PENNY PARKER MYSTERY STORIES

The VANISHING
HOUSEBOAT




PENNY PARKER
MYSTERY STORIES


TALE OF THE WITCH DOLL
THE VANISHING HOUSEBOAT
DANGER AT THE DRAWBRIDGE
BEHIND THE GREEN DOOR
CLUE OF THE SILKEN LADDER
THE SECRET PACT
THE CLOCK STRIKES THIRTEEN
THE WISHING WELL
SABOTEURS ON THE RIVER
GHOST BEYOND THE GATE
HOOFBEATS ON THE TURNPIKE
VOICE FROM THE CAVE
GUILT OF THE BRASS THIEVES
SIGNAL IN THE DARK
WHISPERING WALLS
SWAMP ISLAND
THE CRY AT MIDNIGHT





PENNY PARKER MYSTERY STORIES #2

The VANISHING
HOUSEBOAT




By
Mildred A. Wirt















CUPPLES AND LEON COMPANY
Publishers








ORIGINALLY PUBLISHED IN 1939 BY
CUPPLES AND LEON COMPANY






















PRINTED IN THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA











CONTENTS


1 A SANDWICH AT RINIS 1
2 SHELTER FROM THE STORM 12
3 A CAF OWNERS WARNING 21
4 THE BLUE STAIN 28
5 A TERRIFYING PORTRAIT 35
6 ROOM SEVEN 42
7 A NIGHT ADVENTURE 48
8 TRAILING A HOUSEBOAT 55
9 PENNY PROVIDES A CLUE 61
10 A BROKEN CONNECTION 69
11 ANGRY WOODS 77
12 FEATHERED FURY 83
13 IN QUEST OF INFORMATION 90
14 HELP FROM JERRY 98
15 THE FACE IN THE MIRROR 108
16 SERIOUS COMPLICATIONS 115
17 A WORTHLESS LEAD 124
18 DISPOSSESSED 131
19 HIDDEN IN THE WOODS 141
20 FLAMING EYES 148
21 A VISITOR FROM THE EAST 157
22 SING LEES LAUNDRY 164
23 THE GOLDEN IDOL 174
24 TRAPPED 182
25 MUD-CAT TO THE RESCUE 188





PENNY SWUNG HER BACK AND SHOULDERS HARD AGAINST THE GLASS.



1

CHAPTER 1

A SANDWICH AT RINIS


You know, Lou, Ive been doing a lot of
wondering here of late, remarked Penny Parker
to her chum, Louise Sidell.
The girls were riding in Pennys mud-
splattered blue coupe, otherwise known as the
Leaping Lena. At the moment Lena was bouncing
more than usual for the pavement was bumpy in
this section of Riverview.
Wondering what? inquired Louise, absently
brushing a wisp of brown hair from her eyes.
Wondering if maybe there isnt something
wrong with me, Penny replied with a grin. My
appetite doesnt seem to be normal.
Oh, why beat about the bush? countered
Louise. Why not come right out and admit
youre hungry again? Or maybe again is the
wrong word. I should have said yet.
Well, I could do with a lunch. How about
Rinis? Were close there now.
Rinis would suit me, Louise nodded. They
have perfectly gorgeous sandwiches. Ham and
cheese, olives, lettuce and mayonnaise on a
toasted bunall for twenty cents.
What, no mustard? Penny laughed. Well,

2
that sounds good to me. Suppose we try it.
She guided the coupe into a rectangle of space
by the curbing, and ruefully dropped a nickel
into the parking meter.
If were not back here before that old machine
clocks off an hour, Ill get a parking ticket, she
warned her chum as they started toward Rinis
Caf. Well have to work fast on those
sandwiches.
Oh, your father knows all the policemen in
town, Louise said carelessly. He could get the
ticket fixed.
He could, but he wouldnt. You dont know
Dad, Louise.
Penny liked to believe that her father, Anthony
B. Parker, editor and publisher of the Riverview
Star, ruled his only daughter with a hand of iron.
Actually, he was very indulgent, and made few
rules, but those few he expected to be obeyed.
One of his pet rulings was that Penny must live
within her weekly allowance, and this she found
trying, for Leaping Lena had a persistent habit of
running up expensive repair bills.
The girls entered Rinis which at the hour of
three was quite deserted. They sought a booth at
the rear of the room and waited for a waitress to
bring them a menu.
Complacently, Louise studied her reflection in
the mirror. She had dark brown eyes, and a
slightly plump, oval face. In contrast, Penny was
an outright blond, with curls combed back over
her shapely ears, bringing well-molded features

3
into prominence. Both girls were dressed very
much alike, in white blouses and dark skirts.
A waitress in a neat, starched green uniform,
arrived with water glasses and the menu cards.
Penny glanced up in astonishment for she
recognized the girl.
Why, Laura Blair! she exclaimed. I didnt
know you worked here.
Ive only had the job a week, the waitress
admitted, speaking in low tones so the proprietor
would not hear.
Penny studied Laura with interest, reflecting
that in the year since the girl had left Riverview
High School, she had grown thinner and much
older looking. It was plain that things had been
going none too well with Laura, otherwise she
would not be working as a waitress at Rinis.
How do you like it here? Louise questioned
curiously.
Laura glanced again toward the front of the
caf before she answered in a bitter tone:
I hate it! Mr. Rini works me every instant of
the time, and hes always berating me for
mistakes.
Then why dont you leave? asked Penny.
Couldnt you find other work?
I doubt it. I tried everywhere before I accepted
this position. It seems no one wishes to hire an
inexperienced person these days. I should have
taken more practical subjects in school.
Youre living with your parents, I suppose?
remarked Louise.

4
Laura gave her a queer, strained look. Didnt
you know? she asked quietly. My parents were
killed in an auto accident just a month after I left
Riverview High.
Oh, Im so sorry, Louise murmured. We
hadnt heard, Laura.
Father always was so careless in his driving. I
guess the accident was his fault. II cant tell
you about it now. Mr. Rini is watching. Your
orders please?
A number three special with hot chocolate,
Louise said automatically, while Penny added:
Make mine the same.
Laura nodded and went quickly through the
swinging doors to the kitchen.
No wonder she seems so changed, Louise
said, staring at Penny across the table. The news
regarding Lauras parents had shocked them
both.
If the accident was her fathers fault, I
suppose not a cent of compensation was paid,
Penny commented. Poor Laura!
And Ive always heard this was a hard place
to work. I dont think Laura is strong enough to
be a waitress.
No, shes delicate. Penny frowned, and
studied the pattern of the inlaid table.
Presently, Laura returned from the kitchen,
bearing a tray of sandwiches and chocolate. She
handled her burden awkwardly, and the girls
saw Mr. Rini watching disapprovingly from
behind the soda fountain. While the girl was

5
easing the tray on a nearby table, he came
toward her, saying in a curt tone:
Try to work with more speed, Miss Blair. Our
customers expect quick service.
Yes, Mr. Rini, murmured Laura.
She placed a cup of chocolate at Pennys elbow
but nervously set it too close to the edge of the
table. A moment later, in reaching across to
deposit the plate of sandwiches, her arm
brushed against it. Penny saw the cup sliding,
and tried to rescue it, but in vain.
The cup of steaming liquid crashed to the
floor, splattering Lauras shoes and uniform. She
was not burned but the chinaware smashed into
a dozen pieces.
Mr. Rini descended upon the horror-stricken
girl.
Youve broken another dish, he said in a
quiet but cutting tone. The second this week.
IIm terribly sorry Laura stammered.
It really was my fault, I think, Penny said,
determined to take the blame. My hand
probably brushed against the cup.
I saw exactly what happened, Mr. Rini
replied. Miss Blair, clean up this mess. The
cashier will settle with you.
Youre discharging me? the girl gasped. Oh,
Mr. Rini
You are through here, the man repeated
coldly. And dont ask me for a
recommendation.
Laura turned and went slowly to the kitchen.

6
When she came back a moment later with a
cloth to wipe up the spilled chocolate, her face
was very white.
Dont you worry, Laura, Louise whispered
encouragingly. Youll find a better job. Mr. Rini
is an old slave driver anyway!
The girl did not reply. She kept her head bent
low as she mopped at the floor.
Laura, said Penny, how long will it take you
to change your uniform?
About five minutes.
Then meet us outside as soon as youre ready
to leave. Louise and I would like to talk with
you.
Laura nodded and returned once more to the
kitchen. A minute later Mr. Rini brought Penny a
fresh cup of chocolate.
I am sorry you have been annoyed, he
apologized in a purring voice. Is everything quite
satisfactory now?
No, it isnt, Mr. Rini, Penny returned bluntly.
I dont care for the flavor of your chocolate. In
fact, I dont care for the flavor of anything about
this place!
Having delivered this impertinence, she
clinked a fifty cent piece down on the table,
arose, and walked out of the caf. Louise hastily
followed, but once outside the building she
remonstrated with her chum.
We might at least have eaten the food since
we paid for it.
Id starve before Id touch anything at that

7
place, Lou. Ill never set foot in there againnot
after the way he acted.
The girls returned to the coupe, there to await
the arrival of Laura. Soon she emerged from the
caf, wearing a coat and hat, and carrying a
paper bundle under her arm. Louise made room
for her in the front seat.
It was kind of you to wait, Laura said in a
discouraged voice.
May we take you home? Penny inquired,
starting the car.
Laura said that she lived at a rooming house
on Bancroft Street, and Penny turned the car in
that direction. As they threaded through the
dense traffic, no one spoke. At last Louise broke
the silence.
Have you any idea what youll do, Laura?
Ill try for another job. If I dont get one then I
may starve.
Oh, surely its not that serious, said Penny.
Well, not quite. I have about twenty dollars
saved. And if the worst came, I could go to
Chicago and live with a cousinif shed take me.
But Ellen has four children, and cant afford to
help me.
Maybe Dad could use you at the newspaper
office, Penny said thoughtfully. Can you run a
typewriter?
Laura shook her head.
Its more than kind of you, Penny, but we
both know I am not trained for newspaper work.
Perhaps you could find a position as

8
companion to someone, suggested Louise
helpfully. Youve studied French and music.
Id like such a job, said Laura, smiling.
Unfortunately, I cant locate any. I do know of a
place where I might find housework.
She opened her purse and withdrew a clipping
torn from the morning edition of the Riverview
Star.
This sounds fairly good, she remarked,
reading the advertisement aloud.
Wantedgirl for general housework. Board,
room, five dollars. Apply at Old Mansion, White
Falls.
The pay isnt very high, Penny remarked.
No, but with my room and board, Id not have
many expenses. However, I cant apply for the
place because the bus doesnt run down that
way.
Mine does, Penny smiled. Ill take you to
White Falls if you wish, Laura.
Oh, Id be so grateful.
Could you be ready in fifteen minutes?
Penny asked, glancing at her wristwatch.
Yes, it wont take me long to pack my
suitcase.
That will just give Lou and me time to tell our
folks where we are going, Penny declared.
She dropped Laura off at her rooming house
on Bancroft, promising to return for her in a very
few minutes. She then drove Louise home, and
upon gaining Mrs. Sidells consent to the trip,
telephoned her father at the Star office.

9
Go right along, Mr. Parker assured her.
What time will you get back from White Falls?
Probably not until after dark, Penny
returned. Please let Mrs. Weems know Ill not be
home for dinner, Dad.
Mrs. Weems, the family housekeeper, had
cared for the girl since the death of Penelopes
mother, many years before.
Ill tell her, Mr. Parker promised. Drive
carefully, Penny.
Returning to Bancroft Street, the girls found
Laura waiting on the front porch with her
suitcase. The luggage was stowed in the rear of
the coupe, and they drove out the south road
which led through fifteen miles of rolling country
to the town of White Falls, located on the Kobalt
River.
During the ride, Laura was by turns talkative
and morose. Finding the girls sympathetic
listeners, she told them of her difficulties since
graduating from school. Her parents had left her
with more debts than money, and after the
estate had been settled, nothing was left. She
had worked in a ten cent store and in a cafeteria,
but neither position had proven satisfactory.
I havent been very lucky, she declared. It
wouldnt surprise me a bit if this housekeeping
job is gone before we get to White Falls.
Well hope not, Penny said cheerfully.
Secretly she was alarmed for fear they might
be delayed by a rain storm. Angry looking clouds
were scudding like sailboats across the sky.

10
Presently she called Louises attention to them.
Oh, the sun is shining, her chum answered
carelessly. It wont rain for hours.
However, before they had covered two-thirds of
the distance to White Falls, the gathering clouds
blotted out the last patch of blue. The air cooled
rapidly so that Louise rolled up the car windows
to protect them from the chill wind. It was
rapidly growing darker, and now and then a vivid
flash of lightning crackled across the sky.
How fast the storm is rolling up, Laura
observed nervously. Will we reach White Falls
before it breaks?
Not a chance, said Penny. The rain is
coming now.
From the direction of the Kobalt river they
could see a great white sheet sweeping nearer
and nearer. A few drops of rain splattered the
windshield, and then a deluge descended. The
pavement became a lake, and Penny could not
see many feet beyond the headlights.
This is a regular cloudburst! she gasped.
Maybe we should pull up under a tree,
Louise suggested anxiously. Youre apt to run
off the road.
If I stop and shut off the motor, the engine
wires may get so wet from this driving rain, that
we wont be able to get it started again until the
storm is over. I believe its better to keep going.
Before the coup had traveled very much
farther, it became apparent to Penny that her
decision had been unwise. The rain was coming

11
down harder every instant. A coughing gasp from
the engine warned her that the motor might die
at any moment, leaving them stranded in the
middle of the road.
Well have to pull up somewhere, she
admitted.
I see a building just ahead, Louise cried,
peering through the rain-splattered glass. It
looks like a shed.
And the door is open, or rather there isnt any
door! Penny exclaimed. A welcome port in a
storm!
Without noticing that smoke issued from the
rear of the building, she turned the car and
drove into the shed.

12

CHAPTER 2

SHELTER FROM THE STORM


As the car rolled into the building, the girls were
startled to hear the loud squawking of a flock of
frightened chickens. Too late they saw that they
had driven not into an empty shed, but into one
which was very much occupied.
A small pig had been penned in one portion of
the room, and tethered to a post was a once-
white goat. Three small children in soiled
overalls cowered against the wall, one crying in
terror at this surprising intrusion of the blue
coupe.
A woman in a long, faded calico dress had
been cooking a stew at the oil stove. With spoon
in hand, she stared open-mouthed at the girls,
while her husband, unshaven, straw hat set
back on his head at a rakish angle, slowly came
toward the car.
Mercy! Louise exclaimed under her breath.
Imagine a family living in a place like this!
Retreat was out of the question for the engine
of the Leaping Lena had gone dead and Penny
knew without trying that it would not start again
until the spark plugs had thoroughly dried.
I surely am sorry to have driven right into

13
your home, she apologized as the man came
over to the running board. We never dreamed
anyone was living here.
The ill-kempt man gazed at her quizzically,
and a half-apologetic grin spread over his face as
he replied in a drawl:
This aint really our home. Weve just been
squattin here since we lost our boat.
Well, at least you have a roof over your head,
Penny replied. And thats not to be sneezed at in
a rain like this.
The storm gave point to her words as the wind
whipped around the building, making it creak in
every one of its ancient joints.
Its a right smart downpour, the man
acknowledged casually. Wont you ladies git
down and make yourselves to home? Though I
reckon them cushions feel softer than anywheres
we got to set.
Penny assured him they would be very glad to
accept his hospitality, and the three girls
climbed from the coupe, soon to be confronted
by the entire Gates family.
There was Ma Gates, from behind whose wide
skirts the heads of two little Gates peered
fearsomely: Jed, who might have been ten or
twelve; and old Joe Gates, the father, variously
known as Rusty Gates, and Mud-Cat Joe.
Were river people, the man informed. And
were plumb off of our beat a-livin in a cow barn.
We aint naturally that kind of folks.
But what happened? Penny asked. Where

14
did you formerly live?
On the old Kobalt, Mud-Cat Joe replied,
jerking a scrawny finger toward the rear of the
shed. The river runs right along back of this
building.
Did you work on the Kobalt? Penny inquired.
Work? Joe repeated. No maam, we lived on
the river.
In a houseboat, but we think some bad men
stole it. This latter contribution came from Jed,
the oldest boy who now ventured forth.
Yep, Jed is right, his father said. We had
the slickest little shanty boat that ever stuck on
a sandbar. We tied her to the bank over thar to
do some tradin. When we got back all we had
left was the raft. Someone had cut the rope and
gone off down river with our boat. So we moved
in hereus and the pigs and chickens.
Pigs on a houseboat! Louise said, unable to
hide her astonishment. I never heard of that
before.
Oh, us river folks all have pigs. That is all
except them thats too shiftless and ornery to put
up with em. But we packed em around on the
raft, not right in where we lived.
But how do you live in a place like this?
Penny insisted. Why, there isnt even a place to
cook.
Thats where youre wrong, Mud-Cat Joe said
proudly. Jennie, show em your cookin truck.
Mrs. Gates led the way to the back of the
shed, pointing to a rusty old iron cook stove

15
whose pipe protruded from a large hole in the
low roof.
She draws like a house afire, Joe
announced. Aint it so, Jennie?
It aint bad! Jennie said, in a speech which
was long for her.
Jennie is the best corn pone baker on the
river, Joe added. And her catfish! She bakes
em so theyd melt in a mans mouth.
When we kin get em, Jennie remarked.
We aint had much vittles since the River
Queen was stole, Mud-Cat Joe said ruefully.
You cant ketch many fish from the shore, and
the hens dont lay good when they aint on the
river.
And the kids is nigh naked, Jennie added,
her face troubled.
Yep, their clothes was all on the boat, Joe
agreed. Times is bad, but I allows Ill build up
another boat right soon if the skunks that took
the Queen dont bring er back. Theres right
smart timber in this here shed.
As Mud-Cat Joe spoke he ran an appraising
eye over the dilapidated shelter above his head.
Today it was only a shed. Tomorrow it might be a
brand new shanty boat, housing in comparative
comfort, Jennie and Joe and their little brood.
Louise and Laura watched for a chance to
excuse themselves and climbed back into the
coupe, waiting for the rain to cease. Penny
preferred to talk with Jed and the two smaller
children, Petey and Susie. She noted the articles

16
of clothing which they needed, and made up her
mind that she would try to find suitable
garments for them after she returned home.
Mud-Cat Joe proudly offered her the one good
chair in the room, which he explained had come
floatin down the river only that morning. He
chatted at great length about the River Queen,
telling how he had searched everywhere along
the shore for the missing houseboat but had
been unable to find a trace of it.
What does your boat look like? Penny
inquired curiously.
Oh, there aint another like her, Mud-Cat
Joe answered. She looks like a purty little box a
settin on a raft. She has a smoke pipe a comin
out of her middle thats painted green and her
sides is covered with tar paper. Inside she has
two roomsthe settin and sleepin room, and
the eatin room. The settin room is papered real
purty with sheets we took out of a mail order
book.
There was petunias growin in a box on the
porch, added Jennie.
That boat sure was a daisy, Mud-Cat Joe
sighed. Best on the river, but shes done
vanished.
In a short while the sun peeped out between
two skudding thunderheads; the rain fell in fitful
splashes and finally stopped altogether. The girls
decided to continue their journey.
Penny stepped on the starter and gave a sigh
of relief when Leaping Lena decided to run. The

17
Gates family gathered around the coupe to bid
the girls goodbye.
Thank you for giving us shelter, Penny said
to Mud-Cat Joe.
Youre right welcome, Miss. Where you all
goin now?
Down to White Falls, if the car is willing. Is it
far from here?
Two miles by the river. Reckon its quite a
spell farther the way youre goin.
As Penny was starting to shift gears, Mud-Cat
thought of something more he wished to say. He
crowded close, shouting above the roar of the
engine:
Say, if you see anything that looks like the
River Queen down that way, Ill be obliged if
youll let me know. We need that boat mighty
bad.
Well keep an eye out for it, Penny promised.
With the Gates family waving goodbye, she
backed from the shed to the road. The pavement
was wet and slippery, but already the sun had
struggled through the clouds.
Well, that was an experience! exclaimed
Louise, when they were well on their way toward
White Falls. You do have a way of getting into
the strangest places, Penny. Such as Osandras
sance parlor for example!
Osandras sance parlor? repeated Laura
deeply puzzled.
Oh, just one of Pennys many adventures,
Louise chuckled. Dont tell me you didnt read

18
about it in the newspapers?
Im afraid I didnt.
Well, everyone else in Riverview and
surrounding territory saw the account, Louise
went on. Penny had a signed story in the paper,
entitled TALE OF THE WITCH DOLL, which was
played up on the front page.
I must be dumb, Laura confessed. I still
dont understand.
Its too long a story to tell in full detail,
Louise replied. Penny had a little spare time, so
she went out and solved a mystery about a weird
looking witch doll. I shiver yet when I think of it!
Incidentally, she saved the life of the Great
Osandra, and aided in the capture of an escaped
convict.
Dont forget the reward, Penny added. I
suppose you had no part in all the excitement,
Lou?
Not worth mentioning. Say, why dont you
devote your talents to Mud-Cat Joes cause? He
would appreciate it.
You mean the vanished houseboat? Penny
inquired, slowing the car to avoid a hard bump.
Well, thats an idea! I cant understand how
anyone would be so low as to steal from such
poverty-stricken people.
Oh, the boat may have just floated off down
the river, Louise answered.
Mud-Cat said the rope had been cut.
Thats so. Well, Penny, perhaps you can solve
the mystery of what became of the vanished

19
houseboat!
Im afraid it doesnt interest me deeply,
Penny replied. I do mean to take the Gates
family food and clothing. And they should have a
better place to live. That old shed must be
freezing cold at night.
By this time the girls had reached White Falls,
a small town of perhaps a thousand inhabitants.
Due to its location on the Kobalt river the
community had once been prosperous, but now
many old dwellings were deserted, and the entire
place had a sleepy, weve seen better days,
appearance.
Well, were here, said Penny, parking the car
in front of a restaurant at the edge of the
business section. I wonder where well find Old
Mansion?
The advertisement gave no address,
contributed Laura.
Ill run into the caf and inquire, Penny
offered.
She returned in a moment but did not climb
back into the car. We stopped at the right place,
girls. Old Mansion is next door.
Next door! Laura exclaimed, turning to stare
at the row of buildings. You dont mean that old
house jammed in between the caf and a
Chinese laundry!
Im afraid thats the place all right.
Its so run down, said Laura. Theres no
yard, and the rear of the building borders
directly on the river. How could they call it a

20
mansion?
Someone did have plenty of imagination,
Penny agreed. But then, I judge the house has
seen better days. That laundry, for instance,
appears to have been built quite recently.
I wouldnt apply for the position if I were you,
Laura, advised Louise.
No, added Penny, if you dont care for the
look of it, well simply drive back.
Laura stared again at the shabby wooden
building whose sagging porch fronted the street,
and after an obvious struggle with herself,
announced determinedly:
No, its probably all right inside. Anyway, Im
desperate for a job. If the place is still open, Ill
take it!
She stepped from the car and started toward
the house, walking slightly ahead of her friends.
Wait a moment, Louise, Penny said quietly.
I have to lock the car.
She fumbled with the key, and then, when
Laura was beyond hearing, said in an undertone:
Louise, I dont know what to do. Theres
something I should tell Laura, and yet Im afraid
it will upset her.
Louise glanced at her chum in astonishment.
About Old Mansion? she asked.
Yes, a strange thing happened. When I asked
the caf owner to direct me to the place, he gave
me the queerest look. The house is next door,
he said, but take my advice and dont spend a
night there!

21

CHAPTER 3

A CAF OWNERS WARNING


Didnt you ask the man what he meant? Louise
inquired, taken aback by Pennys disclosure.
Certainly, I did, Lou. He merely shrugged,
and said it was his opinion Id not like the place.
Then he meant nothing after all?
Im not sure, Penny said slowly. Perhaps he
started to tell me something and changed his
mind. Anyway, the question is, shall I tell
Laura?
Shell never take the job if you do.
Thats what I figured. Of course, if the place is
undesirable, we wouldnt wish her to have it.
Why not wait until we learn the outcome of
the interview?
Perhaps that would be wise, Penny agreed.
Laura had paused to wait for her friends, so
the girls quickly overtook her.
Shall we wait outside or go in with you?
Penny inquired.
You dont mind coming along? Laura asked
timidly.
Not in the least.
Then I wish you would. I dread interviewing
strangers.

22
The three girls let themselves through a dirty
picket fence and made their way to the porch. A
card in the front window bearing the words:
Tourist Rooms, caused Penny to remark that
Laura would find plenty of work to do in a house
which catered to transients.
Louise rang the door bell and in a moment, a
lean woman with frowsy hair scorched from a
curling iron, came to the door. She had a sharp,
angular face and a large nose which drew
attention away from her other imperfect features.
Well? she inquired, a note of impatience in
her voice.
When Laura became confused and could not
answer, Penny replied that they were there in
response to an advertisement inserted in the
Riverview Star.
Come in, the woman invited, scrutinizing
each of the girls in turn. Youre not from White
Falls, are you?
No, we live in Riverview, Penny replied easily.
Id rather have a girl from somewhere besides
White Falls, the woman announced. But I warn
you the work is hard. Theres scrubbing and
washing and ironing to do. You look rather
young to me.
Oh, Im not applying for the position, Penny
said hastily. Laura Blair is the one who is
interested. Your name is
Mrs. Anna Comstock, replied the woman,
turning to gaze at Laura. She frowned
disapprovingly. Youre not very strong, are you?

