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A Thought Provoking and Novel Message
We are pleased to provide a serialisation of HGF member John Stewart's new novel 'VISITORS'
Could John prove to be a modern Charles Dickens who used the novel format to such good effect in highlighting the social problems of England in the 19th Century?
For a recent review in the Guardian see http://commentisfree.guardian.co.uk/index.html
In this science fiction he tells a story in which a small group of Visitors arrive unexpected on earth from a distant planet. Over the centuries they have visited earth many times and observed the way we live. They have also acquired a deep respect for much of the wisdom that they saw being made available to humanity throughout the ages. They tried putting that wisdom into practice on their planet, in their lives, and in their social and economic arrangements and found that is was very helpful. They notice however that on Earth much of this is knowledge is ignored and humans seem to be suffering numerable unnecessary difficulties. On this visit they wish to repay to Earthlings the wealth that they have enjoyed from the fruits of past visits and in the process participate in an amusing and instructive series of events not without a little romance for those involved. Highly recommended.
David Triggs, Executive Chairman, Henry George Foundation
Now published and available @ £8.95 PB from Shepheard-Walwyn (Publishers) Ltd. 15 Alder Road, London, SW14 8ER. www.shepheard-walwyn.co.uk
VISITORS
By John Stewart
(c) John Stewart
ISBN 0 85683 2537
Part 1 - Trust and Supicion
PROLOGUE
'The resistance level is much higher, Captain.'
'Yes we're down to interplanetary mode. When travelling within crowded planetary systems, inter galactic or even inter stellar modes are much too dangerous.'
'We must be getting close, Sir.'
'We are, Cadet Alpha. Your English is good, congratulations.'
'Thank you, Sir, the ban on any other language has been a good incentive.'
The Captain chuckled.
'Look at that, Sir!'
'That's Saturn and her frosty rings.'
'How many times have you been to the planet called Earth, Sir?'
'This is the third time. The first time I was like you, a cadet. But this is the first time we will be showing ourselves.'
'Will it be dangerous?'
'Tricky maybe, but not dangerous: I studied British history at university. Their law forbids assault and imprisonment without due process. As long as we keep calm we'll be all right.'
'But why are we showing ourselves?'
'The Chief Elder says, and I agree, that it is unlawful to take without giving. We have taken for a long time, now it is time to give!'
'But they don't know we've been taking!'
'That is irrelevant: the law will not be mocked.'
'Sorry, Sir!'
'Don't be sorry. It is good to speak your mind, for in doing so thoughts can be refined. It is one Universe and an insular tribal attitude is inappropriate. Look, do you see that bright spot in front of us?'
'Yes, Sir.'
'Well that's it; that's the Earth.'
'It's coming up pretty fast!'
'Yes it's time for approach mode.'
The Cadet watched fascinated as the Earth grew slowly and revealed its beauty.
'It's amazing, Sir, a jewel without a rival! How did we find it in the first place?'
'Many years ago our most renowned Chief Elder told us where to look.'
'How did he know?'
'He knew. That is all we know!'
CHAPTER ONE
Visitors from a distant planet unexpectedly arrived. These people had enormous power and our puny defensive systems they neutralized with ease. They told us repeatedly that they'd come in peace and would quickly leave once they had observed our current modes of government and philosophy. The Military who first interviewed them were incredulous and found it difficult to believe, as no space vehicle had been revealed. They explained that they weren't permitted to expose their craft. We didn't believe them and they patiently repeated their story but never were there any hints of violence. There were no laws that set down rules of how they might be treated, so they were housed like any immigrant who entered by illegal means. In the morning when the news first broke the Government treated the matter as a fanciful rumour and awaited confirmation, but the Prime Minister, who was at a European summit, called a Cabinet meeting and rushed home.
The Aliens were strangely similar to the human form but their eyes had something special: a deep pool-like tranquillity. Clearly their intellectual and perceptive abilities were of a most advanced nature. Yet they behaved with disarming modesty. They made no complaints about the Spartan nature of their quarters nor did they make demands or seek a meeting with authority. They merely awaited events.
The media rush was almost instant, but when the TV icons interviewed these beings they simply could not match their intellect. Aggressive questioning had no impact and rebounded upon the questioner. Interest grew as did respect. Still many felt that they were simply frauds, and fears of an Alien takeover persisted. The rumour that the small research group were just the herald of a harsh invasion gathered pace. On the streets special edition newspapers whipped up tensions. The Share Index plummeted and the Stock Exchange closed trading.
By midday opposition leaders and the popular press were demanding action. Their campaign bordered on the hysterical and the Prime Minister Bob Shaw, a square framed Baldwin-like figure, booked airtime on all the TV channels. This time he would ask the questions!
*
At 6.30 pm the cameras beamed in on the familiar Downing Street scene and right on time the Prime Minister and the Alien leader took their seats: easy chairs placed on either side of the ornate fire-place. The PM was not one you'd call well dressed. His suit always looked as if it needed pressing, but a discerning eye might guess that even if it had been newly pressed, it would still have the familiar office worn appearance.
The Alien's tall trim frame was suited as if by Savile Row. Nothing stood out, although he didn't quite look British. When he removed his tinted glasses though, his eyes betrayed his special nature.
*
'May I first welcome you on behalf of Her Majesty and the peoples of this Island. And may I apologise for this tardy official greeting!' The Prime Minister's words were measured and calm.
'You are most gracious, Prime Minister,' the Alien acknowledged easily.
Shaw was shocked but was too good a 'pro' to show it. The urbanity of this being was amazing.
'Sir, Your English is so English that I'm tempted to ask what UK University you attended?'
The Alien laughed easily.
'That is a compliment, Prime Minister, and I do like your English sense of humour!'
'May I ask your name? For I must confess no one was able to tell me. In fact I don't think we enquired! As you may imagine we were rather taken by surprise!'
