RAY: Recently, the Car Talk staff decided to go out for a few drinks and some Buffalo Wings. The gang goes to a local eatery. We have drinks and some snacks. And just before the bill comes... my brother and I each go to the bathroom and climb out the window.

TOM: What a coincidence. Fancy meeting you there! But, the restaurant was on the third floor.

RAY: That's why I always carry a rope.

TOM: We were in the hospital for months!

RAY: The bill comes, and it's $63. Bugsy says, "Those guys stiffed us-again! But look. If everyone throws in an extra two bucks, we'll cover the bill."

The question is, how many people were in the original group? And, prove that there's only one answer.

[ Car Talk Puzzler ]