23
Ive never been afraid of hard work, faltered
Laura.
Well, I dont know, Mrs. Comstock said
doubtfully.
Laura has had considerable experience in
cafeterias and restaurants, said Penny. I am
sure you will find her both capable and willing.
I might take you on trial, the woman told
Laura. Youll start in at four dollars a week,
board and room.
But the advertisement said five dollars,
Laura protested.
Four dollarstake it or leave it. Later, if
youre a hard worker, and know how to mind
your business, maybe I can raise you to five.
Laura glanced despairingly at Louise and
Penny, and ignoring their signals, said in a
subdued voice:
I guess Ill take it.
Then get into your work clothes right away,
ordered Mrs. Comstock briskly. Im in the
middle of a big ironing. You can take over while I
do my grocery buying.
Before Laura could reply, footsteps were heard
in the hallway. A short, pudgy man with alert,
darting eyes entered the parlor. He glanced
sharply at the girls.
Who are they, Anna? he asked rudely.
The new housemaid, and some of her
friends, his wife replied.
Well help you bring in your luggage, Laura,
Penny said quickly.

24
She and Louise carried the heavy suitcase to
an upstairs room which Mrs. Comstock assigned
Laura. It was a plainly furnished chamber with
ugly wall paper and an uncomfortable bed.
Laura, do you think you really wish to stay?
Penny inquired. If Im any judge of character,
Mrs. Comstock will prove a hard taskmaster.
Oh, I expect it. But Ill stick it out for a few
weeks anyway.
Penny glanced at Louise, wondering again if
she should tell Laura what the caf owner had
said about Old Mansion. Before she could speak,
Mrs. Comstocks voice was heard from the foot of
the stairway.
Hurry and change your clothes, Miss Blair,
she called. I want you to get started at the
ironing.
Ill be right down, Laura promised.
She changed her shoes and dress, and then
leaving Penny and Louise to unpack the suitcase
for her, ran down to the kitchen.
I believe we should wait around for an hour
or so, declared Penny to her chum. Laura may
change her mind and decide to return with us.
Yes, agreed Louise, Mrs. Comstock is
starting out like a slave driver. It looks as if poor
Laura will not have much free time for herself.
I didnt care for her husband either, Penny
announced. He acted so suspicious of us.
Just his rude way, I imagine.
They had finished hanging Lauras garments
in the closet, when Louise, who chanced to be

25
near the window, noticed Mrs. Comstock going
down the street, market basket on her arm.
Feeling that the coast was clear, the two girls ran
to the kitchen to talk with Laura.
They discovered her hard at work on a huge
basket of ironing. The sink was filled to
overflowing with dirty dishes.
I know Ill never make good here, Laura said
anxiously. Mrs. Comstock expects me to finish
the ironing, do the scrubbing and the dishes
before supper time! I cant possibly get half of it
done.
I should think not! exclaimed Penny
indignantly. Mrs. Comstock should employ an
octopus, not a mere human being.
Theres the dusting to do too, Laura added.
Well help you, Louise declared. Ill start in
on the dishes. I wonder where Old Comstock
keeps her soap chips?
Dont bother to look for them, advised
Penny. You might know a woman of her frugal
character wouldnt squander money on soap.
She found a dust cloth in the cellarway and
while Louise devoted herself to the dishes, began
an energetic attack on the furniture. It was a
tedious task, for the large rooms were crowded
with massive pieces, bric-a-brac, and upon each
wall hung countless numbers of paintings and
portraits in heavy frames.
Good afternoon, General, clowned Penny,
making a mock bow before the picture of an
ancient warlord. What a scowling old fellow you

26
are! The Comstock temperament, no doubt.
Would his generalship like to have his face
wiped?
As she dusted the paintings, it occurred to her
to wonder how Mr. and Mrs. Comstock had
chanced to have so many. If the portraits had
been done by worthwhile artists, she knew they
must represent a fairly large sum of money. Yet
the Comstocks had not impressed her as
persons interested in art. Doubtlessly, the
pictures and the massive furniture had been
handed down by more prosperous relatives.
Penny dusted the lower floor, and then went
back to the kitchen where she wiped the dishes
for Louise. Laura worked doggedly at the ironing
but the pile of clothes in the basket melted
slowly.
Ill never get through before dinner time, she
declared nervously, glancing at the clock. Mrs.
Comstock is due back here any minute.
Why kill yourself trying? demanded Penny.
The more I see of this place the less I like it.
Id like to make a good impression. But these
clothes are so hard to iron. They are wrinkled
and dry.
Laura reached upon the shelf above the
ironing board for a sprinkling glass which stood
there. Her arm brushed against a bottle of
blueing left uncorked by Mrs. Comstock.
Before Laura could prevent the disaster, the
bottle upset and tumbled down on the ironing
board. An ugly blue stain spread slowly over a

27
white shirt.
Oh, what have I done now! Laura cried in
dismay. Ive ruined one of Mr. Comstocks
shirts! Now Im certain to lose my job!

28

CHAPTER 4

THE BLUE STAIN


While Penny ran for a cloth to wipe up the spot
on the linoleum, Laura plunged the shirt into a
pan of cold water under the spigot at the sink.
Only part of the stain is coming out! she
wailed. What shall I do?
Let it soak for awhile, Louise suggested
helpfully.
Perhaps Mrs. Comstock has some stain
remover fluid in the house, Penny added.
She searched through the cupboards and the
shelves by the cellarway, but could find nothing
which would serve the purpose. Anxiously, the
girls inspected the shirt.
Well, its not coming out, Laura said. I may
as well start packing my things.
Mrs. Comstock might not say anything about
it, Louise ventured.
Shell say plenty, Laura replied grimly. Oh,
why must I be so awkward? It seems luck is just
against me.
I have an idea! Penny cried unexpectedly.
Remember that Chinese laundry next door,
Lou? Well take the shirt over there and see if the
laundryman can remove the stain!

29
Youll never get it back in time, Laura
protested.
Maybe we will, Penny insisted. Anyway,
theres nothing to lose by trying. You keep on
with that stupid ironing, Laura, while Louise and
I see what we can do. If Mrs. Comstock returns
ahead of us, well try to smuggle the shirt into
the basket without her seeing it.
Wrapping the stained garment in an old
newspaper, the girls made their way to the
laundry next door. It was a fairly new two-story
building which stood so close to the mansion
that at one point the walls actually seemed to
touch. At the rear, a porch very similar to one
built on the ancient house, extended close to the
river, and at high water time, water easily could
swish against the high supporting posts.
Penny and Louise entered the laundry, and
waited for the proprietor to come from the back
room. Sing Lee was a squatty little man with a
yellow, mask-like face whose slippers made no
sound as he padded toward them.
Missee wish washee done? he asked politely.
We have something rather special here,
Penny said, unwrapping the shirt. Blueing was
spilled on this garment. Can you remove the
stain?
The Chinaman peered at the shirt for a
moment.
Velly bad stain, he remarked. But Sing Lee
make it come out. Missee come back tomollow
maybe.

30
Tomorrow! Penny exclaimed. Oh, this is a
rush order. Well have to have it right away. Say
in fifteen minutes.
The Chinaman shook his head, and thrust the
shirt back into her hand.
You wouldnt need to iron it, she urged.
Just remove the stain for us. That shouldnt
take long.
The laundryman hesitated. Sing Lee washee
blue-spot stain from shirt if Missee pay one
dollah.
Penny was taken aback at this exorbitant
demand, but she reluctantly agreed to the terms.
Sing Lee vanished into the rear room and the
girls sat down on a bench to wait.
Ugly little fellow, isnt he? Louise whispered.
I hope he does a good job on that shirt.
Penny had been surveying the room, staring
with interest at an object which hung on the wall
directly above the bench.
Did you notice what youre sitting under,
Lou? she inquired.
Louise glanced up, and with a little cry of
alarm, sprang to her feet. A heavy silver sword
with an intricately molded handle and a wicked
looking blade, had been suspended over her
head.
Oh, it wont bite you, Penny laughed.
I might be decapitated if it should fall from its
support! Louise retorted. You dont catch me
sitting under that thing!
She arose and remained standing until Sing

31
Lee returned with the shirt. Inspecting it to make
certain the stain had been removed, Penny gave
the Chinaman the sum he had demanded.
Missee no live in White Falls? he inquired,
pocketing the dollar bill.
Were from Riverview, Penny explained. Just
at the moment were staying next door.
Maybe Missee stay at Old Mansion tonight?
Sing Lee asked softly.
No, were merely here with a friend, Penny
answered shortly. She did not care to reply to so
many personal questions.
The girls carried the shirt back to the house
next door, taking care to enter the kitchen
quietly. There was no sign of Mrs. Comstock, or
for that matter, of Laura. The ironing had been
stacked neatly on the kitchen table.
I suppose shes working upstairs, Louise
said. Ill finish this shirt before Mrs. Comstock
drops in on us.
She neatly pressed the garment, and folding it,
laid it with the other shirts.
There! she declared in satisfaction. Mrs.
Comstock will have keen eyesight if she
discovers anything wrong.
Scarcely were the words spoken when the girls
were startled to hear a piercing scream from one
of the upstairs rooms.
That was Lauras voice! Penny exclaimed.
They darted up the circular stairway two at a
time, wondering what latest misfortune had
come upon their friend. Lauras room was empty.

32
However, as Penny and Louise were looking
about in bewilderment, the door of Room seven
opened and the girl came out into the hall. Her
face was white, the pupils of her eyes dilated
with fear.
Why, what is the matter, Laura? asked
Penny.
That room Laura whispered. Those
paintings!
Louise and Penny opened the door and
glanced inside the room. It was a large chamber
with a massive four-poster walnut bed, dresser,
and the usual chairs. Heavy red draperies hung
at the windows, one of which overlooked the
river, directly beneath. On the east wall were
four portraits done in oil and hung in massive
gilt frames. The figures were very nearly life-size,
the faces depressing.
It is pretty awful, Penny said. But what
made you scream, Laura?
That painting on the wall, Laura whispered
in awe. The portrait of the man with the red
velvet hatI was dusting
She broke off suddenly as the girls heard a
door slam downstairs.
Mrs. Comstock! Laura finished excitedly.
She mustnt find us here!
Quickly, the girls fled from the room, closing
the door after them. Laura busied herself
dusting the stairway just as Mrs. Comstock
appeared.
Humph! the woman commented. I must say

33
youve done better than I expected. Never mind
the rest of the dusting. Get downstairs and start
dinner.
Yes, Mrs. Comstock, Laura replied.
Penny noticed that as the girl descended the
stairs her hands were shaking, and she gripped
the railing for support.
I suppose we should be starting for home,
Lou, Penny remarked. We have a long drive
ahead of us.
Laura halted and turned an appealing face
toward her friends.
Cant you wait just a little longer? she
pleaded.
Instantly divining that Laura needed their
companionship and moral support, the girls
generously agreed they would remain for a time.
The decision seemed displeasing to Mrs.
Comstock who obviously considered them as
intruders in the house. However, she refrained
from comment.
Gus and I shall expect dinner promptly at
six-thirty, she told Laura. Youll find the
makings of a hash in the ice chest. There are
turnips to be cooked, and you might make a rice
pudding for dessert.
Taking the evening paper, she disappeared
into the parlor, and the three girls were left
alone. They retired to the kitchen, carefully
closing the door.
She didnt even notice the shirt! Laura
exclaimed in relief.

34
No, Penny agreed. Sing Lee next door did a
good job of removing the stain. But Laura, I
think you should decide to return with us to
Riverview.
Id like to, said Laura, sinking down in a
chair. She appeared to waver, and then added
determinedly. No, Ill not be so sillyIll stick it
out even after what happened up there in Room
seven.
What did happen? Penny asked quickly.
What did you start to tell us just as Mrs.
Comstock appeared?
It sounds rather ridiculous now, Laura
whispered. Yet its trueI swear it is!
Something about the paintings? Penny
urged.
I was dusting the bed, Laura said in a low
tone. All the time I felt so uncomfortableI cant
explain the sensation.
Yes, Penny nodded. The room gave me the
same feeling.
Suddenly I glanced toward that paintingthe
man with the red velvet cap. Lauras voice
dropped still lower, and she shivered. His eyes
were looking straight at me.
And was that when you screamed?
No, replied Laura. I cried out in terror when
I saw those terrible eyes move!

35

CHAPTER 5

A TERRIFYING PORTRAIT


Penny and Louise regarded their friend with
undisguised skepticism. They understood that
Laura was tired and nervous, and in her
overwrought condition it would be easy to
imagine she had seen the eyes of the painting
actually move.
I can tell you dont believe me, the girl said.
But its true!
The bedroom was quite dark when you were
there, Penny replied soothingly. You probably
were mistaken, Laura.
Then I must be losing my mind! Those
horrible eyes blinked and moved sideways in
their sockets! II saw it!
Laura, said Louise firmly. This is no place
for you. Come on back to Riverview with us.
No, I shall stay. Perhaps I did get excited.
Laura averted her face, feeling that she had
made herself appear ridiculous in the eyes of her
friends.
The paintings in this house are the most
ghastly things Ive ever seen, Penny declared.
But I imagine one could get used to them after a
few days. Laura, would it make you feel more

36
comfortable if Louise and I stayed with you
tonight?
Why, yes, of course, only Id not ask you to do
it. And Mrs. Comstock might object.
We could pay for our room. Since she takes
tourists I dont see why she should object to us.
Louise, would your folks mind if you stayed?
I dont know. Id have to telephone.
So would I. But Im certain Dad wont mind.
Suppose we talk with Mrs. Comstock now.
The girls went toward the parlor, intending to
speak with the mistress of the house. Hearing
voices within, they hesitated upon the threshold.
Mrs. Comstock, her back turned, was talking in
a low, tense tone to her husband.
I tell you Ill not send the girl away, she said
angrily. Shes a good worker and Im tuckered
out trying to keep up this big place and take in
tourists.
Its dangerous to have anyone here, and you
know it, Anna, the man retorted. Do you want
us to get into trouble?
He broke off abruptly, having noticed Louise
and Penny in the doorway. The girls apologized
for the intrusion, and mentioned their wish to
remain for the night. Mrs. Comstock frowned
and started to refuse, but before she could
speak, Penny interposed hastily:
We expect to pay for our room, of course.
What do you think, Gus? the woman asked,
turning to her husband.
Might as well pick up a dollar or two wherever

37
we can, he muttered. Ill get the register and
you girls better sign it like regular over-night
guests. Theres state regulations, you know. It
will be two dollars in advance.
Penny paid the fee, for Louise had little money
with her. In signing the register, she noticed that
the last guest who had spent a night at the Old
Mansion had been a man by the name of J. D.
Merriman from Chicago, assigned to Room
seven.
Wheres your luggage? asked Mr. Comstock.
We brought none with us, Louise explained.
You see, we had no thought of remaining.
Well, I guess it will be all right, though we
dont usually take folks without luggage, the
man said. Ill let you have Room seven!
No, Gus! cried Mrs. Comstock sharply. Not
that room!
Mr. Comstock glanced angrily at his wife.
Room seven hasnt been dusted, the woman
stammered. Put them in number ten. Theyll
like that much better.
Why cant we share Lauras room? inquired
Louise. Im sure she wouldnt mind.
It would save bed linen, Mrs. Comstock
agreed quickly.
Gus Comstock acted none too pleased with
the arrangement, but he refrained from further
comment.
Will you take dinner here? Mrs. Comstock
inquired. That will be fifty cents apiece.
No, we thought wed go next door to the caf,

38
Penny replied, without consulting Louise.
The prospect of hash and rice pudding held no
lure, and besides, she did not wish to make
Laura extra work.
Lem Vare keeps a mighty poor table, Mr.
Comstock said disparagingly. You wont like it
in my opinion.
Well, well see, responded Penny, unmoved.
Returning to the kitchen to tell Laura that the
Comstocks had agreed they might remain, the
girls found her toiling over the hot stove.
Im glad you have decided to stay, Laura
declared. Of course, you may share my room. Ill
not feel so lonesome with company.
Leaving the girl to serve supper, Penny and
Louise started toward the caf which adjoined
the mansion on the left. They paused for a
moment to stare at the dark river which flowed
in a swift, steady stream close to the door.
I cant imagine who would lay out a street in
such fashion, Louise remarked. All these
buildings are dangerously near the water.
I imagine they were built farther back, Penny
returned. Probably the river has cut into the
bank as the years went by.
One of these days I imagine everything will
topple into the water.
It wouldnt be a very great loss, Penny
replied. As far as Im concerned Mr. Gus
Comstock and wife can be perched on the roof
when Old Mansion swims off!
They are an unpleasant pair. Did you hear

39
what they were saying, Penny, when we came
into the parlor?
Yes, it puzzled me. Why should Mr. Comstock
consider it dangerous for Laura to remain here?
And he acted so queer about that room. I was
tempted to insist upon sleeping there despite
Mrs. Comstocks protests.
Im glad you didnt, Penny. I havent any
overpowering desire to spend a night with
portraits which roll their eyes and cut capers.
Oh, that part must be nonsense, Lou.
Yes, Laura was excited, Louise agreed. So
many things happened to her today she didnt
know what she was doing.
Still, its very strange Mrs. Comstock was so
set against us having that room. She acted
almost as if she were afraid of something.
She said it hadnt been dusted.
Oh, that was only an excuse, Lou. Mr.
Comstock seemed to understand what his wife
meant, for he let the matter drop. Another odd
thing, you remember the caf owner dropped a
hint about the mansion. He said to take his
advice and not spend a night here.
And were planning to do just the opposite!
Louise exclaimed. I had forgotten all about it.
That was one reason why I especially wished
to stay, Penny confessed with a chuckle. Well,
shall we have our supper and telephone home?
Perhaps while were in the caf I can induce Lem
Vare to elaborate upon his original warning.
The caf was entirely deserted when the girls

40
entered. They asked to use the telephone, and
placed long distance calls to their homes in
Riverview. Both girls received permission to
spend the night at White Falls.
Penny noticed that the proprietor, Lem Vare,
listened closely to the conversations, and as he
served them a little later at one of the white
tables, he commented upon their decision to
remain at the mansion.
So you decided to stay after all? he inquired.
Yes, it would take us a long while to drive
back to Riverview tonight, Penny answered.
Dont you think well like the place?
Lem Vare did not answer, but hastily went to
the kitchen. Soon he reappeared, bearing a tray
laden with food. Despite Gus Comstocks
prediction, the dishes were tasty and well
prepared.
The proprietor loitered nearby while the girls
ate the food, and Penny saw him gazing at them
with troubled eyes. Several times he seemed
upon the verge of speaking.
Finally she said again, in a conversational
tone: So you dont think well like the mansion?
The man came near the table, and lowered his
voice.
You wouldnt catch me staying there, he
said. Not on your life!
Why? questioned Penny.
Well, returned the proprietor significantly.
Something might happen. What room are you
staying in?

41
Im not certain, replied Penny, astonished by
the question.
Is it on the south side of the building?
No, on the street side.
Then thats not so bad, the man said in
relief. You had me good and scared for a
minute.
Just what is wrong with the place?
demanded Louise impatiently. Is it supposed to
be haunted?
Nothing like that, the man muttered. I
shouldnt be telling you all this.
If you feel we might be in any danger, it is
your duty, said Penny quietly. Has all this
mystery anything to do with Room seven?
The man gave her a quick, quizzical glance.
Thats it, he said. Ill tell you
His voice trailed off, and he began to gather up
the dishes on the table. Glancing toward the
door, Penny and Louise saw that Gus Comstock
had noiselessly entered the caf, and was
regarding Lem Vare with an expression of deep
suspicion.

42

CHAPTER 6

ROOM SEVEN


The caf proprietor hastily disappeared into the
kitchen with a tray of dishes, and to the
annoyance of Penny and Louise, Gus Comstock
loitered near their table. He picked up a
newspaper and pretended to read it, but they
could see that he was covertly watching them.
He deliberately trailed us over here, Louise
whispered.
Penny nodded and did not risk making a
reply, for she knew Gus ears might be sharp.
There was no question in her mind that the man
had tried to discourage them from dining at the
caf, and failing, had followed to learn what
transpired. His facial expression had disclosed
his distrust of Lem Vare.
The girls tarried over their dinner as long as
possible, but it soon became evident that Gus
Comstock intended to out-stay them. Convinced
they could hope to acquire no information from
the caf owner under such conditions, they paid
their small bill and left.
As the screen door slammed behind them,
they heard Gus voice rising angrily.
Up to your old tricks, eh Lem? he demanded.

43
I dont know what youre talking about, the
other man returned.
Oh, yes, you do. I heard what you were telling
those girls. Youre trying to ruin our tourist
businessthats what youre doing.
It ought to be ruined, retorted Lem.
Let me tell you something, Gus snapped.
You tend to your own business and let me tend
mine! Get me? If you dont
The girls did not catch the remainder of the
threat, for the mans voice dropped to a lower
tone. Turning, they walked slowly down toward
the river.
Well, we learned very little after all, Louise
remarked in disappointment. I wonder what
Lem intended to tell us?
I mean to go back there when the coast is
clear, and question him, Penny declared. Its
evident, Lem and Gus are enemies, but even so,
it strikes me that something is decidedly wrong
at Old Mansion. Otherwise, Gus wouldnt be so
afraid of the caf owner spreading gossip.
All the mystery seems to center around Room
seven.
Yes, Penny nodded, Id like to take another
glance at the place, but I suppose its impossible.
Mrs. Comstock will be on her guard.
I feel uneasy about Laura remaining here
under the circumstances.
Oh, I dont imagine there is any cause for real
alarm, returned Penny. Anyway, well try to
talk with Lem Vare before we leave tomorrow.

44
Cloaked by gathering dusk, the girls stood for
a moment watching the dark, swirling waters of
the Kobalt river. As a motor boat laboriously
plied its way upstream, tiny wavelets pounded
against the stone supports of the old mansion.
Along the far shore they noticed several
houseboats which had been tied up in sheltered
coves.
All houseboats look just about alike to me,
Louise remarked. Id be unable to recognize
Mud-Cats property if it came floating right
before my eyes.
I fear Mud-Cat will never see his River Queen
again, Penny replied. A pity, too.
The evening air had grown cold, so the girls
walked back to the mansion, entering by the
kitchen door. They found Laura washing dishes,
and immediately lent her a helping hand.
Im tired enough to drop, the girl confessed
when the last pan had been scoured. If you
dont mind, Ill go to bed.
Lets all turn in, suggested Louise. Theres
nothing to do in this one-horse town anyway.
Lauras room contained a double bed and a
narrow, lumpy couch. Penny generously chose
the latter, and without asking Mrs. Comstock,
found extra linen and blankets in the hall closet.
Laura loaned pajamas to her friends, and by
nine oclock lights were out.
Long after Louise and Laura were sleeping
peacefully, Penny lay awake. She was
unaccustomed to retiring at such an early hour,

45
and besides, the couch was uncomfortable. She
squirmed and twisted and could not adjust
herself.
Presently the girl became aware of voices from
another room. Mrs. Comstock was talking with
her husband, and in the still house her tones
carried clearly.
I dont care if you dont like it, Gus, she
declared. Laura stays, and thats all there is to
it! Shes the best worker Ive ever had. You know
we cant get anyone here in White Falls.
Ive nothing against the girl, Gus answered
in a gruff voice. But Im afraid she may learn
things and talk. Already that old fool, Lem Vare,
is trying to start trouble.
Whats he up to now?
Trying to tell the girls friends about Room
seven. But I closed him up before he spilled it.
Gus, Im afraid, the woman muttered. We
might get into real trouble
Forget it, Gus ordered. You always were the
worryin kind. Go to sleep now.
The voices died away, and the house again
became quiet. Penny lay with eyes wide open,
staring into the darkness. What deep mystery
could be associated with Room seven, the
chamber of hideous paintings? She reflected
upon Lauras declaration that the eyes of one of
the portraits had moved. But upon the face of it,
such a claim was ridiculous.
Presently, after determining that upon the
morrow she would attempt to persuade Laura to

46
give up her position, Penny rolled over and tried
to sleep. She was just becoming drowsy when
she was aroused again by a sound not unlike the
creaking of a board.
Penny sat up and listened. There it was again!
This time, she felt certain the noise came from
the opposite side of the hall. She tried to make
herself believe it was nothing unusual, that any
old house was likely to produce strange sounds,
yet the feeling persistedsomeone was walking
about in Room seven!
Unable to endure the suspense, Penny rolled
out of bed, and tiptoed to the door. She opened it
and listened. Everything was still for a moment,
and then she heard the creaking noise once
more.
There is someone in Room seven! she
thought.
Penny glanced back at the bed where Laura
and Louise were sleeping. She considered waking
them and decided against it.
Slipping into Lauras robe, she stole down the
hall, pausing before Room seven. She listened
again and hearing no movement within,
cautiously twisted the knob.
The door swung back to reveal an empty room.
Moonlight streamed in through the windows,
throwing a ghost-like pattern on the carpet, and
across one of the paintings.
Penny shivered and drew Lauras robe more
closely about her slender figure. Suddenly she
experienced an uncomfortable feeling, that she

47
was not alone in the room. Yet certainly her
senses were tricking her. The bed chamber was
quite empty.
Penny entered the room and turned to gaze at
the portraits on the east wall. She could not see
them clearly. Three of the pictures were heavily
shrouded in darkness. A moonbeam shone full
on the fourth painting, a likeness of the man in
the red cap, and the flickering light made his
face appear almost alive. The eyes were
luminous, and it seemed to her that they were
focused directly upon her.
Suddenly, for no reason she could
understand, Penny was terrified. Gone was her
desire to investigate the room; she felt only an
urge to escape.
Theres something here, she thought
nervously.
Penny backed slowly toward the door, her gaze
still fastened on the painting. She failed to hear
footsteps behind her. Then, with no warning, she
was grasped firmly by the shoulders.

