Let's get you on the bus. I was admitted, checked over pretty thoroughly, and given a small shot that knocked me out for 11 hours. When I woke, some kind of alarm went off, and a pair of nurses and a doctor came in immediately. They put me through a set of small physical and mental exercises and declared me fit. How soon can I get out of here?
I asked. The doctor grinned. In a hurry? The kitchen is featuring meatloaf tonight, and I know you don't want to miss that. Seriously, we'll check you again in 5 more hours, and unless something unforeseen comes to light, you can leave then.
The nurse stayed behind. Do you feel up to visitors? Who knows I'm here? I asked. Everybody in the county, and probably the state.
A burned-down house with four dead bodies tends to make the news. Hal, the deputy, three guys from the SBI, and two guys who won't say but have Fed written all over them, and your family. I might as well get it over with. Send in the cops first. Hal made the introductions.
One homicide investigator and two arson experts from the state, and two Homeland Security special agents. The state boys started the ball rolling. First, let us convey our condolences to your wife. I know this is hard, but do you feel up to talking? Sure, but I don't know what to tell you.
I left the day before yesterday with a kiss from my wife and a nice house, and I came home to find my home burned to the ground with her in it. I probably got more questions for you than you do for me. Let's start with your timeline. I understand you have a business that requires you to travel from time to time, correct? He asked.
I gave them the Reader's Digest explanation of my business, and that travel was required two or three times a month. But most of my business was local, and I worked from home, traveling as little as half a mile to 30 miles for clients. That was my whole business. You couldn't come to me, so I came to you for a very good rate. I'm assuming you can verify your whereabouts?
He asked. I gave them the number of the farmer I'd worked for. I also gave them the numbers for the motel, as well as the name of the diner I'd eaten at. They wanted more detail. How am I supposed to do that?