“Gave up her job?” Dorn had not reported this. “Why?”
“Something about a new job. The kids were having a squabble, and I couldn’t get it straight over the telephone.”
“You mean Lucy starts on a new job when she comes back from her trip with the Scotts?”
“Lucy isn’t traveling with Mary and Mrs. Scott. And I think traveling is part of her new job.”
This news did not tally with Mr. Dorn’s report, or more accurately, it went beyond the lawyer’s report. Well, it was possible Lucy had been away during the period that Dorn was looking for her, and then had returned to give up her job and take a new one. Then, too, Jill Joseph admitted she didn’t have all the facts straight.
“I’ll inquire at the Hotel Alcott,” Vicki said, “and at the Interstate Insurance Company.”
“Try telephoning the Scotts, too. Perhaps they are back now and have heard from Lucy.”
Vicki and Jill Joseph chatted a while longer. Vicki gathered that Lucy’s life was rather bleak. Even though she had friends and one or two not important beaux, she missed her family and home, and felt alone. Evenings after work she often kept herself busy taking college courses, and attending church choir practice.
“I guess the Reverend Mr. Hall has done more than anyone to help Lucy feel less alone,” Mrs. Joseph said. “He’s a wonderful man. He knew her parents, and he’s known Lucy all her life. He used to be in charge of a church here in Sutro Heights, but he’s been transferred to Russian Hill. I’ll give you his address, too.”
A few minutes later Vicki thanked Jill Joseph and said good-by to her. “You’ve been a great help. More than you know.”