"Stranded U.S. Troops Decoy for Japs" — they'll be allowed to stay in the Solomons as decoys then annihilated after a few supply convoys are attacked. In other words, the Japanese can't oust them. Or they're planning a sneak attack.

Col. Katsuya is a regular at the Astoria; friendly, chatty, and even slips Schaer a pack of Chesterfields sometimes. Schaer also knows Dr. Julio Luz, an alleged Filipino quisling. Luz once told Schaer the Japanese are very strict in Fort Santiago but also very just. He surprised Schaer by giving him his telephone numbers at Fort Santiago, promising he could get Schaer out within 12 hours should he be taken in. Said Hans Menzi was in on "grave charges."