“What money?” The girl’s indifference was admirable, if indeed she were guilty, as Harry Grant claimed.
“You know. Eight hundred and fifty dollars in bills and five hundred in gold pieces.”
Corinne laughed in a nasty superior way.
“Really, Aunt Mattie, you are talking foolishly. I’m sorry if you have been robbed, but it’s just too absurd to connect me with it.”
“Stop your posing and lying, Corinne Pearson!” cried the old lady in a shrill voice. “I know all about everything. Harry Grant has confessed.”
Mary Louise, watching the girl’s face intently, thought that she saw her wince. Anyway, the cigarette she was smoking dropped to the floor. But her voice sounded controlled as she spoke to her great-aunt.
“Please don’t scream like that, Aunt Mattie,” she said. “The neighbors will hear you. I think you had better come inside and see Mother.”
“All right,” agreed the old lady. Then, turning to the girls, she requested them to help her get to her feet.
“I’ll help you,” offered Corinne. “These young girls can wait out here.”
“No, they can’t, either! They’re coming right inside with me!”