With Penny and Miss Kippenberg as passengers the big limousine rolled away from the clubhouse and sped toward Corbin. During the ride the young woman scarcely spoke. She sat with her head against the cushion, eyes half closed. As they came within view of the drawbridge she made an effort to arouse herself.
“I see you have visitors at the estate,” Penny commented, noticing a number of cars parked near the river’s edge.
“Reporters, always reporters,” returned Miss Kippenberg impatiently. “They may try to board as we pass.”
Penny wondered how the limousine would be taken across the river. The old watchman had noted their approach. Before the car reached the end of the road he had lowered the creaking drawbridge into position.
“Is the bridge really safe?” Penny inquired of her companion.
“For light traffic only,” Miss Kippenberg answered briefly.
The arrival of the car had created a stir of interest among the group of men gathered near the bridge. Penny caught sight of Jerry Livingston and could not resist rolling down the side window so he would be sure to obtain a clear view of her. It gave her a very pleasant feeling to see him stare as if he could not believe his own eyes.
Several of the reporters attempted to stop the limousine but without success. The car clattered over the drawbridge which was pulled up again before anyone could follow.
Penny and Miss Kippenberg alighted at the front door of the great house.
“Now show me where you found the ring,” requested the young woman.