Art Theft ’63

By James B. Revell

The kids sat in the bus in silence. Puzzled glances were exchanged, while the unhappy Museum Director stood at the front, flanked by our teachers.

“These tesserae have lain undisturbed for over 1,700 years. Someone has taken a souvenir from the ‘Gladiators’ mosaic and I want it back.”

Mr. Jones, our history teacher, surveyed the kids’ faces for any signs of guilt. Long seconds ticked by, but there were no clues…

Fifty-five years on, I turn the little piece of agate over in my hand, full of regret.

I put it back in the plastic 1960’s wallet where I’d rediscovered it.