“You can, but will you?”
“Eventually, at least,” Penny grinned. “Oh, Mrs. Weems, have a heart! Can’t I telephone Dad somewhere?”
The housekeeper shook her head. “He’s in an important meeting and can’t be disturbed until it’s over.”
“But you will let me go? I won’t be gone long.”
“Oh, I suppose I’ll have to give in,” Mrs. Weems sighed. “I usually do. I’ll hurry dinner along so you can get back early.”
While the housekeeper fried pork chops, Penny set the table and prepared a salad. When the meal was ready she ate with a haste that shocked Mrs. Weems.
“I declare, your table manners become worse every day!” she protested. “Your mind isn’t on what you are doing.”
“It’s on what I’m about to do!” Penny chuckled, getting up from the table. “I don’t want any dessert tonight. See you later!”
Donning a heavy coat and slipping a flashlight into one of the deep pockets, she left the house.
The night was dark, for as yet there was no moon. Penny drove rapidly through Riverview and along the lonely road which led to the monastery.