“In the library, Madam.”
Penny did not hear the woman’s reply, but she turned and followed the servant.
“Saved by the bell,” mumbled Salt. “Now let’s get away from here before she comes back.”
They pushed through the throng and reached a long hallway. Mrs. Kippenberg had disappeared, but as they drew near an open door they caught sight of her again. She stood just inside the library, her back toward them, talking with two men who wore plain gray business suits.
Penny half drew back, fearing discovery, but Salt pulled her along. As they went quietly past the door they heard Mrs. Kippenberg say in an excited voice:
“No, no, I tell you he isn’t here! Why should I try to deceive you? We have nothing to hide. You are most inconsiderate to annoy me at such a time!”
Penny and Salt did not hear the reply. They reached an outside door and stepped down on a flagstone terrace which overlooked the garden at the rear of the grounds.
“Who were those men, do you suppose?” Penny whispered, fearful that her voice might betray them.
“Officers of the law, I should guess,” Salt replied in an undertone.
“Government men?”