Three stone steps led up to the cloister. Approaching with great caution, Penny observed that it too had been lighted with candles.
In the center of the cloister near the old fountain, Father Benedict’s crystal globe had been set up. On either side stood stately rows of tall candles.
Impressive as was the sight, Penny had no time to admire it, for a door had opened. Winkey came in, dragging a girl by the wrist.
With a shock Penny recognized her as the same girl she had seen while visiting the monastery with Mr. Ayling.
“And she’s the same one Louise and I picked up in our car!” she thought.
The girl struggled to free herself from the hunchback’s firm grasp.
“Let me go!” she cried, kicking at him. “Let me go!”
“Oh, no, you don’t!” he taunted her. “This time you’ll have to pay for sneaking out of the house and coming back!”
“I don’t know what you’re talking about!” the girl retorted. “I’ve not been out of this house tonight! If I could get away, I’d bring the police and have you arrested! You can’t mistreat me! Let go my wrist!”
Before Winkey could answer, another door opened to admit Father Benedict. Walking straight toward the hunchback he exclaimed harshly: