Part 19 (1/2)
”I'm afraid,” Nancy said, ”that he suspected he was being followed.”
”No doubt.”
”Ned, tell me about the man at the cabin.”
”He seems about the same, Nancy, but he did talk a good deal. As you thought, his name is Joe Haley. His most startling words were these:
”'Miss Margaret, I'm afraid the box was stolen -don't cry-why don't you marry Mark?' ”
”Are you sure the name was Mark?” Nancy asked quickly. ”Could it have been Martin?”
”It might have been. I admit I didn't hear what he said very clearly.”
”Ned, I forgot to ask you about Barty. Since he claims to be acquainted with so many well-known society people, he should be in the Social Register. Did you look to see if his name is listed?”
”I did. It wasn't there.”
”Just as I suspected.”
On the way to the hotel Nancy told Ned as much as she felt she should about the case which had brought her father to Deer Mountain HoteL Other facts in her possession were confidential. Without Mr. Drew's permission, she could not divulge them.
When they reached the hotel, Nancy learned from the desk clerk that her father had returned. She said good night to Ned and hastened to Mr. Drew's room.
”Any luck on your lead, Dad?” she asked eagerly.
”No,” he said. ”It was a worthless tip as usual.” He sighed. ”To tell the truth, I think we've been on the wrong track.”
”How do you mean?”
”I doubt that Margaret Judson had anything to do with the jewel smuggling. There's no real evidence to support our theory that the bra.s.s chest belongs to her.”
”I don't think she's guilty either,” said Nancy. ”She seems too nice. Cheer up, Dad,” she added. ”We'll get to the bottom of the mystery.”
”That's my girll” said Mr. Drew. ”You'll win out, I know.”
Nancy smiled. ”Speaking of winning, tomorrow I face a crucial test in golf. I'd better get to bed.”
”How does your hand feel?” her father asked anxiously. ”Did you see Dr. Aikerman?”
”Yes, he let me take off the bandage, but said I still must be very careful.”
”It's a shame you have to play with an injury,” Mr. Drew said sympathetically. ”I'm banking on you to win, anyway!”
”Thanks, Dad.” Nancy smiled as she kissed him and went off.
She dropped in on Bess and George for a moment. George was writing letters, while Bess, propped up with pillows, had been reading in bed.
”Is your book a good one?” Nancy inquired.
Bess made a face. ”The t.i.tle sounded great, but it turned out to be about medieval history. It's pretty heavy reading. Here, take a look!”