"Mrs. Gallup was instructed not to tell where we were unless something of great importance arose."
"The inspector evidently convinced her that this was a vital matter."
"What is it all about anyway?" Penny inquired curiously.
"Inspector Harris wants me to take a new case. Last night a big robbery was committed at Hannibal, which is the nearest town to Kendon. The inspector thought that since I was on the scene it would be convenient for me to conduct the investigation."
"Convenient for him."
"Obviously."
Penny glanced quickly at her father. "And what did you tell him, Dad?"
"I said I wouldn't do it. This is my vacation and I mean to enjoy it."
"Good for you, Dad," Penny said approvingly.
"The inspector didn't like to take 'no' for an answer," Mr. Nichols went on. "He claimed that this was not an ordinary robbery case and that I'd be sorry if I turned it down."