The woman was clearly a little baffled but didnt miss a beat. With a thin smile, she said: That would be Mr. ColemanSam Coleman. Hes owned and operated the business for over twenty-five years. And, because hes a creature of habit, he is indeed in his office right now. Can I tell him whos asking for him?

Were with the FBI, DeMarco said. We just need to see if he can help us out with finding some information about someone who used to work here.

Oh, I see. Well, right this way. Im sure hed be happy to help.

The lady led them through the store, one display after another until they came to the back. She led them back behind the large counter and down a small hallway. One large room occupied most of the right side of the hall, an office where a slightly overweight older man sat behind a desk. He was partially hidden by an ancient-looking Dell desktop monitor.

Mr. Coleman? the cheerful lady said. Youve got some visitors.

The older man looked away from the computer and gave them a pleasant smile. Kate guessed him to be closing in on seventy. He had puffy cheeks and a thin white beard that reminded her a bit of her own grandfather.

And who can I help? he asked, smiling.

The floor saleslady took her leave, heading back out toward the counter. Kate and DeMarco stepped in and underwent their usual round of introductions.

FBI? Coleman asked. My goodness, whatever for?

We were hoping to get some information on a man who worked here nearly twenty years ago. He and his wife moved away from Waynesboro to Deton, Virginia. We need to find information on their lives previous to the move.

Coleman nodded his head in the direction of an old filing cabinet that sat tucked away in the corner. With a grunt, he got to his feet and walked over to it.

Weve been open for twenty-eight years, he said. And we pride ourselves with our employee turnover rate. Very few people have ever quit. I think in total, weve had only twenty-two different people work here for us, and that includes the craftsmen. Who is it youre looking for?

Alvin Fuller.

Oh yes, I remember Alvin, Coleman said, opening up one of the cabinets and fishing through it. A nice enough man, but I really dont think he was ever truly happy here.

What do you remember about him? DeMarco asked.

Well, he was always good for a joke. He wasnt like a clown or anything, but he was always trying to make people laugh. He selected a file, took it out, and handed it to Kate. He was a good man. He was a young guy when he was here. Got the job right after he and his wife got married, I believe.