“Keep quiet!” ordered Singleton, frowning.
After the letters were finished and sealed, Mr. Singleton spoke. “There! I’ve done the best I can for you under the circumstances. Now on this,”—he held up a piece of paper—“I’ve written just how you’re to reach Grandoken’s in Bellaire. These letters you’re to give to him. This one let him open and read.” Mr. Singleton tapped a letter he held up. “In this one, I’ve written what your uncle did to me. Give it to Grandoken, telling him I said to let it remain sealed unless Jordan Morse claims you. If you reach eighteen safely, burn the letter.”
He paused and took out a pocketbook.
“Money is scarce these days, but take this and it’ll get you to Grandoken’s. It’s all I have, anyway. Now go along to bed.” 27
He handed the envelopes to her, and his hand came in contact with hers. The very touch of it, the warmth and life surging through her, gave a keener edge to his misery.
Virginia took the letters and money. She walked slowly to the door. At the threshold she halted, turning to her father.
“May I take the cats with me?” she called back to him.
She started to explain, but he cut her words off with a fierce ejaculation.
“Hell, yes!” he snapped. “Damn the cats! Get out!”
Once in the hall, Virginia stood and looked back upon the closed door.