“You’ve been very kind,” Rosanna said gratefully. “I want to thank you before we leave.”
“You’re not aiming to leave today?” Caleb asked quickly.
“Well, yes, I imagine we will. I don’t feel right about staying here.”
Caleb lowered his voice. “Take my advice, Miss Winters, and don’t leave while that other woman and her daughter are here. From what you’ve told me, I think they mean to grab the property.”
“But what can I do?” Rosanna asked helplessly. “I’ve lost my letter and the key. I haven’t any proof that the property was left to me.”
“Maybe this Leeds woman hasn’t any proof that it was left to her either,” Caleb said sagely. “Anyway, we’ll find out what she has to say.”
At first, Mrs. Leeds, accosted in the living room of the old house, had little comment to make. She was out of sorts from lack of sleep the previous night, and the breakfast which she and Alicia had endeavored to cook had not been a success. Nor was she impressed with Caleb who wore high boots, an old pair of dirty trousers and a crumpled felt hat.
“I don’t see why I should discuss my business affairs with you,” she said aloofly. “I have inherited this property from my cousin and I mean to remain here in possession of it indefinitely if necessary.”
“May I see the letter which you say you received?” Caleb inquired.
Mrs. Leeds hesitated, then reluctantly handed it over. Caleb studied it briefly and returned it.