Nevertheless, a moment later the woman sauntered to an open cabin window. Deliberately she turned her back to the girls, trying to block their view. Quickly she raised and lowered her handkerchief.
The movement was deftly executed, but swift though it was, Penny saw and understood. Mrs. Deline had signaled to an unseen person beyond the fringe of trees!
CHAPTER
16
SUSPICION
Penny moved swiftly to the open cabin door, gazing toward the darkening woods. No one was visible amid the shadows. Yet she was certain that Mrs. Deline had signaled to someone lurking among the trees.
The widow had turned from the window to unfasten the lid of the picnic hamper.
“Since you girls are here you may as well stay and share my supper,” she said without warmth. “There’s enough food for all.”
Louise’s chin tilted proudly. The invitation was grudgingly given, and she meant to decline. Penny forestalled her by saying:
“How nice of you, Mrs. Deline! Of course we’ll be delighted to remain.”
Mrs. Deline made no reply, though obviously she had not expected an acceptance. Irritably she laid out the picnic dishes—sandwiches, a salad, cake, cookies, and fruit—all carefully prepared and cooked at the hotel kitchen.
“You certainly did bring plenty of food for one person,” Penny commented, helping herself to a chicken sandwich. “Isn’t that clothing in the bottom of the basket?”