Salt, Louise and Joe reached the bench.
“Who are these people?” the man asked. “Why do they stare at me?”
“Why, Mr. Parker,” said Salt, taking his arm. “You remember me, don’t you?”
“Never saw you before in my life.”
“You’re my father—Anthony Parker,” Penny said desperately. “You were in a bad accident. Don’t you remember?”
“I remember that I was taken by two men in a taxicab. They pretended to be my friends. As soon as we were well away from Mrs. Botts’ home, they robbed me of my money and portfolio. Then they pushed me out of the cab. I started walking. I kept on until I came here.”
“You’re cold and tired,” said Salt, trying to guide him toward the taxi.
“Who are you?” Mr. Parker demanded suspiciously. “Why should I let you take me away? You’ll only try to rob me—”
“Oh, Dad, you don’t understand,” Penny murmured. “You’re sick.”
“Come along, sir,” urged Salt. “We’re your friends. We’ll take you to the doctor.”