He hesitated a moment then began haltingly, “But my charcoal——”
The mother broke in rapidly, “You can come Up here and make your charcoal. We will stay at the cave.”
“But—who——” A strange expression of fear passed over his face as he glanced at the girls, then at his wife.
She stepped over hastily to his side and began talking to him in a low tone.
Surprised at these strange actions, the girls looked questioningly at each other.
As Florence turned to see how the boy was faring, she overheard the mother say, “It will be all right, Papá. These are our friends.”
CHAPTER IX
“I’M GOING TO SOLVE THE MYSTERY”
Jo Ann, who had been watching the play of expressions on their faces intently, now experienced a feeling of relief as she saw the father nod and smile.
He then addressed Florence, “Bien. I go bring my family. You wait here.”
“All right,” Florence agreed.