In Washington, in London, in Berlin, very different men confront a future they distrust and despise. In the years since the end of the Cold War, true power seems to have shifted from their nations' natural leaders to a gaggle of irresponsible journalists and self- seeking politicians, cynically manipulating news and public opinion to their own ends. These men have not forgotten the lessons of five decades of clandestine struggle. And when a long-dead spy's secrets resurface, they see an opportunity. But can any man, no matter how well-meaning, seize the reigns of power without endangering the very way of life he seeks to protect?