Breakfast the next morning was a trying ordeal for Penny. Over the coffee cups Mr. Parker apologized to Mrs. Deline for what he termed his daughter’s “inexcusable behavior.”
The widow responded graciously, quite in contrast to her attitude of the previous night. Without saying much, she conveyed the impression that Penny had been completely in the wrong, and was in fact, a spoiled child who must be humored.
The journey on to Sunset Beach was equally unpleasant. Mr. Parker and Mrs. Deline seemed so absorbed in animated conversation, that they scarcely spoke or noticed Penny. Wedged between the luggage and the camping equipment, she indulged in self pity.
“At least we’ll get rid of Mrs. Deline when we reach Sunset Beach,” she cheered herself.
Presently the car rounded a wide curve in the road, and Penny caught her first glimpse of the seashore. Big waves were rolling in, washing an endless stretch of white sand.
“Oh, isn’t it beautiful!” she exclaimed, brightening. “I wish we were camping right on the beach instead of in the State Forest.”
“I fear the authorities wouldn’t permit that,” Mr. Parker laughed. “By the way, Penny, is your heart really set on this camping trip?”
Penny gave him a quick look. “Yes, it is, Dad,” she said briefly. “Why do you ask?”
“Well, I was thinking that we’d be a lot more comfortable at one of the big hotels. We’d be right on the beach and—”
“Oh, I was just talking when I said I’d like to camp on the beach,” Penny cut in. “I’d like the State Forest much better.”