SILVER SPRING, Md.  —  Montgomery County Police Chief Charles Moose, head of the task force investigating the Beltway sniper, has attempted to deliver messages to the suspect. On Tuesday night he said:

"These past several days, you have attempted to communicate with us.

"We have researched the options you stated and found that it is not possible electronically to comply in the manner that you requested. However, we remain open and ready to talk to you about the options you have mentioned.

"It is important that we do this without anyone else getting hurt. Call us at the same number you used before to obtain the 800 number that you have requested. If you would feel more comfortable, a private post office box or another secure method can be provided.

"You indicated that this is about more than violence. We are waiting to hear from you."