48

CHAPTER 7

A NIGHT ADVENTURE


Penny gave a smothered little cry. She whirled
around, ready to fight off her attacker, and then
laughed shakily. The person who held her was
Mrs. Comstock, looking ridiculous in an old
fashioned high-neck nightgown, and curlers
sticking from her head like porcupine needles.
Oh, Mrs. Comstock! Penny gasped. I
thought a big bad ghost had me that time for
sure!
What are you doing in this room? demanded
the woman sternly.
Why, Ithat is
Your room is across the hall, said Mrs.
Comstock tartly, assuming that the girl had
become confused in the darkness. Do you walk
in your sleep?
Well, not very often, Penny stammered. Im
sorry I caused you so much annoyance. Ill run
back to my room now.
Without giving the woman an opportunity to
question her further, she quickly fled. Mrs.
Comstock closed the door of Room seven and
turned a key in the lock. Then the house once
more settled down for the night.

49
Penny was glad that Louise and Laura had
slept through the disturbance. She had no
intention of revealing to them what had
happened. Now that she was in her bed,
snuggled down under the covers, her fears
seemed silly.
Im getting worse than Laura! she accused
herself. No one was in that room, of course. And
it was all imagination, thinking even for an
instant that those eyes were looking at me!
Chuckling because Mrs. Comstock had given
her such an uncomfortable moment, Penny
curled up and went to sleep. She did not awaken
until early morning, when someone pounded on
the door.
Six oclock, called Mrs. Comstock. Time to
get up, Laura.
Still in a sleep-dazed condition, Laura slipped
out of bed and started dressing. She remained
weary from her previous days work, but offered
no complaint.
I suppose we may as well get up too, Penny
sighed.
She washed her hands and face in ice cold
water from a white porcelain pitcher, and
combed her hair.
Is one of my eyes out of place, or is it this
cracked mirror? she asked, turning to Laura.
Its the mirror, the girl laughed.
I couldnt be sure, said Penny. After last
night
Laura! interrupted a loud voice from the foot

50
of the stairs. Are you up?
Coming, answered Laura nervously.
She started for the door when Penny caught
her by the hand.
Laura, she said soberly. This will be our last
chance to talk. Wont you come home with me?
Im sure youll never like this place.
I know that, Laura agreed.
Then come back to Riverview with me. You
may stay at our house until you find work.
Laura shook her head.
Thank you, Penny, but I cant impose upon
you. I am determined to be self-supporting.
Releasing her friends hand, Laura ran out of
the room, hastening down the stairway to the
kitchen. An hour later when Penny and Louise
were ready to take their leave, she had only a
moment to talk with them.
I appreciate your help more than I can say,
she declared. And Ill miss you both terribly.
This house will be a morgue.
Louise and I will run down to see you now
and then, Penny promised. And remember this,
if you should need us for any reason, dont
hesitate to send word.
Ill remember, Laura said.
Penny had made up her mind to talk with Lem
Vare again, so the girls went next door for
breakfast. The man did not seem very glad to see
them nor was he in a conversational mood.
Perhaps suspecting their purpose in calling, he
remained in the kitchen after serving them.

51
Ill bring him out of his den, Penny declared.
Rapping on the table, she requested the man
to bring her a second cup of coffee. He deposited
it by her plate and started to retreat, but before
he could escape, she said quickly:
Oh, Mr. Vare, what was it you started to tell
us yesterday? You rememberwhen Gus
Comstock came in.
Why, I dont recollect, the man responded
evasively. Dont recall I was goin to tell you
anything.
Something about Old Mansion, Penny
insisted. Is it haunted?
No, nothing like that.
Then what is all this mystery connected with
Room seven?
Lem Vare glanced quickly about to make
certain no one was within distance of his voice.
In a low tone he said:
Gus wont like it, me telling you this, but Ill
do it anyhow. Folks say a man disappeared in
that house!
From Room seven? Louise demanded in
astonishment.
Yes.
How long ago was that? inquired Penny.
Not so long ago, Lem answered, glancing
uneasily toward the door. I oughtnt to have told
you this. Theres no proof, and Gus denies its
true. Accuses me of trying to ruin his tourist
business.
Who was the man? asked Penny.

52
Couldnt tell you. Just a tourist who stopped
there for a night.
How do you know he vanished?
I reckon I have eyes, Lem answered. For two
days a brown sedan stood out in front of the
mansion, and then it disappeared. Never did see
hide nor hair of the fellow who drove it there.
When Id ask Gus about it, hed shut up tighter
than a clam!
Havent the police investigated?
Lem shrugged. No ones complained as far as
I know. Anyway, theres no proof.
What do you think became of the man?
How should I know? demanded Lem. Gus is
an ugly one to mix with, and I figure on tendin
my own business. Dont let on I told you all this.
He seemed so anxious that Penny gave up the
questioning. She was uncertain as to the truth of
the story. While she did not doubt Lems
sincerity, she understood that he might have
been mistaken. As he had intimated, it would be
a serious matter to make accusations against the
Comstocks, without definite proof that a man
had disappeared from their home.
She voiced this opinion to Louise, after they
had returned to the car.
Yes, Lem dislikes Gus Comstock so heartily,
his eyesight may have been sharpened, Louise
agreed. He may have imagined the whole thing.
Theres only one reason why Id think
differently, Penny said thoughtfully.
And what is that?

53
The Comstocks have acted so queerly about
Room seven.
Perhaps that is because the townspeople have
been talking.
Possibly, admitted Penny. Still, Gus has
mentioned possible danger several times. He
seems afraid to have Laura in the house for fear
she will discover something. Last night after you
were asleep I heard him talking with his wife
again.
What did he say?
Oh, nothing we didnt know. Simply that hes
opposed to having Laura in the mansion.
I wish she werent staying.
So do I, but shes determined. Well, I suppose
we may as well get started toward home.
Penny drove the car through the business
section of the hamlet, and then suddenly applied
the brakes.
Now what? demanded Louise in alarm.
Ive just had a splendid idea! Penny cried.
Well pass Mud-Cat Joes place on our way
home. Why not buy a basket of food and some
clothing for the children? We could drop it off
without taking very much time.
It would be appreciated, Im sure, Louise
acknowledged.
The town boasted only one grocery store which
the girls could locate. They bought a large basket
of food, added a sack of candy for the children,
stockings, overalls, and several items of
underwear.

54
I dont dare spend any more, Penny said.
We might have car trouble on the way home,
and Id be flat broke.
When the proprietor carried the basket to the
automobile, she sought to draw him into
conversation, mentioning casually that a friend
of hers had taken work at Old Mansion. The
store keeper gave her a quick, penetrating
glance, but offered no comment. He deposited
the groceries, and returned to his waiting
customers.
Before Penny could remark upon his manner,
Louise nudged her elbow.
Look over there! she whispered.
Not far away stood Sing Lee, leaning indolently
against a building. He had been watching the
girls. Upon seeing that he, too, was under
observation, he nodded and shuffled away.
Did you notice how intently he studied us?
Louise asked. We seem to be curiosities.
Penny climbed into the car.
If you ask me, she said with conviction,
everyone in this town is a bit queer! Im glad
were leaving it.

55

CHAPTER 8

TRAILING A HOUSEBOAT


The morning following the storm was bright and
sunny. Rain-washed foliage along the roadside
had a fresh, glittering color, and the air was
dust-free and invigorating. Penny and Louise
motored along, enjoying the scene to the fullest,
when their attention was drawn to a man on the
road ahead who was waving a red flag.
Now what? murmured Louise.
Probably a washout of some kind, said
Penny.
The flagman stopped them.
Sorry, Miss, he said. The bridge wont carry
a car safely. That flood last night did something
to one of the piers.
How do we get by? asked Penny. We didnt
see any detour sign.
Aint had time to put any up, the man said.
Turn around and go three miles back to where
the road forks. Take the right hand turn. Go two
miles east and three south till you hit the river
again. The bridge there is all right. Then two
miles south and two west and youll be back on
this road again.
I hope I can remember all that, Penny

56
sighed, turning the car in the narrow highway.
The worst of it is well probably miss seeing
Mud-Cat Joe and his family, Louise observed.
The detour wont pass his place.
The girls followed the alternate route without
mishap but when they reached the main
highway again, they saw that Louises prediction
had come true; they had left the Gates abode far
behind.
My idea of buying food wasnt such a good
one after all, Penny remarked in
disappointment. The only way we could get it to
them now would be to turn back. Im not sure I
could find the place from this direction.
Its growing late, too. Perhaps we should give
up the plan. Couldnt we take the food home and
deliver it later?
Im afraid thats all we can do.
The highway circled through dense groves of
trees, and the girls caught occasional glimpses of
the river, glistening for a moment like a ribbon of
silver in the distance, and then fading from view
amid the green foliage.
Presently they noticed a stoop-shouldered
man walking with an easy gait along the road.
He raised his hand as if signaling them to stop.
Involuntarily, Penny raised her foot from the
gasoline pedal.
Dont stop! Louise cried. Its not safe,
picking up hitch-hikers!
Hitch-hiker, nothing! exclaimed Penny. Its
Mud-Cat Joe!

57
The brakes screeched and the car stopped just
beyond the man.
Hello, Joe, called Penny. Arent you a long
way from home?
Well dog my cats if it aint Miss Penny and
Miss Louise! Joe chuckled. His pleasure at
meeting the girls again was sincere. Where you-
all headed for?
Were on our way home, Penny explained.
We have a basket of food for your wife, but we
couldnt take it to your place because the bridge
was out.
Thats too bad, it sure is, Mud-Cat Joe
replied. We aint none of us been eatin very
regular.
Have you had any word of the River Queen?
Penny inquired.
A feller jest gave me a tip. His uncle heard tell
of a houseboat in the Blue river. He didnt know
what business it had a-bein there, but he
reckoned as how it looked right smart like the
queen. Im a-headin for there now.
How much farther is the Blue river? asked
Penny.
Only twothree miles. It runs into the Kobalt
down here at Gribsbys Station.
Well take you there, Joe, Penny offered. It
wont be much out of our way.
Thats mighty nice of you, mighty nice, Mud-
Cat declared as he climbed into the car.
Penny threw the car into gear and they sped
down the road. Joe could not take his eyes away

58
from the river.
I knows ever foot o water along these parts,
he volunteered. Right over there is the best
place to ketch crappie I knows of. Theres a rocky
reef a-stickin out from the shore where they
likes to hang out. Many a time Ive anchored the
River Queen on the end of the reef and hauled
em in till it wasnt fun no more.
You miss the River Queen dreadfully, dont
you, Joe? asked Louise sympathetically.
I sure do, Joe answered with conviction.
She was a real boat. Ive owned a right smart o
craft in my day, but the Queen laid it over em
all. She had style and shed stay afloat in a
puddle. And inside she was beautiful. Jennie
had fixed her up till she looked jest like a
parsonage. Why, she even had a carpet in the
settin room. And purty lace curtains on the
winders with a geranium a-perched on the sill.
After this little speech, into which he had put
a great deal of feeling, Mud-Cat Joe lapsed into a
meditative silence.
The car swung along the winding road.
Presently they pulled up at their destination.
Im much obliged for the ride, Joe said,
alighting.
We may as well wait here while you make
inquiries, Penny said. Maybe we can help you
find your boat.
Joe thanked them and ambled off down to the
river bank, all the while looking up and down the
stream for his beloved Queen. The girls saw him

59
accost a fisherman with whom he seemed to be
acquainted, but from the expression of
disappointment on his face they knew he had
received no encouragement. Soon he returned to
the car.
Nobodys seen the Queen around these
parts, he announced gloomily. I reckon it was
jest another false alarm.
Isnt that a road going along the river? Penny
said, indicating a narrow dirt lane. Lets drive
up that way and see what we can learn.
Joe climbed in and they followed the tortuous
route for some distance.
It aint no use goin any further, Miss Penny,
he said at last. The rivers a-running over the
rocks here. They wouldnt never git the boat
higher up than this.
Were dreadfully sorry, Joe, Penny told him
sympathetically. But dont be too discouraged. A
houseboat couldnt very well vanish into thin
air.
Looks like thats jest what shes done, Miss,
Mud-Cat replied, refusing to be comforted.
Reckon we never will see that boat again. And a-
livin like we are now, in an old cow shed, we
feels mighty trashy, Im a tellin you.
They reached the main road and turned
toward Riverview. Mud-Cat Joe rode with the
girls until they reached the point nearest his
temporary home. There he alighted and the girls
gave him the basket of food.
I wont be a forgettin all youve done for us,

60
he said gratefully. Mebbe I kin pay you back for
it someday.
Dont worry about that, smiled Penny.
Neither she nor Louise had the slightest
thought that very soon indeed Mud-Cat Joes
words were to prove prophetiche was to have
his opportunity to pay them back.

61

CHAPTER 9

PENNY PROVIDES A CLUE


Upon her way home, after leaving Louise at the
Sidell residence, Penny decided to drop in at the
offices of the Riverview Star, there to talk with
her father. Anthony B. Parker was a
distinguished looking gentleman, tall and
athletically slim, slightly gray at the temples. As
his daughter entered the private office, he smiled
a welcome.
You seem in a good mood this bright
morning, said Penny. I take it youve just
managed to swipe your competitors best
advertising account.
Nothing like that, replied Mr. Parker. Cant
a father be glad to see his daughter? To tell you
the truth, I was beginning to think you might
have had trouble on the road.
Lena behaved herself for once. But plenty
happened to me.
Did you get your friend safely installed in her
new job?
Installed at any rate. Im not so sure about
the safe part.
Why, what do you mean, Penny?
The Comstocks seem to have an unsavory

62
reputation at White Falls, Dad. And that house
where Laura is staying is a huge barn with more
paintings than an art gallery.
Does that necessarily make it an unsafe
place? inquired Mr. Parker, smiling.
Well, one of the portraits has a habit of rolling
its eyes.
What nonsense are you talking now, Penny?
her father demanded with a hint of impatience.
I didnt actually see the eyes move, she
admitted. Laura thought she did. But thats
beside the point. According to rumor, a man
disappeared in the Comstock house and was
seen no more.
Are you feeling well this morning, Penny?
Mr. Parker inquired anxiously.
My mind isnt the least bit touched, Dad. I
acquired considerable information down at White
Falls. Would you like to hear all about it?
Without waiting for his assent, she rapidly
related the facts which she had learned from
Lem Vare, the caf man.
The man may have a feud with the Comstock
family, Mr. Parker commented when he had
heard the story. Gossip is never a reliable
source of information.
I realize that, Dad. But the Comstocks acted
queerly about having Laura in the house.
Its nonsense that a man could disappear
from a small community, and no questions be
asked.
He was supposed to be a stranger.

63
Even so, if anything such as you suggest had
occurred, the news would have leaked out to the
police.
White Falls is too small to have a force.
Im afraid theres nothing to the story,
Penny.
Well, for Lauras sake, I hope so, sighed
Penny. Abruptly she changed the subject. Dad,
if someone had stolen your houseboat, how
would you go about recovering it?
Since when did I acquire a houseboat?
A hypothetical one, said Penny. You see, Im
thinking of going into the detective business
again. Someone stole Mud-Cat Joes boat and
Ive promised to help him find it.
Who is Mud-Cat Joe? inquired Mr. Parker.
Penny, why dont you learn to begin your news
stories with a who, when, where, why, and how
lead? Then I might have some idea what youre
talking about.
Oh, it takes so long to explain all the details,
Penny sighed. Well, settle back in your chair,
Dad, because its a lengthy tale.
However, before she could start to recount her
experiences with the squatter family, an office
boy came to tell Mr. Parker that a man by the
name of Frank Hammond wished to see him.
Hammond, repeated Mr. Parker thoughtfully.
I dont know anyone by that name. Well, send
him in.
I suppose thats my cue to evaporate, Penny
said, getting up from her chair.

64
No, stay if you wish. If the man is here to see
me about anything important, I can send you
out.
Thats just when Id like to stay, Penny
declared. Maybe I could hide behind the filing
cabinet.
Youre not a character in a melodrama, her
father smiled. Please stay right where you are.
The door opened and a middle-aged man in a
brown suit who walked with a quick, energetic
stride, came into the room. Mr. Parker arose to
shake his hand, and after introducing him to
Penny, offered the comfortable leather chair
reserved for visitors.
Well, what may I do for you? he inquired as
Mr. Hammond hesitated. You dont mind my
daughter being here?
No, no, not at all. I represent the McClure
and Allison firm in Chicago. You may have heard
of us.
Oh, yes, said Mr. Parker, instantly
recognizing the name of the well known jewelry
concern. Interest deepened the color of his eyes.
I came here upon a rather strange mission,
the man continued. Do you recall a certain story
about our firm which ran in your paper perhaps
ten days ago? It was to the effect that one of the
officers of our company had disappeared with a
considerable amount of valuable jewels in his
possession?
Let me seeyes, I remember the story. Man
by the name of Merriman, wasnt it?

65
Yes, J. D. Merriman.
Penny leaned forward in her chair, startled by
the name, but she did not interrupt.
At first, we were inclined to believe Mr.
Merriman had been delayed on his trip from New
York, went on the visitor. He was traveling by
motor, combining business with pleasure. Then
later, when we became alarmed and tried to
trace him, all we could learn was that he had
last been seen at a filling station about two
hundred miles from here.
That was in the story, I believe, Mr. Parker
commented. It was assumed by company
officials that Merriman had stolen the jewels.
The man who talked with your reporter over
long distance telephone never should have given
out such a statement, frowned Mr. Hammond.
Merriman was a close friend of mine. He was
highly respected in the firm.
Then you believe that he did not steal the
jewels?
James Merriman wasnt the type of man to
resort to theft. He was well fixed financially, and
had a wife and two small children. Often he
carried more valuable jewels with him than upon
this occasion.
Then it is your thought that he met with foul
play?
Either that or an accident, said Mr.
Hammond earnestly. Merriman was a rather
careless driver.
What quantity of jewels did your friend carry

66
on his person?
The firm has estimated the loss at
approximately fifteen thousand dollars. The
greater part of this is represented by a pearl
necklace. Merriman was bringing it from New
York for a special customer of ours.
The loss was covered by insurance?
Yes, were not worried upon that account.
Our fears concern James Merriman. Now my
purpose in coming to you was this. Since he
disappeared somewhere in this state, or so we
believe, we thought your paper might be able to
aid in the search.
Well give you every possible cooperation,
promised Mr. Parker. However, I should suggest
that you engage a detective.
We turned the case over to the Pallman-White
Agency several days ago. However, so far they
have made no progress.
You have talked with the police, I suppose?
Yes, but they hold the theory that James
Merriman yielded to temptation, and stole the
jewels. The insurance company is working on
this angle too, keeping watch of various places
where the jewels might be offered for sale.
I will be very glad to give you any possible
assistance, Mr. Parker repeated. However, I
dont see just what our paper can do. I am
willing to assign a special reporter to the story
for a few days.
Our firm will appreciate your cooperation,
Mr. Hammond declared warmly, picking up his

67
hat. Thank you for giving me so much of your
time.
Just a minute, please, Penny interposed, her
eyes sparkling with excitement. I think perhaps
I have a clue which might help you.
Both Mr. Hammond and Mr. Parker turned in
astonishment toward the girl.
Did you say that your friends initials were,
J. D.?
Yes, that is correct, Mr. Hammond declared
eagerly.
I happen to know that a J. D. Merriman
spent a night at a tourist house in White Falls.
The man registered from Chicago.
Then that must have been James Merriman!
exclaimed Mr. Hammond. Where is White
Falls?
Not far from here, along the Kobalt river,
Penny explained. The tourist house is run by a
Mr. and Mrs. Comstock and is called Old
Mansion.
Penny, how do you know that Merriman
stayed there? questioned her father.
Because I saw his name on the register.
I shall drive to White Falls at once and talk
with the Comstocks, Mr. Hammond declared.
Thank you very much for the clue, Miss Parker.
You might telephone us and report what
success you have, suggested Mr. Parker.
I certainly shall, Mr. Hammond agreed. You
may expect a call from me not later than
tomorrow morning. If anything important

68
develops Ill telephone earlier.
Mr. Parker walked to the door with the visitor,
shaking hands with him as they parted.
Returning to the desk he saw that Penny had
crossed over to the window and was staring
down on the street.
Dad, she said quietly, I didnt give Mr.
Hammond quite all of my information. When
James Merriman spent the night at Old Mansion
he was assigned Room seventhe room,
according to Lem Vare, where a man
mysteriously disappeared!

69

CHAPTER 10

A BROKEN CONNECTION


You are certain of your facts? inquired Mr.
Parker, rather startled by the information
supplied by Penny.
Well, I saw the register when I signed it. At the
time I thought very little about it. I suppose the
name stuck in my mind because the Comstocks
acted so funny about that room.
I believe you said they didnt wish you to
occupy it?
Mrs. Comstock didnt. Her husband was all
for chucking me in with those hideous portraits.
Portraits in a bedroom?
Four of them. One fellow in a red cocked hat
has eyes that give you the shivers.
Im not interested in that part, said Mr.
Parker. But you may have stumbled into
something, Penny.
I think so myself, Dad.
Ill assign Jerry Livingston to the story, Mr.
Parker continued. He has a nose for news, and
he may dig up some interesting facts.
By that I take it you dont consider mine
especially interesting.
Interesting but a trifle too fanciful for the

70
Riverview Star. We cant print stories about
portraits that wink and roll their eyes, even if it
would brighten up the art section! Ill admit that
once not so long ago you proved your old Dad to
be a bit too conservativesomething about a
witch doll, wasnt it?
Thats right, said Penny. Dad, if you send
Jerry out to Old Mansion, warn him not to
mention my name. It might get Laura into
trouble with the Comstocks.
Ill remember. Anyway, Jerry probably wont
get out there today. Hell be tied up with the Elks
convention story. Ill have him contact the
Comstocks by telephone.
Hell learn nothing that way, Dad.
Then Ill send Jerry or some other reporter to
White Falls tomorrow.
I thought news stories were supposed to be
timely, Dad. If you hurried you might get a big
scoop!
And we might get a big libel suit, her father
added grimly. Well have to feel our way
cautiously on a story like this, Penny. Its
dangerous business publishing that a man
disappeared from a certain house, especially
when there has been no arrest.
I suppose youre right, Penny agreed
reluctantly. She turned to leave.
Please ask Jerry to come here if hes in the
office, Mr. Parker instructed. Ill give him his
new assignment.
Penny closed the door behind her, and spoke

71
politely to Mr. DeWitt, the city editor. She
paused beside the desk of a young, dark-haired
reporter who sat hammering at his typewriter,
hat pushed back on his head. Secretly, Penny
considered Jerry Livingston quite the most
handsome and brilliant reporter on the Stars
staff.
Well, if it isnt our Bright Penny, he
chuckled, doffing his hat in her honor. Whats
the latest news from the front?
I hate to break it, replied Penny in mock
seriousness. Dad wishes to see you in his
sanctum sanctorum right away.
Jerrys chair scraped on the floor as he got
quickly to his feet.
Whats up, Penny?
Shouldnt be surprised if he intends to fire
you, she laughed, turning away. You deserve
it.
Penny drove home to find Mrs. Weems, the
housekeeper, rather worried over her lengthy
absence. She was a middle-aged widow, tall and
wiry, with an amazing amount of energy, and
had worked at the Parker home so many years
that she regarded Penny as her own daughter.
Have you had your breakfast, child? she
inquired solicitously.
Yes, hours ago in White Falls, Penny
responded. Still, if youd urge me, I could eat a
dish of those fresh strawberries youre picking
over.
I declare, youre always hungry, the

72
housekeeper laughed, sorting out the largest
berries. But I wish you would put on a little
flesh.
I dont, declared Penny. Fat girls simply get
nowhere these days. But I do wish my brains
would expand a little. I have a job on my hands
that requires deep thinking.
What are you up to now? Mrs. Weems
inquired suspiciously. I hope its nothing like
that witch doll affair.
No, I am cogitating upon how to find a stolen
houseboatnot to mention a man who
disappeared mysteriously from Old Mansion.
Quite a large order, I should say, replied the
housekeeper dryly.
Between strawberries, Penny told Mrs. Weems
about her experiences at White Falls. She was
pleased when the housekeeper promised to send
a box of food to Mud-Cat Joe and his family the
next time she made the trip to the river town.
Oh, by the way, Penny, said Mrs. Weems,
while you were gone Albert Layman telephoned.
He said he would like to have you play tennis
with him this afternoon.
Hell have to find some other girl, Penny
decided instantly. Im staying close at home
today. Anyway, Al has pimples.
Can he help that? Mrs. Weems inquired
mildly.
Yes, he could wash his neck now and then. Al
is a very light-headed youth too, Penny added
airily. I like young men with a purpose.

