“But that would take forever,” protested Mary Louise. “And besides, we couldn’t mention Miss Grant’s name without her permission.”
Mr. Gay smiled; there was a great deal for Mary Louise to learn about the detective business.
“It wouldn’t take any time at all,” he said. “The police have a list of all such places and a method of communication. And Miss Grant’s name need not be mentioned—my name is sufficient. But I wish we could get a more accurate description of the necklace.”
“I wish we could. I’ll try to see Miss Grant again tomorrow.”
“It doesn’t make so much difference, however,” her father told her. “If the rubies are real, they can easily be detected. It isn’t likely that many ruby necklaces are being pawned at the same time.”
“Will you do this for me, Daddy?” asked Mary Louise, rising from the hammock and opening the screen door. “I just want to say ‘hello’ to Mother, and then I must be on my way. I’m due back at Dark Cedars at two o’clock.”
Mr. Gay frowned.
“Must you go, dear? I don’t forbid it, in broad daylight, but I don’t like it.”
“Yes, I must get my suitcase, Daddy. And bring Elsie back, if she wants to come.”
“All right, Mary Lou. I’ll drive you over, if our dinner isn’t ready. And I’ll come back for you about five o’clock, so that I’m sure of getting you home here safely before dark.”