'I must apologise for we did arrive unannounced!' The Alien smiled disarmingly. 'Now my name - I am the leader of a small band of ten. You can call me Captain. My own name is of little matter.'
'Well, Captain, you will be aware that many of our citizens are anxious that your visit may be the herald of a larger force. They clamour for assurances and I must say that I understand their fears. Sir, can we be reassured? And, Sir, where is your spacecraft? No one has reported a sighting!
'I appreciate your candour Prime Minister. I can only say that your fears are groundless.' The captain smiled. 'Sir, few of our citizens are anxious to leave their planet paradise for what is, to say the very least a long and tedious, if not uncertain, journey. We may have mastered many of Creation's laws but not them all! Now you asked about our spacecraft: it is close should we need to be evacuated but is protected by an invisibility screen and fitted with a high-pitched sound to repel living creatures. We are forbidden to cause harm or injury and as our craft is specially protected even touching it can be dangerous!' The Alien smiled again. Shaw was amazed, this man, creature or whatever he was, could grace the high table at any Oxford College.
'Well, Captain, you have answered my questions. Thank you, your word is good enough for me.'
'Prime Minister, your great financial City says it for me: "My word is my bond".'
'How, Sir, do you know our language and our customs so well? To me, your grasp of things is quite uncanny.'
'Over many ages we developed a facility for near to instant assimilation. It is really not so difficult as it seems. A lake that is completely still allows a perfect reflection. So it is with the mind. Let's put it another way. While you have developed the computer quite miraculously, we have developed aids that advance the felicity of the mind. We didn't show ourselves immediately but gave ourselves a little time to watch and listen. Cramming is the word I think you use! Sir, we have come to your planet to learn and hopefully to be of use.' The Alien smiled benignly but gave no further explanation.
Shaw also smiled but thought it prudent not to follow up. Instead he asked another question.
'You referred to your 'Planet Paradise': are the terrain and climate similar to here?'
'Remarkably similar, life forms such as we need rather special conditions. So it's not surprising therefore that conditions are alike. Though we lead a much more simple life.'
Prime Minster Shaw nodded pensively. Questions were crowding his mind but being prime time coverage he was circumspect. The main aim was to calm the agitation in the people. The arrival of beings from another planet was momentous; even so, it was business as usual. This he saw to be a premier duty. That said, there was a unique opportunity to learn from these remarkable beings. Had we the capacity though? That was the question.
In the meantime Shaw kept his questions simple and straightforward. Did they like the food? Were their sleeping habits similar? Were their family customs similar?
The Alien's answers were completely disarming. Indeed it was exactly what the PM wanted. The people would be reassured. These visitors didn't pose a threat and we should treat them as honoured guests. Tomorrow it would be business as usual! That was his hope but he had been in public life too long to be complacent. There would be trouble. It was inevitable and it would need his every ounce of subtlety to thwart the wreckers.
The Prime Minister's probing continued to emphasise the brevity of Alien's stay and their lack of aggression. Indeed the nation stood to gain much from the knowledge the visitors had so generously shared. It was good diplomatic stuff. 'Repeat your message three times', his father had told him. 'If you're lucky, they might get it on the third hearing!'
*
When Shaw was perfectly sure all recording apparatus was disconnected, he leaned across to his visitor.
'Now we can talk!' he said quietly.
The Alien smiled knowingly. Clearly he understood the political subtlety.
'I hope it is convenient for you to dine with us this evening. My wife is busy with preparing things and we trust the food will be to your liking. If not, we would fully understand, of course. So there's no need to suffer in the cause of diplomacy!'
The Visitor laughed lightly
'Mr Shaw, I am honoured not least by the trust you're showing in this creature from another world. But then, this is Britain!' The Visitor's smile widened.
'Poor old Britain, assailed by never ending rules and regulations: not to mention the tyranny of the PC vigilantes. Sorry I'm assailing you with obscurities!'
'No, I understand. Your democracy is feeding the popular will with all that it demands, instead of what it needs.'
'Good Lord! How do you know such things? And how have you mastered the English language so completely?'
'This isn't the first mission to your planet, but it's the first to declare itself. We've had ample time to study your customs.'
'Even so, you facility is remarkable. I think it's time to go upstairs to the flat. My wife will be waiting.'
*
CHAPTER TWO
The Captain was impressed and said so. Here he was alone with the Prime Minister and his wife and not another witness present. This was trust indeed and marked a man with faith in his perception.
Initial conversation centred on the families of the hosts and guest and was very much as if the Vicar had come round to supper. Eventually Shaw's curiosity could not be contained.
'Presiding over a Cabinet discussion on the Budget I find purgatorial.'
'Ah, you've got me on that word!'
'I've scored one at last!' Shaw chuckled while giving the meaning. 'How do you deal with the nightmare of taxation?' He questioned.
'You may find this difficult to imagine but we don't have taxation as such. We have rent collection centres and when there is a special need, donations are invited which often build up a reserve well above the immediate requirement.'
'But how do you pay for education and health services?'
'We have no government funded health or education service. There are centres for those unable to help themselves, but there the need is small.'
'But how...?' Shaw was baffled. 'The need for welfare funds to combat poverty! How...?'
'There may be simplicity. That is mostly by choice, but there is little poverty and those who are in poverty are mostly those who cannot help themselves.'
'I am totally baffled. You cannot be a primitive simplistic society, for people who can send heralds half way across the universe are the very opposite!' Shaw shook his head. 'How do you do it? Your citizens must be uncommonly advanced.'
'And you must have a powerful belief system,' Mrs Shaw interjected.
'Yes faith is often needed, but truth transcends all.'
To Mrs Shaw the gentle eyes of the visitor said it all, and she had no doubt that what he said was so.
The Prime Minster was reflective. This man was not a charlatan. He would bet his life on that. But what of war and strife: had they banished that? There had to be a snag somewhere!
