“Why, nothing. The table moved and we heard a few raps. That was all.”
“No message from Cousin David?”
“Not a word or a sign. Mr. Gepper seemed very indifferent about it all. He said he couldn’t give me another appointment unless I paid for it.”
“What do you think about him now?” Penny asked curiously. “Don’t you agree with Dad and me that he was after your money?”
“Yes, I was very silly,” the housekeeper acknowledged. “Mrs. Hodges has begun to lose faith in him, too. She says he’s been bringing all sorts of folks to her place. When she told him she didn’t care to have the house over-run with strangers, he became very unpleasant.”
“You mean he threatened her?”
“In a mild way. He told her that he would stay as long as he pleased and she could do nothing about it. Mrs. Hodges is afraid to go to the police for fear she’ll be arrested with Mr. Gepper.”
“I wonder if he ever has charged for his séances?” Penny said thoughtfully.
“I am sure he has, Penny. Of course I have no proof.”
“Mrs. Weems, you must go there again this afternoon,” Penny urged. “Insist upon another séance, and pay him for it! Then you’ll be able to testify as a witness against him!”