Chapter 31

“We haven’t, either,” Carl said.

“The rush should be over at Mrs. Wilkes’,” Gary said.

“You mean the famous boarding house that serves meals family style?” I said.

“Yes.”

“I’ve heard about that place,” I said. “Lead us there, and the JSO will treat.”

“You’ve got it,” he said.

We caravanned to the famous eating establishment and spent a pleasant hour eating Southern dishes served family style. Carl and I got a little better acquainted with the guys from Savannah, which couldn’t hurt—you never knew when contacts would prove helpful in the future. Captain Nichols and his detective went their separate ways, and Jim drove us back to the airport. They walked us to the plane, and while Mike got things ready for takeoff, I said, “Remember, Carl, you absolutely must look surprised Tuesday afternoon when I call the team into my office to give them the news.”

“Don’t worry about that, boss, oops, I mean, Captain,” he said. “I can do that.”