'What about criminal activity? How do you deal with disruptive elements?' What about war?'
'Constant vigilance is the only answer and when it's spotted crime must never walk abroad unpunished.'
'And war?' Shaw pressed.
'War happens when a tyrant thinks he sees an easy victory. So prudence and vigilance are essential. Complacency, in this respect, is criminal!'
The Captain wasn't a dewy-eyed tree hugger, Shaw concluded quickly.
'I'm still puzzled by your system of collecting revenue,' he added.
The visitor smiled. 'Can I ask you a question?'
'Of course.'
'How valuable is the land on which your great financial city rests?'
'Unbelievably valuable!'
'Who collects the value?'
'The landlords.'
'And who creates this value?'
Deep in his memory Shaw trawled up a conversation he once had had with someone on the hustings. He had dismissed it then for he had seen no votes in it. Now the import of it all rushed back.
'Your question, who creates the rent? Everyone who works there: the whole community', he answered.
'As you say here, that would be a tidy sum!'
'Very tidy! I remember now, my experts told me that this idea was "old hat."'
'Old Hat?'
'That's another one!'
The Captain laughed
'They meant out of date.'
'Natural law is never out of date.'
'Oh dear, the academics won't like that. 'Natural' is out!'
'Tell them that Nature says it's - in!'
Shaw and his wife laughed heartily.
'This is a most enjoyable evening Prime Minister. Laughter is so healthy!'
'Captain, I know what the objectors will say. When collecting the rent, what about the twentieth floor?' Shaw continued.
'We have the same thing, but the twentieth floor is of no concern to the rent collecting service. They are only interested in the person or body who holds the title to the land area; for no matter how sophisticated, the building rests on land. In your case it would be the freehold owner. You even have a name for it: ground rent! We have long since rid ourselves of those lingering vestiges of land ownership but you still have leases, sub leases and so on. Such factors cause interim difficulties but they would soon settle down.'
'And ground rent funds the working of the state?'
'Yes, except for emergencies as already mentioned.'
'Captain, I find it difficult to credit. Welfare is such a massive burden!'
'When men's labour is free of tax it brings about a revolution and when those with enterprise have easy access to a business site, commerce mushrooms. People are working as free men. Believe me it makes a huge difference. The welfare burden will shrink. The education bill will shrink, and citizens at last will have the dignity of choosing their health care and their children's education. They'll be no longer in the receipt of charity or have the anxiety of cruel waiting lists. Charity breeds dependence, but give the people justice and they will rise to it.'
'Captain, this is all very well on the long term, or for yourselves who have had it in place perhaps for many decades, but we by necessity must proceed slowly. Immediate implementation would be a tyranny!'
'Having observed your system, it would take years to introduce on a significant scale. Yet it is the natural system. No other way can you avoid the basic cause of poverty in this age. The old manorial system that my ancestors once observed is past.'
Shaw was once more shocked. Had they been visiting Earth since the middle- ages? Who were these people? He had much more to learn.
'Clearly, Captain, yours' is a race of great achievement. Why then have you shown such continuing interest in our planet? For as you've just said you were observing us in the medieval period.'
'We owe you much for you have a genius when it comes to spiritual insight,' the Captain answered quietly. 'Even now, your enlightened ones preach the unity of spirit that unites us all. Yes, we learned much and we wish to show our gratitude.'
Shaw waited for the Captain to elaborate but he remained silent. Eventually it was Mrs Shaw who spoke.
'How do you intend to act, Sir?'
'We have no plans. We can respond to questions but that is all. As you say in your military circles, it's our rules of engagement.' The countenance of the visitor seemed even more benign.
'What questions do you think we should be asking?'
The Visitor laughed.
'You're not a politician for nothing, Mr Shaw.'
'I continue to be amazed at your facility with our language and the idiom: well that is really amazing.'
'Britain was my subject at what you would call university'
'Now Sir, what have we forgotten? What does this country need?'
'The centre, the core of certainty is being eroded. We have watched this disturbing trend with sadness.'
'This, and the fanatical counter trend burning in the Muslim states, concern me greatly, but every time I speak I'm shredded by the media'
'Shredded? - Yes, I get the meaning! Does the shredding worry you?'
'If it did I would be dead.'
'Keep speaking, Sir. You'll be planting seeds and they will grow. Britain is a fertile land.'
*
CHAPTER THREE
The House of Commons was packed. All the seats were occupied and there were many standing on the floor by the speaker's chair and by the entrance to the lobby. In the gallery the Lords were assembled. The buzz of conversation was feverish. Then suddenly a hush descended. The Prime Minister had arrived exactly on time.
'The Prime Minister,' the Speaker intoned and Bob Shaw rose to his feet.
'Mr Speaker, My Lords and Ladies and Honourable Members, this is indeed a momentous day and perhaps the biggest Television audience this place has ever drawn. So I hope you will behave yourselves!'
There was a ripple of obliging chuckles.
'We are indeed honoured by the presence of our guests and awed by their achievements in travelling from their distant planet. Now I must tell you that this is not the first time they have visited us. On other occasions they did not show themselves but this time they have. I must emphasise that at no time have they shown aggression or caused harm to this planet. Their interest has been in our customs and in our genius for spiritual and philosophic penetration, and for this they said they were eternally grateful. So I don't think that this is something the MOD need see as an emergency.'
An MP stood up and Shaw gave way.
'Who were the philosophers and spiritual leaders the Alien mentioned?'
'The captain of the visitors dined at Downing Street last evening. My good wife did the cooking and it was a most pleasant evening. Afterwards I accompanied him to his MOD quarters and on the journey he listed those that he had studied. Plato, the Johannine Gospel and the Brahmins of India. He was also much entertained by the writings of the Sufi master Rumi. He also named the Chinese Taoist master Chuang Tzu. I'm ashamed to say he knew much more than I. Now I'm sorry, we didn't manage to discuss the spiritual leaders.'
