“My amber necklace,” shrieked Posy joyfully. “Oh, I’m so glad! Now they won’t say you took it any more, Nancy;” and snatching the necklace from Michael’s hand, she darted out of the barn, calling “Mamma” so loudly that Mrs. Winton was at the door almost as soon as Posy was.
“My amber necklace,” cried Posy, waving it frantically over her head. “It was in the old rat’s nest. Come and see where he lived.”
Mrs. Winton followed Posy to the barn, and looked into what had once been Graywhisker’s home.
“It was right there, under that old rag,” cried Tom; “I saw it first.”
“What is that little thing shining there?” asked Mrs. Winton, pointing to a bright spot.
Michael picked it up and handed it to her.
“Why, it must be the padlock to the barn-cat’s collar!” exclaimed Mrs. Winton. “What a thief the old fellow was! I know now where the sugar and raisins must have gone. Tell Hannah to come here a minute, Tom.”
Tom was off like a shot and soon returned, bringing Hannah, who looked greatly astonished at the unusual message.
“Hannah,” said Mrs. Winton, holding up the amber necklace, “Posy’s necklace has been found in this old rat-hole, and also what is left of the barn-cat’s collar. You see your suspicions were unfounded. The thief who has caused so much mischief is now dead, and I think you will find that your stores in the loft will not disappear as fast as they used to.”
Hannah was silent, and her face flushed.