“You spoke of former Calico Cottage renters moving out because of strange sounds which disturbed them,” Miss Ward reminded the young milkman. “Can you tell us more about it?”
“Did the other folks ever hear a flute player?” interposed Ardeth.
“Seems to me I heard some such talk.”
“And loud banging noises at night?” demanded Judy.
“I reckon so.”
“Tell us everything!” urged Virginia. “Is Calico Cottage supposed to be haunted? Is that why Mr. Krumm has trouble keeping his renters?”
“All I know is what I hear,” Bart replied evasively. “I wouldn’t have told you about the White Witch, only I could tell that you Scouts aren’t easily scared.”
“Is there any connection between Calico Cottage and the Witch?” Judy questioned.
“Only as she’s supposed to have cast her spell over the place. The last tenants had a cat. One night she became scared at some noise and leaped through a window, shattering the glass. The folks moved out, came dawn. I know because I met ’em as they were driving away. Tried to talk ’em into staying, but they were dead set the cottage was haunted.”
“You don’t believe that nonsense yourself?” Miss Ward inquired.