The MP didn't follow up and Shaw continued.
'We will be moving our guests to more appropriate accommodation soon and no doubt there will be an opportunity for more discussion. This is a short statement. Now I'm open to questions.'
'Is he a good Socialist, Prime Minister?'
Laughter followed the likeable MP's question.
'Better than the Honourable Gentleman! No taxes are collected!'
'From the rich, you mean!'
'No, from anybody!'
'Well if it helps the workers, I'm for it!'
'Good.'
'But where do they get the funds?' Another MP questioned.
'From the rental value.'
'Prime Minister, this is the land value theory. I've had certain people pestering me with this idea. It's primitive and impractical,' a further Member intervened with passion.
'Well the Honourable Member may wish to reflect how our visitors got here. That certainly wasn't primitive.'
'Freehold property is the foundation of the state!'
'Tell that to the young who can't afford a mortgage for a start-up home!'
That's another enemy he's made, the Chancellor thought sitting gnome-like at the PM's side.
The Foreign Secretary sat forward on his bench and looked across: a well-groomed man, whose naturally cultured ways were perfect for his role.
'Prime Minister did the Captain make any suggestions?'
'Venturing suggestions wasn't on his agenda, as it were. But he could answer questions. So I used an old political trick and asked him what he thought that I should ask!'
There were knowing smiles across the despatch box.
'And what did he say?' an opposition frontbencher asked.
'He was concerned at the erosion of core certainty, to use his words. It reminded me of Isaiah and I looked the passage up. This is it: Truth is fallen in the street and equity cannot enter. Your Prime Minister found it rather close to home.'
An agitated young man shot up on the opposite benches.
'This is Victorian pretension!'
'And what is your opinion. I must say when it takes modern academics weeks to decide that a video-nasty is nasty, I sometimes wonder what has happened to our common sense!'
'Censorship's a fossil! It's dead!' The young MP shot up his hands in exasperation.
'Order! Order!' The Speakers voice rang out. 'Will the Honourable Member control himself.'
The questions continued; curiosity questions in Shaw's opinion. Then and with deliberate measure the opposition leader rose and approached the despatch desk.
'May I congratulate the Rt. Hon. Gentleman on his handling of this momentous event. No one could have assured the Nation better than he. There is nothing to fear and we can only wish our visitors a happy sojourn with us. The Prime Minister has also suggested a prompt meeting with Her Majesty and this I support totally. And, Sir, may I thank you for quoting Isaiah. We need more of that.'
At that the opposition leader took his seat and the Prime Minster rose to thank him. He paused, amazed at his old antagonist's support, for it was real and from the heart. That was a most engaging thing about the House, for when it was necessary friendship and support often came from one's fiercest opponents.
'I am most grateful for the Rt. Hon. Gentleman's generous and substantial support. Indeed at such a time as this we are one House, one Nation united in welcoming our visitors from their distant planet.'
The Prime Minister sat down and the Speaker boomed the next business of the House.
After a brief word with the Chancellor, Shaw strolled out of the chamber with his friend the Foreign Secretary.
'Jim, I think you'd better meet these folk. After all you are the Foreign Secretary!'
*
After the first undignified interviews with the visitors, when they were accused of being frauds, Shaw determined to protect the nation's guests from further populist TV coverage. No doubt there'd be a hue and cry but the national interest, in that, the dignity of the Nation, was in question. His press officer wanted all sorts of photo opportunities, but Shaw was quite determined that the first photographs released would feature Her Majesty. She was the head of State.
He had procured an audience in the morning when he would submit his proposals. In the meantime he would see the visitors and discuss the detail and duration of their stay. Security, of course, was a major issue. There was always some sick soul anxious for the pale publicity of a headline.
*
Still slumped in his front bench seat, the Chancellor watched the PM leave the chamber. He was far from happy for in his eyes Shaw had acted like a stage struck fool. He should have sent the Aliens packing! Instead, he'd fawned and grovelled. Well Shaw would have to watch his back for there were many who were tired of his antics. Out of the corner of his eye he could see Samuel Burns slowly coming down the steps to the floor. Shaw had knocked him down and that was very foolish.
'Samuel,' he called. 'Let's walk out together.'
'Ah, George.'
'Samuel, a few friends are gathering at Number 11 to night. Why not join us?
'Delighted, George.'
*
CHAPTER FOUR
Shaw assumed that the Visitors would visit other countries. So in his eyes every moment counted, before they powered off to the States or the East or anywhere for that matter. He needed bright young men to follow up the Visitor's ideas. Men strong enough to stand against the massed ranks of the vested interest. The Chancellor, that monument to fossilised ability, would do nothing and the Education Minister was in the pocket of the academics. Dear God, he'd started off with all the usual good intentions. He'd picked the best men: another cabinet of 'all the talents'. They were the perfect team to set the nation back on course. Now, after barely a year, a major reshuffle seemed unavoidable. Indeed with the advent of the Visitors it was essential.
Toby Simpson, the name seemed to come from nowhere. Yes, he was the man and if the press thought they had an easy prey, he'd soon relieve them of their misconception. The idea propelled him out of bed. A busy day lay ahead.
*
It had been a stimulating dinner party, with substantial conversation. No gossiping, thank God. The Chateau bottled flowed but it didn't seem to have the least effect. And that blond angel that his sister had invited; she was special. A classics graduate with a name to match: Drusilla, the feminine of Drusus. His schoolboy Latin still glimmered faintly. He yawned stretched himself and checked the bedside clock again. It was almost 6 am. The phone rang. His hand stretched out sleepily.
'What is it this time?' he muttered.
'Yes Prime Minister!'
Suddenly Toby Simpson was very much awake.
*
Toby Simpson, a crinkly-haired, trim-figured man above average height, arrived at Number Ten at 9.30 as requested. Almost at once the Prime Minister greeted him.
