Lexington Park, Maryland, Monday…

"Yeah, I wondered about that. If it's so experimental, isn't it risky to have it plugged into your head?"

"Well, it's not attached to my brain, you know. It picks up the subvocalized commands and I can hear things back from the computer. Someday they'll have video too. They got the bandwidth limitation licked a long time ago, though the optical nerve connection is tricky. Those with the new artificial eyes would have no problem. They're working on that up at MIT and other places. Real soon now for real eyes, I bet."

"Enjoy your toys. As for GeeBee, I think I'd better send the request. He might get spooked if he receives a request from a stranger, even if it's in my name. He knows I move in unsavory company sometimes."

"I'm not unsavory, am I?"

"Uncouth and unsavory. But stow it. We need to talk to Bob. Is there anyplace nearby to where he hangs out that could be taken for our destination?"

"There's a Good Nites Motel just a hundred yards beyond the trestle. We could be going for a romantic afternoon."

Jay laughed. It didn't seem to hurt his feelings. She then decided to play it straight.

"Can we walk back to the trestle without being seen from there?"

"There's a big stand of trees between the trestle and the motel. It should be possible. You really think we're in danger?"