. The Conservative Party had been riddled with a string of weak leaders with zero appeal among the general public. Added to this was the internal strife between the One Nation Tories to which Victoria belonged and the Thatcherites. It was not that Victoria did not admire Baroness Thatcher as a leader, but her legacy still managed to render the Tory Party more or less useless.

The car pulled up outside the house in Chelsea and she paid the fare but refrained from tipping the cabbie. The talk about immigrants always made her uneasy. It had been too easy a target for enough politicians to have a go at the perceived problem of immigrants. It was tempting to appeal to the baser instincts among the voters but Victoria had promised herself that she would not go down that particular road, even if it had landed other European politicians seats in both parliaments and governments.

She was ushered inside the library of the spacious Victorian house of McCallister's by his private secretary and was greeted not only by the Whip himself but also a few other prominent members of the Shadow Cabinet, most prominent Anthony Easterman, the Shadow Chancellor and Shekar Ray, shadow secretary for Foreign Affairs. The introductions done with and having declined the offer of a whisky, McCallister addressed her.

"We are at a crux Darcourt, Tomlinson's unfortunate condition may be the greatest blessing the Party has seen in years. With the right candidate we stand a good chance of securing the next general election. You know the procedures Darcourt but right now we don't have the time to go through all this and thus we have decided that we will appoint the next leader of the Conservative Party here."

Victoria frowned at the suggestion. Clearly it was vital that the Party was issued with a leader but to short circut the internal democracy seemed a bit out of the ordinary. Nonetheless there was a certain amount of expediency called for and she nodded in response to McCallister's account.

"So would that mean that Anthony or Shekar will take up the helm then?" Victoria guessed that the more renowned members of the Shadow cabinet would be the obvious choice, even though both of them had their weaknesses. Easterman was a skilled politician but ultimately too much of an almost Churchill-esque figure to strike an accord with the voters. Ray on the other hand was young enough and with a vitality that would appeal but the race issue still played it's part.

Easterman smiled in response to her question and the wide grin was mirrored by Ray sitting opposite from her.

"Flattering as it may be that you mention our humble selves Victoria, we have come to the conclusion that the best face of British Conservatism would be you."

The words hit her like a physical blow. Victoria Darcourt, leader of the Conservative Party? No that didn't make sense. Surely there were others who were more merited than she was. Ray seemed to notice her confusion and cut in with his soft London accent.

"We need to present a new image Victoria and we can't think of a better person than you to lead us. Apart from your extensive knowledge your personal stance has proved quite popular with the voters which I'm sure you know as well as I do."

McCallister had kept quiet, the usual frown on his face giving no inclination as to his thoughts on the matter but as he saw that Victoria was more or less dumbstruck he cut in with the characteristic sharpness.

"Well Darcourt, what will it be?"

Victoria looked from Easterman to Ray and seeing the mute support she took a deep breath and looked straight at the Chief Whip.

"Yes"

 

[gagonthis]

Colin woke early the next morning, making the necessary phone call to his assistant to clear his calendar for the coming days. Next he completed his morning workout routine, a series of at home exercises consisting of push ups and crunches designed to wake him up in the morning as much as to tone his body. His father had always taught him a fit body was an important aspect of a fit mind, and Colin knew he would need to be at his sharpest in the coming days. Despite the very real possibility that his party would lose their place of power within the parliament he was still very excited for the upcoming action this shakeup was sure to bring.

He had just gotten out of the shower, toweling himself off when he heard his mobile begin to ring. He considered letting it ring to his mailbox until he was completely dressed, but decided this would likely be a bad day to be skipping calls. Picking the phone the caller ID told him it was David Richards again.

"Morning, what's the news?" Colin asked, doing his best to cut straight to the point, a little uncomfortable being on the phone with such a powerful man while clad in so few clothes.

"Not much new to tell this morning. The Shadow Cabinet had a closed doors meeting with their upper echelon." Richards said, sounding annoyed at not having more information. "We're not sure what they discussed, but it's not too hard to figure out what the biggest issue would be."

"Choosing somemone to take Tomlinson's place." He stated, making it obvious it wasn't a question. "Who do we think they have their eye on?"

"Well it's our belief that the likely choice for Tomlinson's position is Easterman, possibly Ray if they're willing to look past the prickly race issue." Colin had a differing opinion, but chose to remain silent and let the older man keep talking. "In any case we need to figure out our own strategy before those Torys get any more organized. I'm sending a car for you. It should be there in twenty minutes. I'll see you shortly after." Not giving Colin a chance to protest he disconnected the call.

Colin sighed as he began to quickly dress himself, his mind running down the list of Barker's cabinet members and other high profile party members, trying to figure out which was the most likely choice to succeed and who he would his support to.

A knock on the door resounded throughout his flat. Grabbing an apple he walked hurriedly out the door, following the driver down to the car. In his rush he absently forgot to ask where they were headed, his mind focused inwards, trying to recall as much information as possible. His eyebrow raised in silent question when he realized they were not headed towards the Labour party headquarters, but rather towards the Richards estate.

The estate never failed to impress Colin. Richards' family was able to trace their parentage back towards a duke or some earl. In any case Richards definitely lived like nobility. Colin stepped inside the manor, marveling at the opulence with which the man surrounded himself. Colin found himself thinking about the old Marxist ramblings about the bourgeoisie living large off the toil of the proletariat. He pushed such thoughts away as Richards' manservant entered, gesturing for Colin to follow him into the parlor.

"Robinson, glad you could us." Richards said in greeting as he entered the room. In addition to the whip also present was Mary Williams, the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs; Quintin Edeson, the former Deputy Prime Minister; and Peter Moore, the Secretary of State for Defence. Colin made his greetings before sitting in the one free seat. "Now then, to the the matter at hand." Richards said, folding his hands in his lap. "Barker was a good leader in his time, but that time had passed long before his leadership ended." The others nodded in agreement, Colin included, though he was a bit surprised with Richards' candor.

