I explained to Detective Jackson that my wife and a friend's child were out walking our dog as I frantically dialed Betsy's cell phone. When both our home phone and Betsy's cell went to voice message I panicked.
"You can't believe what this guy has done to his victims!" I said as I moved to leave.
While my area was outside his usual jurisdiction, Detective Jackson sent a car out toward Surry to see if they could spot my wife and Molly. I left the building for home.
"If they're not there, call me back," Jackson said. Whether it was the panic in my voice or my description of the facts, Jackson was beginning to realize the seriousness of what might be happening in his jurisdiction.
There was a fender bender in the town square that delayed me but I wasted little time racing up the Surry road. My high speed was spotted by a patrol car coming in the opposite direction. He immediately turned on his lights and made a quick U turn. I obediently pulled to the side of the road.
I explained the situation briefly and the patrolman recognized I was the object of the call he'd just received from Jackson. Thankfully, he'd spotted my family and given them a ride home!
I was relieved beyond belief and nearly in tears. I thanked him and drove the last few miles to my house, more sedately than earlier.
"Bumpus and I got to ride in the back cage of the police car," Molly said as they met me in the driveway.
"It was him, wasn't it?" Betsy said as I hugged them both.
"Yes," I answered. "He's checked out of the campground. I know it's him; he was riding around on his electric bike. Let's hope he's left the area. Jackson put out the word on the vehicle description and plate number. He didn't get that much of a head start. There's a good chance they'll spot him."
"I didn't know what to think when that police car rolled up with its lights blazing. I was sure something had happened to you." We both managed a smile at our mutual concern.
"I was a wreck when you didn't answer the phone. I couldn't imagine you'd take that long for a dog walk."
"Bumpus got loose when something made a noise in the woods. We must have taken a half hour trying to coax him back."
Molly wanted to fix supper on her own which both Betsy and I were thankful to let happen. There were a half dozen messages from both Julie and Howie from California but in view of our frenzied day, decided to let them simmer until after a much relished glass or two of wine and Molly's carefully grilled hot dogs and cheese bread. The weather had turned sultry but there was a cool breeze out on the patio by the barbecue. We watched as a Rufus Hummingbird fought off a Ruby Throated for territory. The fascination little visitors were a rare in our neck of the woods.