'We'll talk in the car,' the PM said briefly.
Cromwell Road and the M4 approach were busy but not impossible. So sandwiched between two blue-flashing police cars, they reached the M4 quickly. By then the PM had just finished scanning the newspapers. 'At times, I do believe the public are informed by those who know the least! But there it is: part of our strange chaotic system that somehow seems to muddle through! Now, Toby.'
'Yes, Prime Minister'
'I would like you to oversee our dealings with these far off friends. I don't want their ideas buried by the vested interests of some puffed up minister's ego or that of any pressure group or body. You will have Cabinet rank and you'll have my backing, provided you're not some retro-Leninist!'
'You haven't seen my tee shirt, Sir!'
'We'll get on well, Toby. This morning I'll be introducing you to 'The Captain'. He is a remarkable man/being. I'm not sure how to put it. His remit is to answer questions but not to initiate an action. Seems a pretty non-aggressive stance. I trust them but, Toby, be your own man. It's the truth that matters not some hoary headed vested interest.'
'On the economic front, the freehold vested interest will no doubt be the worst. We had the first shot in the commons yesterday.'
'What are they afraid off? In the short term they wouldn't loose much. Even in the long term, anyway it would take years to implement. Too speedy a change would require a Stalin and you might be pleased to know that's not my style! And, Toby, I've got a feeling they'd be better off by far if this system were in place. For one thing, no death duties!'
'Have you any other thoughts or advise, Prime Minister?'
'Their views on education would be helpful. Some of our classrooms seem to be unmanageable free-for-alls, and any hint of punishment sends the PC lobby into orbit. We need ideas! There's 'drugs' of course, but they may not suffer from such self-destructive habits! Toby, the field's wide open.'
'You've given me quite a task, Prime Minister. Thanks for your trust.'
'Well, your name came into mind just as I was getting up. The gods directed, as it were! And by the way, we'll be meeting Her Majesty this afternoon. Now, Toby, here's another question. - Whereas the Queen is greatly loved and much respected, the wreckers, though unintentional in the main, do not understand the benefits of our constitutional monarchy. I need ammunition to defend our priceless heritage. The Crown is the focus of excellence and the final guardian of our freedoms. It stands for the values of the spirit and represents humanity in affairs of state. Here is the final hope of mercy and a sympathetic ear. A faded politician tarnished by the hurly burly of political life cannot do this. The monarchy is an awesome responsibility. If sometimes there are faults, we must remember the importance of the office. That we must protect.
'This tittle-tattle dominated media world makes the monarch's role extremely difficult. And here's another one; what about the media's role. Toby, ask whatever comes to mind for we need the wisdom of these people. Indeed, I fear our nation has forgotten much about the richness of its heritage.'
Purring discreetly the PM's Jaguar turned off the motorway at Junction 6 and headed for Windsor. Then bypassing the town it sped towards Winkfield. After a mile or so they slowed, turning into a rather unpretentious avenue. Once through a line of trees the scene changed dramatically. The Army were everywhere and before them was a quite substantial mansion. The security check was brief and on they went to park in front of the ornate entrance. HMG was doing the Visitors proud, Toby Simpson thought, but he made no comment.
Toby watched as the PM was warmly greeted by the Visitors leader.
'I watched your report to the House of Commons. You were very complimentary, Prime Minister.'
'Deservedly so, Captain. Now may I introduce you to Mr Toby Simpson MP? He's one of the lucky ones who have a safe seat. Have I caught you?' Shaw smiled.
'Not this time: I understand the term.'
'Toby here has just been given special responsibility for your welfare and comfort. And I can assure you that he'll ask you many questions. Though none will cross the borderline of indiscretion.'
'I think by now tea will be ready. You were, of course, expected.'
Simpson was amazed at the urbanity. It was exactly as the PM described. His eyes though had a strangely placid quality. Indeed all the visitors shared this feature. Peace was a message not confined to words alone but was in their very being.
Once in the inner hall, the PM suggested a meeting with the Queen.
'We would be greatly honoured,' the Captain responded.
'And a photograph perhaps, that would be given to the Press?'
'We have no objections.'
*
The Manor at Winkfield was three stories high, with a small windowed pilot story at the top. It also had a basement, suitable mostly for storage. It was red brick, well matured with age, with a creeper scaling one of the corners. The garden was substantial but the walled enclosure had gone. Only the outer wall was left, against which a number of fruit trees were arranged. There were a number of stone built office buildings; the gardeners and maintenance personnel used these and there was also ample garage space. Yes, Toby thought, HMG had pushed the boat out.
Simpson had been allocated a small suite at the top of the house and there was an office for his secretary on the ground floor. Clearly it was a living in job, but what a job. Toby knew he had been amazingly fortunate, but as the saying went, it wouldn't be all beer and skittles!
*
CHAPTER FIVE
Two days after the Prime Ministers first Commons report, a powerful article denouncing any proposal of 'an outdated and dangerous land levy' was published by a leading daily 'heavy'. Shaw had expected it the following day, but maybe that was being too cynical. The author, a leading professor of economics was a frequent adviser to the Treasury and, as such, a frequent guest at the Chancellor's table. The professor's views would carry weight and they were correct, but only if a substantial measure of the tax were instantly applied. No one was advocating anything so draconian and this was where the article was so frustratingly irresponsible.
That evening when he'd discussed rent collection with the Captain over supper, he had been convinced of the efficacy of the measure. It was simply natural and beyond the realm of theory. The trouble was that the economy had become horrendously complicated and this had made application of the measure difficult. So the initial rental charge could only be a modest percentage.
