Azalea and Iris looked a trifle crushed at this abrupt statement, but they hurried away to get their coats and hats.
“We must leave you alone for awhile,” Azalea said apologetically to the girls. “We have a little business to attend to at the bank.”
“Come on, let’s get going!” Ronald urged. In the doorway he turned back toward Doris. “Don’t fail to let that fellow Jake know he’s to bring the money tomorrow. Understand?”
“I think so,” Doris returned dryly.
After the three had left the mansion, she and Kitty took stock of affairs. They were amazed that the Misses Gates had gone with Ronald, for it was only on very rare occasions that they ever set foot beyond the high hedge which surrounded Locked Gates.
“They’re under that man’s influence entirely,” Kitty declared.
Doris nodded soberly.
“And he’s getting more sure of himself every minute. Why, he spoke positively mean to them.”
“I wonder why they went to the bank?”
“Most likely to give him more money, though from what they said, I’m sure they’re practically destitute. Oh, it’s a shame!”