The Fourth Shore - Italy 1940 with Il Duce

[Gemellus]

Excerpt from Speech October, 1922 – Mussolini

…Italy is bordered by an inland sea which communicates with the oceans through the Suez Canal – an artificial means of communication which is easily blocked even by accident – and by the Straits of Gibraltar, dominated by the government of Great Britain. Italy has in fact no free access to the oceans. She is really a prisoner in the Mediterranean, and the more populous and powerful she becomes, the more she will suffer her imprisonment. The bars of this prison are Corsica, Tunisia Malta and Cyprus. Its sentinels are Gibraltar and Suez.

Tarquinia, Italy – June 13. 1940 – Training Area 185 Paratroop Infantry Regiment

Balbo entered the room gracefully and General Frattini rose to great him. “My dear General” began Balbo “it was so good of you to agree to see me.”

The General spoke, “Not at all Governor General. It was my honor to come here. In fact I was most interested to watch the regiment train this afternoon.” Balbo nodded and Frattini continued “These are good men. Perhaps not as good as mine in Milan…” he smiled “but good men.”

Balbo replied “Yes very good men. And so close to Rome.” The comment hung in the air for a moment and then Balbo continued. “I have recently been to Rome to see Il Duce.”

“How is our leader? My prayers and the nations all ask God for a speedy recovery”

Balbo stared at the General and answered “Yes, well it appears God is busy elsewhere. He is not well. I don’t not think…and neither do the doctors, that he will die. But recovery will be long and difficult. The Party and the nation will lack his sure hand for some time.”

“It is fortunate then, that we have men such as yourself.” Frattini paused for a moment, then continued in a slightly mocking tone, “And of course Marshal De Bono. I trust he is well?”

“Again as well as can be expect of a man so advanced in years. I fear the strain of the next few months will be too great for him. Still he had agility of mind enough to agree that we need make no direct moves against France or England at the moment.” Balbo stared at Frattini who remained stoically silent. “In fact we discussed a little operation that might well involve some of his men and yours. The French appear to be beaten in this war. England may well follow, but we see little profit in a direct confrontation. Do you think this regiment and perhaps some of the San Marco might be available for some work?”

Frattini saluted smartly. “I am ready to serve at the pleasure of the state.”

“Excellent” replied Balbo “Let me outline broadly what we have planned.”

July 6, 1940 – Port of Tunis, Tunisia (protectorate)

Admiral Jean Pierre Esteva regarded the Italian envoy coldly. Bombieri returned his stare and continued. “My dear Admiral, it is quite impossible for Italy to allow the British to completely isolate our forces. Their betrayal of you at Mers El Kebir is surely evidence that they can’t be trusted?” The Frenchman remained quiet and the envoy continued “As a consequence you can see why we feel we had to insure our own security by certain regrettable steps. The occupation of Tuniisia and Corsica are to protect the interest of both our countries.”

The Admiral interrupted “I cannot agree with you. Nor I fear will Marshal Petain.”

The Italian was silent for a moment then removed a silver cigarette case from his breast pocket. Slowly he lit the tobacco and took a long draw. “There are only two paths open to you. An open breach with Italy or acceptance of our protectorate over Tunisia.”

“I would fight.” Declared the Admiral. But suddenly it seemed as if all the air went out of his lungs. “Unfortunately my instructions for Vichy are to avoid a confrontation. They fear both the Germans and the British. It seems best to pursue a more neutral policy.”



Walter Winchell Radio Program, Sunday July 20, 1940

…in more news out of Europe the Italians seem to have completed their occupation of at least two French territories. Tunisia and Corsica are now under the control of the Fascist in Rome. President Roosevelt described the action as a ‘stab in the back’ and that is exactly what it was. Maybe that little accident that Benny the Moose had last month has shaken loose what few marbles he had left. With these moves I doubt that Italy has a friend left in the world or a foe who would trust their word!

 

[Gemellus]

September 18, 1940 – Offices of Todt Organization, Berlin

Ambassador Alfieri sat calmly across for Director Todt. Todt looked at him with mild disgust. The suit the Italian wore had to be worth more than Todt’s own car. Still this meeting had been specifically set by Fuhrer himself and Todt could play the game as well as anyone. Todt smiled at the Ambassador and spoke, “My dear ambassador I appreciate your concern with the plight of the German worker. It is quiet true that most of our refineries designed for transatlantic trade are currently left with little to do. However it would seem that the end of Britain is only weeks away.”