73
Such as that reporter, Jerry Livingston, I
suppose, Mrs. Weems observed with shrewd
insight.
Penny laughed, and depositing her empty
berry dish in the sink, disappeared from the
kitchen. Later in the morning when Albert
Layman telephoned again, she firmly declined
the invitation to play tennis.
All afternoon she remained at home polishing
the mud from her car and doing odd jobs which
had accumulated. At four oclock when her
father came from the office, she ran to meet him.
Dad, did he telephone? she asked eagerly.
Did who telephone, Penny? Mr. Parker
inquired.
Why, Mr. Hammond, of course.
No, not while I was at the office.
I thought surely he would, said Penny in
disappointment.
Mr. Hammond told us he might not telephone
before tomorrow.
Yes, that is true, Dad. You heard nothing
more about the disappearance?
No, Jerry will get to work on the story
tomorrow after he talks with Hammond. But
dont count upon it developing into anything
tremendous, Penny.
Despite her fathers words, Penny became
increasingly excited as she thought of what
might develop at Old Mansion. In the morning,
she surprised Mr. Parker by climbing into the
car beside him when he was ready to start for

74
the newspaper office.
Why am I thus honored? he inquired.
Oh, Id like to be on hand when that
telephone call comes through from Mr.
Hammond.
I can let you know from the office.
You might forget, said Penny. No, if you
dont mind me being underfoot, Ill just tag
along.
During the first hour she busied herself
writing letters. After that, time passed very
slowly. She read the morning edition of the Star,
commenting unfavorably upon one of Mr.
Parkers editorials, and then wandered out into
the main room to watch Burt Kessinger draw a
cartoon. She glanced hopefully toward Jerrys
desk, but it was vacant. Finally, she went back
into the private office and sat down again.
The telephone rang many times, and always
Penny straightened alertly, but the call was
never from Mr. Hammond.
What do you suppose is the matter with that
man? she grumbled. Here it is eleven oclock,
and not a word from him.
He probably forgot, answered Mr. Parker.
After youve been in the newspaper business as
long as I have youll learn promises dont mean a
great deal.
But he was so emphatic, Dad. I cant help
thinking he would have telephoned if something
hadnt happened.
No doubt your clue about Merriman was a

75
dud, said Mr. Parker. Possibly Mr. Hammond
decided to return to Chicago yesterday.
That neednt have prevented him from letting
us know. Penny walked over to her fathers
desk. Dad, I have a notion to telephone Laura.
She could tell me whether or not Mr. Hammond
went to Old Mansion yesterday.
Not a bad idea. Go right ahead.
Penny placed the call, and in a few minutes
was connected with Mrs. Anna Comstock.
May I speak with Laura? she requested.
Miss Blair is very busy, returned the woman,
in a strangely agitated voice. Cant I take the
message?
No, thank you, I must speak with Laura,
Penny insisted. I assure you it is important.
Youre not a reporter? Mrs. Comstock
demanded.
No, replied Penny, wondering at the
question.
Just a minute then, said the woman.
There was a long wait while Penny held the
receiver. Several times she glanced at her wrist
watch, wondering why Mrs. Comstock delayed in
bringing Laura to the telephone. She had made a
serious mistake in not making a person to
person call, for the newspaper was being charged
for the elapsed time.
Penny was on the verge of hanging up the
receiver, when she heard Lauras voice at the
other end of the line.
Hello, is that you, Laura? she asked eagerly.

76
This is Penny. I called to ask
I cant talk now, Laura interrupted in a tense
voice. Oh, Penny, dreadful things go on here!
Mr. Hammond
There was a sharp click as if a receiver had
been replaced in its hook. The connection was
broken.

77

CHAPTER 11

ANGRY WORDS


Hello, operator! Penny said urgently. Ive been
disconnected from my party.
There is no one on the line now, came the
reply. Shall I ring again?
Please.
After a long wait, the operator reported that
she was unable to re-establish the connection.
Penny hung up the receiver, and turning to her
father, repeated Lauras strange message.
Dad, something is wrong out there!
It does seem odd she would refuse to talk,
Mr. Parker agreed.
Mr. Hammond must have arrived yesterday,
for she mentioned his name just as she cut off. I
suppose Mrs. Comstock may have been listening
to the conversation. But even that doesnt
account for what she said: Dreadful things go on
here!
Is the girl inclined to be hysterical?
Well, shes easily excited, Penny admitted.
Still, Im worried.
Why not drive over to White Falls if it will
ease your mind? suggested her father. In a
couple of hours Jerry probably can ride along

78
with you.
Id prefer to start right away, said Penny.
Probably Louise will be willing to go with me.
She lost no time in telephoning her chum, and
arrangements were made for the trip. Louise had
told her mother about the Gates family, and Mrs.
Sidell insisted upon sending a box of clothing
and groceries with the girls. Penny was quite
willing to stop at the shed where Mud-Cat and
his brood had taken refuge, but she regretted the
delay.
Well make a quick call, she told Louise, as
the car drew near the Kobalt river. Im terribly
anxious to see Laura.
A moment later the automobile halted in front
of the shed, but there was no sign of activity
about the place.
Maybe the Gates family has left, said Louise
in disappointment.
Im sure they are around somewhere,
declared Penny, noticing a line of clothes which
flapped in the wind between two trees. Lets try
the horn. That will rouse them.
At the sound of Leaping Lenas staccato
summons the Gates family came to life. Jennie
and Jed peered around the corner of the shed,
while Mud-Cat Joe ambled into sight from the
direction of the river.
Well, if it aint our young lady friends, he
said genially. Jennie! Come on out here! I allows
this is a-goin to be good news.
We have a basket of things for you, Penny

79
said. Its in the rear compartment. Just a few
little nick nacks we thought you might like.
The girls stepped from the car and started to
get the basket.
Now then, dont you ladies go an break your
backs a liftin that, said Mud-Cat. Let me heft it
out of there for you.
Punctuating his words with action, he moved
quickly to the rear of the car.
Shes purty heavy, Jennie, he said, weighing
the basket up and down in his hand. Theres a
lot of store grub here.
Thank you kindly, said Jennie. We sure get
tired o catfish day in and out.
We brought a box of clothing too, Louise
announced.
Mud-Cat lifted out the box, and gazed at it
with delight.
Look at that there sweater, Jed! he said.
Now you kin keep warm this winter. You and
the young uns. It aint a goin to be so shivery
like it was last year.
Thank you, Jed said bashfully.
To further manifest his appreciation, the boy
offered to show the girls his most prized
possession, his dog.
Tiges tied up by the river, Jed explained.
Hes kind of mean with strangers, but hes sure
a swell dog.
Although the girls were short of time, they did
not wish to disappoint the boy, and so followed
him around the shed. Mud-Cat Joe and his wife

80
carried the groceries and clothing into the
shelter and then came down to the rivers edge.
This here is Tige, Jed said proudly,
unfastening the dog from the willow tree to
which he had been tied. Hes half shepherd and
half English bull.
What a mixture, laughed Penny.
And thats our raft of chickens, Jed
announced, pointing to a flat craft likewise tied
to the willow tree. It used to ride along behind
the River Queen.
The boys remark reminded Penny to ask Mud-
Cat if he had gained any new clue as to what
had become of his missing houseboat.
No Miss Penny, nary a trace, Joe replied,
sinking into the doldrums. I asked as fer down
the river as Newport but folks sez they aint
never seen er. I got a sneakin idea them skunks
that stole er has done gone and sent er to the
bottom of the river.
What good would that do them? asked
Penny.
Maybe they stripped her first and then
allowed as how they was in a risky business and
might get caught. So they just let the river into
her.
Lets hope not, said Louise cheerfully. I feel
somehow that you will recover your houseboat.
Before Mud-Cat Joe could reply another car
drove into the yard. A man alighted briskly and
came toward the group by the river. He seemed
fairly beside himself with rage.

81
Why, its Gus Comstock! Louise whispered.
However, Mr. Comstock scarcely noticed the
girls, and addressed himself to the Gates family
as a unit.
What are you doing on my property? he
shouted.
I dont know who you are, stranger, Mud-Cat
Joe said in an even drawl that carried the threat
of mounting fires in a quiet but dangerous man.
But I might tell you I aint used to havin nobody
talk to me in them tones.
Answer my questions, Mr. Comstock
snapped. Who gave you the right to occupy
these premises?
The right any river man has to live in any
vacant buildin that suits his fancy. And listen,
stranger, Im givin you just five minutes to get
out.
What! Mr. Comstock became more and more
enraged. You order me off my own property!
I sure do, if it is your property. Mud-Cat
tossed his tattered hat on the ground and
deliberately rolled up his sleeves.
Mr. Comstock, said Penny, hoping to settle
the argument peaceably. I know this family
personally. They have had a great deal of
misfortune since their houseboat was lost. If you
force them from this shed theyll have no other
place to go.
Gus Comstock whirled angrily upon the girls.
You keep out of this, he said to Penny.
These dirty squatters are moving, and thats all

82
theres to it!
Were not a-gettin out, Mud-Cat announced.
Ill show you! shouted Gus Comstock. Those
squawking chickens are moving downstream
right now!
Drawing a knife from his pocket, he ran to the
raft, and started hacking at the rope. Before it
could be severed, Jed unhooked the leash of his
dog and urged: Get im, Tige!
The dog made a savage dart at Gus Comstock,
who, in sudden terror, dropped the knife.
Look out, stranger, chuckled Mud-Cat Joe.
That there dog is pure pizen!
Gus Comstock tried to retreat toward his
automobile, but the dog stopped him. The
badgered man had only one direction to go
toward the river. He took a step backward,
shouting to Jed and Joe to call off their dog or he
would have the law on them.
As the man hesitated at the edge of the bank,
Tige made another savage rush. He struck hard
against Gus Comstocks legs, toppling him into
the raft of chickens. There was a wild fury of
feathered panic as the fowl flew in all direction.
Gus tried desperately to save himself, but the
raft gave a sudden lurch under his weight, and
with a great splash he pitched into the muddy
waters of the Kobalt!

83

CHAPTER 12

FEATHERED FURY


Hey, you! Mud-Cat shouted hilariously. Guess
that will teach you to leave my chicken raft be!
Oh, Pop! Jed shrieked. Aint he funny? He
almost set down on the White Rock rooster!
The river aint wet, is it? mocked Jennie.
Gus Comstock stood up in the shallow water,
spluttering angrily. He shook his fist at the
group on shore.
Youll pay for this! he warned.
While Jed rounded up the few chickens which
had escaped from the wire enclosure on the raft,
Mud-Cat Joe tied up Tige so that Gus Comstock
could wade ashore.
More outraged than hurt, the man retreated to
his car, breathing threats at every step. Even the
exhaust of his automobile sounded angry as he
drove off down the highway.
That surely was funny, Louise chuckled. It
served Mr. Comstock right, too. He had no
business trying to cut loose the raft.
Maybe we oughtnt to have sicked the dog on
him, Mud-Cat said meditatively. If that feller
does own this shed, I reckon well pay a-plenty
fer the fun of gettin rid of him.

84
Well, landlords do have a way of ousting
tenants sometimes, Penny agreed. He probably
will be back.
Oh, hell be back all right, said Joe gloomily.
And I got a feelin he will be a-bringin the sheriff
along with him.
What will you do then? asked Louise.
I dont know, Joe replied gloomily. If I could
find the River Queen wed just climb aboard and
wash our hands of this here upstart. But a river
man without no houseboat is about as lost as a
duck in the desert.
Well, if Mr. Comstock makes trouble for you, I
may be able to do something about it, Penny
promised. If he puts you out of the shed, well
try to find you another place.
Thats mighty kind of you, Mud-Cat said
with a sigh. But I reckon Jennie an me and the
kids wont never be satisfied living on the land.
We kin only feel at home on the river.
Penny and Louise bade the family farewell,
and drove on toward White Falls. Although they
had been innocent bystanders at the little scene
by the river, they were dubious as to the
reception Gus Comstock would accord them
when they reached Old Mansion.
I wonder if he really does own that shed?
Penny mused. I suppose he must, or he
wouldnt have created such a disturbance.
How silly to get so excited over a deserted
shack. The Gates werent doing the place any
particular harm.

85
Gus Comstock just has meanness in his
blood, declared Penny.
Presently, entering the sleepy village of White
Falls, the girls drew up in front of Old Mansion.
The upstairs blinds had been left drawn and
there was no sign of activity about the place.
However, Gus Comstocks battered car stood on
the street, so they knew that he had arrived
ahead of them.
Walking up to the front door, Penny and
Louise rang the bell. It seemed that the girls
arrival had been noted from within, for almost
instantly the door was flung open. Mrs.
Comstock confronted them, her eyes blazing
wrathfully.
Youre not wanted here, she said harshly.
Go away and mind you, dont come back!
She started to close the door, but Penny
deliberately blocked it with her foot.
Really, we had nothing to do with your
husbands unfortunate accident, the girl said.
Please, may we see Laura just for a moment?
No, you cant.
What right do you have to refuse? Penny
demanded indignantly.
Mrs. Comstocks answer was to slam shut the
door, barely missing Pennys foot.
Ring again, Louise advised. Hold your finger
on the bell until she comes.
No, that would only get Laura into added
difficulties.
Its not right that she has to work in such a

86
place.
I agree with you there, Louise.
If only we could talk with her, we might
induce her to return to Riverview with us.
Something has gone wrong here, said Penny
meditatively. I doubt that we would have been
welcome even if Mr. Comstock hadnt fallen into
the river. Laura knows something, and the
Comstocks are afraid shell tell!
If you believe that, Penny, lets see her even if
we have to break down the house.
We might try the rear door, Penny suggested.
They moved quietly around to the back
entrance. The kitchen door was closed.
You might lift me up so that I can peep into
the window, Penny said. If Laura is there Ill
signal her.
Louise obediently raised her chum, but in a
moment Penny again dropped to the ground.
The kitchen is deserted, she reported.
What do you suppose became of Laura?
Louise demanded anxiously.
Im beginning to feel uneasy, Penny
confessed. It was strange the way she broke off
in the midst of our conversation.
Yes, and all the talk about mysterious
disappearances from Room seven, Louise
added. Wouldnt it be dreadful if anything had
happened to Laura? It would be our fault for
bringing her here.
Dont say such a thing, Lou. Laura must be
all right.

87
I dont feel like returning home unless we are
certain of it.
No, neither am I. Suppose we talk with Lem
Vare.
The caf owner was busy refilling the coffee
urn when the girls entered his establishment.
They sat down on high stools by the counter,
and as a pretext for their presence, ordered two
pieces of pineapple pie.
Gettin to be regular callers in our town,
arent you? he inquired.
We came to see our friend next door, Penny
explained. Only Mrs. Comstock wouldnt let us
talk with her.
You dont say? Reckon maybe shes a mite
upset this morning.
Upset? Penny inquired alertly. About what,
may I ask?
Well, said Lem Vare, vigorously polishing the
coffee urn, I wouldnt know, but folks say things
have been happening in that house.
You mean the disappearance?
Yes, I reckon maybe Mrs. Comstock is
worried for fear the police may come around and
ask a few questions.
Why dont you report the matter, Mr. Vare?
Not me! Its none of my business. Anyway, I
aint sure that anything happenedthings just
look queer.
Penny took a bite of pie, studying the caf
owners reflection in the mirror behind the soda
fountain.

88
Mr. Vare, she said, I dont suppose you
noticed a car drive up at the Mansion yesterday.
Gray one, wasnt it?
I imagine so, responded Penny. Mr.
Hammond, an acquaintance of my fathers came
here to see the Comstocks. He wore a brown
suit.
Sure, that was the fellow, the caf man
nodded. I saw him go into the mansion, but I
never did see him come out.
You dont mean something happened to him!
Penny gasped.
No, Im not sayin anything like that, Mr.
Vare amended hastily. For all I know, he may
have driven off during the night. His car set out
front till around midnight, and it was gone this
morning when I opened up the restaurant.
The man may have left town early.
Yes, reckon thats what happened, Mr. Vare
agreed.
He seemed reluctant to answer any more
questions, but the girls would not leave until
they had inquired about Laura. Their minds
were greatly relieved when Lem Vare declared
that he had seen the girl hanging up a washing
not an hour before their arrival.
Then I guess nothing too dreadful has
happened, Penny commented when she and
Louise were outside the caf. As far as Mr.
Hammond is concerned, I dont know what to
think.
Lem Vare distrusts the Comstocks so that I

89
judge hes apt to jump to conclusions, Louise
replied. He certainly was hinting that Mr.
Hammond had disappeared mysteriously.
I thought so at first, and then he denied it. I
really believe we cant go much by what Mr. Vare
does say.
We might drop into the laundry and ask Sing
Lee a few questions.
No, that fellow gives me the creeps, Penny
answered. I doubt that he would know
anything, and if he did hed not be likely to tell
us.
The girls walked slowly back to their car,
uncertain as to their next move. So far they had
obtained no trustworthy information regarding
Mr. Hammond, and they were unwilling to return
home without at least seeing Laura.
Chancing to glance toward an upstairs
window of the mansion, Penny suddenly gripped
Louises hand.
There she is now, Lou!
Laura could be seen standing by the window
of her room, half hidden by the curtain. She was
frantically signaling her friends.
What is she trying to tell us? Louise
questioned in bewilderment.
She may mean for us to wait, Penny said
hopefully. I do believe she intends to slip out of
the house and meet us!

90

CHAPTER 13

IN QUEST OF INFORMATION


Realizing that Laura could not be expected to
join them in front of the house, the girls walked
past Sing Lees laundry, stationing themselves
out of sight from the Old Mansion. While they
waited, a car drove up. Three Chinamen
alighted, and paying no heed to Penny and
Louise, vanished into Sing Lees establishment.
Presently the door of Old Mansion opened, but
it was not Laura who emerged. Gus Comstock,
arrayed in a dry suit of clothes, closed the gate
behind him, and with a deep scowl on his face,
walked down the street. He paused for a moment
by Sing Lees shop, and then moved on.
I wonder what is keeping Laura? Louise
worried. Perhaps we misunderstood her
signals.
Just at that moment, they saw the girl coming
around the corner of the house. Penny waved to
her. With a nervous glance over her shoulder,
Laura ran toward her friends.
I have only a minute to talk, she said
breathlessly. Mrs. Comstock mustnt know that
I have slipped away from the house.
Tell us what has happened, Laura, Penny

91
urged. Why did you hang up the receiver this
morning when I was talking with you?
Because Mrs. Comstock was coming. She
warned me that I was to tell you nothing.
What did you start to say about Mr.
Hammond?
Its awful, Laura said in awe. He came to
Old Mansion yesterday afternoon to inquire
about a friend of his, a man named Merriman.
I know, Penny nodded. Merriman had spent
a night at Old Mansion some days ago.
Mrs. Comstock claims he didnt.
But I am certain of my facts, said Penny. I
saw the name on the register.
You did? Laura asked in amazement. Thats
funny, because I examined the book myself this
morning.
And the name wasnt there? It should have
been just above mine.
It wasnt, Penny.
Then the Comstocks have removed it either
by erasure, or with ink eradicator.
They may have done it, Laura admitted. I
know Mr. and Mrs. Comstock were terribly upset
when Mr. Hammond arrived.
What did they tell him? Penny inquired.
I heard part of the conversation. They tried to
convince him that Merriman never had stayed at
the house over night.
Did Mr. Hammond accept their story?
He acted suspicious of it, Laura admitted.
Possibly that was why he decided to stay all

92
night.
Mr. Hammond remained at Old Mansion?
Penny asked.
Yes, Im sure the Comstocks didnt like it very
much. They had an argument over which room
they would put him in.
Not number seven? Penny demanded.
Laura nodded. I heard the Comstocks
discussing it when they thought no one was
listening. Gus told his wife: It will serve the
inquisitive fool right to sleep in that room. Maybe
if he gets a good scare he wont be so
impertinent!
And Mrs. Comstocks reply?
Oh, she protested, but Gus overruled her. Mr.
Hammonds things were taken up to Room
seven.
And then what happened? Penny
questioned. Was there a disturbance during the
night?
I heard a faint cry, Laura revealed in a tense
voice. Then a splashing sound as if something
had fallen into the river. I cant explain it, but
the strangest feeling went over meI sensed that
some dreadful thing had happened to Mr.
Hammond.
What did you do? asked Louise.
I slipped on my robe and ran to Mrs.
Comstocks room. She and her husband already
were awake.
They had heard the same noise? interposed
Penny.

93
I suppose so. Anyway, they went with me to
Room seven but it had been locked from the
inside. Mr. Comstock called to Mr. Hammond
several times. There was no answer.
The man wasntdead? Louise gasped.
Mr. Comstock had a master key, Laura went
on, without hearing the question. He opened the
door. Will you believe it, Mr. Hammond wasnt
there at all! The bed had been slept in, but the
man had vanished!
Penny and Louise were stunned by the
disclosure. And Lauras words lent support to
Lem Vares claim that Mr. Hammond would not
be the first person to mysteriously disappear
from Room seven.
His clothing was still in the room? Penny
questioned.
Yes, answered Laura, nothing appeared to
have been touched. The window overlooking the
river was open. That was all.
You dont think Mr. Hammond deliberately
jumped into the river? Louise demanded.
I dont think so, Laura replied, stressing her
words. Gus Comstock says theres no question
but that he did.
You heard a splash? Penny asked gravely.
Yes, or at least I thought so. But if Mr.
Hammonds body went into the river last night,
Im convinced he never jumped.
And I agree with you, announced Penny.
Tell me, how did the Comstocks act when they
discovered Mr. Hammond was gone?

94
They were both terribly upset, especially Mrs.
Comstock.
Could they have been acting a part?
I dont believe so, Penny. Mrs. Comstock
carried on dreadfully for a time. She was so ill
over the affair she stayed in bed nearly all of the
morning.
Has Gus Comstock notified the police yet?
I should say not! exclaimed Laura. He said
it would ruin him if the news was spread over
the town. During the night he drove Mr.
Hammonds car away somewhere, and he
disposed of all the clothing.
He can get into serious trouble for doing
that, declared Penny.
Mr. and Mrs. Comstock both warned me that
I must never breathe a word of what happened
last night. They have watched me almost every
minute, too.
How did you get away now? Louise inquired.
Mrs. Comstock lay down for a moment and
fell asleep.
She and her husband must be completely
crazy to think they can hide anything like that
from the police, Penny said. It looks as if what
Lem Vare told us wasnt idle gossip. This makes
two persons who have disappeared from Room
seven.
Mrs. Comstock made me clean up the room
this morning, Laura reported with a shiver.
While I was dusting and running the vacuum, I
was so frightened my knees actually knocked

95
together.
Do you still believe that the eyes of the
portraits move? inquired Penny with a faint
smile.
Perhaps they dont actually move, Laura
acknowledged. But they seem alive. While I was
cleaning the room I felt as if four pair of human
eyes were focused upon me.
Nerves probably, commented Louise.
Id be a wreck if I remained in that house very
long, Laura declared. Sinister things go on
there.
Its fairly easy to understand why Merriman
might have disappeared mysteriously, Penny
said slowly. He was carrying valuable jewels.
You think the Comstocks may have robbed
him? Louise asked quickly.
No, Im not venturing an opinion. But it does
strike me that Mr. Hammond must have met foul
play because he learned something which
pointed the finger at the scoundrel responsible
for Mr. Merrimans disappearance.
Perhaps no person had anything to do with
it, suggested Laura in a low tone.
Penny and Louise gave her a quick glance,
wondering what she might mean.
I dont believe in ghosts, Laura said, half
apologetically, but it seems to me weve run into
something which cant be explained. Theres an
atmosphere about that house, especially Room
seven which defies description. If you were to
stay there a day or so

96
Id like to have a chance to do it, was Pennys
surprising remark. But Mrs. Comstock wont
even allow me to get near the front door.
One thing is clear, said Louise. After what
has happened, Laura cant stay in the house
another night.
Ill be glad to go back with you, the girl
agreed. That is, if you really want me.
She spoke doubtfully, for Pennys face did not
mirror enthusiasm.
Of course, well be glad to take you with us,
Penny said, only I have an idea
Dont listen to it, Laura, warned Louise. Her
ideas nearly always mean trouble for someone.
This one might prove dangerous, Penny
admitted. I havent any right to ask it of you,
Laura.
What is it you wish me to do?
When it becomes known that two persons
have disappeared at Old Mansion, it will mean a
big story, Penny said, speaking excitedly. Every
paper in this part of the country will send
reporters here, trying to get inside facts. Now
here is my idea. I thought if you could bear to
stay on for a day or two, Dad would have an
inside track on just what is happening. Hed pay
you well for your work.
No amount of money could hire me to stay in
that house another night.
Well, I was afraid the idea was a dud, Penny
admitted ruefully.
I said no amount of money could hire me,

97
Laura repeated with a smile. But Ill do it for
you, Penny! And now, if your plan is to succeed,
I must run back before Mrs. Comstock learns
that I have left the house.

98

CHAPTER 14

HELP FROM JERRY


Leaving Laura to play her role of sleuth at the
Comstock tourist home, Penny and Louise
started at once for Riverview. They were deeply
excited by the information obtained at White
Falls, and both felt that Mr. Hammonds
mysterious disappearance called for drastic
police action.
The girls had traveled perhaps seven miles
from the town when they came to a tributary of
the Kobalt river. As they crossed the bridge,
Louise suddenly gave a little cry which caused
Penny to slam on the brakes.
What is it, Lou? she asked quickly.
See that houseboat half hidden by the
willows? Louise demanded.
Penny brought the car to a standstill on the
bridge.
No, I dont see anything.
Far down the river, Penny. Almost at the
bend.
Oh, yes, now I do. There are dozens of
houseboats in this river district. But it does have
a green stack!
Thats what I noticed, Louise declared.

99
Could it be Mud-Cats missing houseboat, do
you suppose?
Theres a chance of it. Shall we investigate?
Pulling off at the side of the road, the girls
made their way along the river bank. Their
progress was impeded by a dense growth of
bushes. Burs and nettles clung to their
stockings and skirts.
Listen! Penny commanded, halting.
They could hear the steady putt-putt-putt of
a gasoline engine.
The houseboat is pulling out of the cove!
Penny exclaimed. Hurry!
Disregarding possible damage to their
clothing, the girls scrambled through the bushes
and briers, reaching the bend in the river in time
to see the houseboat vanishing far downstream.
Already it had traveled such a distance that they
were unable to obtain a clear view.
That may have been Mud-Cats stolen boat!
Penny exclaimed.
The engine was a powerful one, too, Louise
added. I never saw a houseboat slip along so
fast.
The girls watched the craft until it vanished
beyond another bend. They could not hope to
pursue it farther, for there was no automobile
road along the river at this point.
Ill send word to Mud-Cat Joe just as soon as
I can, Penny declared. It would delay us too
long to return to his place now.
Yes, acknowledged Louise. And the

100
houseboat may not belong to Mud-Cat anyway.
Even a green smoke stack wouldnt be conclusive
evidence.
Penny knew that her father would wish to
secure the information regarding Mr.
Hammonds disappearance at once, and so,
upon reaching Riverview, she took Louise home,
and then went directly to the newspaper office.
Dad, she told him rather breathlessly, you
have a new reporter on your staff.
Meaning yourself? inquired Mr. Parker.
No, Laura Blair.
The newspaper owner made a wry grimace.
However, before he could offer a protest, Penny
related the bargain she had made with the girl,
and the information already in her possession.
She was not mistaken in thinking that the news
of Mr. Hammonds disappearance would prove
startling to her father.
Its almost unbelievable, Penny!
Nevertheless, Im certain its true. Did I do
wrong in asking Laura to remain at the
Comstock house?
That was a stroke of genius, Penny, her
father praised, It gives us an inside track on the
story. And it will be a tremendous one!
Mr. Parker pushed a buzzer on his desk.
When an office boy thrust his tousled head in at
the doorway, he said crisply:
Send Jerry Livingston here.
Dad, isnt this definitely a case for the
police? Penny inquired.

