THE STOLEN BLUEPRINTS

The Barbara Ann Series

By Ruth Grosby
The Stolen Blueprints
The Mystery at Mountain View
Mystery Across the Border
The Clue in the Camera

THE
STOLEN BLUEPRINTS
BY

RUTH GROSBY

Illustrated by
E. C. Van Swearingen

GROSSET & DUNLAP

PUBLISHERS : : NEW YORK

Copyright, 1939 by
GROSSET & DUNLAP, INC.
All Rights Reserved

Printed in the United States of America

CONTENTS
CHAPTER

I. THE STOLEN BLUEPRINTS

PAGE

II. AN ENCOUNTER IN THE DARK

13

III. A MISPLACED PIPE

23

IV. A BALL GAME AND A DETECTIVE

38

V. A LESSON IN SIGNALING

57

VI. AN EVENTFUL OUTING

76

VII. THE SINISTER FARMHOUSE

103

VIII. THE SHADOW OF SUSPICION

111

IX. THE LIGHT IN THE OFFICE

120

X. A SCARE

131

XI. THE FACE IN THE MATCHLIGHT

136

XII. BARBARA ANN MAKES UP HER MIND

141

XIII. A DESPERATE CHANCE

148

XIV. TRAPPED!

159

XV. PRISONER!

168

XVI. THE SEARCH

177

XVII. RESCUED

283

THE
STOLEN BLUEPRINTS
CHAPTER I
THE STOLEN BLUEPRINTS
Mother! Mother! Where are you? Oh
catching sight of the familiar figure, the young
girl clasped the plump waist of her mother and
started dancing gaily about the room.
Barbara Ann, what on earth is the matter with
you? Have you gone completely out of your head?
Stop this minute before you give me heart
failure! Mrs. Wilson, gasping for breath, pulled
away from her daughter and sank into a chair.
Poor Mumsey, did I wear you out? But I have
the most wonderful news! the slim young girl
perched on the floor at her mothers feet, and
started to talk in an excited manner. Mrs. Wilson,
having regained her breath sufficiently to speak,
stopped her daughters rapid exclamations.
Youll have to speak more slowly, Barbara.
1

Youre so excited you are trying to tell me

everything in one breath, and I can hardly
understand a word you are saying. All I have
heard is something about a trip. Now who is
taking a trip, and where and when?
Oh, Mother, I just told you all of that, Barbara
said impatiently. Then, with a visible effort to
speak more slowly, she continued. Its a three
week conducted tour of Colorado, the Grand
Canyon, and Yellowstone Park, and were to leave
around the first of July.
Whos we?
Oh, any of the members of the Junior and
Senior classes at school who want to go. Miss
Gunther says that if there are more than twentyfive in the party, shell have to make up two
separate groups, and the second group will go
later.
Do you mean that Miss Gunther, your English
teacher, is going to arrange and conduct the tour?
Yes, and Miss Martin, another English
teacher, is going along, too, so well be well taken
care of, Mumsey dear.
But, Barbara, how do you know that you can
go? You havent even spoken to Dad about the
trip, and this is the first I have heard of it.
But I dont see why you and Dad would have
2

any objections because it is really a wonderful

opportunity and would be very educational. Miss
Gunther said that travel should be a part of
everyones education. And besides, practically all
of my friends expect to go. Beverly said she knew
her folks would think it a perfectly marvelous
idea.
Mrs. Wilson looked down into the shining gray
eyes of her daughter, and a troubled expression
came into her face as she asked, How much
would such a trip cost, dear?
Only two hundred and fifty dollars! And that
would cover everything, tooeven tips!
Two hundred and fifty dollars! Thats a great
deal of money in these times! I dont know what
your Dad will say.
Barbara looked wonderingly at her mother.
Why, Mother, do you think Dad would mind
spending that much? Just last summer he wanted
me to go along to Europe with Aunt Carol, and
that would have cost much more.
Yes, but that was last summer, and you should
have gone then because goodness knows when
well be able to afford to send you now!
But are things so bad with Dads business? Oh,
of course, I know he has been hit by the
depression like everyone else, but then I still
3

thought his firm did the most business of any

architectural engineering firm in the city. Just the
other day, while riding on the streetcar I passed
that new apartment hotel which Dad put up, and
two men in the seat in front of mine remarked
what a beautiful building it is. Then, one of the
men said, no wonder it is such a fine piece of work
since it has been put up by Wilson, Radcliffe &
Company, the finest architects in the Middle
West.
In the Middle West, indeed! exclaimed Mrs.
Wilson. Youll not find a better firm in this whole
country! But, she added slowly, shaking her
head, no matter how good the firm, when people
arent doing any building theres no work for an
architect. And for the past year conditions have
been pretty bad.
But there is some building going on, Mother
the new opera house, for instance, just completed
last month.
Your Dads firm didnt get the contract for that.
A new firm, Howard and Johnston, were the
architects.
What! Gosh! I never thought for a moment that
Dad hadnt had that job. But what about the new
county hospital?
Howard and Johnston landed that contract,
4

too.
Barbaras eyes widened in astonishment as she
climbed slowly to her feet. Then things are pretty
bad! Why didnt someone say something about it
before?
Oh, we have from time to time, Barbara, only
you havent paid much attention. Dont you
remember when I bought you that print dress last
week I told you to take good care of it as it was the
last dress I was going to buy for you this season?
Yes, but I thought you were just talking that
way becauseoh, wellit is the fashion now to
economize and blame the depression.
I wish it were only that, remarked Mrs.
Wilson. Then, at the sound of a clock striking, she
arose quickly, exclaiming, Heavens, is that fourthirty already? Barbara, you had better get right
to work at your studies if you want to go over to
Beverlys tonight. And I must get my meat on for
supper.
As Barbara began to climb slowly up the stairs,
slowly for Barbara, anyway, who generally took
the steps two at a time, her mother looked after
the sober young face with a troubled expression in
her own eyes. Then, in a tone which she forced to
be cheerful, she called after her daughter, Now,
dont worry, honey, about what Ive been telling
5

you. Things are going to be all right, I knowand

tonight, when Dad comes home and has had a
good dinner, well ask him about the trip. Perhaps
hell say you can go, anyway.
Barbara didnt answer, but went quietly into
her room, and began mechanically getting out
books, paper and pencil in preparation for doing
her homework. She pushed her wavy brown hair
back of her ears as she bent over her book, but
though her eyes remained glued to the page, she
did not see the words written there.
Barbaras thoughts were on the conversation
she had just had with her mother. Could it really
be possible that her Dad couldnt afford to send
her on that trip to Colorado? Did they actually
have to start counting pennies now? Of course,
they hadnt ever been just rolling in money like
Caroline Grants family, but they always seemed
to have plenty to get along very comfortably. Now
that she thought about it, though, things hadnt
been quite the same lately. Dad and Mother
hadnt been going to the theatre as often as they
used to, and when they did go they sat upstairs
and they hadnt bought that new rug for the living
room, either, although it was badly needed.
Maybe, after all, she shouldnt even bother Dad
about the tourof course, it would be loads of fun
6

to go, but she could manage to live without that

vacation. Well, she sighed, if she didnt get some
studying done she would be spending her vacation
taking Modern European History over again in
summer school. With an expression of real
determination on her pretty face, Barbara began
to study in earnest about the causes of the FrancoPrussian War.
The sound of a key turning in the lock caused
the young girl to put down her book, and run
quickly downstairs.
Hello, Dad, she said, as she planted an eager
kiss on the cheek of the tall man who had just
entered.
Hello, Babs! Hows my girl? Mr. Wilson
answered, hanging up his hat. Wheres Mother?
In the kitchen. Did she imagine it or did Dad
really look worried tonight, and somehow older
and more tired than she was accustomed to seeing
him?
Mrs. Wilson came in and, after greeting her
husband, announced that dinner was ready. The
meal was an unusually quiet one for the Wilson
family. Mr. Wilson appeared too tired to eat with
much appetite, and Barbara, busy with her
thoughts, seemed absorbed in her food. At first
Mrs. Wilson attempted to keep up a stream of
7

