Michiko nodded.

"Yes. He knocked us down and got away. We just left everything and came here."

Lori continued the story.

"He really trashed the place. But he didn't take Michiko's pearls and the kitchen and closets were undisturbed, so we must have interrupted him. Can you come over?"

The detective seemed uncomfortable.

"I'm afraid not. I'm strictly homicide, you know. But if you like, I'll call the precinct and have them send someone. Would you like them to meet you here?"

"Could they? I don't want to go back there without the police. I'm afraid I would mess up the evidence."