“First, I’ll set your mind at rest,” Penny replied. “Your money is safe.”
“Oh! I never was so relieved in all my born days.” Mrs. Weems sagged weakly into a porch rocker. “Penny, how could you torture me by letting me think the money was stolen?”
“Because I have a confession to make, Mrs. Weems. You left the key to your desk lying on the bathroom floor. I thought it might be a good joke to move the money to another place.”
“Oh, you darling blessed girl!” laughed Mrs. Weems. “Where did you hide it, Penny? Are you sure it’s safe?”
“It should be. I had it taken to the First National Bank and deposited in your name. The thief carried off a package of fake money.”
“Rather high-handed weren’t you?” commented her father.
“Now don’t you scold her,” spoke Mrs. Weems quickly. “I am glad Penny acted as she did. Otherwise, I might have lost my entire inheritance.”
Penny drew a deep breath. “I’m relieved you feel that way about it. I wish I could see the burglar’s face when he discovers he stole worthless money!”
Both the housekeeper and Mr. Parker pressed her with questions. She revealed exactly what had occurred during their absence, showing them the strand of black silk rope.
“Dad, I think this may be a valuable clue,” she declared. “What does it suggest to you?”