"Now the loss of Tomlinson has given us a chance to regroup and press forward, but we can not count on the Torys being sidelined long." Again the others nodded agreement, though Colin was getting a strange feeling about this whole meeting. "We need to present a unified front, do our best to make people forget about Barker. We need someone vibrant, someone in touch with the people, someone passionate but not as heavy handed as Barker. Colin ran down the list in his head, pulling up the very few names that qualified.

"Why are we bringing this up here?" He asked breaking Richard's conversational monopoly. "Shouldn't this matter be put up for general discussion?"

"Of course but we wanted to gauge your interest before nominating you to the party." Edeson said simply.

Colin blinked once, completely pole-axed by the statement. "What?" He managed to ask several moments later.

"It's a different age." Williams explained. "We need a new face to steer this ship. The rest of us are seen as too entrenched in the old guard. You're the perfect choice for all the reasons mentioned earlier. We've been over it again and again since nearly daybreak, you're the man who will lead us into the future. If you'll accept?" She leaned forward with the other three, watching Colin expectantly.

Colin could feel the four sets of eyes on him as he sat there shocked. Finally he recovered his composure and gave a curt nod. "Yes... yes I accept."

"Right-O then." Richards said, as if it had already been a foregone conclusion. "Tea?"

 

[Lady_Mornington]

The Hon. Victoria Darcourt. Leader of Her Majesty's Loyal Opposition

Victoria did not get more than an hour's sleep that night. The meeting with McCallister, Easterman and Ray had dragged on until the early morning. Together they had outlined the main strategy for winning the upcoming election, the possibility of defeat had never crossed anyone's mind. Victoria knew that the Labour government had grown tired, especially under Barker and she would exploit this. The latest polls had shown just how much support they had lost, and she could only send Barker a thankful thought as she hit the shower and prepared for her first day as leader of the Opposition.

She had just got out as the her mobile beeped. It was a short and very precise text from her assistant.

Colin Robinson new ldr of Labour. Prs. conf @ 10

Now that was a bit of a surprise. She'd known Colin since their days at Oxford. He was a few years older than her and from what Victoria knew he was something of the black sheep of the Robinson family. Good public speaker and a traditional Fabian socialist, yet not beloning to the Benn-faction of the party. He was good no doubt about it but Victoria had beaten him in debates before and even though she respected him she knew she could best him.

Picking up her phone she called her office, giving instructions to stage a conference at 10:15 to draw interest away from Robinson. Having arranged that she asked to have a bottle of wine and flowers delivered to Labour head quarters to congratulate Robinson on his new appointment. It was a nice touch, showing a bit of sportsmanship.

She was just about to step out to the waiting Jaguar that Easterman insisted she'd use when her phone went off again. Pressing the button and bringing it to her ear.

"Hello"

"Darcourt! You're needed at Westminister right now!" It was McCallister. "There's a bomb that's gone of at Waterloo station. Sucicide bomber by the look of it. You and that Robinson fellow are to meet with the Met and MI5. The Met is suspecting that there could be more of the blaggards on the lose and we need to act now."

Victoria felt herself freeze. It wasn't that London hadn't been subjected to terror before but the sheer enormity of a sucide attack made it all the worse. She mumbled a reply as she stepped outside and was greeted by two young men dressed in sombre black suits. Yes body guards, one of the things that did not appeal to her but she realised that it was necessary given the situation.

She got into the Jaguar and the driver sped away, being followed by a Landrover with the boys from MI5. The news broadcast spoke of a number of injured but no confirmed deaths yet, the public transportation was however being closed down. Not a single subway train or bus moved, precautions since the latest surge of attacks. It would be chaos but hopefully the police would ensure that there would be no additional bombings.

It took them almost half an hour to reach Westminister and she was quickly ushered into the situation room where a number of police and army personell was already waiting. The Speaker of the House, George Hammond was presiding and stood up to shake her hand.

"Welcome Darcourt. It's a Godawful mess on your first day at work but alas we do not control the minds of these madmen. The Queen has been informed and she have cancelled all her appointments until we know what has happened. Robinson should be here any minute now and then the Director of MI 5 is going to give us the run down on what we do know, which frankly isn't very much."

She sat down and pinched the bridge of her nose. It was truely a Godawfull mess and she felt too tired to deal with the enormity of it but now she was here and there was little to do than to buckle down and act as befitted the leader of the Opposition.

 

[gagonthis]

"And the nays?" Richards asked, looking across the group of gathered politicians. Barker's most fervent supporters raised their hands as did several other members Colin had cross swords with in the past. "It appears the yays have it then." Richards announced as stepped aside to shake Colin's hand to a flash of camera bulbs. Colin took the podium, thanking those who had supported him and launched into his hastily prepared speech, not the same one he use at the official press conference still upcoming. This speech was designed to ensure the people who supported him that he would allow himself to become another Barker. The later speech would be to convince people who DIDN'T support him that he wasn't going to become another Barker. Thank god for writers he thought to himself as he read line after line.

There hadn't been enough time for Colin to prepare his own speeches as he normally preferred. Hell there'd barely been time for his team of writers to prepare them. Everything was happening so quickly. He finished his speech to resounding if somewhat muted applause. Stepping off the podium he nodded to Richards who looked slightly on where. "Where to next? Colin asked, exhaustion tinging his voice.

"We've got a public press conference set for ten AM. There's been news though, The opposition selected Victoria Darcourt to succeed Tomlinson... a gutsy choice." Colin merely nodded at him. He'd suspected that had been their plan all along. Both parties were trying to distance themselves from traditional candidates in response to the public's rapidly sinking opinion of how the old guard handled modern day issues.