Alfieri smiled back. “No doubt, no doubt Herr Todt. However despite the inevitability of your victory over England, it may not occur within this year, or perhaps even next? That means your refineries sit idle. Now as your allies we are well aware you have worked on agreements with Standard Oil to allow for the importation of oil into some of the occupied territories*. We think we can do quite a bit better than that. The oil coming from Grozny can still be exported.”

Todt replied “The English blockade would never let Soviet tankers dock in Germany…”

Alfieri interrupted, “No not Germany. But if the Reich was prepared to assist us in setting up refineries and to increase the capacity of those we have then England would be in no position to stop trade between two neutrals such as Russian and ourselves.” Todt despite himself betrayed a shocked look on his face. The Italian continued. “We could agree to supply both occupied and unoccupied France with refined product, eventually even the Dutch and the Belgians. That would remove a significant burden from your own government.” Todt nodded, his mind racing at the possibilities. “Of course some percentage of the trade might even make its way to the civil market in Germany. Slippage of that type is inevitable. But again the British won’t risk war over it. Our tankers, escorted by Soviet and Italian ships would be a powerful deterrent. I doubt the English would directly interfere. We have already spoken with the Soviets and they are quiet amenable to the idea. A good deal of their foreign trade is has been cut off by this war.”

“This would create a significant deficit in trade with the Reich.” Interjected the German.

“Well we have a solution for that as well” offered the Italian “As you know with the recent transfer of Marshal Badoglio to Corsica to take up the governorship, the Council has appointed some new officers to accelerate the modernization of the army. We feel that the spare industrial capacity of France and some of the other countries now in Germany’s ‘orbit’ could be put to good use equipping our own army.”

“Germany’s needs would of course supersede your own. We are at war.” Said Todt

“Of course, of course my dear man. We only want to make use of the surplus capacity. A good deal of French industry is idle now. We also are approaching the French about setting up or moving factories from France to Italy. Better that we control the production then the French eh?”

Todt was not as sure of that point. However he had more than a sneaking suspicion that the war might go on a while and access to oil was critical. He rose and walked around his desk. “I think we have the beginnings of an agreement here.”

November 10, 1940 – Meeting of the Grand Council, Palazzo Venezi, Rome

The formerly round table had been removed from the room and now a short oblong one stood in its’ place. Marshal Balbo sat at the head of the table flanked by the Council.

“I think it only proper that we give a welcome to the newest formal member of the Grand Council the new Inspector General of the Army General Berti, also the new head of our OVRA** the honorable Guido Leto and finally our dear Foreign minister who has earned his well-deserved promotion to Prime Minister of the Kingdom.”

After a smattering of applause, it was De Vecchi who spoke first. “I wonder if our new Prime minister might address the condition of our leader? So far as I know except for that brief show for Fat Herman no one has seen…”

Ciano interrupted, “I can assure you Cesare that my father-in-law continues to improve. He reads all of the council’s papers and those from my office. I think you should trust us that he can soon formally rejoin us at these meetings. If not by December, then certainly in the new year.” He smiled sweetly at De Vecchi. “We can’t risk a premature return of our leader so we have to carry on in his spirit.”

“Thank you my dear Count” stated Balbo “We have only a few points to discuss tonight then we may retire for a meal to celebrate the new lions of fascism. As you know the Germans have formally accepted our proposals to allow increase in oil refineries in Italy and to accept transshipments of the oil to Vichy and Flanders. They also have agreed to sell us surplus French equipment to rearm our own forces. General Berti is already accelerating the reorganization of our army. If you might address the more important issues general…”

Berti gathered up some papers and began to speak. “We have decided to return to civilian status some 600,000 conscripts*** and to pare the total number of divisions down by at least 30, which will become reserve divisions with only skeleton staff. The binary reorganization will be accelerated with the importation of guns and equipment from France. The new Inspector of the Armor will also incorporate captured French armor into our divisions pending the accelerated development of our own native tanks. The program will run in 4 six month phases. Phase one will see the standardization of artillery and increased deployment of mechanized support units into the first 30 frontline infantry divisions. The mobile divisions are slotted for increased transport and heavy arms, to be completed also within the first phase. Phase two will see to deployment of additional support units into existing divisions along with greater mobility. We hope to see the increased production of Italian artillery replace our reliance on purchased French and German stock. Additionally proto-type tanks for the armored division will enter testing with the goal of replacing the Char units that are now rearming our armor formations during phase 1. In phase three…”

General Bono held up his hand to speak, “This is all quite impressive General Berti, but so disruptive. You dismiss men just as we might need them, you cut divisions when….”

