“So it was you who sounded the alarm!” he exclaimed. “I might have known! How did you get up there?”
“I’m locked in. Dad, send the police to help Jerry. He’s after Al Gepper who rode off in my car.”
The police cruiser was dispatched, leaving one officer to guard the two prisoners. Mr. Parker unlocked the door of the tower room, releasing his daughter.
“You’re all right?” he asked anxiously.
“Of course. Here’s a little present for you.” Penny thrust the wooden box into his hands.
“What’s this?”
“I don’t know yet. I found it hidden in the belfry.”
“Penny, if you fell into a river you would come up with a chest of gold!” exclaimed the publisher admiringly.
“Open it quick, Dad.”
Mr. Parker required no urging. The box was locked but he pried off the cover hinges, exposing the contents.