Before either of the girls realized what was in store, they were seized by the arms. Tape was plastered over their lips, and their limbs were bound.
“A precautionary measure,” Wessler assured them. “You’ll be released soon.”
Penny and Louise understood perfectly why they had been bound and gagged. Scarcely fifteen minutes elapsed before they heard the sound of men’s voices along shore. Soon thereafter someone hailed the ark. Penny’s heart leaped for she recognized her father’s voice.
“Hello, the ark!” he shouted.
Wessler responded, his voice casual and friendly.
“We’re looking for two girls lost in the woods. Have you seen them?”
“Why, yes,” Wessler answered. “A couple of girls went past here about an hour ago. They were on their way to the river.”
“Then they must have started home,” Mr. Parker replied, greatly relieved. “By the way, you’re not the one they call Noah, are you?”
“Just a friend of his.”
“I see,” responded Mr. Parker, apparently satisfied with the answer. “Well, thanks. We’ve been worried about my daughter and her friend. It’s a relief to know they’re on their way home.”