Judy regretted her slip of tongue. Nevertheless, having made the mistake, she could do no less than tell her aunt about the strange musical notes which had startled the Scouts during the night they had spent at the cottage.
“What manner of place have I rented?” Miss Meadows gasped. “Is the cottage haunted?”
“By the spirit of the White Witch,” Judy said with a giggle. Then, becoming sober, she added: “I’m sure there’s no danger here, Aunt Mattie. Even so, you mustn’t stay another night. Come with us to Pine Cone Camp. We’ll find a bed for you, and tomorrow we can start looking for another cottage.”
“And have everyone say I was frightened away?” Miss Meadows reproved her niece. “The very idea!”
“You mean you’re willing to stay?”
“Yes, I intend to,” Miss Meadows announced firmly. “At least for a day or so.”
“I’ll remain with you,” Judy offered. “Not that I’ll be any protection.”
To her surprise, Miss Meadows turned her aside. “No,” she told Judy, “you’ve already lost a great deal of camp fun on my account. You’re not to worry about me any more, or Calico Cottage.”
“But to leave you alone—”
“I’ll manage,” Miss Meadows said dryly. “Let’s go upstairs now, or you girls will miss your station wagon.”