She had no need to repeat the question. Rusty was looking straight at the fireplace.
Elaine listened. Sure enough, she heard strange noises. Was that Aunt Tabby's "haunt"? Whatever it was, it sounded as if it came up from the very depths of the earth.
She could not make out just what it sounded like. It might have been some one striking a piece of iron, a bolt, with a sledge.
What was it?
She continued to listen in wonder, then ran to Aunt Tabby's bedroom door, on the first floor, and knocked.
Aunt Tabby woke up and shook Joshua.
"Aunt Tabby! Aunt Tabby!" called Elaine.
"Yes, my dear," answered the old nurse, now fully awake and straightening her nightcap. "Joshua!"
Together the old couple came out into the living-room, still in their nightclothes, Joshua yawning sleepily still.
"Listen!" whispered Elaine.