"And let me guess, she's scheduled a press conference that runs right over ours didn't she?" He asked with a rueful smile.

"Yes it would appear that way." Richards said, the perpetual scowl on his face growing even deeper. Colin just shook his head. He remembered Victoria from his Oxford days, she was a scrapper then and he doubt the passing years had taken any of the edge off her. A conservative in belief as well as family ancestry, she'd always been a tough one to deal with. The elections would be very interesting indeed now. "It might be possible to pull interest away from her if we..." Richards stopped in mid sentence as hie phone rang. "Hello?" He said, bringing the phone to his year. Colin could hear an edge of frantic concern in the voice on the other line though he could not over hear what the person was saying. "Bloody hell...." Richards muttered as he listened. "Change of plans," he said, disconnecting the call. "There's been a terrorist attack... suicide bomber by the sounds of it at Waterloo station." Richards sounded very tired suddenly as Colin stared back in shock. "We're supposed to meet with MI5 and the Met.."

Colin saw two large men in suits approaching them, quickly informing Richards they were here to bring them to the arranged meeting spot. "Apparently they didn't think it wise to tell us during the press conference..." Colin muttered angrily as he turned to follow the men, getting into Richard's limo which sped away quickly.

Colin hopped out of the limo, walking alongside Richards as they entered Westminster. He made his greetings to all the gathered officials, smiling as he shook Victoria's hand. "Fine mess we've gotten ourselves into on the first day.." He said, sighing heavily as he sat down in an open chair, waiting to hear what news there was to be had.

 

[Lady_Mornington]

The Hon. Victoria Darcourt. Leader of Her Majesty's Loyal Opposition

"It is indeed Mr Robinson, but I'm quite confident cool heads will prevail and not get the better of British democracy."

Victoria had purposely used his surname in order to alleviate any suspicions that she would be soft on the opposition. Robinson was a formidable opponent, she remembered that much from university. As the chairman of the Labour and Socialist Students he had proved a great orator, and more often than not Victoria and Robinson had locked horns during the debates. She had followed his exploits in Parliament and even though his position was diametrically opposite to hers there had been a grudging sense of respect for his convictions.

"Perhaps we ought to sit ourselves down and if needs be invite Mr Parker as well"

James Parker, leader of the Liberal Party and a minor player as well as unofficial partner of Barker's Labour Party had not been invited to join the briefing regarding the attack on Waterloo. Nonetheless it seemed prudent to invite him to talks should it be necessary.

"I would further ask you for one thing Colin, and that is that you will not make the attacks a matter of politics. You know where I stand on the issue on the War on Terrorism, and I have more to gain but let us for a moment assume that the best way to proceed is to show national unity."

Victoria offered him the shadow of a smile as she let go of his hand. It was a daring move, but nonetheless necessary. None would benefit from partisan division in face of an attack on the United Kingdom. Further it was imperative that any individual nor group was being blamed before the police and securtity services had done their work.

"An idea is to hold a press conference tomorrow with the leading members of the religious groups of the UK with an unanimous condemnation of violence and suchlike. I belive that would be appropriate wouldn't you agree Colin?"

Victoria smiled anew as she watched Colin Richardson's features soften somewhat in view of her suggestions. It was politics, but she belived it was good politics.

"Let's have a sit-down after this wretched business is over and done with shall we?"

She nodded and as the Commander of the Metropolitan Police cleared his throat, sat down and looked attentively at him.

 

[SEVERUSMAX]

Sen. Michael A. Schumacher (R-PA)

Senator Schumacher was glad to be on a triple mission of sorts to the UK. He wanted to check up on his old friend Victoria, who just happened to be the new Leader of Her Majesty's Loyal Opposition. He also needed to make sure that he advanced his possible foreign policy agenda if he himself sought a higher office. And, most of all, he had to see to it that the UK didn't get too soft on terrorism. He didn't mistake Victoria for being a weakling, having known her at Princeton. However, he was worried about her reputation regarding the tactics involving terrorists.

Though, of course, the more draconian policies sometimes bothered Michael himself. He tried to support the fight against Terror, even as he opposed the war in Iraq and some of the excesses of Homeland Security. Unlike most, he knew whereof he spoke. His pre-Senate career had all been with the Department of State in a very shadowy role. Which had landed him with the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, the very closed-session, secretive committee of the Senate that handled such matters.

It would be a nice break from his troubled relationship with his current girlfriend, anyway. They had some issues, including dissent on career choices and mutual paranoia about the future. Fidelity never came up, as his lover was a socialite of the sort that didn't discuss such issues. Time would tell if that was what she meant, of course.

His mother still insisted that he was wrong to leave his ex-wife, but it hadn't been working out with Natalie, either. Just as it didn't work with Samantha. Not that Ruth Schumacher objected so much to divorce per se, but she didn't like him leaving a Jewess for what she deemed a shiksa who had seduced her otherwise admirable son. She didn't trust socialites, especially goy socialites. Too many snobs, she said. Well, she had a point there.

Even so, Michael did love Samantha and wanted to make it last with her. Two failed relationships, one of them a marriage, didn't appeal to him. He shuddered what his family would think if they knew how he had gotten to getting serious with the daughter of a British MP, now in line for being the possible next Prime Minister. Definitely not what anyone would have expected, from his parents to his rabbi.

As for his public service career, Michael was sick of the religious right's dominance of the GOP. He wanted to make the Eastern, moderate wing of the Republican Party a powerful force in national politics again. He wanted to reclaim the party of Lincoln from the homophobes, religious zealots, and would-be theocrats. Not to mention those in the presented Administration with distinctly fascist tendencies. There were times when he was ashamed to be in the same party.

 

[gagonthis]

Colin shook his head slightly as Victoria spoke. He knew she wouldn't be openly friendly or want to reminensce about their schoolyard days, but he figured she could at least drop the politickings during a close doors emergency meeting like this. Perhaps not though. Ever the consummate professional that was Victoria Delcourt to a tee.