The lead story in the papers was the environment. Here the door was being brutally slammed after years of neglect. In fact environment concern was a ready tool for the envious to condemn the meanest luxury as extravagance. Of course, the horse had bolted years ago. What was the cause? As usual, experts jousted with the lances of their contrary opinions. If fact he had received the best advise from his own son. 'Dad, even if CO2 is not the main culprit, it would do no harm to cut it back, just in case!' Shaw sighed. It was time for some Prime Ministerial statement, but what could he say other than the usual platitudes? Of course! The Visitors, maybe they had an angle! With luck, maybe Toby had already asked them. He would deal with that tomorrow. To day was constituency day when he'd promised to meet the people at his 'Surgery'. He enjoyed that, but it didn't happen often nowadays and anyway, security spoiled it all. Being PM made sure of that.
*
Toby Simpson had spoken to the Captain on the question of climate change, and his questions were answered without the least hesitation. These upended most of Toby's fixed assumptions. But he remembered about the American Indians as a boy and how they viewed their land a sacred. The Captain took the same approach. Change would be a shallow thing and not take root until the Earth was viewed with due respect.
Normally Simpson would have considered such comments as naïve but coming from such a remarkable being he took them seriously. They had taken to having their conversations while strolling in the gardens, and during such times the Captain was forever admiring the amazing diversity of plants and insects.
'You live on a very beautiful planet, Toby,' the Captain had said. Simpson had suggested 'Toby' and the Captain had complied without a murmur. He, of course, was still 'The Captain'. Finally, after being silent for some time, he added. 'Reverence for Nature and the Earth are necessary. Without such reverence all your efforts will be weak and ineffectual for there'll be no heart in them.'
Toby could think of nothing more to say. It was ridiculous. Here he was with the most remarkable being he had ever met and he couldn't raise a question. Yet that busy creature in the mind would not give up. Round and round it went searching every alley. It was a fruitless, tedious exercise and at last he gave it up and let the beauty of the sunny day bring peace.
The Captain seemed to be absorbing his surroundings like a lover. Heavens, it was peaceful. What a difference from the frantic life that seemed to be his lot. Westminster was such a hot house with 'eager beavers' fighting for a foothold on the greasy pole. He was one of them, of course, one of the lucky ones - incredibly lucky having landed a safe seat and a Cabinet post before the age of thirty-three.
The peace was still there quietly fostering equanimity. At least ten minutes passed. Then a question came from nowhere, or so it seemed.
'How can we foster a sense of the sacred?'
'By praising the sacred,' the Captain returned without hesitation.
'I fear that I'd be laughed to scorn!'
'Knowing when to speak is 'half the battle' - I think that illustrates my meaning - and always speak from stillness.'
Normally Toby would have taken such advise with the usual pinch of salt but things were different in the Captain's company.
Simpson's mobile rang. He had forgotten to switch it to silent mode.
'Sorry, Captain.' He said putting the tiny instrument to his ear.
'Yes, Prime Minister. I'd be delighted, Sir. Good bye.'
'The PM - wants me to dine with him this evening.'
*
Nearing Heath Row on the M4 Toby's hands off car-phone rang. It was one of the PM's secretaries.
'Mr Simpson, the PM asks if you have a lady you would like to bring this evening?'
'Kim, tell him that I'll scan my address book!'
The secretary chuckled and the phone went dead.
Suddenly his neat organised world was shattered. His sister was always his 'safe bet' but she was never free on a Wednesday. And the others, nothing sparked. Then he remembered his sister's friend the classics Phd. He pulled onto the hard shoulder and punched in his sister's number after which he was off again.
'Lizzie Simpson.'
'Lizzie, I'm assuming you're not free tonight.'
'Toby, you assume correct'.
'There's a dinner at Number Ten and the PM has asked if I would like to bring a friend, which translated means: arrive with a partner! What about your friend with the Roman name?'
'Drusilla! You'll be lucky. They're queuing up for her!'
'Well sister, not every invitation is to dine at number ten.'
'Brother, that may enable you to swing it!'
He pulled over and took Drusilla's home and mobile numbers.
'Well my lady with the Roman name: jacta aleia est The die is cast.'
He punched the number.
*
CHAPTER SIX
Drusilla Cavendish-Browne certainly had the name, but she also had the looks to match. What was more, her mind was needle sharp. Truth was, she frightened most men, especially those who felt they had to prove themselves. So, contrary to most opinion she received few invitations and those she did she often felt quite painful for there was little that they shared in common except the physical and that without sincere affection was, in plain terms, crude. Lizzie's brother Toby though was different. His mind ranged wide and the political realities he described were fascinating. So when she received his phone call she made no secret of her satisfaction.
He was handsome in a plain sort of way and had the kind of crinkly hair that would be unaffected in a gale. He was going grey but Lizzie had told her that her father had been grey at thirty.
The sheer relief of finding a partner for the evening was Toby's overriding emotion. But when he collected Drusilla at her flat he was stunned. What a beautiful and graceful person, he marvelled. And she was dressed so well without the least concession to the scanty coverings worn by the fashionable. But then Lizzie's friends were mostly fairly civilized! He smiled. It was a good job the PC boys couldn't scan his thoughts!
*
The PM was at his fatherly best when greeting them at Number Ten.
'How graceful you look, my dear,' he said gently patting Drusilla's hand. 'Toby, where did you find this beautiful lady?'
'My sister's friend, Prime Minister.'
'You have a powerful ally in your sister, it would seem!'
For Drusilla, the rest of the introductions to Mrs Shaw, Sir James Huntington and his wife all seemed to swim together in friendly confusion.
Pleasantries and banter eased the moments prior to dinner, until unexpectedly the PM had a phone call. It had to be important, as he was not to be disturbed on such occasions.
'He never gets a moment to himself!' Mrs Shaw complained.
However, the PM was only briefly absent but he clearly was annoyed.
'There's been an attempt to breach the outer ring at Winkfield. The Press, of course, are sitting on the door step, so no doubt it will be all over the papers.'
'Who are the culprits Sir?'
