“That is what we should like to know,” Penny retorted. “Why did you lock us out?”
“Because this is my house. Jacob Winters left everything to me and I have the will to prove it.”
“May I ask where you found it?” Penny inquired.
The question confused Mrs. Leeds. She began to stammer.
“Why, I—that is, it’s none of your affair, Miss Nichols!”
“I disagree with you there. I am interested in seeing Rosanna treated fairly. May I examine the will?”
Mrs. Leeds hesitated and the girls thought that she would refuse the request. However, the woman said:
“I will permit you to read it if you promise not to destroy it.”
“Destroying wills isn’t in my line,” Penny returned pointedly.
Mrs. Leeds tossed her head angrily. An expression of bitter hatred which she made no attempt to hide, came into her eyes. She went to the living room desk and from a pigeon hole removed a document which she offered Penny.