“He promised to look into the matter.”
“Which means he doesn’t want me.”
“Not necessarily. My father takes his time in arriving at a decision. But it always is a just one.”
“Well, thanks anyhow,” Ben said gloomily. “I appreciate how you’ve tried to help, Penny. It’s just no use. Maybe I’ll pull out of here and go to another city where I’m not known.”
“Don’t do that,” Penny pleaded. “Sit tight for a few days, and something will break. I’m sure of it.”
Knowing that Ben was too proud to take money, she did not offer any. But before leaving, she gave him a generous supply of their picnic food, and invited him to ride along into the country.
“No, thanks,” he declined. “I would only spoil the fun. I’m in no mood today for anything except grouching.”
The visit, brief as it was, tended to depress the girls. However, once they were speeding along the country road, their spirits began to revive. By the time they had reached a little town just beyond the state line, they had forgotten Ben and his troubles.
“Let’s stop somewhere near Blue Hole Lake,” Penny proposed. “This locality is as pretty as we’ll find anywhere. Besides, I haven’t much gasoline.”
“Suits me,” agreed Louise, amiable as always.