“It’s the car!” she cried jubilantly. “But how did it get across the road?”
Penny’s elation quickly died. Drawing nearer, she was dismayed to see that the coupe appeared to be lying on its stomach in the ditch. Four wheels and a spare had been removed.
“Stripped of every tire!” she exclaimed. “The thief ran the car out here on the road so we couldn’t see him at work from the river!”
“What are we going to do?” Louise asked weakly. “We’re miles from Riverview. No houses close by. We’re half frozen and night is coming on.”
Penny, her face very long, had no answer. She measured the gasoline tank with a stick. All of the fuel had been siphoned. She lifted the hood, expecting to find vital parts of the engine missing. However, everything appeared to be in place.
Seeking protection from the penetrating wind, the girls climbed into the car to discuss their situation.
“Can’t we just wait here until someone comes along and gives us a lift to town?” suggested Louise.
“Yes, but we’re on a side road and few cars travel this way during winter.”
“Then why not go somewhere and telephone?”
“The nearest stores are at Kamm’s corner, about two miles away.”