He did however appreciate her views on how this situation should be handled from the political standpoint. "I agree wholeheartedly Victoria. The last thing that Britain needs to see during these dark times is more of the bickering back and forth and finger pointing that serves not purpose other than to make the people frustrated with their leadership's ability to handle crisis." He was relieved to hear her say it as well. The Labour party often didn't fare well whenever situations like these arose, the Tory's usually finding the upper ground.

Colin cringed slightly inside when she mentioned the press conference scheduled for the following day. It would be what was expected from him, but Colin had never enjoyed associating himself with religious leaders, as he did not feel religion should play any part in matters such as these. It was a view he kept very private though, not wanting to alienate any of his possible constituency. "That sounds a fine idea, but perhaps another press conference before the end of the night is in order, at least to report any good news we have to tell our people in the face of such a horrid attack?" He raised his eyebrow at the Commander of the Met, indicating he should segue into his presentation. He nodded silently at Victoria's comment about a sit down before turning his entire attention to the man's presentation.

Colin let out a heavy breath when he finished speaking. "So they were British born Al Qaeda sympathizers? That'll make things a little murky." He muttered, mostly to himself as the commander's presentation wrapped up. "So. What good news do we have?" Colin asked, sensing the man was saving something for last.

"We caught one of them, his chest strapped bomb failed to go off and we managed to snag him before he could make it work." The commander said, puffing out with pride. Colin thought to deflate his ego by reminding him that several people were dead and many more wounded because his force hadn't caught the other men, but he kept his mouth shut. "We've got our best men interrogating him now. Anything he knows we'll know very soon." Colin nodded at that, deep in thought as to how to proceed.

 

[Lady_Mornington]

The Hon. Victoria Darcourt

The rest of the meeting went along much the same lines that the Commander of the Met had set up. The perpetrators were all British-born which added another dimension of fear to the already tense situation. It was not that Britain hadn't suffered terrorist attacks in the past, but to know that the enemy, Victoria found herself describing the perpetrators as being just that, could be the person you'd lived next door made it even worse.

She shuddered at the thought, how primal feelings could prevail and take precedence over rational thought. It didn't bode well and she needed to make sure that she would never stoop to such levels in public.

Finding Colin Richardson just as he was about to get in the car and motioning for him to step aside.

"So we're all agreed on a joint press-conference tomorrow then? Should we also invite Parker as well?" She waited for his response here. The Liberal Democrats were more or less a part of the Labour Party, at least as far as Victoria was concerned and whatever Richardson decided, Parker would agree to. One of the broadsheets had remarked on the rather peculiar situation, arguing that it was indeed a strange thing when the opposition was directed at the other party rather than at the government. Oh well it would all change now if she had anything to say about it.

"In case you don't have anything planned perhaps we could have dinner and plan it. I don't think anyone one of us are too keen on surprises." She slid him one of her calling cards where she had penned the name of a restaurant. "I'd appreciate it if you didn't make it publicity stunt Prime Minister. Shall we say 9?" She nodded curtly and went to her own car.

Calling her secretary to get the update on what had transpired thus far and receiving news that Senator Schumacher from the United States had asked for a meeting the very day. Victoria vividly recalled him from Princeton where she had spent a semester as an exchange student. They had not shared all their politics, Victoria being too much of a Tory to find any appeal with the lingering Whig sentiments of the American system, yet she had always respected Michael for his convictions.

"Have him drop by at 7 or so, it's going to be hectic today"

 

[SEVERUSMAX]

Sen. Michael A. Schumacher (R-PA)

So, 7 it is, then. Well, just like Vicky to plan everything out well ahead of time. She was always very organized and disciplined, to her credit.

Mike felt a bit more anxious about meeting his old classmate than before, of course. He had just heard that she was to be on television, and she clearly had a higher profile now as a strong contender to live at 10 Downing Street. Good for her, he thought. A bit of an old-line Tory in some uncomfortable ways at times by American standards, but as Britons went, she was an excellent woman. Just because she didn't share his politics didn't mean that he lacked respect for her.

After all, she just about didn't share any American's politics, being an old-school Tory. That was a British thing, and he respected that she had enough courage to stick to unpopular and archaic principles. He doubted that she was so conservative as to subvert British democracy, since she had worked well within the parliamentary system. It was just things like opposition to the abolition of hereditary peerage, abolition of the monarchy, and secularization.

In any case, she might well be Prime Minister soon. He wondered what she thought of him these days, knowing that even British television had covered his criticism of his own party's leadership on the war and social issues. He was popular with the GOP moderates, but highly controversial with the conservatives. Even some of the purely fiscal, libertarian Republicans had doubts about him on economic questions. After all, he had made remarks about the folly of tax cuts during a deficit. That wasn't exactly a view shared by many in his party.

Well, what did they want from him? He opposed gun control, supported the death penalty, voted for a strong military when spending bills came up, and even called for the privatization of Amtrak! He was known to favor budgetary restraint, yes, but wasn't that a conservative, traditional GOP position? Did everyone have to be a supply-sider now? Then again, one only had to vote against a few tax cuts to get the reputation of being a "liberal" these days. Not to mention his support for gay rights and legal abortion. Oh, well, he couldn't win with the right-wing, so he'd be himself and stick to his guns. He was a moderate Republican, a centrist, and that was that.

He laughed to himself, "I guess that I'm an old-school Republican, much as Vicky is an old-school Conservative. We're both out of place with the New Right in our parties. We should get along damned well."

So he thought as he heard the phone ring. It was Samantha.

"Hi, babe. How is England?"

"Very well, hon. I have a meeting with Victoria Darcourt at 7 tonight, it seems. How are you?"