conversation, but when she noticed how little

attention she was receiving, gave up the effort,
and the dinner was finished almost in silence.
After Annie, the maid, had cleared off the dishes,
and Mr. Wilson had retired with his paper and
pipe into the living room, Mrs. Wilson said to her
daughter, You had better run upstairs and get
ready to go to Beverlys as I dont want you to be
out on the street alone after dark. Mr. Wentworth
will drive you home, wont he?
Oh, yes. Hell take all the girls home. He
always does.
After Barbara had gone into her room and had
started dressing, her mother went into the living
room and, taking up the sweater she was making
for Barbara, began knitting silently. Finally,
glancing at her husband, she asked, Have a hard
day, dear!
Mr. Wilson mumbled something about them all
being hard days now, and went on leading the
paper. After a moment Mrs. Wilson said, George,
there is something I would like to talk to you
about. Please put down the paper.
George Wilson looked up in surprise at this
request, and then, laying the newspaper in his
lap, clasped his hands behind his head, and gazed
inquiringly at his wife. Now what, Ellen? Dont
8

tell me Annie has been breaking more dishes and

you want to let her go, and there was a twinkle in
his tired eyesthey were gray eyes, too, like
Barbara Anns.
No, its not Anniealthough goodness knows
she can break more dishes than any other human
being I ever knewits about Barbara, though,
that I want to speak.
Babs! Well, what about her? Nothing wrong, is
there? he added quickly.
Of course not, George! It is just that she wants
to take a trip.
A trip! Now? Why, what about her school?
Not nownot until this summer, the first of
July to be exact. You see, one of her teachers, a
Miss Gunther, is organizing a party of students
from the Junior and Senior classes and planning
to conduct them on a three week tour of
Yellowstone Park and points of interest in and
about Colorado. Naturally she is starting now to
make plans and wants to know very soon what
students she can count on for the tour. Barbara
.seems very anxious to go, and the trip would do
her a lot of good, I know, George. She has been
studying pretty hard lately, and is beginning to
look a little thin and peaked. Besides, traveling
with a teacher M a guide should be very
9

educational, and Mrs. Wilson looked rather

anxiously at her husband for a sign of his reaction
to the news. He was gazing thoughtfully at the
ceiling, however, and merely asked, How much
would the trip cost?
Mrs. Wilson, unconsciously repeating the exact
words her daughter had used earlier I hat
afternoon, said, Only two hundred and fifty
dollars, and that would cover everything, too
even tips!
Mr. Wilson gave a short whistle of surprise and
pulled himself up sharply in his chair. Two
hundred and fifty dollars! Why, thats real money
nowadays, Ellen. If things at the office dont take
a turn for the better I am afraid the trip is out of
the question.
Havent you been getting any business at all
lately, George? No new contracts, I mean?
Nothing worth talking about. Now, if we had
only landed that Winthrop deal, we could breathe
easily for a little while, at least.
Who did get that contract?
I just heard today that it went to Howard and
Johnston.
Howard and Johnston again! Why, that is at
least four big contracts you have lost to them in
the past year. Who are they? I had never heard of
10

them before.
Neither had anyone else, but they are certainly
coming to the front now. As for the men in the
firm, I can tell you very little about them. None of
the boys seem to know either Howard or Johnston
by sight. I am told they have only a small office in
the Ferguson building.
But how do they manage to get all of those
contracts bidding against you? Are their plans so
much better, or do they under-hid you, or what?
Thats the queer thing about the whole
business, Ellen, Mr. Wilson lowered his voice as
he continued. In every single ease, when they
have received the contract, the plans have been
practically identical with those we had drawn up.
Oh, a few minor details changed, perhaps, but on
the whole an exact duplicate of our plansonly
the estimate submitted is always slightly lower
than ours. Of course, a small firm like theirs
wouldnt have the overhead we have, and they
could afford to do the work more cheaply.
But, George, how can it be possible for their
plans to be just like yours?
Mr. Wilson shrugged his shoulders and said, I
dont knowor rather there is only one answer I
can think of. Someone, in some way or another, is
getting hold of our plans and copying them.
11

Copying your plans! said a voice, turning their

heads, Mr. and Mrs. Wilson were startled to see
Barbara Ann standing in the doorway.

12

CHAPTER II
AN ENCOUNTER IN THE DARK
Why, Babs, I didnt hear you come down, said
Mr. Wilson, appearing rather embarrassed at the
sight of his daughter. Your mother and I were
just discussing your plans.
Never mind my plans, Dad! But whats this
about your plans?
Mr. Wilson looked helplessly at his wife who
came promptly to his rescue.
Barbara, you must forget anything you may
have just overheard your Dad and I say, as it
wasnt meant for your ears.
Why wasnt it meant for my ears, Mother? Im
not a child any longer and I dont see why I should
be treated as one. Ill be sixteen next month.
It isnt that we consider you a child, answered
Mr. Wilson with that familiar twinkle in his eye,
because, undoubtedly, a girl of fifteen is quite a
young lady. But, he added in a more serious tone,
the matter we were discussing is something
13

which should not be mentioned before anyone

without further proof.
But, Dad, I can keep things to myself. I dont
go around talking about things I know should be
kept quiet. Please tell me what you meant when
you said someone was copying your plans.
Dad didnt say someone was copying his plans,
Barbara. He merely said that he thought someone
was copying them. Thats quite different, you
know.
Well, Mother, what do you saydo you think
we should tell the young lady all about the trouble
at the office? After all, maybe it i h only right that
she should know. If things continue, it may mean
that she will not take I hat trip to Colorado.
Besides, she might be of some assistance in
straightening out the muddle. You know she has
always been a wry observant childuh, young
lady, I should say, and he bowed slightly in a
courteous gesture of apology.
In a few words Mr. Wilson related to his
daughter what he had just told his wife. As he
finished his remarks, Barbara, her eyes dark with
anger and excitement, exclaimed, Why, of course,
someone is getting hold of your plans. It just
couldnt be a coincidence that the other companys
plans were like yours in every instance. No siree
14

theres something fishy about the whole business!