101
Yes, he agreed, but Id like to talk with the
Comstocks before the police take charge. After
an arrest is made, well learn only what the
authorities wish to give out. I figure upon taking
Jerry and going over to White Falls right away.
Youll need me along to show you the house,
Penny suggested instantly.
Just at that moment, Jerry Livingston came
into the private room.
You sent for me, Chief? he asked.
Briefly, Mr. Parker disclosed the facts of the
case as Penny had presented them.
Get your hat, he ordered the reporter. Were
going over to White Falls to see what we can
learn.
During the ride to the river town, with Penny
serving as chauffeur, Mr. Parker explained to
Jerry additional details of the case.
Well have to handle the story with gloves, he
declared. Penny may have been mistaken in her
facts, but if shes right, theres certainly a chance
for a big scoop.
The car presently drew up in front of the
Comstock tourist house. Mr. Parker stared
curiously at it for a moment and then followed by
Penny and Jerry, went boldly to the door and
rang the bell.
After a long wait, Mrs. Comstock responded to
the summons. She scowled as she recognized
Penny.
Well, what do you want now? she demanded
unpleasantly.

102
My name is ParkerAnthony Parker from the
Riverview Star, said Pennys father.
Were not talking to any reporters, the
woman snapped. Go away and leave us alone.
She started to close the door.
Just a minute, Madam, said Mr. Parker.
Either youll talk to me, or youll talk to the
police.
The police Mrs. Comstock murmured,
obviously shaken.
We have reason to believe that two persons
have disappeared from your house under
decidedly mysterious circumstances, Madam.
Will you talk with us, or shall I send for the
police?
Ill see you, Mrs. Comstock said, with a
sudden change of attitude. Come in.
She led the three visitors into the parlor.
Before they could seat themselves Gus Comstock
entered from the kitchen. He stared angrily at
his wife.
I couldnt help it, Gus, she said with a little
moan. They pushed their way right in. Said if
we didnt talk with em, theyd go straight to the
police.
So youre responsible for this, you meddling
upstart! Mr. Comstock accused, turning upon
Penny. Trying to get us into trouble with the
police!
You are speaking to my daughter, said Mr.
Parker coldly. Lets omit the heroics, if you
please. Tell us what became of Mr. Hammond?

103
Mr. Parker added with a trace of impatience.
How should I know? Gus Comstock
muttered. He didnt tell us his business when
he went away from here.
And when do you claim he left your house?
Why, yesterday afternoon. He only stayed
here a few minutes while he inquired about a
friend of his.
I can prove otherwise, said Penny calmly.
Mr. Hammonds car stood in front of the house
the entire afternoon as many of your neighbors
will testify. During the night, after the man
disappeared from Room seven, you hid the car
somewhere.
That aint true, Mr. Comstock retorted.
Falsehoods will get you nowhere, cut in Mr.
Parker impatiently. Either you tell us exactly
what happened here, or Ill go to the police. Im
not inclined to beat around the bush.
Oh, Gus, tell em the truth, Mrs. Comstock
pleaded fearfully. If the police come mixing in
here, they might take us to jail! And it wasnt our
fault.
Will you keep out of this, Anna? Mr.
Comstock demanded harshly. Its your loose
tongue that will get us in trouble.
However, Mrs. Comstock could not be quieted.
While her husband listened in grim silence, she
poured out her tale.
We never did any harm to anybody, she
proclaimed tearfully. Everything was all right
until that man Merriman came here. He spent

104
the night in Room seven. When we went to call
him in the morning, he had disappeared.
Why didnt you report to the police?
questioned Mr. Parker.
Gus said wed be arrested if we did. We
thought we would just keep quiet about it. But
somehow the news got noised around White
Falls. Lem Vare never did like us, and he saw a
chance to start trouble. He kept hinting to folks.
Then that man Hammond came here to
inquire about his friend. We pretended like we
didnt know anything of a man named Merriman,
but he insisted upon staying overnight. Gus put
him in Room seven.
Why Room seven? inquired Mr. Parker.
Just to be contrary, I reckon. He knew it
would plague me.
Then what happened?
During the night, Mr. Hammond disappeared
just like his friend, Mrs. Comstock resumed her
story. We think maybe they both jumped into
the river.
Mr. Hammond certainly was not the type to
do anything like that, declared Mr. Parker.
Have you had the river dragged?
No, Gus thought we ought to hush the matter
up. If we started dragging the river, folks would
know something was wrong.
They will realize it anyway, said Mr. Parker.
Surely you must know you cant keep two
disappearances secret. Your failure to report to
the police tends to throw suspicion upon you.

105
You dont think we had anything to do with
it! the woman exclaimed indignantly.
My opinion does not matter. However, I am
afraid that the police will be inclined to question
the story. As I say, your attempt to keep the
matter secret, may count heavily against you.
But we only did it to protect our business,
Mrs. Comstock wailed. No one ever would stop
here overnight if they knew about those missing
men!
I agree with you there, said Mr. Parker dryly.
How about taking a look at Room seven?
suggested Jerry.
See here, Mr. Comstock sputtered angrily,
well not have you meddling
Paying no heed to the man, Mr. Parker
requested Mrs. Comstock to show them to Room
seven. They all followed her upstairs. While her
father and Jerry made an inspection of the room,
Penny slipped away to find Laura.
How are things going here? she asked the
girl.
Better as far as Im concerned, Laura replied.
Mrs. Comstock is so upset, shes not quite as
bossy as before. Will she be arrested?
I dont know, Penny admitted. However, I
assume both she and her husband will be
wheeled off to jail just as soon as Dad reports to
the authorities.
In a way its a shame, Laura said slowly. I
have no love for the Comstocks, but I doubt that
they had anything to do with what happened in

106
Room seven.
Penny chatted for a few minutes longer with
her friend, and then hastened back to Room
seven. Her father and Jerry had finished their
inspection, and Mrs. Comstock was locking the
door.
I appreciate your position, Madam, Penny
heard her father say. I can see that premature
publicity in this case might actually thwart
justice.
Then youll not go to the police? the woman
pleaded.
I can make no such promise. However, it is
not my present intention to turn over this
information to the authorities for at least twenty-
four hours.
Ill do anything you say, if only youll not
expose us to the police.
I shall expect you to give full co-operation to
my reporter, Jerry Livingston. He may do a little
sleuthing around here today.
The neighbors may suspect Mrs. Comstock
murmured anxiously.
I dont see what he expects to learn, Gus
Comstock added disagreeably. Merriman and
Hammond jumped into the river. Its as plain as
the nose on your face.
A trifle too plain perhaps, said Mr. Parker
dryly.
Taking temporary leave of the Comstocks, he
led Penny and the young reporter back to the
automobile for a conference.

107
Well, Dad, what did you think of Mr. and Mrs.
Comstock? Penny inquired.
Im inclined to believe they had nothing to do
with Hammonds disappearance. But that makes
the case baffling.
Will you notify the police?
Not immediately. I plan to keep the whole
thing dark for twenty-four hours, and then blow
off the lid. Theres something sinister going on in
the house, and if were lucky enough to learn
what its all about, we should scoop every paper
in Riverview!
Just how are we going to learn what its all
about? Jerry asked gloomily.
Mr. Parker gave him a quizzical glance.
Thats where you come in, Jerry, my lad, he
said. Tonight youre sleeping in Room seven!

108

CHAPTER 15

THE FACE IN THE MIRROR


Im sleeping where? demanded Jerry.
In Room seven, repeated Mr. Parker with a
smile. Youll come back with a corking story.
If I come back at all, said Jerry significantly.
You neednt attempt it unless you wish,
declared the newspaper owner, speaking soberly.
I know its dangerous business, Jerry.
Im game to try it.
I thought you would be, Jerry. Youll be
armed, of course. Ill station guards somewhere
around the house.
Isnt that apt to give the whole thing away?
Jerry asked. It isnt likely anything will happen
if its known were watching the place.
And the opposing paper may get wind of it
too, Penny added. Then your scoop will explode
like a soap bubble.
Perhaps, you are right, Mr. Parker admitted.
It would be better to have no guards in
evidence, but I cant let you take too much risk,
Jerry.
Dad, I know how you could keep folks from
suspecting that the house was being watched!
Penny cried.

109
How?
You might give a big party there tonight. It
would be killing two birds with one stone.
I dont get your idea, Mr. Parker said,
mystified.
Penny eagerly outlined her plan.
For weeks, Dad, youve been saying you
intended to entertain your staff. Now Mrs.
Comstocks house was just made for a wonderful
ghost party. Louise and I could plan all the
entertainment, and serve refreshments.
Everything would be run off just like an ordinary
party. But the townspeople wouldnt suspect
what was behind it all, and neither would the
reporters of the opposing paper. All the while the
party was in progress, Jerry could be keeping his
eyes open. And if anything went wrong while he
was staying in that room, there would be any
number of helpers at hand.
Well, I dont know, Mr. Parker said
doubtfully. It sounds a bit fantastic to me. Your
thought would be to have the party last all
night?
Into the wee small hours at least. Oh, Dad, it
would work out beautifully. The folks invited to
the party wouldnt need to know anything about
why Jerry was in the house.
Penny was such a persuasive talker, that after
Jerry had said he considered the idea a good
one, Mr. Parker reluctantly gave his consent.
Arrangements were made with Mrs. Comstock
who since her meeting with the newspaper owner

110
had been reduced to the state of a willing vassal.
Ill leave all the plans for the party in your
hands, Penny, her father said. Can you take
care of it on such short notice?
Yes, you invite the newspaper gang and Ill do
the rest. You might sign over a couple of checks
in blank. Ill have to arrange with a caterer to
bring in food.
Armed with ample funds and a great zest for
the enterprise, Penny lost no time in making
preparations for the big party. However, she was
not so busy that she forgot to call for a moment
at Mud-Cat Joes shed on her way back to
Riverview. The Gates family not being in
evidence, she wrote a hasty note, telling Mud-Cat
where she had seen a houseboat resembling the
one he had lost. Tacking it to the shed door, she
then hastened on home.
Mrs. Weems and Louise both came to Pennys
assistance, helping her contact caterers, and
plan the entertainment.
Even if it isnt Halloween, well have ghost
stunts and the like, Penny declared. That
reminds me that I must buy candles. Mrs.
Comstocks dreadful furniture wont seem so bad
under soft illumination.
By seven oclock everything was in readiness
for the party. Mr. Parker had issued the
invitation to all members of the Stars staff who
would not be required at the plant, and nearly
thirty persons were expected.
A caterer had filled Mrs. Comstocks kitchen to

111
overflowing with good things to eat, and the
house had been suitably decorated. A five piece
orchestra was on hand to provide music for
dancing. Penny, so tired that she was ready to
drop, still radiated enthusiasm.
There, I cant think of another thing left
undone, she declared, checking over the
supplies in Mrs. Comstocks kitchen. Louise and
Laura had been aiding her with the task, while
Jerry Livingston leaned indolently against the
table, now and then helping himself to a frosted
cake or an apple.
Jerry, well run short of food if you dont give
that appetite of yours a rest, Penny said
teasingly.
I have to have something to fortify my
courage, he replied, grinning. Anyway, this may
be the last food Ill ever eat.
Dont say such thingseven in fun, Penny
chided.
Jerry glanced out of the window.
Swell night for something to happen, he
said. Dark, rainy, wind howling. And a nice bed
waiting for little Jerry in Room seven.
I almost wish you werent doing it, Penny
murmured.
Before Jerry could reply, an automobile filled
with young people drove up to the door. The girls
ran outside to greet the guests, and after that, a
steady stream of them arrived.
For the first three hours the newcomers were
entertained with dancing, and when that form of

112
amusement began to pall, Penny introduced a
series of games and stunts. She was kept so
busy that she caught only occasional glimpses of
her father or Jerry.
However, shortly after ten oclock she became
aware that the young reporter had disappeared.
She felt quite certain he had taken himself to
Room seven, there to maintain his vigil. Seeking
her father, Penny confirmed the fact.
Yes, Jerry is up there now, Mr. Parker
agreed. But Im fairly certain nothing of
consequence will develop.
Why do you think that, Dad?
Oh, I believe it was a mistake having this
party here. Not that it isnt going over big. Youve
done a good job, Penny. But I cant see that it
will contribute toward our scoop.
Penny was disappointed by her fathers
attitude.
Do the Comstocks know that Jerry is staying
in Room seven? she asked quietly.
We didnt tell them. They probably suspect by
now though, for I instructed Jerry to advertise
his presence by turning on the lights.
Just what did you hope might happen
tonight, Dad?
Well, I thought someone might try to enter
Room seven. Jerry has a gun, and we rigged up a
camera trap. All he needs to do is to touch it off.
But as I say, our plans probably will be wasted.
Perhaps not, replied Penny. Is anyone
besides Jerry keeping guard?

113
No, hes alone in the room. I intend to go up
there every hour just to make certain hes all
right.
Penny had no further opportunity to talk, for
she was needed to help with the entertainment.
Hastening to the parlor she saw that all lights
save one candle had been extinguished.
Youre just in time, Penny, called one of her
friends. Weve thought up some games of our
own.
Thats fine, declared Penny. What is this
one?
Oh, that old Halloween stunt, she was
informed. You hold a mirror and a candle, and
see the face of your beloved. Your turn will be
next after Louises.
Penny laughed as she observed how the stunt
was worked. In the darkness, a young man
slipped up behind the girl who was gazing into
the mirror, and the reflection which she beheld
was his own.
The game seemed rather silly to Louise, but
she pretended to be in the spirit of it, and when
her turn came, took her place not far from the
window. Holding the candle in her left hand, she
stared into the mirror.
Suddenly she screamed, and the looking glass
dropped from her hand to the floor. All the color
drained from her cheeks.
Why, what is the matter, Louise? exclaimed
Penny. Didnt you see the face of your future
sweetheart?

114
I saw a horrible, leering creature, Louise
shuddered.
Why, that was only Bill Evans, the sports
reporter! Penny laughed.
Louise glanced nervously over her shoulder,
and hastily retreated to a chair by the wall. A
shout of laughter went up at Bill Evans expense,
but Penny noticed her chum did not join in it.
Lets try some other game, she suggested
quickly, and before anyone could demur,
switched on the electric lights.
At the first opportunity, Penny drew Louise
into the hallway.
You werent pretending, Lou, she said in a
whisper. You really saw something in that
mirror?
Yes, answered Louise, glancing uneasily up
and down the empty hall. It was just as I said, a
horrible leering face!
Youre certain it wasnt the reflection of Bill
Evans? Penny asked.
Louise gave her a scornful glance.
I saw his face in the mirror too, but naturally
that wasnt what frightened me. Someone was
watching from the window!

115

CHAPTER 16

SERIOUS COMPLICATIONS


Penny questioned her chum further, but could
not shake Louises firm conviction regarding the
reflection she had viewed in the mirror. The girls
quietly sought Mr. Parker and communicated the
information to him.
Ill take a look around the house, he
promised.
Within fifteen minutes he returned to report
that no one could be found loitering near the
premises.
Just the same I feel uneasy, Penny confessed
to her father when they were alone. Louise isnt
the type to imagine anything. I do wish Jerry
hadnt decided to go through with his plan.
Well, we might call it off, decided Mr. Parker.
I really doubt any good will be gained by his
spending the night in Room seven. It was just
one of those happy ideas which didnt seem to
work out.
Shall I run up and tell him now? Penny
asked.
Might as well, I guess.
Leaving the group of merry-makers below,
Penny climbed the stairs. A light was burning in

116
the room occupied by Mr. and Mrs. Comstock
who had agreed to remain in their quarters
during the party. The remainder of the upper
floor was dark.
Penny rapped lightly on the door of Room
seven.
Jerry, she called softly.
There was no response.
Penny knocked again on the door, and called
in a louder voice: Jerry!
Still there was no answer, and in sudden fear,
she twisted the doorknob.
Why, its locked! she exclaimed. Jerry!
Jerry! Are you all right?
A wave of terror swept over Penny. Something
had happened to the reporter! She felt certain of
it.
Turning, she raced downstairs to find her
father. He was talking to the society editor, but
upon seeing the expression of his daughters
face, he instantly excused himself and joined her
in the deserted hallway.
What is it, Penny?
Come quickly, Dad.
Has anything happened to Jerry?
I dont know. Im afraid of it. When I rapped
on the door, he didnt answer.
The scamp probably fell asleep. Dont get so
excited, Penny.
The door was locked, Dad.
Locked? Thats funny!
Mr. Parker started up the stairway, two steps

117
at a time. He tried the door of Room seven,
calling sharply: Jerry! Jerry!
When his hard pounding failed to produce
results, he turned toward Penny, and she saw
that he too was excited.
Something is wrong! he muttered. This door
shouldnt be locked.
Gus Comstock has a key I think.
Well rout him out.
Mr. Parker darted down the hall, and rapped
on the door of Mr. and Mrs. Comstocks room.
After a moment Gus opened it, peering at the
pair with undisguised hostility.
Now what do you want? he demanded. Aint
it enough that you bring a noisy, carousing
bunch of folks here, without bothering us when
were in bed?
Gus Comstock had not been in bed, for he was
fully dressed. But Mr. Parker did not take issue
with him.
Do you have a key to Room seven? he
demanded.
Yes.
Then open the door for us, and be quick
about it! Mr. Parker commanded. Were afraid
something has happened in there!
Again? shrieked Mrs. Comstock from the
bed. Oh! Oh! This will ruin us!
Dont stand there staring, man! Mr. Parker
said impatiently to Gus. Give me that key or Ill
have to break down the door.
Mr. Comstock retreated into the depths of the

118
bedroom, and reappeared with a master key. His
wife, drawing a ragged dressing gown over her
night dress, followed the group down the hall.
Gus unlocked the door of Room seven and
switched on the lights. All eyes focused upon the
great mahogany bed. It was empty.
Jerrys gone! Penny exclaimed.
Mrs. Comstock uttered a shriek of terror,
collapsing in her husbands arms.
Drop the hysterics, Mr. Parker ordered
grimly. That is, unless you want everyone in the
house to learn what has happened!
Well be ruinedruined, Mrs. Comstock
moaned, but she kept her voice at a lower pitch.
Mr. Parkers gaze moved swiftly about the
bedroom. There was no evidence of any struggle.
The bed spread showed where Jerry had been
resting. Evidently he had removed his shoes
before lying down for they had been set neatly by
the post.
Mr. Parker jerked up the pillow. Beneath it
was Jerrys revolver.
This is the queerest thing I ever
encountered, the newspaper man muttered. No
shots firednot a sound from this roomyet
Jerry disappeared from under our very noses.
Maybe he jumped out of the window like
those other fellows did, Gus Comstock
suggested.
Mr. Parker gave him a scornful glance, and did
not deign to reply. Telling Penny to remain in
Room seven, and to touch nothing, he ran

119
downstairs to contact several reporters whom he
knew could be trusted to search the premises.
Returning again to the bedroom, he went on
with his inspection. Carefully he examined the
camera apparatus which had been set up.
Heres something! he exclaimed.
Did the flash bulb go off? Penny asked
eagerly.
Yes, Jerry evidently pulled the trigger which
was connected with the bed! Well rush the
plates to a dark room!
Dad, do you notice a peculiar odor in here?
Penny questioned.
Now that you mention it, yes! A faint
perfume.
How do you account for it?
I dont, said Mr. Parker shortly. I make no
pretentions of being a detective. This is a case for
the police.
No! No! pleaded Mrs. Comstock. My
husband and I would be blamed for everything
which has happened here. And I swear we are
innocent! Oh, please, dont notify the police, Mr.
Parker.
The only reason I wouldnt, might be because
I fear they would bungle the case, the
newspaper owner replied. We need a very clever
detective. Ill send for Gregory Kane!
Having completed his inspection, Mr. Parker
shooed everyone from the room, locking the
door, and pocketing the key. He then telephoned
his well known friend, the detective, explaining

120
briefly what had occurred at Old Mansion.
The police havent been called in as yet, he
said. Bring your finger print equipment, and get
over here as quickly as you can, Greg.
At her fathers suggestion, Penny made it clear
to the guests that the party was over. A few of
the reporters were quietly asked to remain, while
the others motored back to the city. To one of the
Stars photographers, Fred Herod, Mr. Parker
entrusted the plates taken from Room seven.
Develop these right away, and see what we
have, he directed. The solution of the case may
depend on your work. Ill get to Riverview as
soon as I can. Wait at the office for me.
The reporters who had been sent to search the
vicinity, returned to report that they had found
no trace of Jerry Livingston.
Keep searching, Mr. Parker ordered. Until
Jerry is found, youll be on duty twenty-four
hours a day. Pick up any clues you can. Hawkes,
round up a man who knows the river, and start
dragging.
Oh, Dad, Penny murmured. You dont
think
No, he answered. I believe that Jerry is still
alive. But we cant afford to overlook anything.
You see, by delaying in notifying the police, I am
assuming a responsibility which might result in
a jail sentence not to mention ill-will of the
public. We must find Jerry, and solve the case
quickly! If I didnt believe that Gregory Kane is a
better detective than any on the police force, Id

121
never take matters into my own hands so
ruthlessly.
I know a local man who is familiar with every
ripple and shoal in the Kobalt, Penny said.
Mud-Cat Joe. He could be trusted not to talk.
However, he has no equipment.
We can take care of that, Mr. Parker replied.
He sent Penny with one of the reporters to
contact Joe at once. Despite the late hour, the
shanty boat man was roused out of his quarters.
Without explaining very much of what had
occurred, Penny requested him to drag the river.
Its sho hard work rowin back and forth all
day, Mud-Cat sighed, and it will keep me from
a-huntin for my own boat, but you been mighty
good to Jennie and me and the young uns, Miss.
Ill get at it soons daylight comes.
Youve not found the River Queen yet? Penny
asked mechanically, climbing back into the car.
No, I was much obliged to you fer that note
you left. But when I got over to Snark River they
wasnt no sign of any houseboat.
My father will pay you well for your work,
she told him. Perhaps, youll earn enough to
buy lumber for a new boat.
Mud-Cat Joes problem had slipped far into
the back of Pennys mind. At another time she
would have wondered what had become of the
houseboat which she and Louise had viewed
from the bridge, but now her thoughts were
concerned solely with Jerry Livingston.
The events of the night seemed unreal, almost

122
a nightmare. What had become of the missing
reporter? She could not believe that his body
would be found in the river, yet as her father had
said, they could afford to overlook no possibility.
Penny felt ill with dread and worry.
Arriving at the mansion once more, she
learned that Gregory Kane had come during her
absence.
He hasnt run into a single worthwhile clue so
far, Mr. Parker told Penny. He thinks our best
bet may be that photograph Jerry snapped. Well
run over to the Star office now and see how it
turned out.
What will be done with Mr. and Mrs.
Comstock?
Greg is questioning them now.
And Laura?
Shell stay here too. At least until Greg has
talked with her.
Taking Louise with them, Mr. Parker and his
daughter made a record breaking trip to
Riverview. Leaving the girl at her own home, they
went on to the Star office. Many of the rooms
were dark for the final edition had been run off
the presses hours before, but lights burned on
the second floor where the photographers had
their quarters.
As Penny and her father entered, Fred Herod
emerged from the dark room, his hands dripping
wet.
How did it turn out? Mr. Parker demanded
eagerly.

123
Well, theres something on the plate. Come on
in and look at it.
Penny and her father stepped into the dark
room. Fred lifted the plate from the developer
tray and held it in front of the red light.
I cant make much out of it myself, he
confessed. Looks like a picture gallery.
Penny peered over her fathers shoulder as
they both studied the plate.
Why, its the east wall of the room! she
exclaimed. A photograph of those four horrid
paintings!
Youre right, agreed Mr. Parker in
disappointment. Our cluethe best one we
hadamounts to exactly nothing.

124

CHAPTER 17

A WORTHLESS LEAD


Even after the plate was sufficiently fixed so
that it could be safely exposed to bright light,
Penny and her father were unable to find
anything in the picture which offered a clue to
the mystery of Jerrys disappearance.
Well, print it up, Fred, Mr. Parker said. But
unless Gregory Kane is a lot smarter than I, I
cant see that the photograph will be of any use
to him.
Until now the newspaper man had maintained
a forced cheerfulness, but his confidence that
Jerry would be found, had received a hard jolt.
He had counted heavily upon the photograph.
I blame myself for what happened, he told
Penny as they drove toward home. It was a
crazy idea of mine, putting Jerry in that room
alone. If we dont find him
We will find him, Dad, Penny said
determinedly. We must.
I dont give a hang about the storynow. Id
sacrifice a hundred scoops to prevent a thing like
this from occurring.
It wasnt your fault, Dad. You mustnt blame
yourself.

125
Ill solve the case if its the last thing I ever
do! Mr. Parker declared with returning anger. It
isnt sense that three persons can disappear
under exactly the same circumstances, and leave
no clue!
The car had reached the Parker residence.
Arent you coming in? Penny asked as her
father opened the door for her.
No, Im going back to White Falls, he replied.
Maybe theres nothing I can do, but I prefer to
remain on the scene.
Let me know if Jerry is found or if anything
new develops.
The very instant, Mr. Parker promised.
Penny slept fitfully during the few hours which
remained of the night. She kept hoping that her
father would telephone, but morning came and
no word had been received from him.
She was just sitting down to a lonely
breakfast, when Mr. Parkers car was heard on
the driveway. He came into the house a moment
later, looking tired and worn, his eyes bloodshot
from lack of sleep.
Any news, Dad? she asked quickly.
No, he responded dejectedly, That is,
nothing of consequence.
He sat down at the breakfast table, saying to
Mrs. Weems who had come in from the kitchen:
Just a cup of strong, black coffee, please.
Dad, you should eat your breakfast, Penny
protested.
Mr. Parker shook his head. I dont feel like it.