"Nice, actually. Don't create any international incidents, please. Bad enough that I anger your mom so much. Don't want to annoy Mother England, too."

"Cute, honey. That was hilarious. But I take your meaning."

"Do you? Maybe you do, and maybe you don't. We'll see. Just remember this. I don't want to know whatever happens. Let it stay in England, to paraphrase the saying about Vegas. Nothing that will embarrass me, please. Be careful and quiet about anything....dangerous. I want to be First Lady, thank you very much."

"Yeah, well, I'd pretty much have to go independent for that to happen, sweetheart, and you know it. We've discussed that, darling. Just don't go leaving me for a right-wing nutcase or a limouisine liberal, and we'll be fine."

"Leave you? Not likely. I am going to be First Lady, so you're just going to have to be President. Get used to it. Sorry, that sounded rather bossy, didn't it? Well, I'm just determined to get there, and I happen to like you well enough to push you to make it."

"Yes, I love you, too."

"Love? Well, I care about you, but I don't throw that word around a lot, as you know. Certain things are under the radar in my family. Love is one. Still, I do love you, as you say. It's just still hard to get used to actually saying it. I know that I talk about power a lot, but that's because I want us to rise as a team. I want only the best for my guy, and that's the White House. Loyalty is unconditional where I'm from. I might get angry and throw things at you, but I'd never actually give you the boot. You're stuck with me, so deal with it, hon."

"Yes, I know how your family is, babe. Don't sweat it. That would be meshuggeh, as they say. I'll be fine, as will you, dear," Mike chuckled, before hanging up.

That was a weird conversation, but not uncommon with Sam. Then again, he liked how blunt she was, even if she also tended to avoid other issues. Like fidelity, at least until now. She all but gave him a free pass to fool around, but he doubted that he would. Maybe if he thought that she was sleeping with another man, but otherwise no. She wasn't, was she? No, Sam would have acted a little funny if she had, refusal to discuss fidelity or not.

Maybe she wanted to leave herself room to be forgiven if she strayed in the future? Not that she likely planned to, but wanted to set up a contingency plan for such a scenario. That would be vintage Samantha. Thinking ahead, just in case.

Perhaps one of the things that he liked about her was the ambiguity on the issue of fidelity. Even now, despite having granted him carte blanche for his trip to England, she hadn't explicitly stated the words "extramarital affair". There was a certain comfort in a gray zone, as it were.

Mike wasn't the sort to usually cheat on his partners, but he was human and he had slipped once- with Samantha. She could have figured that it happened once, so it might again. Like her, he wanted to know that he wouldn't get tossed out for it. That was one more thing that they had in common. The kind of person who would speak in such vague terms would also not investigate or worry much about her beau's fidelity.

Oh, well, why worry, he thought. I'm not going to step out on my dear Sam. Not likely. That's just not me. And she won't cheat on me, either. That's not really who she is.

 

[Lady_Mornington]

Victoria Darcourt. Leader of Her Majesty's Loyal Opposition

The remainder of the day proved just as hectic as the morning had been. A succession of meetings with party officials and representatives for the more influential pressure groups. Victoria had worked hard to establish a wide network among both the religious and ethnic minorities of the UK, which she knew would prove useful in the long run. Receive their petitions and their reassurances that none of them had anything to do with the bombings, as well as stating the official policy of the party, thus keeping them well in line.

At the end of the day it was all about votes.

Richardson had seemed none to eager for a meeting though, so scared of being associated with anything that even hinted of a religious affiliation. Well it would be Labour's loss come election day. The country was due for a change, that much was clear and with herself at the helm the Tory party would be a viable option. It was a shame for Shekar, but if she had her way he would be made Foreign Secretary.

Victoria chided herself, it was long to go still and it didn't help by harbouring childish fantasies. Buckle down and look at what needed be done here and now. Looking at her watch and realising that she would have to cancel her lunch with her friend Rebecca Meadows. Another sacrifice, but it was all for Queen and Country right.

Leaving her office just after six, riding with the same Jaguar that had taken her to the emergency meeting. She would just have to get used to it. Her assistant had informed her that MI5 had gone through her house and installing a number of gadgets and posted bodyguards there. So much for privacy.

Traffic proved a nightmare, but her driver skillfully negotiated it skillfully and she arrived home at a quarter to 7. No time to prepare anything spetacular for Mike then, he'd just have to do with what the Darcourt residence could offer. It proved to be very little indeed, prompting her to decide for a take-out. After all Britain was the home of the proper Indian curry. Dialling the number and ordering the food before slipping down in one of the armchairs in the livingroom.

At least she didn't have to keep up the official pretence with Schumacher. They knew eachother and for want of a better word, would probably call eachother friends.

Pouring herself half a measure of single malt, the bottle a present from her grandfather on him getting the news of her recent elevation. Lord Darcourt of Glenrothes had always been her most ardent supporter. Victoria had to remind herself to send him a card and give him a call when things slowed down a bit.

She was interrupted in her reveries as the sombrely dressed man from Mi5 silently walked into the room to inform her that she had company. "A Mr Schumacher". She nodded as she put the glass down. "Please show him in will you:"

 

[SEVERUSMAX]

Sen. Michael Schumacher (R-PA)

"Thank you, my good fellow. Vicky, it's good to see you, again!" he met the Leader of the Opposition. Trying to be more of a friend and old classmate than a fellow politician at the moment. Best to start off pleasantly, if nothing else. Politics had taught him many things, particularly when the situation was uncertain and fluid.

He just hoped that things stayed pleasant. Well, time would tell. Especially given the rocky nature of international diplomacy, particularly between two people who weren't heads of state or of government.

Of course, she was pretty, but she always had been. Smart as a whip, and probably would be a great Prime Minister...and unlike him, she had a strong chance of achieving her desired office. Unlike Samantha, Michael didn't rate his own chances of the Presidency all that high. Not unless he could manage to form a credible third-party organization. And even then, it was doubtful.