But who could be doing such a thing?
Thats just itthat is where we are completely
stumped.
But what are you going to do about it, George?
Mrs. Wilson inquired, nervously trying to pick up
a stitch which she had dropped in her excitement.
You cant let a thing like that go on.
Henry Radcliffe and I were discussing it this
afternoon and we have decided to hire a
detective.
A detective! Oh, that would be swell, Dad,
Barbara said delightedly looking from one parent
to the other. I have always wanted to know a
real, honest-to-goodness detective.
Whoa, young lady! Who said you will get to
meet him? Dont forget this whole affair is to be
kept absolutely quiet, and no one is to know there
is a detective working for us. By the way, arent
you going to be late for Beverlys?
Yes, you had better go, dear. It is getting dark,
too. Now do be careful!
I had almost forgotten about going over there.
Id much rather stay home now and talk about
glancing carefully about, and putting a warning
finger up to her lips, she winked solemnly at her
parents and added, about the secret. Then, with
15

a swift kiss for each and a hurried glance at the

clock, she was already halfway to the door when
suddenly she stooped and picked an object off the
floor. Heres your pin, Mother, she called. You
would have been wondering where you lost it. Ill
leave it on the table. Youd better get the clasp
fixed, though. Bye,and the slam of the door
announced that she had gone.
Well, for goodness sake! I never even missed
that pin. Did you ever see such eyes? That child
notices everything!
You can give me the credit for that, Mother,
said Mr. Wilson, picking up the newspaper he had
discarded before. You remember that game I
taught her to play when she was just a baby?
You mean that one about looking into a shop
window for a few minutes, closing your eyes, and
then seeing how many of the objects there you can
remember?
Thats the one! Big as she is she still enjoys the
gameonly last week when she went to lunch
with me we played it together. I hope she will
never be too old for games. It is hard to realize,
Mother, that we have a real young lady on our
hands now. Why, in just another year, shell
graduate from high school.
Mrs. Wilson nodded her head slowly in assent,
16

then sighed as she added, and it seems only

yesterday that we were tucking her in bed at
night.
Barbara Ann hurried along the fast darkening
streets, pulling her light tweed coat more tightly
about her. Although the days were getting almost
uncomfortably warm, there was still the slight
tang at nightfall which distinguishes a spring
evening. The young girl, swinging briskly along,
found the cool air refreshing as it fanned her
cheeks which were hot from excitement. As she
rounded the corner of the street on which her
friend lived, the last faint glimmer of light had
faded, and clouds, obscuring the moon, left the
street in darkness except for the feeble light of the
few lampposts lining the avenue. She quickened
her steps to a run, and, in her haste, did not notice
the dimly outlined figures of two men who had
been quietly conversing at the corner until she
had bumped right into one of them. Running as
she had been, the impact of her body against the
man was strong enough to knock the pipe he was
smoking out of his mouth. Stooping swiftly to pick
up the pipe, and feeling very much embarrassed,
Barbara, gasping for breath, managed to stammer
out an apology.
17

OhIm so sorry. II didnt see you standing

there. Then, holding out her hand, she added,
Heres your pipe. I hope it isnt broken.
The man mumbled something in reply which
Barbara couldnt quite make out, although it
sounded likeyou should watch where youre
going. He struck a match to relight the pipe
which had been extinguished in its fall, and, in
the sudden flare of light, Barbara saw a rather
unpleasant expression on the features of the
sandy-haired man standing before her. He quickly
blew out the match and, turning to his companion
with a sharp Come on! started walking away.
However, before they turned the corner, Barbara,
who was still standing there trying to adjust her
hat which had been knocked over one ear in the
recent encounter, heard one of the men say, Do
you know who that was? It was George Wilsons
daughter.
Thats queer, thought Barbara. She didnt
ever remember seeing those men before, yet one of
them, at least, knew who she was. Well, she didnt
think she would particularly care to know them
the blond man, anyway. He didnt have to be so
cross about her bumping into him. It was just an
accident!
As she rang the bell of the large white stone
18

house, which was the Wentworth residence, the

sound of girlish voices laughing and talking
reached her ears, and she ceased to think about
the incident. The tall, dark-haired girl who opened
the door greeted Barbara Ann with an
unceremonious Its about time you were getting
here! and shoved her hastily upstairs, adding
that she could say hello to the others as soon as
she took off her wraps.
Beverly flung herself down on the bed, hugging
her knees, watching Barbara while the latter ran
a comb through her short, bobbed hair, trying to
put an unruly curl or two back in place. Beverly
gazed in undisguised admiration at her friends
natural wave, and wailed, Why wasnt I blessed
with hair like that? pulling a strand of her
straight, shining black hair in front of her nose,
she examined it in cross-eyed fashion. Barbara
laughed at the comical picture presented by her
friend.
Why, Bevy, she said, you have lovely hair.
Just because it is straight doesnt mean it isnt
pretty. It is so glossy and blacknot just a dirty
brown like mine! Only today Mother mentioned
that she thought your hair was a lovely color.
Did she really? the young face brightened
noticeably. But come onyouve primped enough.
19

The girls are all waiting for you so that we can

start making the candy.
Oh, are we going to have a candy pull? I didnt
know that. Well, I hope it will be more successful
than the last one.
Arm in arm, and laughing happily, the two girls
went down the stairs where they were greeted by
noisy clamors of Wheres the molasses? How
much vinegar do you use? Dont you think this
pink apron looks beautiful on my red dress?
After the candy was made, cooled, and each girl
given her share to pull, the talk began to center
around school activities. Someone mentioned the
next baseball game which was scheduled for
Saturday and wanted to know who was going.
I bet Babs will be there, said Jane Richards, a
round-faced girl with a mischievous smile. Bob
Allen is supposed to pitch that game, you know.
What difference does that make to me? said
Barbara in a rather lofty manner, and she began
pulling her taffy with renewed vigor.
Well, you dont have to blush so, teased Jane.
We all know he walks home from school with you
almost every day.
Im not blushing, retorted Barbara rather
angrily. Im just warm from pulling this candy.
Then, as the others began to giggle, she added
20

quickly, What if he does walk home with me? He

goes the same way and his father works at Dads
firm, so naturally we talk to each other once in a
while. And besides, Jane Richards, I could tell a
thing or two about that boy in our French class
who is always so busy looking at you he doesnt
know the difference between loeil and loeul
To the laughter that greeted this statement,
Jane calmly replied, He is so dumb he wouldnt
know the difference anyway, even if I werent in
the room.
Well, all I hope, remarked a rather quiet girl,
is that we win that game Saturday, because if we
beat Jennings High we stand a good chance for
the championship. Better tell Bob to play his
best, Babs, said one of the girls.
Barbara ignored the remark. Beverly said, If
we win the championship, I am pretty certain
well get that new auditorium they have been
talking about building.
What auditorium? asked Barbara quickly.
Havent you heard? The School Board is
planning to put up a new building for Butler High
which will contain a large assembly hall, two
gymnasiums, and a swimming pool. That is, they
are going to build if they can scrape up funds
enough. They are hoping that some old grad with
21

plenty of school spirit will donate some money.

And winning the championship would help the
cause along.
Then it isnt absolutely certain that they are
going to put up the building? asked Barbara, her
eyes looking thoughtfully about the group.
Although it wasnt definite, Babs discovered
from the chatter of her friends that it was
generally believed the auditorium would be
constructed some time the following autumn.
During the remainder of the evening, although
Barbara talked, laughed, and ate candy and
cookies with the rest of the group, her thoughts
were occupied with the news she had just heard.
After she had said goodnight to Mr. Wentworth,
who had driven her home, and had quickly
undressed and climbed into bed, her last thought,
before sleepily closing her eyes, was that
tomorrow she would have to tell Dad about that
auditorium.