Berti glanced at Balbo who nodded curtly in the affirmative. “The current army is grossly inadequate for what we face in the near future. The Ethiopian and Spanish campaigns have gutted our formations and those in charge have failed to provide adequate leadership. It is almost criminal the shape the army is in. For now we need time and equipment more than simply manpower to deal with this crisis. Of course it is possible that some don’t see the need for such steps.”

Silence hung in the room. Bono answered slowly “You mistake my questions for a lack of enthusiasm my dear general.” He looked over at Balbo “Of course I agree with your ultimate goals I just was questioning some of your methods.” He smiled sweetly, “Do go on….”

Interlude and Explanation

(I include this section in part to explain and foreshadow what is coming in my next post). This is not AH put rather part of an account I found in Duce!, The Rise and Fall of Mussolini by Richard Collier. The books is actually a bit of a mess, difficult to read but is full of these interesting little stories)

Ristorante Italia, Ferrara – July 14, 1938

Marshal Balbo jammed his foot against the door of the restaurant and forced it open for his companion. Balbo noisily shouted that waiters should come and seat his companion and himself for a lunch. After some hesitation the staff scurried to obey. The manager looked at Balbo’s companion and nearly fainted. He walked up to the marshal. “Ah Marshal of course we are most grateful to have you here, but your companion….”

Balbo interrupted him “Do you mean the mayor. He is my friend. My close friend would you deny him a seat?”

The manager stammered “It is just that there have been some changes since you took up your post overseas, perhaps…”

Balbo stopped him “Listen to me you miserable little toad. I know well the law and who this man is. I chose to break bread with him and call him my friend. If you deny him a seat you deny me one and make me an enemy. Now is there a table or no?”

The pair was quickly shown the best table in the house.****






*In July of 1940 the Standard Oil Company of New Jersey agreed to supply Vichy and later even Nazi Germany with access to oil. In 1942 in our TL the head of a Standard Oil subsidiary (Standard UG Farben) name William Farish (from Texas) plead ‘no contest’ to a criminal conspiracy charge of dealing with the Nazis but Standard Oil got off with just $5,000 fine.

**Believe it or not the ‘Organization for the Surveillance and Stamping out of Anti-Fascism”

***Again an event that occurred in our TL in slightly different circumstances

****Renzo Ravanna the former mayor of Ferrara had only recently been replaced and put under a cloud thanks to the race laws of November 17, 1938. Balbo was having none of it. This lunch was the culmination of Balbo’s trip home from Libya. He had flown into Rome and paid a call on almost all the prominent Jews in Rome then invited the mayor to dine with him openly at lunch.

This was also one of the seeds of Balbo’s growing dissatisfaction with Il Duce. By the summer of 1940 the two men seemed to have settled into a degree of mutual distain.

 

[Gemellus]

January 2, 1941 – Residence of the Italian Ambassador, Lisbon

Count Ciano sat sipping a large glass of rather expensive champagne. The embassy party had dragged on now for several hours and he made a great show of drinking, especially in front of the German Charge de Affair. Finally the German had tired of Ciano’s company and had drifted away. Causally, with the grace of a practiced aristocratic drunkard Ciano left the main salon and walked to a back room. As he opened the ornate door he saw that the room was illuminated by a single dull lamp that cast just enough light to silhouette a man sitting on small loveseat facing the door. As Ciano entered his eye noticed a dull glow from a cigar the man was smoking. Ciano spoke “My apologies for the delay my dear sir. I can’t not tell you how tedious it is when the Germans try to prove the myth of their work ethic by applying it to champagne consumption.”

