“Just a minute,” said Penny in a low tone. With a slight inclination of her head, she indicated the two male passengers who had made the long journey from Riverview to Pine Top. “You don’t by any chance know either of those men?”
Mrs. Downey’s face lost its kindliness and she said, in a grim voice: “I certainly do!”
Before Penny could urge the woman to reveal their identity, Francine walked over to where she and Mrs. Downey stood.
“Did you wish to see me?” inquired the hotel woman as Francine looked at her with an inquiring gaze.
“Are you Mrs. Downey?”
“Yes, I am.”
“I am looking for a place to stay,” said Francine. “I was told that you keep an inn.”
“Yes, we have a very nice lodge up the mountain about a mile from here. The rooms are comfortable, and I do most of the cooking myself. We’re located on the best ski slopes in the valley. But if you’re looking for a place with plenty of style and corresponding prices you might prefer the Fergus place.”
“Your lodge will exactly suit me, I think,” declared Francine. “How do I get there?”
“In my bob-sled,” offered Mrs. Downey. “I may have a few other guests.”