“They are,” the monk replied in a brief tone which discouraged further questions.
“It’s so still in here,” remarked Louise as they walked on. “One never would dream many people are staying in the building.”
“We lead a quiet life,” the monk explained. “For the most part, my people spend their time reading or in meditation and prayer.”
The three now had reached the front door, and Penny thought she detected an expression of relief upon Father Benedict’s face as he opened it for them.
“By the way,” she remarked, “was anything seriously wrong in the cellar?”
“Oh, no! Nothing at all! Merely a leaking pipe. A plumber will take care of it. Thank you, and good afternoon.”
With no show of haste, but very firmly, the monk closed the door in their faces.
“Well, how do you like that!” Penny muttered. “I never received a smoother brush-off!”
Snow was melting fast and running in rivers down the brick walk as the girls sauntered toward the gate. Winkey was nowhere to be seen, but knowing he might be close by, they were careful not to discuss Father Benedict until they were well beyond the property boundaries.
“Well, I guess this puts an end to your visits here,” remarked Louise as they walked toward the parked car. “Father Benedict seems determined not to let you witness one of the cult ceremonies.”