126
Hasnt anything developed at all? Penny
asked, sinking down in a chair beside her father.
Not in regard to Jerry. Gregory Kane is of the
opinion we may never see him again, or if we do,
his body will be taken from the river.
Oh, Dad!
Mud-Cat was starting to drag the river when I
left. That means it wont be long until everyone
in the village will know what has happened. Not
that it matters much I guess. However, when the
police get wind of the affair, I may have some tall
explaining to do.
Dad, does Gregory Kane think the Comstocks
had any part in Jerrys disappearance?
Not that I can get out of him. He did force
Gus Comstock to reveal where Hammonds car
was hidden. It was found in the woods some
distance off a side road. Comstock claims he
disposed of the automobile merely to avoid
questioning by the police.
His story has been the same always, Penny
acknowledged, but I dont trust the fellow.
Greg learned one fact which may interest
you.
What is that, Dad?
The Comstocks are not the owners of Old
Mansion.
They arent? Well, that is a surprise.
The Comstocks are merely caretakers, but
theyve lived there so long, they came to regard
the house practically as their own.
Who is the owner?

127
A woman named Irene Faraday, living in
Baltimore.
I wonder if she has any idea what has been
going on at her place?
No, the Comstocks have kept her in
ignorance, fearing that it might cost them their
jobs. You see, they opened the house as a tourist
place without Mrs. Faradays consent.
That was a high-handed thing to do, although
quite in keeping with Gus Comstocks
character.
Yes, he figured Mrs. Faraday never would find
out, for she hasnt visited the house since she
left nearly ten years ago.
Why has she kept the place occupied, I
wonder?
Sentimental reasons, I suppose. Mrs. Faraday
was married in that house, two of her children
died there, and likewise her husband.
Not in Room seven, Penny said with a shiver.
No, not to my knowledge. At one time the
house was considered quite a show place. But
some ten years ago or more, restrictions were
removed and shop buildings went up beside the
dwelling. The river cut in closer too.
Mrs. Faraday then moved to Baltimore?
Yes, she employed the Comstocks as
caretakers, and leaving everything in their
charge, went East and never returned.
The house was furnished, Dad?
Yes, the Comstocks have admitted to Gregory
Kane that everythingfurniture, paintings, even

128
the glasswarebelongs to Mrs. Faraday.
I rather thought the Comstocks had never
furnished that house. However, I cant say much
for Mrs. Faradays taste in paintings. Some of
those portraits are mere daubs in expensive
frames.
Youre wrong, Penny, smiled her father.
Your friend, Lem, the caf owner, told me those
paintings were considered valuable.
They may have cost money. But Dad, cant
you see how atrocious they are?
They didnt appeal to me, Mr. Parker
admitted. However, I dont pretend to know
about art.
Even a blindman could tell those paintings
arent art, insisted Penny. If theyre supposed
to be valuable, then someone must have cheated
Mrs. Faraday.
Well, at any rate, she considered them worth
enough to merit keeping a caretaker for ten
years. The Comstocks received only a small
salary and the use of the property. That was one
reason why they began taking in tourists. They
needed extra money.
I wish I knew if Gus Comstock owns that
shed where Mud-Cat Joe and his family live,
Penny said thoughtfully.
I doubt if the man has any property of his
own.
So do I, declared Penny feelingly. The
chances are, he was trying to drive Joe off the
property belonging to Mrs. Faraday. Maybe as

129
caretaker, he had a right to, but it seems to me,
hes suddenly taking his duties very seriously.
Yes, considering that he has been unfaithful
to the trust in other ways.
Someone should let Mrs. Faraday know about
how Old Mansion is being operated.
I suggested to Gregory Kane that we try to get
in touch with her, Mr. Parker declared. He
didnt believe it would do any good.
She should be informed just on general
principles, it seems to me. Dad, would you care if
I sent her a telegram?
Go ahead if you like, Mr. Parker agreed.
Here is her address, or at least it is the one Mrs.
Comstock gave Greg.
He handed Penny a slip of paper, and drinking
the last of his coffee, hurriedly arose from the
table.
Ill be at the office for an hour, he said. After
that Ill probably return to White Falls.
When the breakfast dishes had been cleared
away, Penny backed her own car from the garage
and drove over to see Louise. Together the girls
composed the telegram to Mrs. Faraday and
dispatched it.
Shell think the worst when she receives our
message, Louise said uneasily. What if she
should come here?
I hope she does decide to come, said Penny.
Its time Mrs. Faraday checks up on the
Comstocks.
After the telegram had been sent, there was

130
nothing more to occupy their minds. Both Louise
and Penny fretted at the inactivity.
If only we could do something to help! Louise
commented. Its so hard just to sit and wait and
hope.
We could drive over to White Falls, Penny
suggested. Id rather be there than here.
So would I.
By this time, the girls knew every inch of the
road between Riverview and White Falls and
could make the drive in excellent time. They were
approaching the Kobalt river, near the locality
where Mud-Cat Joe had made his temporary
home, when Penny suddenly applied brakes.
Louise regarded her in surprise.
Youre stopping there again today? she
inquired.
Then she saw that Pennys gaze was riveted
upon the roadside directly ahead. Jennie Gates,
her three children gathered close beside her, sat
dejectedly on an old log. Not far away were all
their worldly possessions, a rusty stove, two
cots, bedding and a box of cooking pans.
Something seems to be wrong, said Penny
anxiously. It looks to me as if Mud-Cat and his
family have been put out of their home.

131

CHAPTER 18

DISPOSSESSED


As the girls alighted from the car and moved
toward Jennie Gates and her children, one
glance assured them that the shed bore a new
door which had been boarded and nailed shut.
Why, Jennie, youve not been dispossessed!
Penny exclaimed in amazement.
The womans disconsolate face brightened at
sight of the girls.
The sheriff done it, she said. He snuck up
here right after Joe went out on the river this
mornin. He says we cant live here no more.
This must be Gus Comstocks work, replied
Penny indignantly. Yet one would think he
would be well occupied with his own brand of
troubles!
Probably he notified the sheriff before Jerrys
disappearance, remarked Louise. Maybe that
day when he tumbled into the water.
Yes, that would be my guess, Penny nodded,
but it doesnt help matters. Once an order goes
into effect its hard to get it rescinded.
I dunno whatll become of us now, Jennie
said dejectedly.
Wisht we had our houseboat, Ma, Jed added

132
wistfully.
Dont talk about it, Jed, his mother replied.
Dreamin about yer troubles is sure bad luck.
Last night I seen that there boat jest as plain as
day. There she was, layin in a little cove, jest as
neat and trim as the day she vanished. Then I
hears Joe a snorin like a bull frog with ader-
noids. When I come to and knew it was jest a
dream, I felt mighty low.
Its strange about the River Queen, Penny
said thoughtfully. Louise and I both believed we
saw itor one which resembled it closelydown
on the Snark river.
Joe gits lots of reports about it, the woman
sighed. Seems like that boat has a way o
vanishin before he kin git to where it aint.
Despite her own worries, and a reluctance to
devote any time to the problem of the missing
houseboat, Penny decided to take the troubles of
the Gates family upon her shoulders.
Now dont you do any worrying, Jennie, she
comforted, Before nightfall Ill find another place
for you to live. And well do our best to get you
back on the river before long.
Thats mighty sweet of you, Miss Penny,
returned Jennie. I really dont see why you put
yourself out fer the likes o we uns. You aint a-
beholdin to us fer nothin I kin make out. But I
guess some folks is that-a-way. Doin a good
turn comes natural to em.
It isnt all one-sided, replied Penny. Your
husband is doing us a great favor, too.

133
Leaving Mrs. Gates and her children to guard
their meager possessions, the girls resumed their
journey.
Youve let yourself in for trouble, in my
opinion, voiced Louise. It wont be easy to find
a new home for the Gates family. No one will
want them when they cant pay rent.
I know, Penny agreed, but someone has to
look after them. It was a mean trick for Gus
Comstock to set the sheriff on them. I suspect
the property belongs to Mrs. Faraday.
Then, couldnt you force Gus Comstock to
allow the family to remain in the shed?
I suppose I could, Lou, because the man is
pretty meek since all this new trouble came up.
But its scarcely worth the effort. That old shed
never was a suitable place for anyone to live. It
will be easier to find a new home for Joe and his
family.
Just where do you propose to discover this
new home?
It will have to be along the river, or Joe would
pine away. There are quite a number of shacks
and cottages on the banks of the Kobalt.
And who will pay the rent?
Well meet that problem when we come to it.
Lets start searching for a suitable place now.
Incidentally, well keep our eyes and ears open
for any information regarding Jerry.
What could we hope to learn, Penny?
Well, theres an outside chance hes being
held a prisoner in some old shack along the

134
river.
Youre assuming he was spirited away from
Old Mansion, protested Louise. How could
anyone have entered that house with so many
persons on guard?
Have you forgotten that face you saw in the
mirror, Lou?
Ill never forget it, replied Louise with a
shiver. But the person I saw, must have been
standing at the window. Im sure he wasnt in
the room.
Cant you describe the face, Lou?
No, it all happened so quickly. I just caught a
fleeting glimpse, and then it was gone.
I believe you must have seen the person
responsible for Jerrys disappearance, Penny
said soberly. And probably its someone living
right near White Falls!
I hope I never meet the fiend, Louise
responded. Just the recollection of that face
gave me a horrible nightmare.
Id attempt anything if it would help bring
Jerry back, Penny said grimly.
She fell silent, occupied with her unpleasant
thoughts. Selecting a side road which took them
along the river, the girls kept close watch for
empty shacks. They found only one, a place very
little better than the old shed where Mud-Cat Joe
and his family had been living.
Lets try the other side of the river, Penny
suggested.
They drove across the steel bridge at the

135
outskirts of White Falls, resuming their search.
Finally they came upon a woman who told them
of a place farther up the river.
Its a right smart little cottage, she declared.
Partly furnished too, but the owner aint been
able to rent it cause the roof leaks. And when
the river is high, it sometimes floods right into
the yard.
Penny jotted down the name of the man who
owned the cottage, and then, casually changing
the subject, tried to learn if the woman had
noticed anything amiss in the vicinity during the
night of Jerry Livingstons disappearance. She
had asked the same question many times that
day, and had no hope of receiving a favorable
reply. However, the womans words startled her.
Well, I cant say as I noticed anything out of
the way, but folks think plenty about what goes
on at Old Mansion. It looks mighty queer to me
that theyre a-draggin the river for a body. I said
to my husband, says I, Chris, if folks was right
smart theyd ask a few questions of the
Comstocks, specially about that motor boat
which runs down the river at night.
Is a motor boat so unusual on a river?
inquired Penny.
No, Miss, it aint, but when the engine is
muffled theres usually a reason for it. I saw the
boat three separate times. She was crusin
around Old Mansion, and with no lights. I said
to my husband, I says, Chris, theres something
mighty queer about the way that boat acts.

136
When did you notice the motor boat?
I heard it last night around midnight. The
other two times was quite a spell ago.
Penny asked other questions, trying not to
reveal anything which would increase the
womans suspicion that things were queer at
Old Mansion. She and Louise both were excited
over the information, for they had not forgotten
Laura Blairs claim that on the night of Mr.
Hammonds disappearance from the house, she
had heard unusual river sounds.
Could it be that the mysterious craft had some
connection with the fate of the three men who
had vanished from Old Mansion? Penny
determined to place her clue in the hands of the
detective, Gregory Kane.
First, however, the girls visited the cottage
farther up the river. They found it a fairly
presentable place, almost directly opposite Old
Mansion.
This should serve the Gates family nicely, if
only arrangements can be made with the owner,
Penny declared.
The man was located in White Falls, and the
girls were pleased to find him a most reasonable
individual. He knew Mud-Cat Joe, and learning
of his plight, agreed that in return for certain
repair work and a weekly mess of fish, the family
might occupy the cottage for the remainder of
the summer.
Before returning to acquaint Jennie Gates
with the good news, Penny called at Old

137
Mansion. Gregory Kane chanced to be there, and
listened attentively as she related the
information given her regarding the motorboat.
Ill look into that angle, he said, but in a tone
which convinced Penny he did not consider the
clue of great significance.
She did not need to inquire if any progress
had been made in the case, for the detectives
general air of discouragement told the story.
After a hasty luncheon, the girls returned to
the Gates shed, and they were entirely repaid for
their trouble, when they witnessed the familys
joy upon hearing that new quarters had been
secured. Jed ran down to the rivers edge, to
signal his father, and soon Mud-Cat Joe rowed
up to the landing.
How we goin to git all our truck down to the
cabin? Jennie asked.
I can take everything in the car except live
stock, Penny declared. Joe, I suggest you
attach the raft to your rowboat, and tow the
chickens, the goat and the pigs.
I dunno how that goat will ride, Mud-Cat
said doubtfully. But we kin try er.
Penny loaded Jennie, the younger children
and the household possessions into the car, and
arrived at the cottage without mishap. In due
time Mud-Cat Joe, his son Jed, and the strange
floating zoo likewise reached the site, with the
goat still aboard, albeit in a fighting mood.
This sure is a nice little lean-to, Mud-Cat
declared, surveying his new domain. The roof I

138
kin fix up with a few shingles, and the walls aint
got many chinks. Its a lot better than livin in a
cow shed.
Its a right purty little house, Jennie added.
Its got runnin water and a sink. I never had
nothin like that before, even on the River Queen.
But we wont be up to payin no water bills.
Oh, dont worry about that, Penny answered.
Ive taken care of all those things.
I dont see how we kin ever pay you back,
said the shanty boat man.
You have paid me already. Penny glanced at
the old rivermans horny right hand which had
been blistered from steady rowing. She knew he
had toiled faithfully all day.
I done a right smart chore of rowin, Joe
agreed. One of them oars was rough, and then
draggin aint no fun.
Penny started to turn away, but paused. Joe,
she said, theres something else you could do
for me, if you are willing. I wish you would keep
watch of Old Mansion, especially at night. If you
see anything unusual or suspicious, notify me or
Detective Kane.
The riverman promised that he would do as
the girl requested.
Tomorrow Ill git on with the draggin agin,
he said, following Penny and Louise to their car.
But I figgers Id a found that body long before
this if I was a-goin to.
The sun was sinking low as the girls crossed
the bridge and entered White Falls.

139
We should be starting home, declared
Louise.
Yes, but since were so late, why not have
supper first? Penny proposed. It will fortify us
for the ride.
Not wishing to have Lem Vare ask them
inquisitive questions, they sought another caf
farther down the street. By the time they had
finished their meal and were starting for
Riverview, it had grown quite dark.
I know the road by heart so theres no danger
well get lost, Penny said, switching on the
headlights.
They had traveled perhaps five miles, when it
seemed to her that the car was bumping more
than usual.
It feels almost as if we had a flat tire,
commented Louise.
I was thinking the same thing, groaned
Penny.
She pulled up at the side of the road, and
alighted to examine the tires. To her relief, they
were all sound. However, the tail light was not
burning.
Is the switch turned on all the way, Louise?
she called.
Ill see, said her chum.
She turned the button, but only succeeded in
extinguishing the headlights. At that moment,
another car came around the bend. Before
Louise could switch on the headbeams again, it
drew up at the side of the road some distance

140
away. A man alighted and took a large bundle
and a thermos jug from the rear of his car.
Penny moved swiftly to Louises side, saying in
a tense undertone:
Never mind those lights. Leave them off.
Why, whats the idea? Louise demanded, and
then observed that Penny was watching the man
who had alighted from the other automobile. She
did not recognize the person herself.
Taking the paper-wrapped bundle, and the
thermos jug, he abandoned the car by the
roadside, and disappeared into the woods.
Didnt you know him? Penny demanded
excitedly.
No, how could I see his face at this distance?
Well, I did! Penny exclaimed. I caught a
glimpse of it as he stood for a moment in the
headlight beam. The man was Sing Lee, Lou!
And what wouldnt I give to learn where hes
taking that thermos jug!

141

CHAPTER 19

HIDDEN IN THE WOODS


It does seem peculiar that Sing Lee should carry
a thermos jug into the woods at this time of
night, Louise acknowledged. Still, hes breaking
no law by doing it.
I wonder what was in the bundle? Penny
mused aloud. Food perhaps. And to whom
would he be taking it?
Without answering her own question, the girl
jerked open the car door, and tugged at Louises
hand.
Come along! she commanded. Theres not a
minute to lose.
Penny Parker, have you lost your mind?
Louise demanded indignantly. What do you
mean to do?
Follow that Chinaman!
Im staying right here, declared Louise,
holding back. I never heard of such a crazy
thing! Just because Sing Lee has a package and
a thermos bottle
Without taking time to reply, Penny started
across the road toward the woods. Louise
hesitated briefly, and then unwilling to be left
behind, snatched a flashlight from the pocket of

142
the car, and hastily followed.
Wait, Penny, she called softly. Im coming.
Hurry or well lose Sing Lee.
In the dense woods it was very dark, but far
ahead Penny could see the beam of a flashlight
focused on the ground as the man who carried it
walked swiftly along.
Penny, I dont know whats in your mind,
Louise gasped, trying to keep up with her chum.
But whatever it is, its a crazy idea!
Is it crazy to try to find Jerry? Penny refuted.
Sing Lee may lead us straight to him.
You believe Sing Lee took Jerry a prisoner?
Why, its fantastic!
That food is meant for someone. If Sing Lee
werent up to something, why would he come
here at night?
They were drawing closer to the Chinaman so
Louise did not reply. Yet to herself she admitted
that Pennys idea might not be as ridiculous as it
had seemed at first. In thinking back, she
recalled Sing Lee had been a rather odd
character, and it would not be too difficult to
imagine that on the night of the party at Old
Mansion the face she had seen in the mirror
might have been that of a Chinaman.
Unaware that he was being trailed, Sing Lee
moved deeper into the forest. Once he paused to
listen, glancing backward over his shoulder. The
girls flattened themselves against tree trunks
and waited. There was no occasion for fear
because the darkness gave them protection.

143
Sing Lee seems to be heading toward the
river, Penny observed, as the man walked on
again.
She had not been mistaken in her bearings.
Within a few minutes the Chinaman reached a
small tributary of the Kobalt river. He walked
along the banks for some distance, coming to a
cove which was heavily screened by overhanging
bushes and willow trees. Not until they had crept
up very close, did the girls distinguish the
outline of a houseboat. They were both startled
to come upon it so unexpectedly.
Sing Lee whistled twice, and a shadowy figure
appeared in the doorway of the shanty boat. A
lantern was lighted, and by its glow Penny and
Louise saw that the man on the boat likewise
was a Chinese.
A few words were exchanged by the pair in
their native tongue. Then Sing Lee went aboard
the boat, carrying the bundle and the thermos
jug.
Well, what do you think of that! Louise
murmured under her breath.
Risking detection, they crept closer. The
houseboat scraped the high bank as it floated,
and they were able to peer into one of the
windows. In the room which was lighted, three
Chinamen sat at a table eating food brought by
Sing Lee. The scene was not what Penny had
expected to see. She had confidently believed
that the laundryman had intended the contents
of the bundle and the thermos jug for a prisoner.

144
It looks as if Sing Lee is just giving a few of
his friends a treat, whispered Louise. The joke
is on you.
She started to move away, but Penny detained
her by holding her hand fast.
Look at the walls of that room, Lou!
What about them?
They are papered with sheets from a mail
order catalogue!
Thats so.
And notice the porch.
Petunias growing in a flower box, Louise
observed.
Theyve not been watered in daysperhaps
not since Mud-Cat Joes River Queen
disappeared.
You think this is his missing boat?
It certainly looks like it.
But all houseboats are similar, Louise said.
This one has been freshly painted. Joe didnt
mention anything like that.
Cant you guess why? whispered Penny with
increasing excitement. The boat was painted to
disguise its appearance.
The girls quietly retreated from the banks of
the stream. When they were a safe distance away
they paused to consider their course.
I might be mistaken, Penny admitted, but
this boat fits Mud-Cat Joes description of the
River Queen. We ought to notify him at once.
Hes received so many false clues already,
Louise protested weakly. But Im willing to go

145
back if you wish.
Lets hurry then, urged Penny, before the
boat vanishes again.
In spite of their frantic haste, it required more
than a half hour to reach the Gates cottage.
Mud-Cat Joe had just finished his supper when
the car drove into the yard. He went outside to
meet the girls, and became highly excited when
Penny told him of her belief that the River Queen
lay in a cove of the Snark River.
Ill git right down there and have a look at
er, he declared.
Perhaps we ought to go with you, Penny
said, thinking that the riverman might encounter
trouble in the event the Chinamen had stolen his
shantyboat.
She suggested that he ride in their car, but
this he did not wish to do, for unless the girls
brought him back he would have no way to
return home.
I kin git down there almost as quick in the
rowboat, he insisted. Currents runnin swift.
Despite their wish to return without delay to
Riverview, the girls decided it was their duty to
accompany Mud-Cat.
The man quickly launched the rowboat, and
steered for the middle of the river. He bent to the
oars, his powerful muscles sending the craft
downstream in little spurts of speed.
Penny turned to glance toward Old Mansion
where a few lights glowed. The house had a
deceptive appearance of peace and tranquility.

146
The night was cold and penetrating. A breeze
which rippled the water served also to chill
Penny and Louise long before the boat came to
the mouth of the Snark river. They had neglected
to bring wraps.
Coming at length to the tributary, Mud-Cat
Joe steered the boat into the narrow stream.
Penny and Louise began to peer ahead
anxiously, for they knew they must be drawing
close to the cove where they had seen the
houseboat.
They swung around a bend. Penny leaned
forward, trying to pierce the darkness.
This was the place, she whispered.
But theres no houseboat here! exclaimed
Louise. Why, what became of it?
Fearing they might have been mistaken in the
locality the girls had Mud-Cat row farther up the
stream. It soon became evident that the boat had
vanished. Deeply chagrined, Louise and Penny
were grateful that the riverman did not chide
them.
This aint the first time Ive had a wild goose
chase lookin fer that houseboat, he said with
forced cheerfulness.
But it was here an hour ago, Penny insisted.
A gloomy silence took possession of the three
as Mud-Cat Joe headed the boat toward the
Kobalt river once more. It would be a hard row
back to the cottage where the girls had left their
car. They reflected it might be midnight before
they arrived home. As for Joe, he was tired and

147
worn from his long day on the river, and their
failure to find his beloved houseboat could not
help but depress him.
The boat presently reached the mouth of the
tributary. Mud-Cat steered out into the main
stream, setting his course at an angle across the
Kobalt. Penny and Louise huddled together to
protect themselves from the wind.
They had fallen into a sort of lethargy, a state
of morbid drowsiness, when they became aware
of a sudden break in the smooth rhythm of Mud-
Cats rowing.
The man stowed his oars, peering out across
the dark, swirling waters.
Jest fer a minute, I thought I seen somethin
in the water, he observed. Reckon it must have
been a big fish.
Penny and Louise stirred themselves,
stretching their cramped limbs. With interest
they glanced across the rippled water.
As the riverman rested for a moment from his
labors, the current caught the boat and swung it
sideways. Suddenly Penny leaned forward, and
gave a little cry.
There is something struggling in the water!
Its surely too large to be a She broke off,
ending with a gasp of horror. Joe, its a man!

148

CHAPTER 20

FLAMING EYES


By George, if you aint right! exclaimed Mud-
Cat Joe. Hes about done up too!
With a hard pull at the right oar, he sent the
boat directly toward the man who struggled in
the water. The victims face had submerged; only
a white hand fluttered weakly above the surface.
Penny tore off her shoes, and stood up in the
boat, ready to dive overboard.
Hold on, said Mud-Cat Joe calmly. Ill git
him. Long as a mans strugglin he aint
drownin.
The riverman was now close enough to thrust
an oar toward the victim who seemed too spent
to grasp it. The next moment the boat pulled
alongside, and Mud-Cat managed to grasp the
man by an arm.
I got him, he said grimly. Steady now or
well upset the boat.
Mud-Cat Joe was a heavy man, and the added
weight of the limp figure very nearly capsized the
craft, but Penny and Louise kept to the opposite
side, trying to maintain balance. The boat
wobbled and jerked convulsively. Finally, Mud-
Cat Joe succeeded in pulling the relaxed figure

149
over the gunwhale.
He stretched the man on the bottom of the
boat, turning him so that his face was visible in
the dim starlight. The girls took one glance and
gave cries of dismay.
Jerry! Penny exclaimed.
A wave of mingled joy and terror swept over
her. To have found the reporter seemed nothing
short of a miracle, but his condition was
deplorable. There was a deep gash across Jerry
Livingstons forehead, and his breathing was
light and fluttery.
Your coat, Joe, she commanded, recovering
from her first shock. We must keep him as
warm as we can.
The riverman stripped off the garment, and
Penny wrapped it about Jerrys own wet clothing.
Then, kneeling beside the figure, she began to
apply artificial respiration, timing her
movements with the reporters labored
breathing.
We must get him to a doctor, she said to
Mud-Cat Joe.
The riverman nodded, and bent to the oars
with energy. It was a hard battle against the
current, with the boat riding low in the water.
Louise tried to help Penny, but there was very
little she could do.
What could have happened? she murmured.
How do you suppose he came to be in the
river?
Penny did not answer for she had felt Jerry

150
stir. He gave a low moan and muttered
something which she could not distinguish. But
a moment later the words were clear enough.
Eyes he murmured, Flaming eyes
looking at melooking at me
Why, hes out of his head, Louise whispered.
Yes, Im afraid hes in bad condition, Penny
said anxiously. That gash in his head looks
deep. I hope it wont become infected from the
dirty river water.
At this particular point there were no cabins
or houses along the Kobalt. Penny scanned the
shore for a sign of a light, and seeing none,
decided that Jerry must be taken either to Old
Mansion or to Joes cottage.
Facilities were much better at the former
place, but intuition warned her that it might be
wise to keep news of Jerrys reappearance from
Mr. and Mrs. Comstock as long as possible.
What had occurred in Room seven on that
eventful night of the party? Jerry alone knew the
answer, but whether or not the secret would
remain forever locked in his brain, she could not
guess. The reporter had suffered a great shock in
addition to his experience in the waterthat was
evident even to her untrained eye.
Jerrys lips were moving again. Penny bent
closer.
Boat he muttered. Boat.
Yes, youre in a boat, Penny said soothingly,
rubbing his icy hands and trying to restore
circulation. Youre with friends, Jerry.

