Mr. Eichenberger said, "Ms. Millburn, let me make something clear. I've been here since the mid-sixties. As a matter of fact, I'm retiring in May. I came to the job when I was forty and I've enjoyed every minute of it. I don't mean to brag, but I remember just about every student who's come through those doors. I make it my priority to know who they are and what they're about. That's what these kids need – not a buddy or a pal, they need guidance from adults with their best interests at heart. We're in the business of getting these kids shaped up to face the real world. They need skills-reading and writing primarily – all in preparation for productive, well-paid work. If they're not college material, we make sure they find trades. Truancy, gangs, drug problems – we don't see much of that here, despite our proximity to Los Angeles."

I flicked a look over my shoulder. Were we being filmed? It's not that his sentiments weren't admirable, but the spiel sounded canned and had nothing to do with me. "Excuse me, but is this relevant?"

He seemed to collect himself, as though recovering from a momentary lapse of consciousness. "Yes. Well. You were talking about a student. It would help if you'd give me the details. I can't be of assistance without that."

Ever obliging, I repeated my tale while his assistant moved papers randomly across her desk. Before I could finish my account, Mr. Eichenberger shook his head. "Not here. Not during my administration. You might try Lockaby. That's the alternative high school."

"Really. I didn't know there was one."

"It's over on the Kennedy Pike; a white frame building across from the town cemetery. You can't miss it."

"Is there someone in particular I should ask for?"

"Mrs. Bishop is the principal. She might be able to help."

"You didn't know the girl yourself?"

"lf I had, I'd say so. I wouldn't withhold information in a murder investigation."

"What about your assistant?"

"Mrs. Richards wasn't working here back then."

"Too bad. I thought it was worth a try," I said. I took out a business card and made a note of the motel number on the back. "I'm at the Ocean View for the next couple of days. I'd appreciate a call if you think of anything that might help."

"You mentioned a foster family. I'd try Social Services."

"Thanks. That's a good suggestion. I'll do that."