CHAPTER
8
THE STORM CAVE
“Well, Penny,” remarked Mr. Parker casually at the breakfast table. “I finally bought the cottage.”
Penny closed her history book with a loud snap, favoring her father with complete attention. “You bought a cottage?” she echoed. “Where? When? Why?”
“I’ve talked about it for the past week, but you were so busy stealing the Star’s advertisers that you never listened.”
“I’m all ears now, Dad,” Penny assured him, absently reaching for a piece of toast. “Tell me all about it.”
“The cottage is located on the Big Bear River. Four rooms and a boathouse. Incidentally, I’ve hired a man to look after the place and keep the boat in shape. He calls himself Anchor Joe.”
“Are we going to live at the cottage this summer?” Penny inquired.
“No, I merely bought it for week-end trips. I plan on a bit of fishing now and then. You may enjoy going with me.”
“Oh, Dad,” groaned Penny, “how can I? These days I don’t even have time to wash my neck. Running a newspaper is more work than I figured.”
“I’ll give you the address of the cottage, at least,” smiled Mr. Parker. “If you have any spare time during the next three months drive out and look over the place.”