22

CHAPTER III
A MISPLACED PIPE
Then you knew about the auditorium all the
time? inquired Barbara Ann between swallows of
orange juice. Why didnt you mention it at
home?
Mr. Wilson calmly finished his grapefruit before
replying. Because it was not supposed to be
public knowledge, Babsy girl. I was surprised to
hear you say your friends were discussing the
subject last night. Well, if they know, then it
certainly is no secret any longer. Trust you
youngsters to know everything that is going on.
But youre going to try and get that contract,
arent you, Dad? She interrupted her speech to
ask for the preserves, and spreading them thickly
on her toast, continued. It would be wonderful if
you did design the building. Just imagine my
being able to brag about you to the girls when we
are taking gym there or swimming!
Well, were going to try our bestbut I dont
23

know! Mr. Wilson shook his head doubtfully as he

pushed back his chair. We have been working on
the plans for some time and will be ready to put in
our bid in a few weeks. But whether or not the
same thing is going to happen as with all those
other deals, I cant say.
But you said you were getting a detective. He
ought to be able to prevent anyone getting hold of
your plans.
Sh Barbaras father gave a warning glance
at the door leading from the kitchen which at that
moment was swinging open. But it was only Mrs.
Wilson entering with a platter of hot toast.
Why, George, are you finished already? You
hardly ate any toast at all! What is the matter
with your appetite lately? Youve just been
worrying so much about business that you cant
eat.
Mr. Wilson smiled and patted his wifes cheek
as he remarked, I wouldnt exactly say I was
falling away to a shadow, Ellen, not weighing one
hundred eighty-three pounds as I do.
Just the same, youll be getting sick if you dont
eat. Here, better wear your topcoatit is rather
chilly this morning.
Oh, all right, Mother! She wouldnt be happy if
she didnt have something to worry about, would
24

she, Babs? He started to go out of the door, then

turned back and called, Tomorrow is Saturday,
isnt it? Are you coming downtown to the office
and take me to lunch, Babs?
Not tomorrow, Dad. Dont you remember were
playing Jennings in the afternoon, and that is a
very important game. Im going with some of the
girls.
Thats rightI had forgotten all about the
game. I should have remembered, too, because
just yesterday Jim Allen mentioned that his son
was pitching and he intended to go out and watch
him. Id like to go myself, but I have some work Ill
have to finish up.
I am sorry about the lunch, but just to make
up for it, Ill let you drive me home tonight. I have
to go downtown to the library after school today
and when I finish there Ill come up to the office
and we can go home together.
All right. Ill see you later, and Mr. Wilson
hurried out of the house.
I had better be starting myself. I want to go
over my history assignment again before class,
because my womans intuition tells me I shall be
called on today. I wish there were no such subject
as Modern European History, Barbara sighed as
she gathered up her books. Wouldnt it be just
25

lovely if all my classes were in English, French,

and Gym?
You dont seem to care very much about
Geometry, either, her mother remarked, and I
cant understand it. Your Dad was always so good
in Math.
Barbara smiled mischievously at Mrs. Wilson
as she replied, I guess I take after you, Mother. I
notice you have a pretty hard time figuring up
bills! But maybe Geometry wouldnt be bad if it
werent for that Mr. Collinshe is awful! and the
girl screwed up her features into an expression of
disgust.
Barbara, what a face! But Mrs. Wilson
couldnt help laughing. Then, bidding her
daughter good-bye, she inquired, You are going to
the library after school, arent you?
Yes, and Ill come home with Dad. Have a good
time at your club todaythe meeting is this
afternoon, isnt it?
Mrs. Wilson nodded. She stood in the doorway
watching the graceful figure of her energetic
young daughter until, turning a corner, she was
hidden from view.
As Barbara walked through one of the ivycovered doorways of Butler High School she
observed with pleasure the beauty of the building
26

and grounds. It was particularly pretty at this

time of the year she thought, with the
surrounding trees proudly displaying their new
green outfits, and jonquils and iris nodding gaily
on the lawn. When the new auditorium was built
there wouldnt be a finer school in the whole city.
She was going to feel rather sorry to be leaving
next year when she graduatedit wasnt such a
bad place after all, in spite of history and Mr.
Collins.
As she entered the locker-room she was greeted
by Beverly and Jane Richards, and the three
chums walked to their classroom together.
Barbara began dutifully to review the days
history lesson, but found herself much more
inclined to listen to her friends chatter about the
vacation trip.
Both, with very little persuasion, had received
their parents consent to join the teachers party,
and were already eagerly talking about the
clothes they would take along. There was some
doubt in their minds as to whether or not they
would need a heavy coat, and Jane asked Barbara
what her opinion was in the matter. Barbara
looked up from her book to reply she hadnt even
thought about clothes for the occasion, and she
didnt believe she was going to be bothered with
27

that problem because she was almost certain she

wasnt going. To the shocked exclamation, Not
going! which issued from the lips of both Jane
and Beverly, Barbara merely nodded, and, to
prevent being questioned further, once more
pretended to study her textbook.
The two girls, however, would not be so easily
silenced, and bluntly asked to know just what she
meant by such a statement. Finally, to silence
them, Barbara, in a tone which she attempted to
make cheerful, said, It is simply that Dad
probably wont be able to afford to send me. Have
neither of you heard of something called the
depression? Barbara smiled brightly, genuinely
amused at the horrified expressions on the faces of
her friends. Jane, she added, Id advise you to
close your mouth just a little. You know there are
quite a few flies around now, and the way you are
holding it open, might prove just too tempting for
one of them.
By this time, Beverly had recovered sufficiently
from the shock to ask, But dont you think you
could possibly manage in some way to come? It
just wont be any fun without you, Babs!
Well, of course, nothing is definite yet, Bevy.
There may be a chance but I doubt it.
The shrill note of the filing-bell put an end to
28

their conversation, and during the busy school day

none of the three had time to let their thoughts
dwell further on vacation plans.
At three-thirty that afternoon, as Barbara Ann
came out of the school, squinting her eyes in the
bright glare of the sun, she was surprised to find a
tall, good-looking boy waiting for her. Why, Bob,
what are you doing here? she inquired. I thought
you would be at the stadium with the rest of the
team practicing for tomorrows game!
That is the advantage of being a pitcher. Coach
told me to go home and rest my arm. Bob grinned
broadly, taking the young girls books and placing
them under his arm, said, I dont suppose he
would call carrying books using my arm.
But Im not going home, Bob. I have to go
downtown to the library and get some books for
my history paper.
For a moment the boy looked disappointed; then
the customary grin reappeared on his attractive
face as he said, Well, Ill walk to the car with you,
anyway.
As they sauntered slowly down the street, they
spoke eagerly of that all-important subjectthe
game. You had better get a good nights sleep
tonight, Bob. Were all counting on you to make
Jennings look sick tomorrow.
29

Ill do my best, and I know all of the fellows are

going to give me plenty of support, so well try not
to let the school down. Jennings team is plenty
good, though! It is going to be a tough game, but if
we do lose, it wont be because we havent tried!
Youre going to be there, arent you, Barbara?
Thats a silly question. Just try to keep me
away!
Ill be looking for you. You had better get there
early if you want to get a good seat, because I
think there will be a crowd. Wear something red
or kind of bright, will you?
The young girl looked puzzled. Why should I do
that, Bob?
The color mounted slowly to the boys face, and
he smiled rather sheepishly as he replied, Oh,
just so that I can see you rooting for the team. It
itll kind of help, maybe, when Im in a tight spot.
Barbara laughed lightly. Well, if it will help
you any to win that game, Ill come looking like a
fire alarm. Your Dad is going to be there, too, isnt
he?
You bethes a real fan! By the way, he told
me that if Butler wins, hell have a surprise
waiting for me.
A surprise? Have you any idea what it is, Bob?
Not the slightest, and I am mighty anxious to
30

find out about it!

You will have to let me know what it is as soon
as you find out or I wont be able to sleep. Oh, here
comes my car. Thanks for carrying these. Taking
her books from her companion, she stepped
quickly into the streetcar. As she sat down she
looked out of the open window and waved at Bob
who was still standing there. The car started, and,
in spite of the noise from screeching wheels, he
thought he heard her call, Good luck tomorrow!
As he strode off there was determination in every
step. Ill pitch the best game Ive ever pitched, he
said aloud, then, looking rather ashamed, glanced
quickly around to see if anyone had noticed him
talking to himself.
When Barbara stepped into the elevator of the
large office building, the negro operator touched
his cap respectfully and said, How do, Miss
Barbara! Glad to see you. You sho are getting to
be reglar young ladyI hardly reconized you at
first.
Barbara responded to his greeting in friendly
fashion. Yes, I guess I have grown up quite a bit,
Sam, since you first started riding me up in this
elevator. You have been here for a long time,
havent you?
31

Yesm. It will be twelve years next month.