The seated man did not move forward into the light. Ciano only saw his cigar come up and briefly flare brighter as he took a draw. The man replied to Ciano’s gambit in flawless Italian with just a trace of Milanese accent. “The Germans are wont to prove themselves superior in all endeavors. It is one of their most annoying traits. Of course the Italians rarely try to prove anything, they just assume superiority.” Ciano laughed but made no reply. The Englishman continued “This is your meeting Mr. Prime Minister. Your state visit, your parade, your proposal….”

Ciano took a seat some distance from the Englishman. He removed a small cigarette case, tapped a fag against the silver and lit it. Taking a breath he relaxed back into his chair. “Those of us in Italy…’ The Englishman interrupted “You mean Marshal Balbo”. Ciano smiled and took another drag then continued. “Those of us in Italy felt it necessary to offer your government our direct assurances over the looming crisis in the Balkans. We were sure you were concerned about the German moves there.” Silence greeted the implied question. “The Germans have already brought to Hungarians and Romanians into the fold. We feel that an extension of this to either Bulgaria or Yugoslavia might not be in the interest of your government?” Again silence, Ciano went on “In fact we feel an overwhelming German presence might not be in our own interest. We think that Paul* will likely join the Germans if the Yugoslavians feel they have no choice. We would prefer an alternative for them.”

“For a price no doubt.” Interrupted the Englishman

“Everything has a price my dear sir.” Continued Ciano “If Italy were to seek to preserve either Bulgarian or Yugoslavian independence we would require assurances and acceptance.” Ciano flicked the growing ash from his cigarette casually onto the floor. “Of course overt support would be most difficult, but support in conjunction with your own efforts might prove quite worthwhile. Any price would of course be conditional.” The Englishman remained silent. “Should conflict erupt despite our efforts Italy would feel it proper to protect our interest in Dalmatia. We could even extend protection to Serbia should she suffer in the war. Perhaps a protectorate from the Germans?”

The Englishman took another long draw on his cigar, then spoke. “His majesty’s government would be willing to concede spheres of influence in the Balkans should the Germans attempt a forcible readjustment of the borders. Of course if Italy was willing to actually become an ally of England…

Ciano raised his hand to stop the train of thought. “Our current position makes an overt alliance with England impossible. Any such step would likely result in the invasion of Italy and we have no desire to repeat the calamities of the last war.” He paused “But as I said we can take steps to protect those minor powers with whom you have been in contact or at least the elements of their government you have been working with.” He paused looking at the Englishman for a denial or affirmation, but only silence came from the seated figure. “We also feel that total and direct control of the Balkans by the Germans is not in the interest of Italy. We also can offer some additional intelligence details about Germany, nothing too dramatic but a good deal of general information….”

The Englishman rose. He buttoned his slim black dinner jacket and slicked back his hair with one hand. With the other he extinguished his cigar in a convenient ashtray. “I will report” he stopped for a moment then continued “with a recommendation of acceptance our conversation here. If there is a border adjustment a tacit acceptance of Italian influence in preserving some level of independence for the Yugoslavs and the Bulgarians. In addition limited cooperation between our intelligence agencies regarding German capabilities and goals.”

The War in the Mist: Germany, Italy and England, the Triple Game, Basil Press, Durham NC, 1979

….England was quite willing to recognize any Italian fait accompli if German moved against either Yugoslavia or Bulgaria. In fact she had little capability to resist either move unless the Greeks again played their role from the first war. By the Spring it had become clear to Whitehall that any Balkan operation hinged on the Greeks. The idea of an Italian buffer between any British landing on mainland Greece and the German army had a definite appeal. Either circumstance would compel the Italians to openly switch sides or any immediate advance from such landings would face the weaker Italian forces and not the Germans.





*Prince Paul of Yugoslavia

 

[Gemellus]

March 27, 1941 – Belgrade, Yugoslavia – Diplomatic Cable – US Embassy to Washington

….It is apparent that the coup had clear support from the English. Milian (Nedic) has been replaced as head of the military and it appears that the plotters intend to break with the treaty signed just two days ago brining Yugoslavia into the Axis. Reactions from the local German embassy are, as to be expected, loud and insistent on the reinstatement of Nedic and Prince Paul.

