“Our organization cannot take part in such an enterprise,” Miss Gordon said emphatically. “We have promised to help Mrs. Langley with the annual garden show. That however, is an entirely different matter.”
Mr. Piff realized that he could not change the teacher’s mind.
“Okay, if that’s your decision,” he said. “You’ll regret it though. Now can you direct me to the nursery of Peter Van Der Lann?”
Miss Mohr showed Mr. Piff on a map how to reach the nearby farm.
“I’ll never find the place by myself,” he said. “How about driving out there with me?”
Miss Mohr started to refuse, but before she could do so, Mr. Piff went on:
“Isn’t it nearly closing time here at the library?”
“In ten minutes. But—”
“It shouldn’t take long to drive out to the nursery,” Mr. Piff said briskly. “My car is at the door. Now it would be a great favor to a stranger who doesn’t know the community. I’ll take anyone who wants to go, and bring you back too.”
Miss Mohr really did not care to make the trip. But Mr. Piff was very persuasive. He pointed out that it was a lovely afternoon for a drive in the country. Finally, he convinced both young women that they should accompany him.