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                                    The Intrigue

Before we go any further, I must request that this conversation be kept strictly confidential.  You're not to speak of this to anyone, other than your husband, of course."

Hudgins had said they didn't want to alarm her, and she hadn't been alarmed.  Until now.  "All right."  She gave a little laugh; half in nervousness.  The other half was in appreciation of the absolute absurdity.  "But, frankly, I can't think of anyone I'd even tell."

Tom Hudgins glanced quickly at Craven, then back at her.  "I know what you mean, but we've found that there is always that one person we talk to so much and trust so completely that we tell them anything that happens without even thinking.  It's only natural.  In this case, however, we can't afford to let that happen.  I hope you understand."  Hudgins said it smoothly.

"Yes, I do.  I won't say a word to anyone."

"Fine.  I won't belabor it.  Just remember, it's important."  He took a second to refer to notes.  "There are two things we need to cover, here.  First, as a matter of availing you and your children of protective services, we have already initiated a telephone surveillance on your home phone, with, of course, your husband's knowledge and consent.  That line access gives us a time benefit in tracing the location of 'unfriendly' calls."

"Threatening phone calls?"

Tom Hudgins nodded.  "There have been phone calls of that nature coming into your husband's office.  Have you received any?"

"Well, there were some calls several months ago.  I don't know if they were threatening.  The phone would ring, but the person wouldn't speak."

Hudgins looked interested in what she had to say.  "Has that been it?  Does anything else come to mind?"  He seemed warmer now; more concerned.

The nice man wanted to know if she'd had some not so nice calls.  The "You'll be sorry" calls.  She supposed they could be connected to the Stevens case.  But, how could she be sure?

"Mrs. Whitley, I explained our need for confidentiality, but, this privacy works both ways.