Speaking of spouses, he wondered what Vicky was doing, romantically? Well, that was an idle thought. Why should he care, beyond her welfare as a friend? He was involved and she might well be, too. Despite the implicit carte blanche from Sam, he wasn't ready to step out on his girlfriend, as far as he knew. And he was sure that Miss Darcourt would be a bad choice, under any circumstances. Not that she lacked her virtues or charms, but it was bad politics to sleep with a possible future leader of another country.

Unlike fictitious spies and certain politicians (the President came to mind), Mike had scruples about mixing the country's business with pleasure. It would be inappropriate to take liberties with a foreign political figure, and thus create an international incident. He wasn't like the current leader of his own country and party, who had embarrassed everyone by "massaging" the German Chancellor's neck some time ago.

 

[Lady_Mornington]

Victoria Darcourt, Leader of HM Loyal Oppositon

Standing up to greet Michael with something halfway between a handshake and a kiss on the cheeks before offering him to take a seat and pouring a generous amount of whisky.

"Well what can I say Mike? Too much on the first day on the job. Seems we're having to face another one of the tedious processes of finding culprits among our own citizens, and trying to smother any signs of the nationalist and racist lobby making a point about it."

Smiling as she raised her glass in a toast "So what's new on the other side of the Pond then? Still putting up resistance to Mr Bush and his cronies?" Victoria sipped her drink and kicked of her heels, tucking her legs up beneath her. "And are you still seeing that girl? Ginny, Sammy? I'm sorry I can't seem to remember her name but then again" She smiled as she put the glass down. "Compliments of granddad" nodding at the glass as the Mi5 man arrived carrying a number of boxes containing their food.

Nodding a shade apologetical as the provisional dinner was being served. "You know me, couldn't cook if my life depended on it." Filling her plate and allowing Michael to do the same before she continued. "So I'm quite certain this is not just a social call. You are up to something, and although I enjoy your company there is more to this isn't it."

 

[SEVERUSMAX]

Senator Schumacher

"Hmm...which to discuss first, business or pleasure? Well, yes, for a fact, I'm contemplating a third-party bid, since that is about the only chance I have of ever reaching the White House. If Sam has anything to say about it, and she's very vocal on the subject, I'll tell you, I owe it to the country to run. That should answer your other question. But you didn't hear about the third-party thing from me.

"As for the Senate, I'm trying to reinforce the purpose of the war against al Quaeda. War against Terror was always a very vague and nebulous term, with no clear objective, and too many openings for unwise adventures, such as the unending and undeclared war in Iraq. We're fighting a single terrorist organization here, a global one, but to try to whip all terrorists at once is unrealistic and leads to too many curbs on personal freedom. Each enemy will have his turn, but it's al Quaeda.

"Invading Iraq was a diversion, if you ask me, not a real front against a sect of fanatics who despise secular regimes like Saddam's. We'll both agree that Mr. Hussein would never win the Nobel Peace Prize, but he wasn't a fundamentalist by any stretch of the imagination. He hated bin Laden as much as he hated us. He had more in common with Nasser than Osama. Hell, the President of Iran is more militant than him by far, and much guiltier of sponsoring terrorists. Hezbollah and Hamas, just for example.

"This whole tragedy and crime that you have suffered, it's truly an awful way to have to start your party leadership. I don't envy you at all, taking charge of the opposition at a time like this. One never knows if the slightest criticism might be taken as unpatriotic and other such rubbish. It's completely meshuggeh, if you ask me. That's crazy, if you're not familiar with Yiddish expressions.

"So, to put it rather bluntly, my purpose here is to sound you out on the whole business of what your leadership would be for the country, as well as the party. That is, should your Tories, as seems probable, prevail at the polls the next time around, and you become the second woman to occupy 10 Downing Street in that capacity.

"I wanted to assure myself, and my fellow Americans, that Great Britain would remain a firm ally on the things where we need it. And I don't mean Iraq. Sooner or later, we have to hand it back to the natives. I mean things like Afghanistan and fighting al Quaeda, as well as generally shared interests in foreign policy. I'm realistic enough to know that we're not too popular in the UK right now, but we still have historic ties and common strategic purposes.

"You should know me well enough by now to realize that I don't mean puppet or any other such nonsense. I can see why the current Chief Executive's actions would give that impression, but you know that he and I aren't always on the same wavelength. At least, I think that you know me, just as I think that I know my old classmate. I want to calm the doubts raised about you back home, and especially with my former colleagues in the State Department," Mike clarified, while enjoying his take-out and whisky. Trust Vicky to know his tastes in liquor.

 

[Lady_Mornington]

Victoria Darcourt

Sitting back as Michael answered her questions, without really doing so. Ever the politician, Victoria thought as she sipped her wine.

"Suss out my leadership? Well you know my agenda fairly well. Keep a keen eye on the European dimension of politics while retaining and strengthening the ties with the rest of the Commonwealth."

Victoria put down her glass and looked more closely at Michael. "As for the Special Relationship, well you know that I'm all for it although I'm not going to follow Barker's example and being content of being a vassall state of the US." Fixing him with a long stare, careful not to come across as overly belligerent, while still presenting her own position.

"Should the electorate decide that it is time to change the government then we will have to re-negotiate the terms of the Special Relationship."

Picking up her glass again and taking a sip from it as she glanced at Mike to see how he may have reacted to it. It was no secret that Victoria had voiced her criticism on the so called War on Terrorism, as well as what she preceived to be to close an alliance with the US.

"Not to end up in too heated a debate, but we are a few here who tend to view the US foreign policy as nothing short of empire building." She toasted him before reaching for the bottle and refilling his glass. "But enough about politics, tell me more about this Sam. Good Jewish girl is she? I recall your mother being rather sceptic to any potential partner of yours who wasn't."

