“Oh, there’s plenty of time for that.”
Mr. Parker was noticeably cheerful as he stowed the portable stove in the car and drove away. Not without misgiving Penny watched him go. She remained somewhat troubled as she washed the breakfast dishes at the brook and struggled with the beds. The camping trip hadn’t worked out as she had hoped and expected. So far it had been all work and no fun.
“Dad was up to something when he skipped out of here so fast,” she mused. “Wonder why he doesn’t come back?”
The sun rose high above the trees, drying the grass and tent. Penny went for a short hike in the woods. She returned to find that her father still had not returned.
Just then a car rattled up the twisting road. Recognizing the same ranger who had caused so much trouble the previous night, Penny prepared herself for further blows. However, the government man was all smiles as he pulled up not far from the umbrella tent.
“Just dropped by to see if you’re getting along all right,” he greeted her in a friendly way. “Everything Okay?”
“I wouldn’t venture such a rash statement as that,” Penny answered, her face downcast.
Because the ranger, whose name was Bill Atkins, seemed to have a genuine interest, she found herself telling him all about her troubles.
“Why, you’ve not had a decent meal since you came here!” he exclaimed, climbing out of the car. “Maybe I can help you.”
“Can you wave a magic wand and produce hot food?”