Thas a long time! Her we aretwelfth floor, and
he brought the swiftly moving car to a sudden
stop.
Barbara turned the knob of the glass-paneled
door bearing, in neat black letters, the words
Wilson, Radcliffe & Company, Architectural
Engineers. As she stepped into the large, tastily
furnished outer office of her fathers firm, Miss
Martin, the secretary, glanced up from the letter
she had been typing, and smiled pleasantly.
Hello, Miss Martin. Is Dad in his office?
Yes, Barbara, but he is busy talking to
someone right now. Do you want to sit out here
and wait until he is through?
Thanks, but I think Ill go in and say hello to
some of the men. Flinging her books down on a
chair and placing her coat and hat on top of them,
she darted through the swinging gate into a room
which the long board tables indicated was used as
the drafting room. Barbara could not help noticing
the unnatural quiet of the place. She was
accustomed to hearing the hum of many voices,
and to seeing men dart back and forth, a ruler in
one hand and a pencil in the other. Today there
were only four men in the room, and, while two
were standing at their drafting tables, working
32

quietly, the other two were lounging near a

window, talking.
All of the men looked up when Barbara entered
and each one responded heartily to her Hello
everybody! Mr. Wilsons daughter was well liked
by all the employees of the firm, and most of
them, having known her since she was hardly old
enough to toddle about, called her by her first
name. Having been kept very busy with school
work, Barbara Ann had not visited the office for
some time, and the men seemed genuinely happy
to see her.
Barbara talked for a little while with the two
men who had been standing by the window,
laughing at some of their witty remarks. Then,
saying that she wanted to see what Mr. Allen was
doing, the slender young girl crossed the room and
stood beside the man who was quietly drawing at
the table. He smiled, in friendly fashion, but
continued busily working. Barbara, fascinated,
watched the nimble fingers as they skillfully
guided a pencil across the paper. What nice
looking hands he has, she thoughtlike an
artists or musicians with their long, slender
fingers. He was a fine looking man altogether
tall, just as Bob was, although slightly stooped
from constant bending over the drafting tables.
33

The streak of gray in his black hair gave an air of

real distinction to the man, and Barbara
wondered whether Bob would be as nice looking
when he was older.
Barbara was about to question Mr. Allen as to
the plans he was working on when, hearing a
familiar voice, she turned to see her father enter
the room. With him was a short, stout man, who,
at the moment, was busily engaged in wiping the
beads of perspiration off his shiny, round-cheeked
face. At sight of his daughter, Mr. Wilsons face
brightened. When did you get here, Babsy girl? I
didnt expect you quite this early. Come here a
moment. I want you to meet my daughter,
Barbara Ann, Mr. Goodwin.
The perspiring little man grasped Barbaras
hand in his own damp one, and began vigorously
pumping it up and down. My! My! Mr. Wilson. Is
this the little girl you were speaking of before?
She is quite a young lady, and quite a pretty one,
too.
Barbara merely smiled, and said nothing, but
withdrew her hand as soon as she could politely
do so.
Youll be here tomorrow about two, Goodwin?
My partner, Radcliffe, will be here then, and we
can go into the matter more thoroughly.
34

Okay! Tomorrow at two, the man replied as

Mr. Wilson led him toward the door. Very pleased
to have met you, Mr. Wilson. And dont worry
well straighten everything out in short order. You
can rely on Bill Goodwin to get to the bottom of
things before you can say Jack Robinson. And
good-day to you, Miss Barbara Ann, placing his
hat on the back of his head, he strode jauntily out
of the door.
Who is he, anyway, Dad? asked Barbara,
taking out her handkerchief and carefully wiping
off her hand. Mr. Wilsons answer was spoken in
low tones so that only Barbara could hear. At his
reply she looked at her father, opening her eyes
wide in astonishment. Why, Dad, you dont mean
he is really a detective! As her father nodded in
assent, she continued, But he doesnt look a bit
like I thought he would!
You sound disappointed, Skeezix, commented
Mr. Wilson, using his pet name for his daughter.
What did you expect to seea second Sherlock
Holmes?
Not exactly. But I didnt think he would be
such a roly-poly personand, oh, I dont know
he seemed so breezy anddamp! and Barbara
Ann again rubbed her dainty hand vigorously
with the handkerchief.
35

I dont care what he looks like, provided he

gets results. Then, glancing at his watch, he
added, You wait here, Babs, and Ill be with you
in a few minutes. There is just a little work at my
desk I must clear up and then well go home.
Barbara again walked across the drafting room
and gazed out of the window, watching the little
black specks far below in the street, which she
knew were, in reality, men and women hurrying
home to their dinners hungry after the days work.
As she stood, resting her elbows on the window
sill, she noticed a pipe lying on a corner of the
ledge. Without thinking, she picked it up and
began turning the pipe around in her hand, idly
examining it. Suddenly she looked at the dark
brown wooden object more intently.
There was something vaguely familiar about
the pipewhere had she seen it before? Of course,
in its general shape it resembled one her Dad
smoked, but that wasnt what she was thinking of,
she knew. That peculiar carving on the stem, and
that little chip out at the edge of the bowlshe
seemed to recall having seen those details on some
pipe recently. It probably belonged to one of the
men, though. Turning away from the window and
holding up the pipe, she called to one of the men
in the room, Is this yours, Mr. Andrews?
36

The man addressed as Mr. Andrews approached

the young girl and, taking the pipe from her, said,
Mine! I should say not! I cant afford to smoke a
Dunhill with my salary. Then, displaying the
object above his head, he inquired, Does this
belong to any of you fellows?
Two of the men promptly denied ownership, but
Mr. Allen, looking up for a moment from his work,
said, I think it belongs to the janitor. He was
here about a half an hour ago doing something to
the radiator, and I believe he left it there.
Whew! Thats a pretty good pipe for a janitor to
be smoking, remarked Mr. Andrews. I believe Ill
go apply for his jobhe must be the only one
around here making any money.
He handed the pipe back to Barbara and,
carrying it over to the window sill where she had
found it, she put it down, still looking at it in a
rather perplexed manner. Well, she must have
been mistaken about having seen the pipe
recently because she hadnt been to the office for
quite a while, and she couldnt even remember
when she had last seen any of the buildings
janitors. Seeing her father enter, carrying his hat
and coat, she quickly collected her belongings,
suddenly realizing that she was very hungry.
37

CHAPTER IV
A BALL GAME AND A DETECTIVE
Oh, what a perfectly gorgeous day for the
game! in her enthusiasm, Barbara threw the
window wide open.
Barbara, put that window down this instant,
or else get some clothes on yourself, called her
mother sharply. Youll catch your death of cold
standing there in pajamas.
Barbara laughed gaily and, after inhaling
deeply of the fresh morning air, obediently closed
the window, leaving it open just a few inches. Her
first act that morning, after having been
awakened by her mother, had been to jump
quickly out of bed and dash to the window to see
what the weather was like. Thank goodness, there
was no threat of rain, not a dark cloud in the sky.
Barbara Ann began to dress hurriedly. A glance
at the clock told her that Beverly would probably
be over soon, as Mrs. Wilson had invited her to be
their guest at luncheon. When she was finished
38

with her shower, and had donned her

undergarments, she opened the closet door and
stood looking at the plentiful array of dresses,
trying to select one suitable for the occasion.
Finally, smiling slightly, she chose a becoming red
and white print. Ill wear my red beret with this,
she thought, and if he cant see me it wont be my
fault.
When Beverly arrived, looking very attractive
in a new yellow sweater set, Mrs. Wilson greeted
her affectionately. Barbara and Beverly had gone
through school together and were almost
inseparable companions. Their classmates seldom
saw one without the other. As the little group
gathered around the luncheon table, Beverly
turned eager dark eyes on the older woman. Tell
me, Mrs. Wilson, she inquired, what Babs said
isnt really trueabout not going on our Colorado
trip, I mean? I just cant believe it!
I wish I could say it wasnt true, replied Mrs.
Wilson, but this time I am afraid that Barbara
isnt teasing you. Unless Mr. Wilsons business
takes a decided turn for the better, in a short
time, it is very doubtful that she will be able to
go. She paused for a moment, as if considering
her words before continuing. I dont know
whether or not I should say this to you, Beverly,
39

but I am certain you will not repeat it to anyone.

