Howie shook his head. "He was going too fast. Sometimes with an automobile, I can sort-of get inside, if it doesn't move off too fast. But with a bike there's nothing I can attach to."
"At least we know it's the same guy," I said, "for whatever that's worth."
"Maybe I can trace his electric bike," Betsy said. "I didn't know they made such a thing. There can't be too many." She moved to her computer.
"It had a small size battery pack on the back," Howie offered, "not as large as a car battery."
"Could you tell how badly he was hurt?" I asked.
"There was blood running down his pant leg but he ran on his leg so it couldn't have been too bad. I guess he'd need a hospital."
"Mr. Cooms didn't involve the police so I don't know how we'd check the area clinics or doctors. He'd have some explaining to do about a bullet wound."
Quinn, who'd been silent during our exchange, spoke up, "Maybe Daniel Brennan can pull in some favors."
I tried to think how I'd make such a request without getting Merrill Cooms' right hand man in trouble. The situation called for extreme measures. I decide being truthful was the best approach. I felt I could trust Brennan's good judgment. After all, we were after a villain who had multiple killings to his credit.
"Hi, Dan . . ." I said, but he broke in in mid-sentence.
"How're you doing, Tommy? You ready to do some fishing? I hear they're jumping into the boat up north. When are you and the missus come up?"
"Soon as I can get away," I answered, hoping I wasn't stammering. "What else are you doing to fill in all your spare time?"
"A little golf, but that just frustrates me and cost money. Fishing is relaxing and my boat's paid for . . ." There was a crackle on the line. "Listen, Tommy. The battery in this cell is about gone. Here, call me back on this land line." He gave a number."
Martha came in with baby Clair looking as if she'd gotten over what ailed her. Betsy filled mother in on the recent happenings while I placed the second call to Brennan. He answered immediately. "The Feds have got me wrapped up like a mummies bandages. I'm under surveillance and my secure lines might not be so secure anymore. This is phone is a throw away but I'm not even sure how good it is." He blurted out this information after the very first ring.
"Are we in trouble?"
"Not yet, but if they subpoena me, I'll have no choice but to admit I've talked with you."