Noticing a nearby path which led to a spring house, the girls followed it, drinking of the cool mountain water. They sat down on a bench which afforded a view of the tall chalk-like cliffs. After a time they felt soothed and tranquil again. They presently walked back to the house.
Max Laponi was nowhere to be seen although Alicia told them that he was busy moving his things into one of the upstairs bedrooms.
“Mother’s worried since he came,” the girl confided, growing more friendly. “They had a dreadful quarrel. Now she’s hunting for the will.”
“But Caleb Eckert warned her not to do that,” Penny protested.
“That old meddler has nothing to do with this place,” Alicia declared with a toss of her head. “I hope he minds his own business and stays away.”
The girls found Mrs. Leeds in the library. She was going through the drawers of the desk in systematic fashion, tossing papers carelessly on the floor. One drawer was locked. She shook it viciously.
“Like as not Jacob Winters’ will is locked up in there,” she said irritably. “I’m half a notion to break into it.”
“Oh, you mustn’t do that,” Rosanna cried indignantly, before she could check herself.
“And why shouldn’t I?” Mrs. Leeds demanded tartly. “Jacob Winters is dead isn’t he? And his will must be found. I suppose you’re afraid to have the document come to light for fear you’ll be cut off completely.”
Rosanna’s cheeks flushed.