The two young girls leaned forward in eager
anticipation of what they were about to hear.
Mr. Wilson and I were discussing that trip last
night and he said that there was one chance he
might be able to send Barbara
Whats that? said her daughter, appearing
greatly excited.
If he gets that contract for the school
auditorium!
Well, then, everything is settled! the
impulsive Beverly remarked. You might just as
well start packing your grip now. Of course, your
Dad will get that contract! Why should the school
let anyone else build, when everyone knows your
fathers firm is the best in the city?
There are other considerations besides a firms
ability. Perhaps the School Board may wish the
work done more reasonably than Dads firm can
do it, and will employ the services of the lowest
bidder.
Oh, they wouldnt do that! said Beverly,
shaking her dark head emphatically, Not for
anything as important as the auditorium.
Beverlys confidence and enthusiasm were
contagious, and the two members of the Wilson
family were feeling quite cheerful when they arose
40

from the table. I suppose we had better get ready

to go now, Bev, if we want good seats. Ill just run
upstairs and grab my coat and hat, and then well
be on our way, Barbara was halfway up the stairs
before she had completed the sentence. In a
moment she reappeared, the red beret perched
jauntily on her brown curls, and a light sport coat
flung over her arm. Both girls kissed Mrs. Wilson,
and Beverly thanked her warmly for the very
enjoyable luncheon. I ate so much I can hardly
move, she added. I think youll have to carry me
most of the way, Babs.
I can just see myself doing that! Youll walk,
and youll walk fast, too, young lady, and Barbara
took her friend by the hand and began dragging
her through the doorway.
Did you ever see such a crowd? I didnt know
there were that many people interested in
baseball.
It was truethe high school stadium was
jammed to Capacity with excited fans. The sight
was an impressive one. There were the hundreds
of eager young faces of the high school girls and
youths, and then, in addition, a surprisingly large
number of older people. At the moment the sea of
faces seemed to be rising as if in a body. The sixth
41

inning of the game had just been completed and it

was time for the seventh inning stretch. As the
crowd in its gaily colored spring attire rose to its
feet, the stadium resembled a huge, horseshoeshaped rainbow. On the northern half of the
stadium,
however,
there
was
a
slight
predominance of blue and silver as the Butler
High School students waved their pennants and
ribbons and yelled lustily under the direction of
their cheer-leaders. On the southern half of the
field orange and brown banners were being waved
in an equally energetic fashion by the Jennings
High School rooters.
As Barbara and Beverly arose to stretch their
cramped legs they glanced around and waved to
several of their acquaintances seated nearby. To
converse with one another the girls had to almost
shout in order to be heard above the noisy
chattering of the crowd.
Its a grand game, Bev, dont you think?
called Barbara.
Swell! Beverly answered with enthusiasm.
And sayisnt Bob pitching a wonderful game?
Why, he has only allowed those Jennings players
four hitsand they wouldnt have that one run
either if Hank hadnt made an error. I hope our
team doesnt make any more errors, because we
42

cant afford themtwo to one isnt such a big

lead.
I should say it isnt! Their pitcher is mighty
good, tooalthough, of course, not as good as
Bob, Barbara added quickly. The boys seem to
be having a hard time hitting him. That threebagger of Jimmy Henderson certainly helped,
Barbara smiled at her friend.
Beverlys dark eyes shone as she replied, Well,
I should say it did! There is no doubt about ithe
and Bob are the best players on the team. Oh,
Babs, wouldnt it be wonderful if he would ask me
to go on the Senior Boat Ride with him?
He probably will. He took you to the picnic,
didnt he?
Just as Beverly was about to answer, Barbaras
attention was attracted by two familiar figures
standing two rows in front. Why, there are Mr.
Allen and Billy.
Where? asked Beverly, craning her neck, and
then, catching sight of Mr. Allen who, at that
moment, had turned his head in their direction,
she added, Is that little boy with him Bobs
younger brother? As Barbara nodded she
continued, I dont know why, but I always
thought Bob was the only child in that family.
Oh, no. Besides Billy, who is about eleven
43

years old, he has a little sister, Marjorie, who was

just five the other day. You ought to see hershe
is as sweet as she can be.
Mr. Allen certainly looks as if he was enjoying
the game. Look how red his face ishe must have
been rooting hard.
It seems strange to see him excited, remarked
Barbara, he is generally such a quiet person.
Their conversation was ended abruptly by the
continuance of the game, and the activity upon
the diamond claimed their undivided attention.
The last two innings of the game proved exciting
enough to satisfy any baseball fan. The Jennings
team was eager to win the contest and the boys
fought hard to overcome the one run lead of the
other school. In the second half of the ninth inning
the big thrill of the afternoon occurred. The
Jennings team was at bat, and the first man up
hit a hard, high fly into left field. It should have
been an easy out, but the left fielder, in running to
catch the ball, tripped, and the batter succeeded
in getting safely to second base. At this
unexpected luck, the flagging hope of the Jennings
students was revived, and they began to cheer
wildly. For a moment the noise and excitement
appeared to confuse Bob Allen, and, losing his
former good control, he pitched some wild balls,
44

and as a result the second man up walked. That

meant a man on first and one on second, and no
outs for Jennings.
The crowd was almost franticJennings
rooters were crying for some runs, and the Butler
students were shouting encouragement to their
team and begging Bob to strike em out! The
noise of the cheering was deafening. Barbara sat
tensely on the edge of her seat, not saying a word,
her eyes watching Bob intently as he slowly
swung his arm for the first pitch to the next
batter. This man did just what all the Butler fans
were hoping he would not domade a sacrifice
hit, so that, while he was out at first, the other
men succeeded in reaching second and third bases
safely.
It was a bad spot for pitcher Bobthe score, as
yet, was two to one in favor of Butler, but a single
would certainly mean a run for Jennings and, if
anyone should get a three-bagger or home-run, it
would be just too bad! Before winding up for his
next pitch, Bob paused a second, and, while
Barbara couldnt be certain, she thought she saw
him glance up in her direction. Although she
didnt know whether he saw her, she smiled her
brightest smile and quickly waved her hand.
Whether the young man standing on the pitching
45

mound observed this sign of encouragement and

was cheered by it, or whether he merely regained
his self-control, the result was that the next batter
struck out before he knew what was happening to
him.
The excitement of the spectators now had
reached such a pitch that they seemed unable any
longer to shout, and a breathless silence
descended on the large stadium as the next player
picked up his bat. But Bobs arm was tired. As the
man stepped up to the plate, Bob slowly wound up
for the delivery. Everything depended on him
now! Ball! called the umpirea wide pitch. Bob
wound up once more and again a ball, wide of the
plate. The next pitch was a strike, right over the
center. The catcher, walking half-way out to the
pitchers box, tossed the ball to Bob. Slowly, the
wind-up for the next pitchthe ball came so fast
Babs couldnt even see it, but she did hear the
crack as bat met ball. Mouth open, her heart
beating wildly, she watched the long, graceful
flight of the ball out to center field. The ball game,
the championship, the new auditorium, and even
the summer trip seemed to be riding away on that
ball. High and far it wentand dropped swiftly
into the waiting hands of the center fielder. The
game was over!
46