Interestingly the Italians have remained silent. They were not present at the signing of the Tripartite Pact last week and they have made no public statement. It appears that Balbo and his pet Ciano are keeping their cards very close the chest here. I did hear from a source in the British compound that Italian troops had be mobilized near Venice and that reinforcements had arrived in Albania shortly before the signing of the Pact.


April 5, 1941 – London Times

…The Signing today of a Treaty of Non-Aggression between the new Yugoslavian government of Prince Peter and Molotov, is a positive sign that the unnatural alliance between Fascist Germany and the USSR is breaking down. Clearly the new government in Belgrade, despite its’ public protest, will not be as accepting or accommodating to the Fascist as General Nedic and Cvetkovic. His majesty’s ambassador to Yugoslavia Sir Ronald Campbell issued the following statement that we quote in part: “The position of His Majesty’s government has not changed with the changing of the administration of Yugoslavia. We feel that while we would welcome the full support of Prince Paul in our fight against the Huns it is more than sufficient for states such as Yugoslavia to remain neutral in principal until such a time as political and moral expediency demands a change. With her difficult position surrounded by hostile states we do not entreat Prince Paul to declare active support for our cause, it is enough that he seeks to do us no harm and to desist from overtly aiding our enemies.”


April 6, 1941 – Radio Broadcast (from Italy) to the Barovina of Croatia

…Today our homeland suffers under the oppression of the Serbs and their lackeys. Only the Ustasa and only our Catholic Brothers in Italy can be trusted to preserve both the Holy Mother Church in the Barovina and the leadership of the Croat people in this dark hour. For too long have the Serbians and the Orthodox oppressed us. Now is our hour to strike, now is the time for freedom and order!

April 12, 1941 – Belgrade, Yugoslavia – Office of Ivan Milicevic (Mayor) 6 PM

Carefully the mayor pressed down his tie and drew his vest down, then he stepped out into the street. The Germans were casually deployed near the flagpole. About a dozen unarmed Yugoslavian soldiers stood sullenly under guard. As the major approached a young German officer walked over. After giving a fascist salute he spoke:

“My name is Colonel Fritz Klingenberg. I hope you speak German?”*

Milicevic replied “I speak German commander. I take it by your presence that your army has arrived?”

Klingenberg smiled “As of noon today we control all bridges leading into the city. The artillery for my division has trained its guns on this position and the Luftwaffe strike force is to provide strike support for clearing your capital.”

Milicevic looked deflated. “My city. My God. Is it to be Rotterdam all over again?” he felt physically ill and staggered back a step.

Klingenberg offered an arm to steady him and spoke, “The destruction of this city is not a foregone conclusion. If you will agree to surrender immediately I can send men back to stop the attack. But we can broke no hesitation here. We are quite prepared to destroy the city if you resist.” Milecevic sighed and looked at the Yugoslavian prisoners. He didn’t want this. “Well, I can see you are ready to resist, I will have to confirm the attack” He raised his arm to motion to one of his men.

“Wait” croaked Milicevic “wait. It’s done, it’s all done. I will surrender the city.”

Klingenberg smiled “A wise decision Herr Mayor. Now let us discuss the formalities in someplace other than this street?”**

May 18, 1941 – Quirinal Palace, Rome

The Duke of Spoleto*** looked over at Ciano. “What in God’s name am I supposed to do as King of the Croats.”

Ciano smiled back. “Your majesty. The necessity of our intervention in Yugoslavia means that many of those unfortunate people are left at the mercy of the Germans, the Hungarians or the Bulgers. Why else do you think so many of their units surrendered to us when we announced our intervention? Remember we did not declare war upon them, we came to their aid in their hour of need.” He smiled

The Duke, ‘King Tomislav’ laughed sourly and spoke “Invited? We snuck in after the Germans had won. Now you have me dress up….” The Prime Minister arched his eyebrow in correction “Oh very well my dear cousin insisted****but what am I to do Ciano? The Croats and Montenegrins don’t want me. Plus the whole business of Dalmatia sickens me. We can never take it….”

Ciano held up his hand. “Your majesty. Italy will not formally take a speck of ground in Yugoslavia. While our army and Navy is stationed there it is solely to provide security during this new state of affairs. The Croats and Montenegrins can well handle their affairs…at least their internal affairs. True we may well have some special rights in the new areas…” The Duke snorted, Ciano paused then continued “…well potentially more than some and certainly more special than others. But think of what was accomplished. Italy now has secured a place in Yugoslavia at the invitation of at least some of their own government.”




