“Sit down, Mrs. Botts,” ordered her employer. “For some reason you have seemed very nervous since I arrived home tonight.”
“It was upsetting to get your telegram so late,” Mrs. Botts mumbled, sinking down on the sofa.
“Mr. Deming,” began Penny, “a great deal has happened here tonight.”
“I intended to tell you about it myself,” interrupted Mrs. Botts, addressing her employer. “I’ve not had a chance.”
“Be quiet, please,” commanded Mr. Deming. “Do continue, Miss—”
“Parker,” supplied Penny. She introduced Salt and Louise, then resumed her story.
As the tale unfolded, Mr. Deming listened with increasing amazement. Now and then he focused his gaze upon the crestfallen Mrs. Botts, but he did not speak until Penny had finished.
“This is a very serious charge you have made against my housekeeper,” he said then. “Mrs. Botts, what have you to say?”
“There’s not a word of truth in it!” the woman cried. “Why, I’ve worked for you ten years, Mr. Deming. I’ve been a loyal, faithful servant. Why should I deceive you by taking a stranger into the house?”
“It does seem fantastic,” replied the perplexed Mr. Deming. “Miss Parker, what proof have you that your accusations are true?”