Then what shouting and pandemonium in the

Butler section as the long-legged boys climbed
over benches and scrambled down on the
diamond. Bob was lifted on the shoulders of some
fellow students and carried triumphantly off the
field. For a moment Beverly and Barbara, their
faces beaming with happiness, stood trying to
avoid being stepped upon by the enthusiastic
throng. Finally, giving up the struggle, they
permitted themselves to be shoved along with the
crowd. Glancing up, Barbara noticed the tall,
slightly stooped figure of Mr. Allen right in front
of her. When she called his name he turned about
as best he could, surrounded as he was on all
sides by jabbing elbows and pushing feet.
Hello, Barbara! Some jam, isnt it?
Dreadful! Barbara gasped, catching at her
beret which some clumsy boy had just succeeded
in shoving over her eyes with his pennant. The
noise and confusion of the crowd prevented any
further exchange of words at the moment, but
finally, reaching the open field, the two girls
hastened to join Mr. Allen and his young son.
Well, what did you think of the game?
demanded Barbara eagerly. Then, remembering
her manners, she added, You know my friend,
Beverly Wentworth, dont you, Mr. Allen?
47

The man nodded. You introduced me to Miss

Wentworth once when she was at the office, I
believe.
Thats right, said Beverly, you have a good
memory. I didnt meet Billy before, though, and
as the freckled-faced boy grinned, she added,
What do you think of that big brother of yours?
Awhes a pretty swell pitcher, all right! the
boy said proudly.
I should say he is! You had better take lessons
from him, Bill, so that when you come to Butler
High you can help win the championship, too.
Well surely win the championship now, dont you
think, Mr. Allen?
Mr. Allen smiled slightly as he replied quietly,
Well, of course, nothing is absolutely certain in a
baseball series, but I would be very much
surprised if Butler didnt win.
Anyway, Bob gets his surprise now, doesnt
he?
At this unexpected question Mr. Allen looked
down into the eager young face at his side. So
Bob told you there was to be a surprise, did he?
Wellyeshe gets it now, Barbaraalthough he
would have had it, too, even if he had lost. After a
slight pause, he continued, Bob will probably be
out in a few minutes now, and if you and Miss
48

Wentworth would care to wait, we can all go

together to get the c the surprise, I mean. I
almost let the cat out of the bag that time!
The girls expressed their delight at this plan
and, while waiting for Bob, plied Mr. Allen with
questions, attempting to satisfy their curiosity.
Young Billy could hardly sit still because of his
excitement. When Bob came out, fresh from a cold
shower, he was pleasantly surprised to find the
little group waiting for him. After enthusiastic
congratulations from the girls and Billy, and a
quiet Good work, son from Mr. Allen, he was
informed of their intention to walk to the place
where his mysterious surprise was awaiting him.
As they walked he managed to whisper to
Barbara, Thanks for that big smile, and for
waving when I was in that tight spot. It really
helped.
Barbara smiled happily as she replied, I wasnt
certain that you could see me, but I wanted you to
know I was pulling for you. II mean we are all
very proud of you, Bob.
As the little group strolled along the street,
Billy kept them laughing almost constantly with
his wild conjectures as to the nature of the
surprise. Finally, when they reached a certain
garage, Mr. Allen asked them to wait a moment
49

while he went inside and spoke to a man there

about some business. As they stood outside
awaiting Mr. Allens return, they were suddenly
startled to see him seated in the front seat of a
shiny, blue sedan which one of the garage men
was at that minute piloting down the driveway.
As the mechanic steered the car over to the curb
and switched off the motor, Mr. Allen, a big smile
wreathing his face, beckoned to the astonished
young people watching him. As they approached
the car, he climbed out quickly and, holding the
door open, pointed to the seat behind the steering
wheel and called, Hop in, Bob.
For a second Bob looked at his father, a puzzled
expression on his face. Then suddenly grasping
his meaning, he cried, Gosh! Is this the surprise,
Dad?
As Mr. Allen nodded in the affirmative, there
was a chorus of delighted Ohs and Ahs. Then
there followed a minute examination of the car
the windows had to be tried, the horn blown, and
even the windshield wiper tested.
Dad, it certainly is a beauty! Starting the
motor, Bob added, Listen to that engineyou can
hardly hear it. Shutting off the engine, he turned
to his father and, grasping his hand, he said in a
voice which trembled slightly with emotion, Gee,
50

Dad, thanks! But you shouldnt have done it!

Mr. Allen looked fondly at his son as he
answered. Well, Mother and I wanted to get you
something you really would like for your
graduation present. And you deserve the car, all
rightyou have made a mighty good record at
school and we have been well pleased, even if we
havent said much before. We both thought it
would be nice to give you the car now, even
though it is quite a while until graduation. Since
this is the prettiest time of the year, we thought
you might enjoy being able to drive around now.
Boywill I! responded Bob enthusiastically.
Of course, it isnt a new car, Bob, continued
Mr. Allen. I couldnt afford thatbut it is last
years model, and I have had it thoroughly gone
over and put in perfect condition. I also had a new
paint job done, and it does look pretty good, I
think.
Good! said Barbara, why, it is perfectly
beautiful! and her gray eyes shone with
admiration.
As they all stepped into the sedan and sank
down luxuriously into the soft cushions, Billy,
grinning mischievously, turned to Mr. Allen and
said, Say, Dad! If Bob rates a car for graduation
from high school, dont you think when I graduate
51

from the eighth grade I ought to at least get that

new bike I have been wanting?
At exactly two that afternoon Bill Goodwin
entered the waiting room of Wilson, Radcliffe &
Company. Pulling out of his vest pocket a rather
massive gold watch, he glanced at the time, then
marched up to the door of Mr. Wilsons private
office, and knocked briskly. In response to Mr.
Wilsons Come in, he entered the office to find
Mr. Wilson seated at his desk, busily conversing
with another man seated nearby. At sight of Mr.
Goodwin, Mr. Wilson arose and nodded in
greeting. Turning toward the other man, he said,
This is the man of whom I was speaking this
morning. My partner, RadcliffeGoodwin.
Mr. Radcliffe, a man of medium height, rather
squarely built, proceeded at once to discuss the
business at hand. As the two partners supplied all
the information they had concerning the mystery
of the copied plans, the detective sat back in his
chair, his thumbs in the armholes of his vest, a
large, unlighted cigar in his mouth. At the
conclusion of their recital Bill Goodwin remarked,
Well, of course, Ill do what you want and station
some men around here at night to see that no one
is breaking in and getting hold of those plans. If
52

you ask me, though, that isnt going to help much.

