The next moment Dr. Blackwell called a cheerful “Good morning” to her and disappeared into his office.
Jo Ann smiled in relief as she thought whimsically, “A guilty conscience is certainly a bad companion.”
As on the previous morning, she and Peggy went with Florence to market, and, as before, she made only one purchase. This time it was a roll of very slender but strong hand-twisted rope.
“Now what are you going to do with that heavy cord?” Peggy promptly asked.
“Use it to conceal that big rope I left hanging from the roof.”
“Use a string to conceal a heavy rope?” Peggy asked in amazement. “Ah, the magician!” she added mockingly.
“Don’t be silly, Peg. There’s nothing mysterious about it. I’ve got to do something with that big rope before anyone sees it.”
Peggy shook her head dubiously. “Well, I hope you know what you’re talking about—I don’t. Here comes Florence—she must be ready to leave.”
“And the faithful watchdog following, as usual. You know, I believe he’s getting suspicious. Several times I’ve noticed him looking at me with the queerest expression.”
“You know Florence said he never misses a thing. He’s probably wondering what you’ve done to your face.”