151
The reporters eyes fluttered open, but there
was no recognition in his glance as he stared at
Penny.
Boat, he muttered again. Houseboat.
The word startled Mud-Cat Joe and the two
girls. They waited tensely, but with a tired sigh,
Jerrys eyelids closed again. His head rolled
restlessly back and forth on the flooring of the
boat. He spoke no more.
Why you figger he said that? asked the
riverman in a low tone.
I dont know, said Penny slowly.
Her thoughts leaped back to the houseboat
which she and Louise had observed in the Snark
river only an hour earlier. The boat had
mysteriously vanished. A natural assumption
was that it had taken to the main river once
more. Was it possible that Jerry had been held a
prisoner aboard, and somehow had managed to
escape?
Yet there had been no evidence of captives in
the houseboat.
The boat had two rooms, and Louise and I
could not see into the one which was dark,
Penny thought. Jerry could have been
imprisoned there, but it doesnt seem likely. Sing
Lee appeared to be taking food to his friends.
The possibility occurred to her that Jerry,
while struggling in the water, battling to reach
shore, might have seen the houseboat leave the
mouth of the Snark river. Perhaps he had
attempted to signal the boat, and failing, had

152
believed that his only hope of rescue was gone.
Such an experience would be likely to leave
the houseboat imprinted indelibly upon his
mind, and thus his strange mutterings could be
explained. But with this theory there remained
the disturbing question, why had Jerry been in
the water at all? Where had he been held a
prisoner? And by whom?
If Sing Lee did have anything to do with this,
Gregory Kane might not wish him to learn that
Jerry has been found, she reflected. Until Ive
talked with Dad, the best thing to do is to keep
him under cover.
She then asked Mud-Cat Joe if the reporter
could be taken to the cottage, and received a
hearty assent.
Watching Jerry anxiously as the boat made its
slow progress up the river, Penny hoped that she
had made no mistake in her decision. When she
reached the cottage, she would summon a doctor
at once, and if necessary the reporter could be
removed to a hospital.
That feller looks purty well done in to me,
observed Mud-Cat as he pulled steadily at the
oars. Ive fished plenty of em out of the river,
but I never seen one act like him before.
Im worried, Penny admitted soberly.
After a trip which seemed endless, the boat at
last scraped on the sandy beach beside Mud-Cat
Joes cottage.
Bring a light, Jennie! shouted the riverman.
As the woman appeared in the doorway with a

153
kerosene lamp, Mud-Cat Joe lifted Jerry from the
boat and carried him into the cottage, the girls
offering what assistance they could.
Jennie, dont stand there a-gapin, Mud-Cat
said to his wife. Git some blankets and heat
stones fer the bed.
Jennie knew exactly what to do, for during her
many years on the water, this was not the first
time she had been called upon to minister to the
needs of a river victim.
You git them wet clothes off him, she told
her husband. He kin have Jeds bed.
With no ceremony, the boy was routed out of
his snug nest, and he stood watching drowsy-
eyed as his father rolled the stranger beneath the
covers. Jennie heated stones in the oven, which
she wrapped in towels and placed at Jerrys feet.
She robbed the other beds of blankets,
observing: They aint nothin better fer an ailin
man than a good sweat.
Ill go for a doctor, said Penny.
She and Louise made a quick trip in their car
to White Falls. Summoning the village physician,
Doctor Hornsley, they took him to the cottage,
and then returned to the village once more so
that Penny could telephone her father.
Jerry has been found? Mr. Parker asked, a
break in his voice. Thats the best news Ive
heard in a thousand years.
Hes in bad shape, Dad, Penny said. Doctor
Hornsley is examining him now. Im afraid of the
verdict.

154
You stay there until I can come, Penny. Well
have Jerry moved to the Riverview hospital, and
not spare the cost.
Returning to Mud-Cat Joes cottage, the girls
arrived just as Doctor Hornsley was ready to
leave.
How is he, doctor? Penny inquired anxiously.
His condition is grave, replied Doctor
Hornsley, peering at her through his nose
glasses. The man has suffered a great shock.
But he will recover?
He has a chance unless pneumonia should
develop. However, his mind Doctor Hornsley
completed his meaning by giving a little shake of
the head.
Oh, that would be dreadful! gasped Penny.
Well, he may improve after a lengthy rest,
the doctor said cheerfully. We will hope for the
best. I wonder what happened to him?
We dont know, Doctor. He was struggling in
the river when we found him.
From the wound on his head, I assume he
was struck a hard blow with a blunt object. The
skull is not fractured. At least I am unable to
determine it without X-rays.
My father is coming from Riverview, Penny
said. With your approval he plans to take Jerry
to the hospital at once.
That would not be advisable in my opinion.
You will do the patient more harm by moving
him, than by allowing him to remain.
But facilities are so limited here, Doctor.

155
Perhaps within twenty-four hours he may be
transferred to a hospital, said Doctor Hornsley,
but certainly not tonight. I shall try to locate a
nurse. In the meanwhile, will you remain here?
Yes, of course.
I have explained to Mrs. Gates about the
medicine. There is very little that can be done
except to give the patient complete rest.
Doctor Hornsley snapped shut his medicine
case, bowing politely as he bade Penny good
evening.
While Louise drove the physician back to
White Falls, she remained at Jerrys bedside. The
reporters head had been neatly bandaged and
the white wrappings accentuated the ashen color
of his skin. It seemed to Penny almost as if she
were gazing at a stranger. The man on the bed
did not seem like Jerry Livingston.
He just has to get well, she thought
miserably.
Jennie Gates displayed a surprising amount of
common sense in caring for the patient. She
closed off the doors leading to the bedroom, and
herding her children into the other chamber,
insisted that they create no disturbance.
An unnatural silence fell upon the little
cottage. Now and then Penny heard Mud-Cat Joe
or his wife tiptoe across the kitchen floor, but
they did not enter the room where Jerry lay.
The only light came from the oil lamp on the
dresser which cast grotesque shadows on the
plaster walls. At infrequent intervals, Jerry

156
stirred, muttering words which Penny could not
understand.
She began to wish that Louise would return
from White Falls, or that her father would arrive.
She had never experienced anything so hard as
to sit with folded hands, watching Jerry, her
heart leaping into her throat every time he made
the slightest movement. Penny had never taken
care of anyone who was ill. If only the nurse
would come soon to take charge!
Presently, she heard a sound outside the
window. Someone was walking along the gravel
path. It was probably Louise, she thought,
although she had not heard the car drive up. Her
father could not have had time to reach White
Falls.
Penny reached over to rearrange the blanket
which Jerrys fluttering hands had disturbed. As
she sat back, again, listening for Louise to enter
the house, she became conscious of a sensation
of uneasiness. It was as if she could feel
unfriendly eyes staring into the room.
Penny smiled ruefully, thinking that Jerrys
mutterings had unnerved her. Then her glance
wandered toward the window, and she stiffened
in her chair. An ugly face was peering through
the divided pane!

157

CHAPTER 21

A VISITOR FROM THE EAST


Almost as quickly as Penny became aware of the
face, it vanished. Of one detail only could she be
certain. The person who had looked through the
window was a man. A cold chill passed over the
girl. The man at the window had been staring,
not at herself, but at Jerry, who lay on the bed.
Penny ran to the cabin door. No one was in
sight. After a moments hesitation, she went out
into the cool night air, quickly walking around
the building. The yard was deserted, and the
only sound came from the river where a bullfrog
gave a deep-throated c-lung.
Penny glanced sharply about, thinking that
the dense bushes overhanging the river banks
would offer a hiding place for a prowler. Had
there been the slightest doubt in her mind that
she had seen a face at the window, it was
dispelled when she found large footprints
embedded in the soft earth near the outside
bedroom wall.
Someone connected with those mysterious
disappearances at Old Mansion may have seen
Joe drag Jerry out of the water, she thought.
We probably were followed here.

158
More than ever Penny became convinced that
the reporter held the key to the situation, but a
key which he might never be capable of using.
And if Jerry had the power to expose the persons
who had harmed him, those same persons would
try every possible means to prevent him from
revealing his knowledge.
With another uneasy glance toward the river,
Penny retreated to the cottage. Calling Mud-Cat
Joe, she told him of her suspicion that someone
might be lurking down along the willows.
Ill have a look around, he said, reaching for
his lantern. Maybe twas only Silas Slocum you
saw. Hes a feller to go prowlin around at night,
takin care of his nets.
Mud-Cat made the rounds, returning to report
he could find no one near the cottage. Penny
said no more, taking her post by Jerrys bedside
again, but she remained firm in her belief that
the prowler had not been Silas Slocum.
Later, when Louise came back from White
Falls, Penny related the incident.
Is it safe for Jerry to remain here? Louise
asked in alarm.
No, replied Penny, but until the doctor says
he may be moved, we cant do otherwise.
At least Jerry should be well guarded.
Yes, I mean to talk with Dad about it when he
comes.
Jerry must have gone through a dreadful
experience, Louise murmured. What do you
suppose happened to him?

159
I wish I knew, Penny answered soberly. Im
wondering if we ever shall.
An hour later Mr. Parker arrived at the
cottage. The sight of Jerrys thin, drawn face
caused him to retreat hastily from the bedroom.
Ill get the fiends who did this if its the last
act of my life! he muttered. Has he tried to talk,
Penny?
I dont believe he realizes what hes saying,
she answered. He keeps repeating the word
houseboat, and he murmurs something I cant
understand about flaming eyes.
Penny and Louise both were so weary they felt
ready to drop. It was a relief to have Mr. Parker
assume full responsibility. He was disappointed
that Jerry could not be removed at once to a
hospital, but in his usual efficient way, quietly
made the best of the situation. A nurse was
installed in the cottage, while Mud-Cat Joe was
told to maintain a constant guard over the
premises.
Penny and Louise felt they could do no more
for Jerry, and so rode back to Riverview, arriving
only a few hours before dawn.
In the morning the events of the night seemed
to have no reality, yet the ache and pain in
Pennys body gave positive proof that she had
undergone a most unpleasant physical
experience. Breakfasting late, she had just
finished her orange juice and toast, when the
doorbell rang.
That may be someone with a message about

160
Jerry, she declared to Mrs. Weems. Ill answer.
Penny ran to the door, but as she opened it
she saw that the elderly, well-dressed lady who
stood there, was a stranger.
Are you by chance Miss Penelope Parker?
inquired the visitor, with a cordial smile.
Why, yes, wont you come in?
Thank you.
The woman sat down on the davenport,
loosening her wraps.
I am Mrs. Faraday, she introduced herself.
You sent me a telegram, I believe.
Why, yes, stammered Penny.
Your information alarmed me exceedingly,
Miss Parker. I had planned a trip back here for
some months, so when I received your message,
I decided to start at once. However, I must
confess I had no idea you were so young. Tell
me, did you not exaggerate the situation at Old
Mansion?
Indeed I didnt, Mrs. Faraday. If anything I
kept serious matters from you. Have you talked
with the Comstocks or Gregory Kane?
No, I came directly here from the railroad
station, Mrs. Faraday replied.
Then I should suggest that you go to Old
Mansion at once.
Just what is wrong there? Mrs. Faraday
inquired. You speak so seriously.
I prefer to have Gregory Kane tell you
everything.
And who is he?

161
A detective.
Now you do alarm me, said Mrs. Faraday.
I had intended to go to White Falls today,
Penny told her. If you wish, Ill take you to Old
Mansion.
Mrs. Faraday quickly accepted the invitation,
and within half an hour, she and Penny were
motoring toward White Falls. During the ride,
the two became very well acquainted and the girl
ventured to ask a question regarding Mrs.
Faradays property holdings in and near the river
town. She was not surprised to learn that the
shed formerly occupied by the riverman and his
family never had belonged to Gus Comstock.
Why, I am ashamed of the man for turning a
poor family from the place, declared Mrs.
Faraday indignantly.
Mr. Comstock has done other things, too,
which I fear will never meet with your approval,
said Penny. For example, he has been operating
the mansion as a tourist house.
Indeed! exclaimed Mrs. Faraday. Well, we
shall see about this. Why, my valuable paintings
might have been stolen!
Penny smiled, for she had her own opinion of
Mrs. Faradays pictures.
At Old Mansion, Gus Comstock and his wife
were allowed the freedom of the premises,
although Gregory Kane or one of his men,
watched them constantly. Such a situation was
deeply resented by the couple. They accepted it
solely because refusal would mean they would be

162
turned over to the police.
As Penny and Mrs. Faraday drove up to the
house, the woman remarked that since her
absence the river had cut deeply into the rear
yard. She was displeased by the run-down
appearance of the mansion, mentioning that only
the previous year she had sent the Comstocks
money to have it painted.
You did right to send me that telegram, Miss
Parker, she declared. I have been cheated
outrageously.
Her glance encompassed the Chinese laundry
adjoining the mansion.
Such an ugly structure! The town never
should have allowed the builder to jam it close to
my house. It completely ruins the property.
It doesnt improve it, agreed Penny.
However, I imagined you knew the building had
been erected.
No, it has been put up since I left White
Falls.
They entered the house, and there Mrs.
Faradays indignation mounted to fever pitch.
She wandered from room to room, exclaiming at
damage done to her antique furniture.
Suddenly she paused before one of the
paintings in the library.
Roll up the window shade please, she
requested in a tense voice.
Penny obeyed, and the bright sunlight flooding
into the room, made the painting look more
jaded than ever. Mrs. Faraday moved a step

163
nearer, running her hand over the canvas. Then
she turned to Penny, her eyes flashing.
This is only a crude copy of the original
portrait! she declared. Ive been robbed!

164

CHAPTER 22

SING LEES LAUNDRY


Mrs. Faraday went from room to room of Old
Mansion, examining the paintings. In the parlor
she found one which she declared was an
original, but all the others were cheap imitations.
The Comstocks were employed to protect my
portraits, she declared bitterly. This is the way
they betrayed their trust!
I dont wonder you are indignant, Penny
said. How valuable were the paintings?
At a conservative estimate, thirty thousand
dollars. Where are the Comstocks now?
They should be somewhere in the house,
replied Penny.
As she spoke, the kitchen door slammed. A
moment later Laura Blair came into the room.
Oh, Im glad to see you, Penny, she declared.
I was just talking with Gregory Kane outside the
house. He tells me there no longer is any need
for me to remain here.
Penny presented the girl to Mrs. Faraday, and
then asked quickly: Laura, what has become of
Mr. and Mrs. Comstock?
Why, they should be in their rooms. Ill run
up and see.

165
And please call Mr. Kane, the detective, Mrs.
Faraday requested.
Within a minute or two, Laura came back
down the stairway, followed by Gus Comstock
and his wife. The couple had no intimation of
what was in store. Entering the parlor they
stopped short.
Mrs. Faraday! exclaimed Anna Comstock.
You ought to have written us you were coming!
Such information would have been a
convenience to you, Im sure, the woman
responded grimly.
We been doing the best we could here, Gus
Comstock muttered, avoiding his employers
steady gaze. Whatever they tell you, it aint
true!
It is unnecessary for anyone to tell me
anything, Mr. Comstock. I have a very good pair
of eyes. What have you done with my beautiful
paintings?
Your paintings stammered Mrs. Comstock.
Why, theyre here. I dust em every day like you
tell me to do.
Dont try to pretend, Mrs. Faraday said
sternly. You have sold my original portraits and
substituted these cheap, gaudy imitations!
That aint so, Gus said sullenly.
Then what has become of the pictures?
We dont know anything, about it, the man
insisted. These are the same ones you left here
when you went away.
Mrs. Faraday had lost all patience with the

166
couple.
Very well, she said, we will see how far that
attitude gets you with the police.
The police! Mrs. Comstock exclaimed
fearfully. You wont have us arrested?
Before Mrs. Faraday could answer, Gregory
Kane, summoned by Laura, came into the room.
Penny quickly explained the situation to him. A
hard smile played over the detectives lips as he
took a paper from his pocket.
This will add another charge to your growing
list, Comstock, he said significantly. You were
slated for arrest anyway. I turned the case over
to the police this morning, and they sent out this
warrant. Ill have to take you both to the jug.
Dont arrest us, pleaded Mrs. Comstock.
Weve been co-operating every way we can.
Sorry, said the detective, with a shrug.
Youll have to come along now, unless you
prefer to have the police haul you in the patrol
wagon.
No! No! Mrs. Comstock cried. Well go now,
but it aint fair! We didnt mean to get into
trouble. We only wanted to make a little money.
So you did sell the paintings? interposed the
detective.
No, we didnt! snapped Gus. Come on, lets
get started if we have to go.
Penny, Laura and Mrs. Faraday stepped out
on the porch as Gregory Kane led Mr. and Mrs.
Comstock to the car. They were not the only
spectators. Next door, Sing Lee, leaning

167
indolently against the laundry building, watched
with interested eyes.
As Gus was entering the car, he turned and
saw the Chinaman. An expression of rage came
over his face. He opened his lips as if to make
some angry accusations, and then closing them
firmly again, stepped into the automobile. Sing
Lee smiled, and with a shrug, disappeared into
his laundry. The car drove away.
Perhaps I was too harsh upon the
Comstocks, Mrs. Faraday commented.
No, you werent, replied Penny. As a matter
of record, Mr. and Mrs. Comstock are involved in
far more serious a matter than the theft of
paintings. Since the police have been notified, I
may as well take you to Room seven and tell you
the entire story.
The door is locked, Laura informed, But I
know where Gus Comstock keeps his master
key. Ill get it now.
Returning with it a moment later, she led
Penny and the visitor upstairs to the bedroom.
Mrs. Faraday was horrified when she learned
that three persons had disappeared while
sleeping in the chamber.
Oh, this is shocking! she exclaimed.
Perhaps the police will blame me because I am
the owner of the house.
Its fairly evident you could have had no part
in the affair, Penny smiled. However, I did hope
you might be able to throw light on the mystery.
This is the first I have heard about it!

168
I thought perhaps you might know of a secret
exit from the room or something of the sort.
Indeed I dont, Mrs. Faraday responded.
Room seven is just an ordinary bed chamber to
the best of my knowledge.
Penny unlocked the door and they went
inside. Immediately Mrs. Faradays gaze focused
upon the four massive paintings.
Imitations, I suppose? remarked Penny.
No, they are not even copies. I never owned
anything like that in my life! And to think of
placing four of them on one wall!
Its queer to say the least, Penny said. I
wonder
However, she did not reveal the thought which
had entered her mind.
Mrs. Faraday could contribute nothing to an
explanation of the mysterious disappearances
from the room, so after a casual inspection, the
door was locked once more. Leaving the visitor to
chat with Laura, Penny drove on to Mud-Cat
Joes cottage.
There she learned that Jerry Livingston was
considerably improved, although his mind was
still far from rational. He had recovered
consciousness, and had taken a little food, but
as yet was unable to sit up. Doctor Hornsley had
called, stating that by late afternoon the reporter
could be moved to a hospital.
Has Jerrytalked? Penny inquired of the
nurse as they were together for a moment in the
kitchen.

169
He jabbers constantly, but nothing he says
makes sense.
Poor Jerry, sighed Penny.
Would you mind sitting with him for a few
minutes while I fix myself a bite of breakfast?
the nurse requested.
Of course, Ill be glad to do it.
Penny went into the adjoining room and sat
down by the bedside. Jerry lay motionless, but
she thought his color seemed improved. His
breathing was even now.
Penny knew that she should not try to arouse
the patient, but she could not refrain from
leaning close, and whispering: Jerry, Jerry,
dont you know me? Its Penny.
The reporters eyelids fluttered open, and he
gazed at her for a moment with an expression
which seemed almost normal.
Bright Penny, he muttered.
The girl could not be sure whether or not he
had recognized her. Certainly her words had
aroused a chain of association in his crippled
mind. She leaned forward and said softly:
Jerry, what happened? Cant you remember?
Was it something about a houseboat?
Houseboat, he repeated thickly. Moving
wall.
He began to roll restlessly, and Penny was
afraid to ask another question. She was relieved
of her duties at the bedside a few minutes later
when the nurse came back.
After returning to the car, Penny sat there for

170
a long while, thinking. She dared to hope that
Jerry actually had recognized her. Had he really
been trying to tell her something?
A houseboata moving wall, she repeated to
herself. The two have no connection.
Since first she had viewed Room seven, Penny
had been haunted by a vision of the four
grotesque portraits which hung on the east wall.
A suspicion constantly lurked in her mind that
somehow those paintings had a relation to the
mystery. Mrs. Faradays information that the
portraits never had belonged to her, added to the
conviction.
The photograph which Jerry snapped on the
night of the party, was of that same wall, Penny
reflected. Dad thought the picture had no value,
but Im not so sure myself.
She had not forgotten Sing Lees mysterious
visit to the houseboat lying on the Snark river.
Perhaps it was true he had gone there to take
food to his Chinese friends, yet it was possible
also that prisoners were held in the unlighted
room of the boat.
Penny had made still another observation. She
had noticed Gus Comstock bestow a strange look
upon Sing Lee only that morning when the man
had been taken away to the police station.
Gregory Kane had questioned the Chinaman,
along with Lem Vare, but had learned nothing of
value. Neither of the men were considered as
suspects in the case.
It seems to me that an important clue may

171
have been overlooked, mused Penny. The
Chinese laundry adjoins Room seven on the east
side. I wish I could get inside Sing Lees place
and look around!
Second thought convinced her the plan would
be a foolish one. Yet she knew from past
experience that Gregory Kane did not consider
her ideas of great weight, and while he listened
politely enough, he never followed up any of the
clues. It would do her no good to tell the
detective what was in her mind.
Dad might pay some attention, and then
again, he might not, she thought. I suppose
now that the police have been notified, hell be
ready to crack the story wide open before the
other newspapers get it.
Penny decided to consult her father, and with
this in mind, returned at once to White Falls.
During her absence from Old Mansion, Laura
and Mrs. Faraday had become well acquainted.
Penny offered them a ride to Riverview, but they
both declined.
I have decided to remain here in White Falls
for at least a few days, said Mrs. Faraday. So
many things must be done to the house, and
then of course, the Comstock case will be coming
up. I couldnt bear to stay in the house alone,
but Miss Blair has agreed to share the adventure
with me.
Staying in this house is an adventure,
agreed Penny. However, I think youll be safe
enough if you keep away from Room seven.

172
Leaving Laura and Mrs. Faraday together, she
drove back alone to Riverview. At the offices of
the Star she was told that her father had left only
a few minutes earlier for White Falls.
Strange I missed him on the road, Penny
thought in disappointment. Perhaps, it was
because he drives like the wind.
She returned home for luncheon, announcing
to Mrs. Weems that she would drive once more
to White Falls.
Again? asked the housekeeper. Youll wear
out the tires of your car, Penny. I declare, it
seems as if youre always going or coming.
I must see Dad, Mrs. Weems.
Not wishing to make the drive alone, Penny
invited Louise to accompany her. Four oclock
found the girls in White Falls, but
disappointment again awaited them there. They
were told at the Gates cottage, that Mr. Parker
and Doctor Hornsley had left less than half an
hour earlier, taking Jerry in an ambulance to the
hospital.
Right after they went, some o them reporter
fellers came here, Mud-Cat Joe revealed. They
sure kin ask a lot o useless questions.
Reporters? Penny asked alertly. From what
paper?
Reckon they said the Times.
You didnt answer their questions?
Sure, I answered em, Mud-Cat grinned. But
when they got through they didnt know no
moren they did when they started.

173
Its only a matter of time now until the Times
has the story, Penny said, looking worried. Oh,
dear, the case isnt solved, and Dad will miss his
scoop.
I guess theres nothing we can do, replied
Louise. Shall we start back home again?
No, said Penny with sudden determination.
Im going to try a little stunt of my own! And you
must help me, Lou!

174

CHAPTER 23

THE GOLDEN IDOL


Before revealing her plan, Penny led Louise to
the car, so that Mud-Cat Joe would not
overhear. She then disclosed her suspicions
regarding Sing Lee, and announced her
determination to investigate the laundry.
Well keep watch of the place, she declared.
Sing Lee is bound to leave sooner or later, and
well slip in and look around.
They arrest folks for breaking and entering
buildings, Louise said firmly. Your lovely idea
does not appeal to me.
Oh, well take care not to be caught, Lou. You
simply have to do it! I just feel well discover
something if we get inside that place! Think of
poor Mr. Hammond, and that fellow, Merriman,
not to mention Jerry. We ought to make an effort
to trace down every possible clue.
Well, Louise wavered. Id do it only Im
afraid of Sing Lee. Hes so sinister looking. And
remember that sword?
Oh, it had a blunt edge, laughed Penny.
Well be in no danger, if we wait until Sing Lee
goes out for his evening meal.
Im weak minded to agree, sighed Louise,

175
but I suppose Ill have to say yes.
By this time Pennys car was a familiar sight
in White Falls, and no one paid heed as she
parked it directly opposite the Chinese laundry.
The girls called at Old Mansion where they
chatted with Laura and Mrs. Faraday until dusk.
Then they returned to the automobile to take up
their vigil.
An hour elapsed. Louise squirmed
uncomfortably in the car seat, complaining that
their wait was to be a hopeless one.
Probably Sing Lee doesnt leave the shop for
supper, she declared. If hes a true Chinaman
hell just cook up a boiler of rice in the back
room.
Lou, you never were cut out for a detective,
Penny said goodnaturedly. We may have to wait
here half the night, but well finally get in.
Louise sighed and slumped down in the seat
again. She scarcely glanced toward the shop as
the minutes dragged by. But she sat up as she
heard Penny say:
There, hes turned off the light. Now hell be
coming out.
In a moment Sing Lee emerged from the front
door, locking it behind him. He was seen to place
the key on the ledge above the door.
Very obliging of him, chuckled Penny. Now
we wont need to smash any windows.
Sing Lee did not glance toward the car. He
walked rapidly down the street and vanished in
the darkness.