 

[SEVERUSMAX]

Senator Schumacher

"Well, to speak briefly to the business of state, before moving on to more convivial matters, I am not too fond of a pax Americana. The whole history of imperialism, including that of your own country, hasn't been the happiest. Though I must credit your country with having more success than that in the long run in achieving an objective, namely that of handing power over to freely elected governments in civilized countries.

"The fact remains that empire-building for its own sake is a grave and, dare I say, suicidal blunder for nations to make. Trade, diplomacy, and even foreign aid are frankly cheaper and less painful than occupying foreign states. If the current President has forgotten that, it will be up to his successors to clean up his mess. One of my few reservations about taking on the job, but then, one must do one's patriotic duty when called upon. That would be a thankless task, to say the least.

"In any case, I hope that our countries do retain a fruitful, and indeed mutually beneficial, relationship as allies. Trust me, Vicky, I am well aware that it has been harmed and even tarnished in some ways by my country's head of state and your own head of government. I used to work for the State Department, after all. I understand a great deal about the details and inconvenient facts behind international relations.

"So I am not one to apply pressure of the sort that the President has done with your Prime Minister. That's not to say that I would lack backbone, should be I elected, but I am not a bully. I hope to repair things between our nations. Foreign policy would naturally be part of my platform. But that's a speculative matter, except where it concerns my positions and votes in the Senate.

"Regarding more personal affairs, my mother isn't too pleased with my choice of a socialite as my companion and intended bride. But I didn't choose on that basis. No, she's not Jewish, but she's mine nonetheless. We're both very compatible. Where I am flawed, she isn't, and vice versa. A good complement. She's more ambitious than me, but that's no surprise. She comes from a family that thinks of public service as a God-given duty, a case of noblesse oblige, as it were.

"My family would rather I work as an investment banker or something like that. Not to perpetuate the unfortunate stereotypes, but as much as I love my parents, they're the poster child for why those sad cliches exist. I like to think of myself as the exception that disproves the rule. So, it can be tense, but I am putting my foot down on the matter of my second marriage. I listened to my mom last time and committed a serious error. I don't intend to continue that pattern. I promised her that I wouldn't convert, of course. I am still very Jewish, even if my girlfriend isn't.

"So, who's dating the future Prime Minister, Miss Darcourt, if you don't mind the shoe being put on the other foot? I wouldn't ask, except that we are old friends and you have inquired about my own private life," Michael smiled as they ate and drank. He hoped that the tension was just international politics, something beyond their control, not something else.

 

[Lady_Mornington]

The Honourable Victoria Darcourt

"Who's dating the future Prime Minister?" Victoria laughed as she had yet another sip of her wine. "It really depends on whom you're asking. According to our beloved tabloids it would be Dr Meadows."

One of the sleazier rags had posted photos of Victoria having lunch with Rebecca a month or so ago, and while not explicitly stating so, at least hinting the possibility that the two were just something more than friends. Victoria had not even bothered to comment on the issue, and thankfully the whole thing had died down. Still one had to look at the postive effects as well, it did lend her some cred with the Gay lobby.

"No one at present. A brief fling with Lee Wilkes but nothing that lasted." She looked at Michael and realised that he would be unlikely to have heard of Wilkes. Americans. "Skipper of the cricket team? Don't tell me you haven't heard of him? Dear God you really went downhill after -76."

She made a show of rolling her eyes as she stood up. Nice as it was she really had work to do and with everything that had happened she couldn't allow herself the luxury of entertaining guests like this for too long.

"I really hate to shove you out the door but you know how it is. Queen and Country first, eh. But if you're around I'll be happy to take lunch. Swing by my office tomorrow and we'll see what we can arrange."

Kissing his cheek and thus subtly telling him that the audience had come to an end. Her father had told her to maintain her contacts, one never knew when they would come in handy, and even though it was unlikely that Michael would become president, he might still hold some influence, and such a contact was not to be sneered at.

 

[SEVERUSMAX]

Senator Schumacher

Despite the abrupt brush-off, the Senator and ex-spy kept his composure, well aware that he couldn't reveal his full significance to even an old classmate who might well be Prime Minister someday. That would be a grave breach of national security, even with an ally like the Brits. His role as a former CIA/NSA operative was still classified, and until declassification, it would have to remain under wraps.

He made a quick, if mostly courteous exit, with a noncommittal expression of interest in lunch, not wanting to appear too keen and desperate to sound her out more on matters of national and political interest. If she had gotten a bit frostier toward him, then so be it. It was inexplicable, beyond perhaps the jolt of him not being too big on party discipline and party allegiance. He was aware, after all, that failure of party discipline was frowned upon in the UK's political tradition, even if it happened. Consequence of a politcal system that emphasized partisanship even more than the American model.

Of course, it could be the way that he turned the issue of imperialism back on her, though in agreement with her basic theme. For the Brits to resent Yankee imperialism, while understandable, also had a slight note of hypocrisy to it. From a nation that hadn't relinquished all of its colonies when he was born, well....much as he liked the Brits and admired them, it was more than a little ironic to resent its former imperial holding for being an empire-builder.

Oh, well, it was still Mother England....like all parent-child relationships, the Anglo-American connection was filled with both affection and disaffection at times. It was just that the infant nation was now much older and stronger...enough to have more of a say as to the nature of their relationship....and under President Bush, had become perhaps a bit too parental toward the mother country.

And, of course, he had made a point of his own foreign policy experience...something that she perhaps envied...just idle speculation on his part, but it made a degree of sense....not to mention that he had turned the private life matters on their head and asked her about her own love life. He was never one to stay on the defensive about dating outside of the faith or about being Jewish and defying the revolting stereotypes about his people, not that he believed Victoria to be an anti-Semite.

