Sheriff Fitzgerald hardly gave Dean enough time to exit his vehicle before tearing off up the street in the direction of the mountain road. But his trip was of short duration. Two blocks away, the patrol car struck a van backing out from its diagonal parking space in front of the toy store. By the time Dean strolled by a few moments later, red-faced Fitzgerald was getting an ear full from a half dozen tourists and an elderly local, known for his unwavering opinions and surly disposition. The poor owner of the crumpled van sobbed over her accordioned quarter panel, her pocket dog howling in accompaniment. Dean gave the tableau a wide berth as he continued back to Bird Song, whistling the entire trip.

"What will Fitzgerald do?" was Cynthia first reaction when Dean told her of Lydia's conversation with her boss.

"It's hard to tell. I'm a witness in his car and the state guys were in Lydia's vehicle. He knows radio contact should have been made when Billy died. And he knows we suspect he may have chased Billy to his death. But if he planted a bottle in Billy's vehicle after the accident, it's his word against mine the alcohol wasn't there at the time of the accident. There's not enough to charge him with anything, but I have to give Lydia credit; she set him up like a bowling alley. He was furious and plowing into that tourist isn't going to improve his temperament. I'd guess he'll think twice now before intimidating Ms. Lydia Larkin!"

Cynthia shook her head. "He's a very vindictive man. I can't say I like Lydia very much but I'd hate to see him hurt her."

"I'm beginning to think we might be underestimating deputy Larkin. I think the best course of action in this instance is inaction-let this business play itself out, at least for the time being."

Advertisement..

A phone call interrupted further discussion. Cynthia answered but quickly motioned for Dean to pick up the extension. By the time he was on line, introductions were over and a male voice was discussing the search for Patsy Boyd and Martha.

"A Chicago cop was the one who first spotted it," the voice said. "He called in to confirm but then lost the vehicle in traffic. About ten minutes later, he spotted it again and followed. There were definitely two people in the car but he said one was a man."

"And a girl?" Cynthia asked anxiously.

"No. Sorry. The woman was driving and the guy was the passenger. He was a big black guy-that was the only description."

"Did they get them?" Dean asked.




Most Popular