176
Now is our chance, said Penny. Come along,
Lou.
He may return any minute.
Naturally. We must take a certain risk.
While Louise screened her movements by
standing in front of her, Penny found the key on
the ledge, and unlocked the door. Carefully
closing it behind them, they entered the gloomy
interior of the shop.
We dont dare switch on lights, warned
Penny, but I brought the flash.
It can be seen through the windows, Louise
declared.
Ill be careful how I use it. Come on, we have
no time to lose.
In the rear room of the laundry, Penny turned
on the flashlight. The yellow beam disclosed
nothing unusual about the furnishings. There
was a table, four chairs, a small stove, the
ironing equipment, and half a dozen baskets of
laundry.
Nothing here, said Louise.
Right, agreed Penny. Well try the basement
if there is one.
They found a stairway leading down into a
dark, dirty hole. At first glance they thought they
were doomed to further disappointment, for the
room was crowded with wash tubs, boilers and a
drying machine.
I dont know what you expect to find, Louise
said, half accusingly. But whatever it is, it cant
be here.

177
Wait a minute, replied Penny. Lets make a
thorough inspection.
She moved about the room, investigating every
nook and cranny. Coming to the gas clothes
drier, she reached up and pulled out one of the
huge sliding shelves. Her exclamation of
astonishment brought Louise quickly to her side.
What is it, Penny?
Take a look at this, Lou!
She flashed her light into the drier so that her
chum could see. Three oil paintings, stacked
neatly together, their frames missing, and been
hidden in the machine. Six additional portraits
were discovered in another drawer of the drier.
Well, now we have found something! cried
Louise.
These are Mrs. Faradays stolen pictures,
Lou. Im almost certain of it.
Shall we take them with us?
No, theyre too large to carry. Well have to
come back.
Sing Lee must have considered himself very
clever, Louise said, as the girls hurried up the
stairway to the first floor. He knew that if the
police did search his place, they wouldnt be apt
to look inside a drying tray.
That Chinaman has been up to a lot worse
things than stealing a few paintings, insisted
Penny. Now to get up to the second floor. Unless
Im a poor guesser, thats where well really find
something!
How do we reach the second story? Louise

178
asked in bewilderment. I dont see any
stairway.
There must be a trap in the ceiling.
By flashing the beam of her light about the
rear room, Penny finally located the outline of an
opening. She recalled having seen a ladder in the
basement and hastened to get it.
All this is taking time, Louise warned
uneasily. Dont you think we ought to be getting
away from here?
Penny said no, very emphatically, and
placing the ladder in position, cautiously
mounted. Reaching the top, she pushed against
the trap which easily lifted. Thrusting head and
shoulders through the opening, she shot her
flashlight beam around the room.
Its a regular Chinese temple, Lou! she called
down.
Louise hesitated, and then with a nervous
glance toward the front of the laundry, came up
the ladder after her chum. Penny helped her
through the trap door.
In the arc of light, Louise saw a strange
looking room, richly carpeted with Chinese rugs.
There was an altar with two carved dragons, a
large incense pot, and hangings on the walls
which bore Chinese characters. Against the west
wall, spaced evenly apart, stood four golden
Buddhas, impressive but ugly figures.
Notice a peculiar odor in the room, Lou?
Why, yes, I do. Incense, I suppose.
I detected that same odor in Room seven of

179
Old Mansion the night Jerry disappeared. Lou,
were getting at the heart of the mystery!
I dont see what you mean, Penny.
Look at those four Buddhas closely.
Yes, what about them?
Arent they spaced exactly the same as the
four paintings on the east wall of Room seven?
Why, I believe they are!
Penny crossed over to the grotesque figures
which were very nearly her own height. Handing
the flashlight to Louise, she ran her fingers over
one of the Buddhas.
Just as I thought!
Her hand had encountered a tiny knob at the
side of the figure. Pulling on it, the front of the
Buddha swung outward, revealing a hollow
interior.
Louise, see if you can find the electric light
switch, she requested. I must see better!
By this time the girls were so excited over their
discoveries that they abandoned the last shred of
caution. Louise groped about until she located
the lights. The room immediately was flooded
with a soft amber glow.
There, thats better, Penny declared. And its
just as I suspected. Every one of these Buddhas
is hollow! I could stand inside
See what Ive found in this one, interrupted
Louise, her voice tense.
From the base of the figure at the extreme left,
she lifted a small cloth bag. She shook it, and
then, plunging in her hand drew forth a mass of

180
sparkling jewels.
Loot taken from Mr. Merriman, Penny cried.
Oh, that Sing Lee was a wicked one! But Im not
just certain how he did it yet.
She stepped into the hollow interior of one of
the Buddhas, and stood there for a moment, her
back to Louise. When at last she turned toward
her chum, again, her voice held a queer note.
Flaming eyes, she murmured.
What are you saying? demanded Louise.
Step inside that Buddha and youll
understand.
Louise took her place, and was amazed to see
two small slits cut in the wall which exactly fitted
her own eyes. She was able to gaze into Room
seven of Old Mansion!
No wonder Laura thought that the eyes of
those portraits seemed alive, Penny said. They
were.
Louise emerged from the Buddha.
But why didnt we discover the trick? she
demanded. I understand now that Sing Lee
could stand here and see exactly what goes on in
Room seven, but why did we never notice the
slits in the paintings?
Because Sing Lee took care of that little
detail. If youll step back into the Buddha again,
youll notice a pair of painted eyes hanging on a
little peg. They were in place, but I removed
them.
You mean Sing Lee fitted canvas eyes into the
paintings during the day time, and then when he

181
wished to use the peepholes, simply removed
them?
Thats just what I do mean. Notice the light
bulb in the Buddha?
Yes, what significance does it have?
Im not sure, but I believe the light coming
from below that way, would produce an effect of
flaming eyes when viewed at night in a dark
room.
But how did Sing Lee get Mr. Merrimans
jewels, and the paintings? Dont try to tell me he
kidnapped three men through these slits in the
canvas!
No, said Penny, but the flaming eyes were
part of the scheme. Unless Im mistaken well
find evidence
She broke off, for both girls had heard a
scraping sound as if someone had moved the
ladder at the foot of the trap door.
Someone is coming! Penny whispered. Its
probably Sing Lee.
She turned out the light, and they searched
frantically for a hiding place.
Back of the altar, ordered Penny. Its our
one chance!

182

CHAPTER 24

TRAPPED


Scarcely had the girls crouched down out of
sight behind the altar when a beam of light shot
up on the ceiling above the trap door. Then a
head was thrust cautiously through the opening.
By the beam from the electric torch, Penny
and Louise saw Sing Lee, a revolver gripped in
his hand, climb nimbly into the room. Behind
him were three other Chinamen, squat little
fellows with ugly, cruel faces.
Penny could feel her chum trembling beside
her, while her own heart was beating fast. The
ladder leading up to the loft would be a complete
give-away. They had practically no chance to
elude capture.
Who ever here, come out quick or Sing Lee
shoot! commanded the laundryman.
Penny and Louise did not stir. However, the
Chinamen began a systematic search of the
room, and in a moment they were discovered.
Determined not to submit without a struggle,
Penny jerked free from Sing Lee, and made a
quick dash for the trap door. She swung her feet
down on the ladder, at the same time screaming
loudly for help.

183
Before she could descend, one of the
Chinamen seized her roughly by the shoulders,
and clapped his hand over her mouth. She was
hauled back into the room. Louise, too, received
rough treatment.
Let me go! Let me go! she cried, striking and
scratching at her captor.
Working silently and efficiently, Sing Lee
bound the girls arms behind her, trussed her
feet, and inserted a gag in her mouth. Penny was
treated in similar fashion, save that it required
two Chinamen to subdue her.
Young ladies learn too much, remarked Sing
Lee with a grin. Most unfortunate. Sing Lee
regret they now pay for knowledge.
Turning to his three companions, he spoke
rapidly in Chinese. Penny felt certain the
conversation pertained to a proposed flight, for
immediately the men began to ransack the room.
The bag of jewels was removed from the golden
idol, and other articles of value connected with
the altar, were hastily dumped into a sack.
Then with a last glance about the room, Sing
Lee made a mock bow to the girls who lay bound
and gagged on the floor.
Young ladies be comfortable here maybe, he
said with an evil leer. Sing Lee hope you not get
too warm!
The four Chinamen descended from the loft,
Sing Lee closing the trap behind him. Penny and
Louise heard the ladder being moved out of
position. Then they were left to darkness and

184
silence.
Both girls well realized the seriousness of their
plight. They had told no one of their plan to visit
Sing Lees laundry. Laura and Mrs. Faraday were
at Old Mansion next door, yet they would have
no suspicion that anything was wrong, for they
had naturally assumed that the girls were
returning to Riverview.
Penny felt sick at heart to realize that Sing Lee
and his henchmen would escape with Mrs.
Faradays stolen paintings and the jewels. Now,
due to her blundering, it might never be known
what had become of the two missing men, Mr.
Hammond and Mr. Merriman. Not for a moment
did she doubt that the Chinaman had been
responsible for their disappearance, but she did
not fully understand how he had accomplished
his evil deeds.
She had noticed an odd collection of levers
and machinery behind the altar when she had
crouched there. Undoubtedly, it played some
part in Sing Lees scheme.
Penny squirmed uncomfortably, testing the
strength of her fetters. The Chinese had done
their work well. The cords about her wrists had
been tied so tightly she could not hope to loosen
them. There was slightly more play in the thongs
about her ankles. By long and hard work, she
might be able to get to her feet and hobble a few
steps.
Hope suddenly stirred within Penny. If she
could roll over to the wall, she might be able to

185
pound it with her feet. It was possible that Laura
and Mrs. Faraday would hear the sound.
Louise watched her chum with puzzled eyes,
but when Penny had rolled into position, and
began beating a rapid tattoo on the west wall,
she caught the idea. She pulled herself close to
Penny, and they kicked their feet in unison.
Very quickly the girls grew weary and
discouraged. There was no response to their
signals. They recalled their advice to Mrs.
Faraday and Laura, a warning not to go near
Room seven. Even if the sounds were heard, the
couple likely would be too frightened to
investigate.
Resting from her vigorous efforts, Penny
became aware of an unusual odor in the room.
Smoke! Suddenly Sing Lees words came back to
her, his sneering remark that he hoped she
would not be too warm! The building had been
fired!
A wisp of smoke filtered up through the crack
along the trap door. In a very few minutes the
entire laundry would be an inferno.
Louise too had become aware of the danger.
She rolled over and moaned.
Fear drove Penny to make one desperate
attempt to draw attention to their plight. First
pulling herself into a sitting position, she
wriggled to her knees, and then stood up,
balancing herself against the wall. An inch at a
time, she hobbled to the window which
overlooked the river. Far below she could see the

186
murky Kobalt, flowing tranquilly beneath the
stars.
No hopeno hope, thought Penny. And then
her heart leaped as she distinguished the black
outline of a rowboat floating close beside the
building. It was Mud-Cat Joeshe was almost
certain, but could she attract his attention?
Penny tried butting the window pane goat-
fashion, but the noise did not cause the
riverman to glance up. The boat was slowly
drifting away. In desperation, the girl turned and
with a sudden movement, swung her back and
shoulders hard against the glass. It shattered,
and she heard the broken pieces splash as they
fell into the river.
Penny leaned slightly forward through the
opening. She could see Mud-Cat Joe, and she
believed that he had observed her. He looked
upward and shouted:
Whats wrong up there?
Penny could not answer, but she saw that
Mud-Cat realized something was amiss. Then,
apparently he smelled smoke, for he shot his
boat to a landing, crying loudly:
Fire! Fire!
Penny collapsed weakly on the floor. She had
done everything within her power, and now
could only wait and pray for rescue. Did Mud-
Cat Joe understand that someone was
imprisoned in the loft? And would he know
where to find a ladder and reach the trap door?
Tormenting questions. Each moment the smoke

187
became heavier, making breathing more difficult.
Soon it would be impossible for anyone to reach
the loft.
Pennys fate and that of Louise rested in the
hands of Mud-Cat Joe.

188

CHAPTER 25

MUD-CAT TO THE RESCUE


Hours seemed to elapse as the girls lay in the
smoke-filled loft, and then when hope had
deserted them, they heard mens voices below.
Get the hose running, boys! Someone bring a
ladder. Mud-Cat says he saw someone upstairs!
Penny and Louise thrilled to the words.
Rescue was at hand.
A moment later the trap door shot up, and
Mud-Cat Joe thrust head and shoulders through
the square opening.
Well, Ill be doggoned! he ejaculated, and
calling loudly for help from below, rushed to
Penny and began working at her bonds.
She was soon free, and they both turned to aid
Louise.
Oh, I hope they can save the laundry, Penny
gasped. Theres so much evidence here against
Sing Lee. It shouldnt be destroyed.
Mud-Cat Joe hustled the two girls down the
ladder, into the arms of a waiting fire fighter.
They were led outside where the cool night air
came as a welcome relief to their lungs.
Fire was shooting from the lower windows, but
it did not appear to have a big start, and there

189
was no wind. The town bell clanged
continuously, summoning volunteer fighters to
the scene.
Mrs. Faraday and Laura came running from
Old Mansion, but before Penny could speak to
them, she saw an automobile draw up at the
curbing.
Why, theres Dad! she exclaimed to Louise,
and ran across the street.
Penny! he cried. This building must be
saved! Ive just learned that Sing Lee is the one
behind everything! Valuable evidence will be
found in that laundry!
Youre telling me! laughed Penny.
Having no suspicion that his daughter had
just escaped death, Mr. Parker, and his
companion, Gregory Kane, jumped from the car
and ran to help the fire fighters. However, their
services were not really required, and in a few
minutes they came back, satisfied that the blaze
was under control.
Dad, how did you learn about Sing Lee?
Penny asked.
From Jerry, replied her father. Greg and I
just came from the hospital.
Is he better?
Yes, rational again. He told us what
happened. Its a fantastic story, and it may not
be true in every particular, although Jerry
seemed to realize what he was saying.
After tonight Id believe anything, declared
Penny.

190
Jerry learned everything while he was being
held a prisoner. Sing Lee induced Gus Comstock
to go in with him on a scheme to steal Mrs.
Faradays paintings. His wife, however, had
nothing to do with the plot, although she realized
what was afoot when cheap paintings were
substituted for the originals.
It was a crude scheme.
From Gus Comstocks standpoint, yes. But
he was a weak character, and he felt confident
Mrs. Faraday never would return to discover the
deception. Of course, unwittingly Comstock
played into Sing Lees hands. By threatening him
with exposure, Gus could be induced to agree to
anything.
Then he had a part in those mysterious
disappearances?
No active part, Jerry says, but he had a very
good idea of what had occurred. You see, Sing
Lee placed four portraits in Room seven, all
against the east wall.
I could tell you something about those
pictures, Penny said, but her father did not
notice the interruption.
This is the part I cant believe, Mr. Parker
went on. I fear Jerry is still a bit mixed up.
Anyway, he claims that after he retired to Room
seven that night of the party, all was quiet for
nearly two hours. He was just dozing when a
noise drew his attention toward the paintings on
the east wall. At the same time he became
conscious of an overpowering perfume in the

191
room. Then the eyes of those paintings, four pair
of them, focused upon him. The way Jerry
described it made the chills run down my spine.
Then what happened, Dad?
Jerry believed that the incense produced an
overpowering sense of fear in its victims. In any
case, the sight of those eyes staring at him, was
terrifying enough. He snapped the photograph,
and moved to the door. It was lockedprobably
from some trick mechanism. Jerry declares
definitely that he had not locked it himself.
By this time, he was pretty well worked up.
He tried to shout but couldnt utter a word. The
incense kept pouring into the room, and those
burning eyes from the portraits all focused on
him. Then, a panel in the south wall slid open.
Jerry said he didnt seem to have control of
his own body. His one thought was to escape
from that room. In terror he fled through the
opening.
And dropped straight into the river, said
Penny.
Yes, the cold plunge brought him to his
senses, but before he could start to swim, a
motor boat came alongside, and he was hauled
in by a Chinaman. Jerry was robbed of his watch
and a ring, and taken downstream to a
houseboat.
A houseboat! exclaimed Penny. Then Louise
and I really found the hide-out and didnt realize
it.
Jerry was imprisoned along with two other

192
menHammond and Merriman. He learned their
stories. Merriman had been robbed of his jewels,
while Hammond was being kept there to prevent
him from disclosing his knowledge. That was
why Sing Lee captured Jerry too. Having learned
that he was a reporter, he feared exposure.
Why didnt Sing Lee simply take his loot and
disappear?
His tongmen, there are some eight or ten
involved in the plot, were greedy for more money.
They brought pressure on Sing Lee to keep up
the little game a week longer.
How did Jerry escape?
He managed to get away when one of his
captors brought food. Merriman and Hammond
helped him to overpower the man, and Jerry
jumped overboard, but not before he had been
struck on the head. You know the rest of the
story. Hed never have reached land if Mud-Cat
Joes boat hadnt been handy to pick him up.
Before Mr. Parker could say more, Laura Blair
hurried up.
Oh, Penny, she said, you had such a
narrow escape from death!
Mr. Parker turned to stare at his daughter,
bewildered by the remark.
Oh, Louise and I had a little adventure with
Sing Lee, Penny laughed.
She related the story and told of their findings
in the basement of the laundry and in the
temple.
That machinery behind the altar must have

193
served to move the wall panel, she declared.
Oh, Sing Lee was very wicked and very clever.
Im afraid he escaped with all the loot and will
never be seen again.
Theres a good chance hell be caught, Mr.
Parker insisted. The police have sent a squad to
search for the houseboat where Merriman and
Hammond are still imprisoned. They may be able
to surprise Sing Lee there.
If the houseboat can be located, Penny
added. It has a tricky little habit of vanishing at
inconvenient moments!
Jerry said it hid out in a narrow river most of
the time, venturing on the Kobalt only
occasionally. But he was kept blindfolded, and
couldnt identify the stream.
Im sure it was the Snark river! Penny
exclaimed. Thats where Louise and I last saw
the boat.
Then the police will never find it, because
they didnt start for the Snark river! Mr. Parker
cried. Wheres Greg? Well organize our own
searching party!
By this time the fire was well under control,
and any number of men, incensed because Sing
Lee had left the girls in a burning building, were
eager to track him down. Mr. Parker and the
detective hastily loaded the volunteers into cars.
Penny and Louise crowded in beside Mr. Parker,
to lead the way to the Snark river.
Presently abandoning the automobiles, the
searching party took to the woods. Drawing close

194
to the river, Gregory Kane assumed command of
the situation, instructing the men to move
quietly and to be careful in any use of firearms.
There was no sign of a houseboat when they
reached the banks of the Snark, so the party
broke into two groups. Mr. Parker led some of
the men upstream, while the others walked
toward the mouth of the river.
Penny and Louise remained with Mud-Cat
Joe, and Mr. Parker. They had gone only a short
distance, when a low spoken command for
silence was given. From far up the stream could
be heard the muffled beat of an engine.
That may be the houseboat coming, Mr.
Parker warned. Spread out men, along the
banks where the stream is narrow. If I fire a
shot, leap aboard her.
Scarcely had the men hidden themselves in
the bushes when the boat chugged slowly into
view.
Doggone, if that aint my missin houseboat!
Mud-Cat Joe muttered. Jest give me a chance at
them Chinks!
A shot rang out. As the houseboat grated
softly against the river bank, a dozen men
sprang aboard, and those who did not have
revolvers had armed themselves with big sticks.
Mud-Cat Joe wielded his club with deadly intent,
determined to avenge himself upon the persons
who had robbed him of his houseboat. He felled
two Chinamen neatly, and was sadly
disappointed when the others took refuge and

195
pleaded for mercy.
Sing Lee alone made an attempt to escape by
trying to shoot his way out of the cabin. He was
quickly overpowered.
The sound of firing brought Gregory Kane,
who provided handcuffs for all the Chinamen. A
key taken from Sing Lee opened the padlocked
inner door of the houseboat, and there, crudely
trussed up, lay the two prisoners, Mr. Merriman
and his friend, Frank Hammond.
They were rushed at once to a hospital
although their condition did not appear to be
critical. Gregory Kane took charge of Sing Lee
and his henchmen, and assumed responsibility
for the loot found on the boat. In addition to the
jewels stolen from Merriman, Mrs. Faradays
paintings were recovered undamaged, and there
likewise was a box of gold coins which when
counted totaled nearly a thousand dollars.
Them no count Chinks sure banged up the
River Queen a-plenty, Mud-Cat Joe declared, as
he inspected his new found property. But I kin
fix her up again as good as new. I sure am much
obliged to you, Miss, fer leadin me to her.
And Im grateful to you for saving my life,
replied Penny.
Mr. Parker echoed the words, adding
emphatically: Youll certainly hear from me
within a few days, Joe. Right now I must get
back to Riverview. This is a big story, and I want
to freeze it in type before the Times learns what
is up.

196
May I help? Penny asked quickly.
Im depending upon you to write an account
of everything you found in Sing Lees laundry.
Make it thorough.
Even the dirty shirts?
Ignoring the quip, Mr. Parker said tersely: We
must step too! Time is precious.
Pennys recollection of the fast ride back to
Riverview always remained a trifle blurred. Her
thoughts centered upon the story she was to
write; she mentally blocked out the lead, so that
she would be ready to dash it off, the moment
she slid into a typewriter chair.
They reached the newspaper office where
members of the editorial staff were enjoying a
brief rest between editions.
Were putting out an extra, tersely informed
Mr. Parker. Hammond and Merriman have been
found. The whole case is cleaned up. A banner
for the front page, DeWitt! And make it a triple-
decker across all the columns. Ill handle the
main story myself, right-hand column with a
break on page two. Pennys story will take the
left column. Can you handle that much?
Easily, she replied.
Dig up that flashlight photograph of the
portraits in Room seven! Well run it on page
one. Well also need pictures of Mud-Cat Joes
houseboat, Old Mansion, and Sing Lees gang,
but they can catch the second edition. The thing
now is to get those presses rolling!
Penny vanished into her fathers office and sat

197
down at the typewriter. The story seemed to
write itself. Words, sentences, paragraphs flowed
into her mind, and transferred themselves to
paper.
She was only vaguely aware as the city editor,
in showing her father the dummy for the front
page, peered over her shoulder to read what she
had written.
Great stuff, he praised. Keep it up.
Penny filled five sheets of copy paper, and
then sat back in her chair, satisfied she had
done her task well.
The presses are all ready to roll, Mr. Parker
grinned. Once they start, nothing can stop
them!
Like an excited schoolboy he paced the floor,
and could not relax until the first issue of the
paper was placed in his hand. Peering over her
fathers shoulder, Penny felt a thrill of pride as
she saw her own name signed to the story she
had just written.
Its a beautiful lay-out, every bit of it,
declared Mr. Parker. You took care of your part
like a veteran, Penny.
I wish Jerry could see the story, she said
wistfully.
Theres no reason why he cant! exclaimed
Mr. Parker, taken by the idea. Well show it to
him.
As they went out the building, newsboys were
crying the Stars latest scoop. The headlines were
music to Pennys ears. In the car, driving toward

198
the hospital, she slumped down against her
fathers shoulder, happy but very tired.
Everything turned out beautifully, she
sighed. You achieved your scoop, Mud-Cat Joe
recovered his houseboat, and Jerry will get well.
Yes, the breaks did come our way, Penny.
I suppose Sing Lee will be sent to prison?
Undoubtedly. Gus Comstock may have to
serve a sentence too, but his wife should get off
lightly.
Well, Im rather glad of that, even if I never
liked her. I wonder what will become of Laura.
Maybe I can find a job for her, but I fear shell
never make a newspaper reporter.
No, agreed Penny. The work would kill a
stronger person than Laura.
As it later developed, there was no need for
anyone to worry over her future. Laura had
made a deep impression upon Mrs. Faraday,
with the result that when she returned East she
took the girl with her to serve as secretary and
companion.
Mr. Parker and Penny arrived at the hospital
too late for the usual visiting hours, but they
were allowed to see Jerry. The young reporter,
still pale and weak, had raised himself to a half-
sitting posture. He appeared to be listening
intently to some far-off sound, and returned his
visitors greeting in perfunctory fashion.
Listen! he said, I thought I heard the boys
crying an extra.
You did, Mr. Parker answered. And here is a

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copy of it.
He spread the edition on the bed. Jerry read
eagerly, such comments as Great stuff!, What
a scoop!, falling from his lips.
How do you like Pennys story? Mr. Parker
inquired when Jerry had finished.
Its the tops, Chief! Absolutely the tops! The
young reporter turned toward the girl. Penny,
let me congratulate youjust as one reporter to
another.
So you think Im a reporter, Penny
countered.
Think it, I know it! Youre a full-fledged news
hawk!
You mean a hawkling, Penny replied to take
some of the edge from his praise.
But just the same, she was secretly elated
because she knew the young man was not given
to flattery. With him the words of his mouth and
the meditations of his heart were identical. And
Jerry Livingston had stamped her as a good
reporter. That was the best reward of all!


THE END