“It’s your concern more than mine,” Madge replied, secretly discouraged at her friend’s stubborn attitude. “Only if I were you, I’d be extremely cautious in dealing with those abductors.”
Enid made no response but closed the safe door and picked up the Zudi Drum.
“Our taxi has been waiting twenty minutes,” Rex informed, glancing at his watch. “Or at least, I hope it’s waiting! Otherwise, we’ll walk to town.”
They hastily let themselves out of the house and Enid locked the door. Hurrying down the path to the gate they were relieved to see the taxi still waiting. They drove into the city, stopping at a hotel for a belated luncheon. Enid refused to check the Zudi Drum and during the meal kept it hidden under an overcoat which Rex donated for the purpose. She was in better spirits than she had been since the kidnapping, and for the first time seemed to enjoy the food that was set before her.
“Just one more day and it will all be over,” she said with a weary sigh. “I feel as though I’ve lived through an eternity these last few days.”
Madge’s eyes met those of Rex across the table. She was not in the least certain that the case would end with Enid’s reckless trip to Cedar Point. She had hoped that as her friend had time to think the matter over, she would change her mind about going through with the affair, but to all appearances, Enid was more determined than ever. Madge had by no means given up. She had one trump card which she intended to play at the last minute, but unless she found it to be absolutely necessary, she did not wish to alarm Enid. And then too, she was not entirely sure of her ground. A certain suspicion had been growing in her mind but until she saw Mr. Dewitt she must make no false move.
They finished their luncheon and taxied to the airport where they found the amphibian ready for the return trip. The girls took their places and Rex started the engine. Attendants steadied the wings until the nose pointed into the bay and then stepped back to watch the take-off.
During the uneventful flight back to The Flora, few words were exchanged. Rex was kept busy at the controls and the girls were occupied with their own thoughts. In slightly less than two hours they were in Cheltham Bay.
“I can’t tell you how grateful I am,” Enid thanked Rex as they parted at the yacht. “It was splendid of you to go to so much trouble.”
“Shucks, I’d do a lot more if you’d let me,” he returned quickly. “I’d go to Cedar Point tomorrow night.”