“Al Gepper could have obtained much of his information from persons in Riverview,” Penny responded.
“About me, perhaps,” the housekeeper conceded. “But not about Cousin David. Why, I doubt if anyone save myself knew he had a scar over his eye. He received it in an automobile accident twelve or thirteen years ago.”
“Just think!” murmured Mrs. Hodges. “Tomorrow you may actually be able to see your departed cousin!”
In vain Penny argued that Al Gepper was a trickster. She was unable to offer the slightest evidence to support her contention while, on the other hand, the Hodges reminded her that the medium had never asked one penny for his services.
From the cottage Penny went directly to the Star office, feeling certain that her father would have returned there from his trip. Nor was she mistaken. Gaining admittance to the private office, she wasted no words in relating everything which had transpired during his absence. Her father’s attention was flattering.
“Penny, you actually saw all this?” he questioned when she had finished.
“Oh, yes! At the Celestial Temple Louise was with me, too. We thought you might take up the matter with the police.”
“That’s exactly what I will do,” decided Mr. Parker. “I’ve turned the matter over in my mind for several days. The Star will take the initiative in driving these mediums, character readers and the like out of Riverview!”
“Oh, Dad, I was hoping you’d say that!”
Mr. Parker pressed a desk buzzer. Summoning DeWitt, he told of his plan to launch an active campaign.