“It may have been the same person who was in the cottage that day of the fog!” added Connie. “But who was he?”
As the Brownies went from room to room they found other evidence that someone had been there ahead of them.
Dried bread crumbs had been left on the top of the kitchen table. On the floor near the wall bunk Connie discovered muddy shoe tracks.
“Why, these prints are no larger than if I’d made them myself!” she exclaimed. “They’re much too small to have been made by Captain Tarwell’s shoes!”
Miss Gordon and Mrs. Williams were inclined to agree with Vevi and Connie that someone other than the captain had been making use of the cabin.
“Whoever the person is, I hope he does no damage here,” Miss Gordon said anxiously. “If Captain Tarwell is unaware his cottage is being used, he might blame the Brownies for anything amiss.”
Although the cottage had been kept locked, an extra key had been left hidden beneath the shingle by the front door. Vevi and Connie thought Captain Tarwell was taking risks in leaving it there.
“This place is too dirty,” declared Rosemary. “Let’s clean it up for Captain Tarwell.”
“I had intended to suggest that very thing,” said Miss Gordon. “In fact, you’ll find a broom, dustpan and dusting cloths in the car. I also brought window cleaning spray if anyone feels industrious.”
“I’ll help dust!” Sunny offered quickly.