“Then we’ll go there just as we planned,” Mr. Parker said, sighing. “But you know I never was cut out for a rough and tumble life, Penny. I’m far from sure I’ll make a good camper.”
The car rolled on along the ocean road, presently entering the little village of Sunset Beach. Normally a tourist center, the town now was practically deserted, and the Parkers had chosen it because it was within easy driving distance of Riverview. Nearly all of the fine hotels along the water front were closed. However, the Crystal Inn remained in operation, and it was there that Mrs. Deline had engaged a suite.
The car swung into the driveway and halted in front of the hotel. An attendant did not come immediately so Mr. Parker himself unloaded the widow’s luggage. Mrs. Deline gave him a dazzling smile as she bade him goodbye.
“Oh, we’ll not say goodbye just yet,” Mr. Parker corrected. “Penny and I will camp only a short distance away. We’ll run down to the beach often.”
“Do,” urged Mrs. Deline. “I have no friends here and I’ll be happy to see you.”
Mr. Parker carried the widow’s luggage into the hotel. While he was absent, Penny moved up to the front seat. She tuned in a radio program, listening to it with growing impatience. Finally her father sauntered out of the hotel.
“I nearly gave you up,” Penny remarked pointedly.
Mr. Parker slid behind the steering wheel and started the car. When they were driving along the ocean front road he said quietly:
“Penny, I can’t imagine what has come over you lately. You’re not in the least like the little girl who was my pal and companion. Why have you been so unkind to Mrs. Deline?”
“I just don’t like her,” Penny said flatly. “Furthermore, I distrust her.”