*Actually Klingenberg was just a captain at the time

**I included this because when I first read about the capture of Belgrade by Klingenberg with just 6 men and a drunken German Tourist I thought it was too good a story not to repeat. Klingenberg got the Knights Cross for this I think and so far as I know as the only person to capture a major capital during the war with just 1 squad of men. BTW there was no artillery or air support coming. The Das Reich Division occupied the city that night (April 12 in our TL) after breaking some of the garrison outside the city, but still expecting a block by block fight inside.

***Because his brother is still alive in this TL Aimone Torino remained just the Duke of Spoleto, not the Duke of Aosta

****King Victor Emanuele

 

[Gemellus]

February 15, 1941 – Office of the Foreign Minister, Berlin

“My dear Ambassador, it is a pleasure to welcome you to Berlin.” Began Herbert von Dirksen

“It is my pleasure” Guriglia hesitated “mister ambassador” countered the Italian

“Please, I am no longer a serving ambassador, like you I am rather…between duties.” Answered Guriglia

“Hah, it appears we are both Hors de combat. Hence assignments such as this. Whatever this is…” counted von Dirksen

Guriglia cleared his throat. “It has become apparent that Italy has a labor problem and that you, or rather your nation has a surplus.” Dirksen did not reply he stared at the Italian. “Rather you have a surplus of labor that you don’t want. Specifically you have ‘citizens’ of the Reich who you seem ill disposed to make use of.”

Dirksen nodded. “You are suggesting that you might relieve us of some of this surplus?”

“The Prime Minister” began Guriglia “has come up with a proposal.:”

Dirksen laughed, “My dear sir.” Dropping his voice an octave. “the prime minister couldn’t decide to order a new vintage of Champagne without the approval of the beard.”

Guriglia looked down and a brief smile flirted across his face. “Ah well, perhaps the Prime Minister sought the guidance of others. In any event we are interested in settlers for the Fourth Shore. We actually would prefer co-religionist either Poles or Czechs, certainly not French. However to permit this we would be willing to accept additional ‘non-Christian’ settlers. In fact we think they would make ideal settlers for our colonies in East Africa.”

Dirksen stared at the Italian. “Some of our ‘lean and hungry types’ had already suggested Africa for resettlement. Of course they were pushing Madagascar as I recall.”

Guriglia “We had heard something of that. Of course if the Reich would like to transfer the island to our custody….”

The German laughed. “I think our dear friend Petain would have something to say about that. But to return to the topic. Plus I fear the English might well have something to say about it. I heard today they broke ties with the Romanians.”

The Italian nodded “I heard the British were also busy in Bulgaria.*”

Dirksen smiled “I hear that your government has been busy in the Balkans as well.” The Italian offered a sideway shake of the head. “In any event I can take this to the leadership. I think they might be receptive. We have too many Poles that is for certain. What types of numbers are we talking about…per month?”

Buriglia took out a folder. “I have some preliminary figures here. We would like to settle at least half a million on the Shore. We can take the same for East Africa. A one for one ratio would be good.”

The German shook his head. “I think not. A one for one is too generous. Perhaps three to one or four? In any event we move too far forward. I think it best to sound out the golden pheasants and see if they approve, then we can fix the numbers.”



March 4, 1941

Army Group North, 4th Panzer Group Training Area

General von Leeb looked down at the map on his conference table. “My dear General, I certainly appreciate that your appointment brings with it two more armor divisions.”

General Rommel smiled, “The Fuhrer was most generous. I think however it was more a tribute to your own skill. It is my hope that we can work well as a team together. “

Leeb stared at Rommel. “You have rather a reputation for independent action. I have read the reports about you in France. My campaign was rather less flamboyant than yours.” Rommel remained silent. “Still I can appreciate your of a new generation, at least when it comes to tactics. I grow uncomfortable when your tanks range so far out front.”

Rommel smiled, “Herr General there is a nautical expression. A ship is safe in port, but they are not made to remain in port.” He paused “I may have mangled that somewhat I am not much of a sailor.”

