René tells the TV audience that it is now September 13, 1943, and two years have passed since the last time (the last episode of series seven). Furthermore, he informs the audience that the two British airmen have finally escaped back to England, and captain Bertorelli has departed, following the Italian withdrawal from the war. Thirdly, the war is going badly for the Germans. For once, all is calm in René's world. * Note: In this episode, Von Smallhausen's first name is revealed to be Engelbert.