“You are certain it was sent?”
“Of course I am,” Mrs. Leeds declared icily. “My daughter mailed it. Didn’t you, Alicia, my dear?”
A queer expression passed over the girl’s face. It struck Penny that she probably had forgotten to post the letter. However, Alicia staunchly maintained that she had.
“It’s most provoking that you have misplaced the reservation,” Mrs. Leeds said irritably to the clerk. “But of course we can have the room?”
“I am afraid that is impossible, Mrs. Leeds. The room you wanted was reserved for two young ladies.” With a nod of his head the clerk indicated Penny and Rosanna.
Mrs. Leeds and her daughter turned to stare somewhat haughtily.
“What other room can you give us then?” the woman demanded angrily.
The clerk cast Mr. Nichols a despairing glance. He knew he was in for trouble.
“Practically everything is taken, Mrs. Leeds. In fact the only available room is on the top floor.”
“And you expect us to take that?” Mrs. Leeds cried, her voice rising until everyone in the lobby could hear. “I never heard of such outrageous treatment. Call the manager!”