'The Press, will tell us in the morning!' Shaw returned cynically. 'There's more! Someone's had a scan of the early editions and apparently one of the chattering class heavies has run a cover story on the cost of housing and protecting our outer space Visitors. Can you think of anything so petty, crass and downright mean? They are our guests for heavens sake!'
'Don't let them spoil our dinner, dear!' Mrs Shaw said lightly.
Shaw laughed.
'Now you know the secret of my so-called unflappable image.'
The PM laughed again.
Drusilla was amazed, but gratified, for this was Downing Street, the Prime Minister was host, yet it was all so human, so ordinary. The conversation, though, wasn't ordinary and the PM's asides were the stuff of history. Toby held centre stage from time to time when he described his dealings with the Visitors. They all had two fields of expertise so they could double up, as it were, in times of illness. Their second in command was the medical man, but the Captain was also qualified. It was all fascinating and it was first hand stuff. She was privileged and she knew it, but she also knew that she'd been checked out, as they said, for Toby had had to give Downing Street prior notice of her name and details.
'Why did they choose Britain?' She suddenly asked. Indeed it was her first question.
'Over to you Toby.' The PM responded.
'Yes, I asked the same question a day or so ago. Apparently they started watching us about the time of Marlborough, and I know they visited our island during the time of the Elder Pitt. Again they were present when the secret ballot was introduced, that is 1870, if my memory's right. The First World War greatly saddened them, for I think they'd become rather attached to our story. They admire greatly our constitutional monarchy, but feel we don't appreciate the fortune we possess.'
Toby paused and looked round the table.
'They don't criticize, they don't make suggestions, but when we ask questions they answer and they give advise. Now I really haven't answered Drusilla's question. Why are they not in America, or Russia, or the East for that matter? This was the nature of the question that I put. The Captain said we were a tolerant country and for many years a sanctuary of freedom. We were a lawful people and the level of corruption was still low. But we must be vigilant. We must not let our freedoms be corrupted by licence, and in our tolerance we must not give a home to arrogant intolerance. Here he was very strong indeed. We must defend our freedoms from the tyranny of equality groups and PC lobbies which often have the backing of the law.'
Again he paused but no one interrupted him.
'The US, Russia, China, India and the Islamic world they view as definite interest groups whereas we, despite our links with Europe, retain a certain independence. In their opinion we are in some ways friends to all. So they see their stay on British soil as being neutral.'
'An interesting analysis, but I fear it would be judged a rather rosy picture: certainly by our friends across the channel who see us as a US poodle,' the PM said smiling wryly.
'Prime Minister, I think we can expect requests from various governments for an audience with the Visitors,' the Foreign Secretary ventured.
'I sense a security nightmare and that would spoil the sweet. We're having a good old English pudding, you'll be pleased to hear.'
*
Mrs Shaw knew the signs. Her husband wanted some time with the men. So after the sweet she engineered a 'Cook's Tour' as she called it, which introduced Drusilla to the Downing Street warren: her pet name for the public rooms.
Once alone with the men the PM listed his concerns.
'I'm pestered by the scientists demanding access to the Visitors. Those on the MOD pay role are the most persistent. The technical wizardry that the Visitors have would give our forces a massive advantage. This they stress repeatedly. Even the Defence Secretary is playing their tune. Have they never heard of the arms race? And if we had an advantage how long do they think we'd keep it? Sometimes I think the human race should be anaesthetized!'
Toby Simpson just managed to keep a straight face.
'Sir, I think the Visitors are well able to look after themselves.'
'That's my hope too, but you'd better confirm it and also warn them of the dangers. Where's their space craft?'
Toby pointed upwards.
'It's quietly orbiting. They can land it anytime they want. To them it's train set stuff!'
The PM nodded, looking across at the Foreign Secretary.
'What do you think, Jim?'
'Well, PM, I hate to say it, but I hope their stay is short!'
'Why, Jim?'
'I don't fear them. The human lust for power is what I fear. The prize is glittering and there'll be many overwhelmed by desire. I would substantially upgrade security.'
'Toby,' the PM prompted, expecting a response.
'I'll speak to the Captain. I think it best to tell him of our fears.'
'Agreed,' Shaw replied briefly.
Just then the phone rang.
'That'll be Winkfield, I suspect,' Shaw said picking up the phone.
'Yes put him on...Thanks for getting back Brigadier...you disarmed him...I see, they did...remarkable...yes I agree, quite remarkable...Tell the press that Mr Simpson will make a statement in the morning and thanks again for keeping me informed. Sorry Toby!' The PM smiled knowingly as he replaced the phone. 'Apparently some nutter, recently resident at one of Her Majesty's prisons, slipped through the Army's ring of guards but was immobilised by one of the Visitors. Apparently the nutter aimed to purge the world of the alien devils! Alas, not unfamiliar rhetoric.'
'PM, tomorrow I have a list of ambassadors to see. The dignity and prestige of the major nations demand access, and all want to be first!'
'Well the US should be first and Russia next after that the FO can do their diplomatic best. They're rather good at that.'
'The anti-US lobby wont like that!'
'That is boringly predictable. Jim, just make it clear that nobody dictates except the wishes of the Visitors and those of HMG. And, Jim, you really ought to visit Winkfield, indeed tomorrow if you can.'
'It would need to be very early!'
'The Captain's always out and about well before six: there would be no problem. Oh, Prime Minister, would it be appropriate for Drusilla and my sister to meet the Captain? Their views would be interesting and of course, they wouldn't be running to the Press!'
'An excellent idea! Ladies can be very perceptive. Now gentlemen we have a busy day tomorrow so after tea and coffee we ought to shut the shop. I can hear my wife, which means the ladies are returning right on cue. My wife is rather good at these diplomatic interludes!' He chuckled lightly.
*
CHAPTER SEVEN
It was late spring and the Winkfield morning air was fresh. The sky was cloudless and the Sun was warm. The weather was perfect.
