“It’s perfect!” Peggy cried excitedly.
“Yes,” Mr. Bladen answered cheerfully. “And it’s nice to know that someone’s bringing the theater to us here. Town needs it—wish you a lot of luck. Anxious to help all I can. Now, let’s see if we can’t find some little extras for that set—” He poked around, and like a magician drawing rabbits out of a hat, triumphantly produced pictures, ornaments, a student lamp, and two beautiful porcelain vases.
“Think you’ll need these,” he told Peggy, holding up the vases. “Seems to me I remember something special about a vase—”
“That’s right.” Peggy smiled. “The rubies are hidden in a vase. But those are much too good, Mr. Bladen!”
“Nonsense,” he scoffed. “You want to be realistic, don’t you? Now you just take these vases and scoot along. I’ll put them in your care. Here, take this along with you now, too.” He balanced the student lamp precariously between the vases that Peggy held in each hand. The china shade was just under her chin.
“But I really don’t think—” Peggy started.
“Send somebody back for the rest of the things.” Mr. Bladen ignored her protest. “I’m here all the time,” he said as he opened the door.
“Well, now about the advertising for the program—”
“Worry about that later—have to get back to work now. Run along and good luck.”