Louise paused beside the crystal ball. “What’s this thing?” she asked suspiciously.
“Only Father Benedict’s crystal globe. Take a look and see what’s doing in the cellar!”
“You’re joking!”
“Guess I am,” Penny agreed. Arising, she joined Louise and for a long moment peered intently into the depths of the crystal ball. Seeing nothing in the glass she muttered in disgust: “Bunk!”
“How does one reach the basement and crypt?” Louise inquired.
“According to a plan I saw at Mr. Eckenrod’s, a stairway leads down from the far end of the cloister. Say! Why not do a little exploring while Father Benedict is away?”
“He wouldn’t like it.”
“We’ll never have a better chance.” Crossing the room in long strides, Penny tried to open the door.
The knob turned readily, but the door would not open.
“Lou,” she exclaimed in dismay, “Father Benedict certainly played a nice trick on us! We’re locked in!”