Leeb smiled. “Neither am I, neither am I.”



*The British did break diplomatic relations with Romania on February 15th and they were caught out trying to support a coup in Bulgaria at the end of February.

 

[Gemellus]

March 22, 1941 – Warsaw, Jewish Ghetto

The tables were set out early in the morning, almost before the break of dawn. Still the Judenrat already had to deploy more police to keep the long lines orderly. The tables remained empty past 8, then 9 and finally at 10 Italians strolled onto the plaza. There were only a dozen or so in uniform but almost twice as many wore obviously expensive suits in the cold morning air. Gradually the Italians settled down drinking coffee and smoking cigarettes, but still not motioning to Jewish guards to open up the tables. Finally at almost 11 the Italians motioned to the policeman to let the crowd come forward.

At the first table a Italian captain looked up at the first in line. “Ah our first customer. “ he began “Let be clear and not to waste time you understand that transport has to be paid for and we have a preference for skilled labor or….” With a soft cough the Jew interrupted the officer. In near flawless Italian he said, “I am a doctor, Captain and I have retained sufficient funds to provide transport for myself and my family.” He held out six stamped documents. The Captain smiled, when he noticed a small sheaf of bills tucked under the papers.



March 24, 1941 – Vatican City, Rome

Eugenio Maria Giuseppe Giovanni Pacelli, more correctly known as the Bishop of Rome, Pope Pius XII sat easily across the desk from his two aids. The Younger, Giovanni Montini, passed a dense folder over to the Pope. Pius studied the information carefully, then quietly removed his thick glasses. He didn’t address Montini, but rather his senior in the office of Secretary of State. “So Pacelli it looks as if there will be another leader of Italy quiet soon. Will that disrupt these transfers?”

Montini, paused only briefly. “Of course I cannot speak for Cardinal Maglione, but all our information seems to show that the Duce will not live out the spring. However he has long lost control of the control of both the party and the state. The new government created this policy, they will continue it. In fact this government has been quite good. Many of our own priests and brothers in Christ have been enrolled in the transfers. But enough remain to shepherd the Church in this crisis. The time tables in the folder are quite ambitious but we believe they will be kept.”

The Pope stood and fingered the large cross he wore on his neck. “It seems cruel to uproot people and move them such a distance.” Montini offered a comment, “The Germans can be a cruel people.” The Pope stopped and stared at Montini, who offered an apology, “I meant of course the Nazis.” The Pope waved his hand in dismissal, “I know cruelty father, I also know beauty and grace. Germany holds a special place in my heart.” He paused “To see them reduced to this.” He took a deep breath, “I shall make a special appeal to our Church both here and abroad. We will provide what support we can for all the displaced.” He stared at Pacelli “I do mean everyone. See to it that Maglione does not adjust the level.”



April 12, 1941 – Asmara, Eretria – Italian East Africa

Governor Frusci ran a hand through his rapidly thinning hair. He looked down at the latest figures. More than a thousand Poles had arrived today. Most were supposed to have been Jews, but he was sure that like the first train there would be a good number of ‘mixed race’ immigrants. He laughed, in some mysterious way a good number of Polish farmers had made it onto the ships. He could imagine the bribes being paid to get out of the General Government and didn’t resent those who took this route. Still it was his responsibility. He looked over his welcoming speech, the original draft in Italian, not the Polish and Yiddish translations attached. He searched down for the critical paragraph, ah there it was



….the Italian setters here can well use your strong backs and stout hearts in turning this colony into a proper outpost of civilization. In the coming days you will all be assigned to a colonist to assist him in making this land flower. Four of your families will work with one settler. In time no doubt we will grant….here he scratched out the phrase ‘in good time shall earn your own freehold’. He smiled that was better. They had to understand that while they started out as serfs the future held a promise for them all.



April 22, 1941 – Athens, Office of the Prime Minster

Koryzis neatly placed the letter down in front of him and then stood up to pace. The Italian offer was interesting. He sighed wondering what Metaxas would have done. Immediately he thought of the King. His majesty was known to favor the English, but he also was a revanchist, the recovery of Rhodes and the rest of the Islands would temp him. Perhaps and open alliance with the Italians would not be so bad. It would protect Greece from the disaster that engulfed Yugoslavia. But Koryzis was sure that the Italians would want more than just a few bases on the mainland. Already the Croats were finding it difficult to say no to the Italians. Still better the Italians than the Germans.

