Special Operations (Badge of Honor 2)

“The last time we dealt with Quakertown, they were a real pain in the ass, Inspector,” Quaire said, finally. “Resented our intrusion into their business. But I know a Trooper Captain in Harrisburg….”

Wohl considered that a moment.

“Let’s save him until we need him, Henry,” he said. “Maybe we’ll be lucky this time.”

“Call me if you think I can help,” Quaire said.

“Thanks very much, Henry,” Wohl said. “I’ll keep you advised.”

“Good luck,” Quaire said, and hung up.

Wohl looked up at Washington.

“I’ll get up there just as fast as I can,” Washington said. “I’m wondering if I need Tony up there, too.”

“Whatever you think,” Wohl said.

“Would it be all right if I took the kid with me?” Washington said.

It took Wohl a moment to take his meaning.

“Payne, you mean? Sure. Whatever you need.”

“It’s in the sticks,” Washington explained. “He might be useful to use the phone….”

“You can have whatever you want,” Wohl said. “You want a Highway car to go with you?”

“No, the kid ought to be enough,” Washington said. “Highway and the Troopers have never been in love. Would you get in touch with Tony and tell him, and let him decide whether he wants to go up there, too?”

“Done.”

“Maybe I can get a description of this sonofabitch anyway,” Washington said. “Or the van.”

“I was afraid we’d get something like this,” Wohl said.

“It’s not like Christmas finally coming is it?” Washington said, and walked out of Wohl’s office.

Matt Payne was sitting at an ancient, lopsided table against the wall beside Sergeant Ed Frizell’s desk, typing forms on a battered Underwood typewriter.

“Come on with me, Payne,” Washington said.

Matt looked at him in surprise, and so did Sergeant Ed Frizell.

“Where’s he going with you?” Frizell said.

“He’s going with me, all right?” Washington said, and took Matt’s arm and propelled him toward the door.

“I need him here,” Frizell protested.

“Tell Wohl your problem,” Washington said, and followed Matt outside.

“You know Route 611? To Doylestown, and then up along the river to Easton?” Washington asked.

“Yes, sir,” Matt said.

“You drive,” Washington said.

Matt got behind the wheel.