Entering the house, Penny blew out the kerosene lamp and stood by the window, watching. She could not see the man. He had vanished completely.
“That proves that Tillie was correct,” she thought. “This house is being watched. I wonder why.”
As she waited, Tillie came down the stairway, carrying her luggage. Observing that the kitchen was dark, she paused in alarm.
“It’s all right,” Penny called reassuringly. “I blew the light out so that I wouldn’t be seen from outside.”
“Is anyone there?” Tillie demanded, coming quickly to the window. Her pallid features were rigid with fear and her breathing quickened.
“He’s gone now, I think.”
“There was someone a moment ago?”
“Yes, a man, hiding behind the lilacs. I believe he must have been watching the house—or possibly the storm cellar!”
“Then you see I was right,” Tillie declared. “Oh, this is a dreadful place, and I’ll be glad to leave it.”
“I almost wish you were staying,” said Penny slowly. “You might be able to learn what’s hidden in that cave.”