"They could be working on different things, with different groups," Bertie said, "with practice sessions scheduled at different times."
Harry nodded. "I'm sure that's all it is. But, to ease your mind - and save your tree - I'll check into it on Monday. There's a logical explanation, and we'll find it."
"Thanks. I hope you're right." Max got to his feet, preparing to leave. "I should go, got meds to take.'
Harry stood up and shrugged into his jacket. "Come on, I'll give you a ride. You had a long walk and I don't want you to overdo it."
"Thank you. I appreciate it." Max held up his hand and smiled at Bertie as he preceded Harry out the door.
********************
Monday morning, Harry checked with the director of the theatre group. Ms Jenny Lake checked her records and informed him they had nothing planned involving aliens. "But sometimes private groups use the theatre after hours," she said, "when they're practicing for a festival or some other upcoming event."
"Who would know about these things?" Harry asked.
"Only the theatre manager knows the full schedule. Unfortunately, she's at a convention in Ottawa, but should be here tomorrow. I can contact her by phone if it's important."
"It can wait until tomorrow," Harry said and walked towards the door.
"There is one person who might be able to help you," Ms Lake said. "Lady Pinkerton is usually informed on what's happening. I can pass your inquiry on to her."
Harry looked at his watch and chuckled. "Thank you, but I know Miss P fairly well. I'll go see her." Just in time for morning tea, he thought.
Miss P and Glory were happy to see him, as usual, but neither of them knew anything about a science fiction or space performance in the works.
"Has Max or Bingo been reading the supermarket tabloids again?" Miss P asked.
"They can find all that stuff online now," Glory reminded her.
"Yes, that's true, but I don't know how well acquainted these two are with computers and internet searches," Miss P said thoughtfully.
"Probably not at all," Harry said. "I'm not even sure if they know how to use a computer." As he was leaving, Miss P said she would make a few calls and let him know if she learned anything.
Back to square one, Harry thought, as he started the truck and headed back to the office.
******************
That afternoon Harry drove out to Max's place to let him know where things stood so far. He was parked in the driveway, looking at the tree that Max was planning to have removed, when his phone rang.
"You planning to come in, or are you just going to sit there?" Max asked.
"Where are you?" Harry looked around.
"In the living room but I heard you drive up and recognized the sound of your truck. The door's open."
Harry walked in and found Max sitting in the recliner with his legs up. A cord dangling over the armrest indicated that a heating pad was in use. "Problems?" he asked.
