The  Archaeologists
(1969)

(The following is the opening of the first chapter of an extremely well-written "novelette" by A. Allen of 3A)

Professor Andrew Hurst was a tolerant man, but the merciless scorching of the Italian sun was trying on his nerves. His only protection was a yellow straw hat, and some flimsy cotton garments. The open Roman forum provided sparse shelter. Only the scaly lizard, darting between crumbling marble pillars and wide majestic arches found safety from the heat in the short shadows.

The Professor was a renowned British archaeologist, and was at present investigating the remains of a long lost Roman "battling-house", hidden from civilization for centuries by another marble structure. Assisting him in his endless but rewarding work was his sister. Claire, a woman of equal fame. She was as devoted to her work as Andrew, and together they had operated in perfect harmony for many years, forming an unrivalled partnership in their field

Doctor Irving, a distinguished member from the "British Society for Roman Remains and History" had joined them a week agao on this project, and was optimistic in the hope of uncovering a considerable find of ancient Roman culture, including literature recorded on parchment, everyday utensils, and gold or silver ornaments.

The Professor summoned his associates addressing them in a deep masterly

voice.

"We have an exhausting day before us, and although the difficulties and problems that still remain to be encountered are by no means insurmountable, they are of considerable depth."

The Professor was a competent man, sociable in his ways, and although his figure was not impressive, he possessed the ability to exercise complete diplomacy in all matters. He was, of course, not faultless. He had a nervous habit of stroking a short gingery beard that softened the sharp features of his face and high forehead.

Thus, as the industrious members of the "treasure team" dispersed to turn their cog of the machinery, the Professor grasped a small towel in his perspiring hands, and joined his associates in their work, for he was not one to issue orders and then rest in leisure for the remainer of the day.

"We are fortunate to discover these baths on a site that has already been exploited to such a great extent, remarked Claire.

"Yes indeed!" replied the Professor. "Who would have thought that any other Roman Ruin could have lain untouched from the instructive curiosity of the archaeologist's trowel! This is certainly a jackpot quite unexpected"

"Worth celebrating with a bottle of "Frascati" wine by any standards!"" put in Irving. "Let us hope that the Baths are just part of a larger treasure," he continued. "I should be quite delighted if that were the case!"

Doctor Irving was a man of enthuiasm and optimism. He was an adaptable man of resourceful character, the sort of person who would be likely to survive in a wilderness if the situation would ever arise. He attained a height of five feet eight inches, although he appeared to exceed this, probably due to his slim body. His rusty brown hair was brushed well back with a neat parting, and his perceptive brown eyes never failed to portray the keenness and activity of his mind.

In some aspects, he resembled the Professor, who, assisted by two of his team, was now concerned with examining an intricate and detailed mosaic. inlaid on what was originally the base of the baths. Considering the relentless and eternal forces of time and nature, this exquisite work of Roman Culture had survived remarkably well. It had been discovered the previous day, and the Professor, wishing to observe its fullest beauty, had revived it to its present and more acceptable state by manual and chemical methods, for he was always eager to appreciate the skill of man. The mosaic retained his interest until midday. 

A ALLEN, 3A