“She was robbed that night on the boat.”
“We discussed it before,” Miss Judson said in exasperation. “You insult me by suggesting that I may have snatched the girl’s pocketbook! Why should I steal when my father is wealthy? I’ve always had everything I want.”
“I should like very much to believe you,” said Penny quietly. “But unless you are willing to offer a complete explanation, I am afraid I can’t.”
“Very well, if I must, I’ll tell,” Miss Judson replied angrily. “You may have read in the newspapers that I am engaged to marry Major Howard Atchley?”
“The story escaped me.”
“I admire Howard very much,” resumed Pauletta, still in an icy tone. “He comes from an excellent family, is well-to-do, and in Father’s opinion will make me a good husband.”
“Your opinion differs?” Penny inquired softly.
“I do not love Howard, and I never shall. On the night you saw me aboard the Goodtime I had gone with another friend of mine, Carl Feldman, intending to enjoy the excursion trip.”
“Your father knew nothing about it?”
“I told him I was going with another girl.”