"Probably it would relieve your mind if you did," Penny advised kindly.
"Yes, but Father has always taken such pride in Jimmie. I can't bear to hurt him."
"Perhaps he could bring your brother to his senses."
"I'm afraid it may be almost too late. Jimmie is so headstrong. He won't listen to anyone. He's changed so much the last few months."
"It seems to me that your father should know the truth," Penny said quietly.
Betty Davis' face had grown slightly pale.
"I realize I should tell him," she acknowledged, "but I can't. There's a special reason why—don't ask me to explain." Abruptly, she tried to change the subject, saying lightly: "My brother is very handsome, I think. Would you care to see his photograph?"
"Indeed I would," Penny returned politely.
She waited while Betty went into an adjoining room after it. As the girl returned, a car was driving slowly past the house.
"That must be Father," Betty declared, moving toward the window.