“I was sorry I couldn’t prevent the burglary,” replied Penny stiffly. “As it turned out, the capture of the crooks was mostly due to luck.”
“You are too modest,” protested Mr. Henley. “I’ve talked with the police, you know. I am truly grateful.”
The man hesitated, evidently wishing to say more, yet scarcely knowing how to shape his words. Penny and her father started to move away.
“Oh, about that contract we were discussing today,” the advertiser said quickly.
“Yes?” Mr. Parker paused.
“I’ve been thinking it over. I acted too hastily in deciding to cancel.”
“Mr. Henley, please do not feel that you are under obligation,” said the publisher quietly. “Even though Penny accidentally did you a favor—”
“It’s not that,” Mr. Henley interrupted. “The Star is a good paper.”
“The best in Riverview,” said Penny softly.
“Yes, it is!” Mr. Henley declared with sudden emphasis. “I tell you, Parker, I was irritated because of a trivial mistake in my firm’s copy. I’ve cooled off now. Suppose we talk over the matter tomorrow at lunch.”