“Celeste and Antón are not members of the Zudi cult?”
“No, else they never would have aided my stepfather in acquiring the drum. I understand he never would have heard of it if Celeste hadn’t told him of its existence.”
“It’s all a queer puzzle,” Penny commented. “While I suppose it’s possible natives could have followed your father to America and now seek revenge upon his wife, such a theory doesn’t quite ring the gong.”
“Celeste thinks we should get rid of the Zudi drum. Unless we do, she’s convinced Mother will die a slow lingering death.”
“Celeste seems to have implanted quite a few ideas in your mind,” Penny observed dryly. “If you ask me, I should say she’s a sinister influence on the household.”
“Oh, Celeste means no harm. And the last few days since my stepfather disappeared, she’s been very devoted to Mother, waiting on her as if she were a baby.”
“Your mother must be terribly worried. You’ve heard nothing from your stepfather?”
“Not a word. Mother cries half the time, and this morning she refused to leave her room. Even now I’m afraid she is ill.”
“Now Lorinda!” reproved Penny. “I’m afraid you’re the one who has become hypnotized by that doll!”
“I hope it’s just that I’m silly, and that there’s nothing to it. But I’m afraid—terribly afraid.”