“You ain’t here just to snoop around?” he asked with distrust.
“Such an idea!” Penny hoped that her laughter sounded convincing.
“If ye want to join the cult, you can talk to Father Benedict later,” the hunchback said grudgingly. “But unless you got something to contribute, it’s no use trying to get in.”
“Money you mean?”
“Either cash on the line or jewels.”
“And what becomes of the money?”
“It goes for charity.” Winkey fast was losing patience. “Now cut out the questions!” he said crossly. “If you want to join the society, talk to the boss.”
“Are there any other girls staying here?” Penny had been leading up to this question.
“Talk to the boss, I said!” Winkey snapped. “Maybe he’ll be here tomorrow. Now go away and stop botherin’ me. I got work to do!”
Disappointed by her failure to find Mr. Ayling or extract information from Winkey, Penny returned to the car.