 

[Gemellus]

August 5, 1941 – Novgorod, USSR (200 km South of Leningrad)

The ‘Golden’ city of Novgorod lay stretched out in the late afternoon sun. The Luftwaffe had just unleashed a heavy bombardment of the Russian forward positions. Now three regiments of the 21st division moved forwarded. Stunned by the attack to Soviet 21st Armored Division was slow to respond. The battle raged most of the night but by the dawn of the 16th the city was firmly in German hands.

The 15th Panzer Division passed through the city while the 21st pinched out the last pockets of resistance. Major General Prittwitz could spare little time for the city. In fact his orders from Rommel were specific. The Soviets were to be given no time to reorganize. If the city hadn’t fallen to the 21st Prittwitz was ordered to bypass it and swing North. But with the city in hand he could stay on the good roads and save his precious panzers. Still as he troops moved through he stopped at the 21st headquarters. Coming out to meet him was a major. Prittwitz offered a smart salute. The major returned it and spoke

“Major von der Chevallerie, at your service herr general. I am happy to support the roads through and out of the city are cleared for your tanks.”

Prittwitz smiled and replied “Excellent, Major. The 21st did a spectacular job here. If we had to bypass this position it would have cost me 2 or 3 days and stretched my supplies even further.”

Now it was the majors turn to smile. “I think I may be able to help you a little with your supplies. Ivan was very carless. We captured a good deal of intelligence about this position*. I have most of the fuel depots used to supply our Russian comrades under guard. I can order them to top off your tanks if you like?”

Now Prittwitz smile broke into an absolute grin. With the gas and no need to bring up fuel immediately he could extend this drive. He looked North and started to do the math.

August 5, 1941 – Johvi, Estonia, near the Russian Boarder

General Kirchheim down at the town. He drew a deep breath and scanned it with a pair of field glasses. He turned to his intelligence officer. “It looks like we won’t have to fight for this one.” As any good aid learns the major replied “Yes sir.” He waited a second then continued “If we keep this pace then we can get to Narva before the Russians even know we are advancing.”

Kirchheim didn’t nod or answer. He just stared at the town. “I wish I had a full Panzer division here. I could split up the coast and beat Prittwitz to Leningrad. **Still we press on. His eminence is likely looking over our shoulders as we speak.” The Generals aid involuntarily looked up for Rommel’s plane which had been a common site over them all summer. The sea is only a dozen km and we should be able to get some supplies in. Plus the lake will cover our flank*** .” He paused for a second considering the odds. “We keep going. I want the 22nd**** to push on. Don’t let Oppenin give the Russians any time to reorganized.”

August 14, 1941 – Leningrad, USSR

General Voroshilov looked out his window at the long lines queuing for trains. He snorted. A part of him wished he could be in those lines.***** He went over and picked up the latest orders from STAVKA. It was yet another command to fight to the last and not let the Germans into the city. Again he snorted. He had no real armor left after the failed counter attacks. The Germans had the initiative and all he could do was draw back into the city. Even then not a few of his units were breaking apart. Desertion was rising. Even the with plenty of final rations from the Soviet State****** the could smell the panic. Technically he supposed he should call Commander Tributs.+ The fleet was getting a good pounding as the Germans advanced. The Marat was already sunk. Maybe he could get his hands on some of Tributs sailors. They might stiffen the line. But he wasn’t hopeful.





*In our Tl the 21st not only captured the plans for the city defense but later a Karelian Finn who had been drafted into the Soviet Army turned over detailed maps of the positions and supply areas around the city. It actually fell 10 days later than in this Tl as well

**In our TL Narva was actually captured by German troops and Estonian irregulars on August 17th.

***Lake Peipsi in South of the City and provides a deep natural protection.

****22nd Panzer Regiment, in our TL fighting in Africa

*****In our Tl about 1.7 million of the 3.3 million fled the city

******Soviet slang for the 9 grams of lead in the bullets used to shoot deserters

+Vladmir Tributs, in our TL not an admiral till 43, he commanded the Soviet Baltic Fleet from 39 onward.