“I don’t have any knowledge of the case,” he said. “At least not for publication!”
Flashing a superior smile, he pushed past Penny, and went out of the building.
CHAPTER
16
A DOOR IN A BOX
Penny scarcely knew what to think of Harley Schirr’s actions. All her accusations were true, of that she was sure. But she was unable to decide whether or not he had any information about her father’s strange disappearance.
“The old snooper may be hand in glove with the tire thieves!” she thought bitterly. “I wouldn’t put it past him. If I could prove anything, wouldn’t I like to turn him over to the police!”
Climbing the stairs, Penny explained briefly to the Star deskman what had occurred.
“Shirr here again!” he exclaimed. “Why, I’m sure he never came through the newsroom.”
“No, he got into Dad’s office by means of that old hall door. Tomorrow I want a new lock put on.”
“I’ll have it taken care of myself,” promised the deskman.
Reentering her father’s office, Penny gathered up the mail and carefully locked both doors. She then returned to the waiting taxicab. During the ride home she made no mention of Mr. Schirr, preferring not to worry the housekeeper.