“Antón seemed to believe the drum might bring trouble on the household.”
“Just stupid superstition! He’s never worried about it before.” Lorinda was thoughtful a moment, then added: “Of course, there is a possibility members of the Zudi tribe may have traced my stepfather here and intend to avenge themselves. But that hardly seems likely.”
“What of the serpent drawing found in your stepfather’s desk?” Penny reminded her. “And the words, ‘This Shall be the End?’”
“I’d not venture an opinion until I have seen the handwriting,” Lorinda returned.
As the girls were leaving the library, Penny heard an automobile rattle up to the front of the mansion. Peering from a window, she saw Salt Sommers climbing out of the car, camera and flashbulbs in his hand.
His arrival reminded her that she was here to get a story for the Star.
“The police aren’t here?” Lorinda inquired tensely, moving to the window.
“No, it’s one of our photographers. He’ll need a picture of you and your mother. It will only take a minute.”
Lorinda, who had been growing more and more friendly, now became cold and aloof.
“No picture,” she said firmly. “I thought you understood. My mother and I wish no publicity whatsoever.”