Of course, it could just be that he called her Vicky. She had never expressed a preference to be called something else, but one never knew, especially given her politics and ambitions.

Not that it mattered. He had scheduled a meeting with the Lord Mayor and some other dignitaries, including a friendly peer or two, and some key Liberal and Labour politicians. He didn't want the Tories to monopolize his attentions...but he would probably still give Victoria a second chance at lunch. Well, Sam, he thought, no danger there of an embarrassing incident. You can sleep better now.

A meeting with the new Prime Minister would be nice, too, but so far, he was too busy, which, whatever her faults, still put Miss Darcourt ahead of her rival. At this rate, he'd have a better chance of meeting the Queen than of meeting the recent successor to Barker.

 

[Lady_Mornington]

Victoria Darcourt

The following day proved as stressful as Victoria had predicted. An early meeting with the Chief Whip McCallister and the principal members of the Shadow Cabinet, before attending the emergency session in the Commons. The strategy of the opposition had already been approved, show national unity and limit criticism of Government to the focal issues.

When addressing the members of the House, Victoria focused on the issue here lay not in the support of the United States but rather the way that no clear plan for how to transfer power in Iraq seemed to have been drafted, something that surely must have added insult to injury to those who wanted to exploit Britain's military involvement in the whole affair. Smiling wryly as she recalled what Michael had said and using his arguments, although somewhat edited, focusing on the history of Empire would have created greater an understanding for the issues that came after occupation. She was rewarded with applause from the ranks of her own as she called for the government to issue a clear date on when the British forces would be withdrawn as well as calling for a multi-national agreement on the transfer of power in Iraq.

As for the domestic side of the attacks, she underlined that British democracy would survive this and that while measures must be taken, one could not allow that measures such as the Patriot Act would be put into effect. The Opposition would not accept to see racial profiling and similar measures being taken.

It felt like a partial victory as she met with Geoff Winters of the Times, the only journalist she had agreed to speak to, and given that her schedule permitted such had her PA call Schumacher for a late lunch.

She was waiting as Schumacher made his entry, fashionably late and took a seat as offered.

"Seems you took the huff last night Michael?" Victoria spoke almost casually "Or was it a figment of my imagination?"

Giving him some space to respond as the she placed her order with the waiter and then returned to look at him. "Nothing personal at all, it's just that it seems that private time is something that happens to other people these days. So tell me, you just happen to turn up just in time for one of the greatest changes in British politics since WW2. Surely there is something more than to rekindle old contacts?"

She smiled as she raised her glass and sipped the white wine. "I'd appreciate it if you told me the truth here."

 

[SEVERUSMAX]

Senator Schumacher

"Well, it would seem that I misjudged you on a number of points. Including what I perceived as the brush-off. As to the lack of private time, that theme is very familiar, given how high a profile I have lately. There are a lot of enemies within my own party, and I don't use that term lightly.

"Most opponents don't qualify as more than friendly adversaries, with plenty of mutual respect and even some affection, albeit platonic. But, then, there are also the ambitious Congressmen and state legislators who want to appeal to the fanatics and extremists in the party's core. The same set of men and women who think that this blasted war was a great idea, and we just need to give it time before they and the President are vindicated.

"The sort who want to tear me down and paint me as a Democrat in Republican clothing. Lately, I swear that I get more flack from my own party than I do from the other side. There are tons of politicians who lust for my Senate seat, and would stop at nothing to destroy me. I say that only to express some empathy with your stressful life.

"Now, as to what I am doing here, well, think of me as the eyes and ears of Congress, albeit in an unofficial capacity. It is far too easy for the arrogant members of the present Administration to forget at times that Congress has at least an equal and Constitutional role in the conduct of foreign policy, though with different powers and functions. I am a member of a certain Senate committee which I can't and won't name, but I think that you know of which one I am speaking.

"We in Congress would be remiss in our Constitutional duties of oversight, if we didn't gather other sources of information about the political affairs of our allies than those provided by the Executive branch. Especially of late, I might add, given this President's proven track record of misleading us, the elected representatives of the People and the states. Think of this as checks and balances, in a manner of speaking. Nothing more than our effort to learn more than what the President and his cronies would necessarily like us to know.

"From what I can see here, discontent on this side of the Pond dwarfs anything on ours, and I am getting the distinct impression, particularly in light of your recent speech to Commons, that you are one of the principal and most vocal critics of the Barker ministry's Iraq policy, among other things. Essentially, you are doing the same work as we American detractors of the war are doing, but with more success.

"There is another aspect, of course. I am trying to get a feel for what kind of relationship we would have, in a professional capacity, an official one, that is, in the implausible event that I should prove as successful in my prospective campaign as you appear to be in yours. Admittedly, there is always the risk of an upset that might see Labour prevail at the next polls, but frankly, the odds are long against them. In which case you would be at 10 Downing Street soon and making actual policy for your country.

"My chances are not as great, as you know, but there is some possibility of enough discontent to drastically change the rules of Presidential politics. Neither party is doing well of late, which is the ideal environment for an independent candidate. I'm saying this in confidence, of course, between friends. The other business is, of course, more official. But again, I am trusting that you will not reveal the purpose of my visit. Let the press speculate, if they notice anything. There are those of us in Congress who share the concerns you expressed in Parliament, to put it mildly.

"Well, I hope that explains a bit more to your satisfaction. I am acting in 3 roles here: friend, emissary from Congress, and Presidential hopeful," Michael clarified, in a rather low voice, so as not to be overheard.

By this point, the waiter was a touch impatient, but Mike had bigger fish to fry. Now, however, he had the luxury of ordering his meal.

"Steak tartare, asparagus, and the pilaf. With some Shiraz, thank you," he gave his order, noting that everything was a la carte. He was also mentally thanking his parents for not bringing him up kosher, given his love of red meat. Otherwise, tartare wouldn't be an option.