“I only arrived in Baghdad yesterday. I haven’t had a chance to examine Michaels business relations or obligations. But it is my intention to see that any arrangements he made or debts he owed will be honored. I also expect that any debts owed to him will also be honored. Once things are settled up, I will close his operations.”

Silence hung in the air like the cigar smoke. Glances were exchanged, and Ulinov finally broke the silence.

“I want to understand this clearly.” He said in a heavy Russian accent. “You will honor his obligations?”

“To the best of my ability, yes” I replied.

“Well we couldn’t ask for more, could we,” Jadger said nervously.

“Thank you Mr. Talman,” said Ulinov. “I would like to discuss this further with you, but my presence is required elsewhere tonight.” He rose and nodded to the others and left. Each of the participants in the meeting finished their drinks and took their leave.

I wasn’t certain what I had just agreed to. But I was pretty sure there was more going on than I knew.