The bells

Franz was exhausted; it had been a long limb up the Cathedral bell tower. But there was a splendid view from the top, especially across to the Ducal Palace. Finding the flagstaff, he got prepared and as he looked across to the palace he could see all the dignitaries arriving.

Taking out his telescope, he could get a clearer view. Watching the last one enter and the doors being closed he settled down to wait, but trying to remain alert. He was sure he had prepared everything for a hopefully unseen rapid departure and a wedge was ready to place behind the roof door as he left.

After what seemed an age people began to emerge from the palace, Franz lifted his telescope and spotted the Austrian Ambassador pausing just outside the entrance and mopping his brow. The Frundsberg ambassador joined him and offered him his startlingly red kerchief, the offer was declined, but the offer was strangely repeated.

Franz scrabbled over to the flagpole and raised the flag he had already attached to the halyard and left as quickly as possible.