“I had intended to go for a little ride,” she replied. “Any objections?”
The question placed Penny on the defensive. “You shouldn’t have taken the car without asking Dad,” she said stiffly. “We barely have enough gasoline to reach Sunset Beach.”
“Oh, I had no thought of going far. I’ll just drive a few miles and come back.”
“At this time of night? It must be nearly two o’clock.”
“I always enjoy night driving. Particularly if I am nervous and unable to sleep. Now run back to bed like a good child.”
Penny did not like the widow’s tone of voice. She liked it less that Mrs. Deline ignored her hint that the car was not to be used. More than ever she was convinced that the woman had intended to steal the automobile.
“I’m sorry,” she said firmly. “I must ask you not to take the car without Dad’s permission.”
“Well!” Mrs. Deline exclaimed indignantly. “You expect me to rap on your father’s door at this time of night to ask if I may use the car!”
“I don’t see why you need to use the car at all.”
“Oh, you don’t?” Mrs. Deline’s tone was scornful. “Well, let me tell you this! I’ve already given you as much of an explanation as I intend to! I need the car.”