A long time passed, perhaps ten seconds.
Then Lynch's voice was back: "Sergeant McNulty says they're on the top floor, Malone," he said. "Can't tell how many for sure. But they're talking and moving around."
"It's a shame these things won't pick up the actual words at a distance," Malone said.
"Just a general feeling of noise is all we get," Lynch said. "But it does some good."
"Sure," Malone said. "Now listen carefully: Boyd and I are going in. Alone."
Lynch's voice whispered: "Right."
"If those mikes pick up any unusual ruckus—any sharp increase in the noise level—come running," Malone said. "Otherwise, just sit still and wait for my signal. Got that?"
"Check," Lynch said.
Malone pocketed the radiophone. "O.K., Tom," he whispered. "This is H-hour—M-minute—and S-second."
"I can spell," Boyd muttered. "Let's move in."