"Mr. Davis to see you," she told the detective.
"Davis? Strange he didn't telephone before coming at such a late hour. But of course I'll see him."
Reluctantly, Penny arose.
"I suppose I'll have to go."
"No, wait. You really want to hear the interview?"
"I most certainly do."
"You've earned the right," Mr. Nichols smiled. "Sit over there in the high-back wing chair."
Deftly he turned it so that the tall back faced the door. As Penny sat down he placed a book in her hands and advised her to curl her feet up under her as she often did when she read. In such a position, she was completely screened from the gaze of the caller as he entered the room.
No sooner had Penny settled herself comfortably than Mrs. Gallup ushered the officer into the study. She then quietly withdrew.
"Have a chair," Mr. Nichols invited cordially. He offered one which would not reveal Penny's hiding place.