'What a beautiful morning Captain,' Simpson called out when the leader of the Visitors drew close.
'Wonderful Toby! I've just walked round the grounds and I must reiterate my thanks to your government. This is a most delightful setting.'
Even after two days of close contact, Toby found the Visitor's fluency amazing. Sir James though, was flabbergasted!
'Captain, meet Sir James Huntington, our Foreign Secretary.'
The handshakes were firm and warm.
'The staff have prepared some refreshments. They'll expect us to appear, so we had best go inside.' The Visitor's leader smiled in an urbane knowing way. Huntington could hardly believe it.
After refreshments they got down to business but for the Visitor there was no change in the mode of his behaviour. Huntington was fascinated. The Visitor was behaving in the manner of a Himalayan Guru who never seemed to be without a certain sense of presence. He had read about such beings often but here was evidence before his eyes.
'Sir, have you read much concerning the sages of that populous country India?'
'You question well, Sir James, for their wisdom is profound.'
'Would you be interested if I sent some of my book collection?'
'Most interested!'
'I'm sorry to change the subject but there are certain practical matters concerning those who are clamouring to see you. Later today I shall be meeting the United States Ambassador followed closely by the Russian and then the Chinese and Japanese Ambassadors. All want to see you Sir, and all believe they should be first or at least amongst the first! The question is, do you want to see them and if so, how many in one day?'
'If they want to see me, I will meet them. The rest I leave to you.'
'The Prime Minister I know is anxious that you should not in any way be treated as a fairground curiosity!'
The Captain glanced at Simpson.
'That's another one!' Toby chuckled. 'The PM means a circus attraction, Sir.'
The Visitor laughed.
'The Prime Minister's concern is much appreciated, but we will leave the matter entirely to you.'
'You may receive rather pressing invitations, Captain,' Huntington emphasised.
'I understand, Sir James. However, with your permission we would prefer to remain in this idyllic setting. By visiting one we would need to visit the other and so on. By staying 'put', as you would say, we will avoid too pointed an offence. You have a phrase for it: damage limitation!'
Toby Simpson burst out laughing and Huntington was quick to follow.
'Captain, we're looking for skills like yours at the Foreign Office!' Sir James reacted and they laughed again.
'I feel the Captain would find it rather far to commute to the office!' Toby interjected.
Laughter again erupted.
'Sir, your skills are awesome and yesterday you amply demonstrated this when you immobilised the deranged intruder.' Toby looked straight at the Visitor before continuing. 'Yet we must be cautious for there may be forces willing to sacrifice many lives to gain some access to your knowledge. Kidnap cannot be dismissed! I'm afraid the Army presence will be much more obvious as we're increasing numbers.'
'We have the ability to detect negative forces even at a distance. This is useful but we would be foolish to claim invulnerability.'
'That's another job for you, Captain: security at Windsor!' Sir James quipped.
'On Her Majesty's staff: that would be an honour!' The Visitor smiled broadly. 'Sir James, if I apply your well known law of supply and demand, I should be pressing for a rise in salary!'
With the humour there arose a genuine affection, indeed a tangible unity.
'Captain, how do you view the institution of the Monarchy?' Toby questioned. 'It's something I've been meaning to ask you for some time.'
'With great respect, for the Monarchy stands for the unchanging, and just as the universal Spirit cares for all so the Monarch loves and cares for all the subjects of the realm. The role of Monarch is a service and being sovereign, personal aggrandisement is irrelevant.'
'I agree, Captain, but many would say that the Monarchy is hopelessly out of date and what's more undemocratic. Again, the spiritual dimension would be treated with derision.'
'To ignore the spiritual is to ignore the wellspring of our very being. Such an attitude is unfortunate. Your fair-minded belief in democracy is commendable but democracy on its own leads to confusion and a kind of anarchy.
'The Monarchy, the judiciary, and the spiritual leaders should be seen as the protectors of the people. This is the true function of aristocracy. The rich are merely rich, but when they use their riches in the service of the state, then perhaps, they could be named aristocrats!' The Captain's smile was almost mischievous.
'This conversation is so rich that I'm most reluctant to depart but duty calls for I cannot keep the Ambassadors waiting. I will send those books of the Indian sages as promised.'
*
Simpson and the Captain walked with Huntington to his car and then proceed round the grounds.
'Captain, the media are strident in their accusations of a cover up. The Government, they say, are working closely with the Aliens but to what purpose? Nobody knows they say. However 'sources close to the government' are quoted daily. Who dreams up this fiction is a wonder. Again foreign governments maintain that we, the Brits, have cornered the knowledge for ourselves and because of this the diplomatic knives are out. We thought we had laid all this to rest but we were naïve. For it's much too big a story. Every newspaper on the planet has it on their leader page. Have you any suggestions?'
'Toby, it is understandable that the nations are sceptical. They will find it difficult to believe that the technical knowledge needed for our journey and defence has not been acquired, at least in part, by you. We ourselves were surprised that you made no overtures. But of, course, we are forbidden to give away such secrets because of their military use potential.
'Your press is full of speculation on the manner of our travel and arms technology, but your honourable Prime Minister made no mention of it, none at all!'
'He has no wish to initiate an arms race, for that is what he feels would happen. Anyway, he didn't think you would be foolish enough to pass your knowledge over,' Toby explained.
'And he is right; even so he has resisted obvious temptations for we are lodgers, as you say, and are imposing on your hospitality. Some gift or token in acknowledgement of your kindness is properly due.'
'I'm sure the PM would accept a box of chocolates!'
The Captain exploded with laughter.
'Humour is so honest and refreshing. Toby, perhaps it's time for another TV appearance. Maybe I can explain myself better and calm this endless speculation.'
'It might take the kettle off the boil, but I fear that speculation will continue.'
'"Kettle off the boil?" - yes, I get it! Very good.'
*
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