“Better leave some of your story with me,” advised Quigley. “If we get a wire before the telephone company does, I’ll try to send it for you.”
Penny scribbled a hundred word message, packing it solidly with facts. If ever it reached Riverview a Star rewrite man could enlarge it to at least a column.
Saying goodbye to Joe, Penny made her way toward all that remained of Delta’s business section. She had not seen Louise since the previous afternoon and was greatly worried about her.
“I know she’s safe,” she told herself. “But I must find her.”
Penny was not alone on the devastated streets. Refugees wandered aimlessly about, seeking loved ones or treasured possessions. Long lines of shivering people waited in front of a church that had been converted into a soup kitchen.
Penny joined the line. Just as a woman handed her a steaming cup of hot broth, she heard her name spoken. Turning quickly, she saw Louise running toward her from across the street.
“Penny! Penny!” her chum cried joyfully.
“Careful,” Penny cautioned, balancing the cup of soup. “This broth is as precious as gold.”
“Oh, you poor thing!” cried Louise, hugging her convulsively. “You look dreadful.”
“That’s because I’m so hungry,” Penny laughed. “Have you had anything to eat?”