“There was a black and blue mark across his cheek.”
“Then I was right!” exclaimed Penny triumphantly. “I wish I knew for certain who attacked him.”
Questioned by Mrs. Weems, she described the scene witnessed at the river, and proudly displayed the key.
“Why, it does resemble one I’ve seen Fenestra use,” declared the housekeeper.
“Then it must unlock the cave! Tomorrow I’ll go there and find out!”
“You’ll do no such thing,” replied Mrs. Weems firmly. “That is, not without your father’s permission.”
“But you know Dad won’t be in favor of it,” groaned Penny. “I simply must go there and get a scoop for the Weekly.”
“No, Penny, you need to be protected from your own recklessness. Your father must be consulted before you visit the farm again.”
“Either he’ll say I can’t go, or if he thinks there’s anything to the story, he’ll turn it over to a Star reporter. Whichever he does, I lose.”
“Penny, I am in no mood to listen to your pleadings,” Mrs. Weems said wearily. “If you’ll excuse me, I’ll go to bed.”