“But I don’t wish to go into court,” the housekeeper protested. “Besides, Mr. Gepper won’t be at the cottage this afternoon.”
“Where is he going?” Penny questioned alertly.
“I don’t know. I heard him tell Mrs. Hodges he would be gone this afternoon, but would return for an eight o’clock séance.”
“Why, that’s fine—wonderful!” chuckled Penny.
Mrs. Weems gazed at the girl with sudden suspicion. “Now what have you thought up?” she demanded.
“Nothing alarming,” grinned Penny. “I merely plan to visit Mr. Gepper’s studio during his absence. Who knows, I may yet master a few of the finer points of ghost-making!”
CHAPTER
20
INSIDE THE CABINET
Despite Mrs. Weems’ protests, Penny remained firm in her decision to investigate Mr. Gepper’s studio. She ate a belatedly prepared lunch and did not reach the Hodges’ cottage until nearly four o’clock, having driven there in Lena.
The doors were closed and Penny knocked several times without receiving a response.
“Everyone must have gone away,” she thought. “Oh, dear, now what shall I do?”