This looks to me like an inside job.
I agree with you, Goodwin, said Mr. Radcliffe.
I believe the dirty work is being done by someone
who has daily access to the blueprints, and
understands them thoroughly.
Yes, but who? queried Mr. Wilson. There isnt
a single man working for us whom we have any
reason to mistrust. Why, practically all of them
have been with us for years.
You say practically all, said Mr. Goodwin,
leaning forward, while continuing to chew on the
unlit cigar. You say the other firm has been
operating in this city for about a year and a half.
Can you think of any of your employees who have
been working for you about the same length of
time?
Mr. Wilson was silent for a moment, but Mr.
Radcliffe quickly replied, Jim Allen, our head
draftsman, came here just about that time. He
started a year ago last November.
Mr. Wilson remarked in a rather sharp manner,
Well, what of it? That doesnt mean anything
you certainly dont think he would have anything
to do with this mess!
The detective interrupted his cigar chewing
long enough to extract a toothpick from his pocket
53

and start picking his teeth. Well, Mr. Wilson, in

this game of ours weve learned to be suspicious of
everyone and everything until a case is solved.
Sometimes this suspicious business gets so bad we
detectives even start suspecting ourselves, Bill
Goodwin laughed loudly at what he considered a
very witty remark. Then, suddenly assuming a
very brusque, businesslike manner, he continued,
Ill want a complete record of Allenyou give me
all the information you can, and Ill start my men
investigating. Well check up and see if he shows
any signs of making some extra cash lately, if he
has been spending much money, and that sort of
thing! And, just to take every precaution, well
look over the records of all the people working for
you. Dont worry, gentlemen, when Bill Goodwin
gets started on a case, he gets results, and gets
em fast!
At dinner that evening, Barbara Ann regaled
her father with a complete account of the game.
I certainly wish I could have been there, he
remarked. It must have been worth seeing. That
must have been a proud moment for Jim Allen
when his son struck out a man with, the bases
practically loaded.
I should say it was! He is pretty proud of Bob,
54

anyway, even if he doesnt generally say very

much about him. And oh, Dad, continued
Barbara, almost stuttering in her excitement,
guess what Mr. and Mrs. Allen gave Bob for his
graduation present!
Graduation presentso soon?
Yes, they thought he would enjoy it more if he
had it now. But go aheadguess!
I havent the slightest idea, Babsy, said Mr.
Wilson, calmly continuing his meal.
Well, if you wont guess, Ill have to tell you.
They gave him a cara gorgeous blue sedan.
A what? and now her father dropped the fork
he had been using, and it clattered unheeded to
the floor. A car, you say!
Barbara nodded, delighted at the effect her
announcement had produced. But Mr. Wilson,
looking at his daughter, began to frown. How
could Jim Allen afford to buy a car on the salary
he is getting?
Oh, it isnt a new machine, Dadit is last
years model, but it looks every bit as good as
new, Barbara added.
Mr. Wilson continued to frown. That makes no
difference. After that salary cut he had last
month, Allen had no business buying any carI
dont care what model! I dont like the idea one
55

bit! shaking his head in disapproving fashion, he

arose slowly from the table, and left the dining
room.
Barbara Ann looked after her father, a puzzled
expression on her face.

56

CHAPTER V
A LESSON IN SIGNALING
Whew! I am glad that problem is finished,
exclaimed Barbara, closing her geometry book
with a little snap and tossing it on the table. I
never could have understood it, though, without
your help, Bob. You make everything clear
thanks for bothering to explain it to me.
Awthats no bother. You know Math has
always been my long suit. I wish all the other
subjects were as easyespecially English.
Englishwhy, that is my favorite subject! Can
I help you any? the young girl asked. Of course, I
know Senior English is different from our Junior
course, but maybe there might be something I
could explain that you dont understand.
Im afraid not, Babsyou cant write my
themes for me and that is where I have my
trouble. Then, noticing Barbaras involuntary air
of disappointment, he quickly added, But there is
something you can do for me, if you will.
57

What? Barbara eagerly demanded, happy at

the opportunity to reciprocate her friends
kindness. Bob had walked home from school with
Barbara Ann that afternoon and had volunteered
to stop at her house and explain some geometry
problems. The two had worked steadily for an
hour.
From his pocket Bob pulled out a rather ragged
copy of the Boy Scout Manual and handed it to
Barbara.
Whats this for? she asked. From the looks of
it, you must have really made good use of this
book.
Well, when you are a junior assistant
scoutmaster you have to know the work perfectly
or the fellows in the troop will show you up. Why,
that kid brother of mine, although he is only a
cub, knows almost as much about scouting as I do.
You ought to see him tie some knots. Hes really
good!
How can I help you with this? I cant show you
how to tie any knots, remarked Barbara
laughingly.
I dont expect you to, replied Bob, grinning
boyishly. You can hear me the signal code,
though. Picking up the manual he turned to a
certain page, and then handed the book back to
58

the girl. Here it isthe Morse code, I mean.

You mean those funny dots and dashes are the
Morse code? But how do you use the code?
Oh, we have signal flags and the scouts
wigwag with them to each other, and spell out
words with the code. Our troop is going on a hike
Saturday, and I want to teach the boys some
wigwagging then. Thats why I want to practice a
little now.
But what good does it do to learn the signals,
Bob? Of course, I know the Morse code is used in
sending telegramsbut I mean for the average
boy scout. Why does he have to know it?
For a moment the tall youth looked perplexed
at the question. Then he answered slowly, Well,
it would come in mighty handy as a distress or
danger signalsay if you were lost in the
mountains, for instance, oruhwere locked up
some place and couldnt get out.
Barbara Ann giggled mischievously as she said,
You sound like a regular mystery thriller. I bet
you have been reading too many lately. Besides,
how would a person know that they were going to
be lost in the mountains so that they would be all
prepared with their little wigwag flags?
Now you are trying to be smart, arent you?
Well, let me tell you something, Miss-Know-It-All,
59

you dont need flags for signaling. There are other

ways and means to send a code message beside
wigwagging.
What, for instance? asked Barbara, now
genuinely interested.
You can beat the dots and dashes out on
something, like this, and Bob drummed a distinct
rat-tat-tat with his fingers on the table.
You could hear the dots and dashes very
plainly then, said Barbara. What do they mean?
That was the distress signal, SOS, ships use
when in trouble. It is three dots, three dashes, and
then three dots again. Listen, Ill rap them out
once more, and Bob again played on the table
dot, dot, dotdash, dash, dashdot, dot, dot.
Let me do it, the small, slender fingers of the
young girl tapped out the message as distinctly as
the boys larger ones had done. Thats right, isnt
it? she inquired, smiling proudly at her
accomplishment.
Perfect. Well make a good boy scout out of you
yet. Now Ill show you another way a person can
signal with the Morse code. Have you something
shinya mirror would be fine.
Hereuse this, only be careful not to break it,
from her purse Barbara Ann extracted a pretty
compact. Bob glanced at the object a moment,
60

then, smiling broadly, remarked, Gosh! Are you

still using that thing? I thought you would have
lost or broken it a long time ago.
Why, Bob Allen, you just gave it to me last
Christmas. How careless do you think I am? It is
one of the daintiest compacts I have ever seen.
You displayed good taste in selecting it.
It is the first one I ever boughtand I didnt
know much about the doodads. But I sort of liked
those things, said Bob, pointing to some rosebuds
delicately enameled on the lid of the silver
compact, and if you like it, then I guess it is all
right. Opening the case so as to display the
mirror inside, he turned toward a window through
which the late afternoon sun was streaming. Now
watch this, Babs, he remarked. Catching the
beams of sunlight on the mirror, he began to
manipulate it in such a manner as to reflect the
light upon the ceiling in a distinct series of dots
and dashes.
Why, thats S O S as plainly as anything!
exclaimed Barbara Ann, her eyes eagerly
following the little patch of light on the ceiling. Of
course, she had to try signaling with the mirror,
too, and was quite delighted at the result. At
night, if you had a flashlight, you could do the
same thing, couldnt you?
61

Bob nodded. Then, picking up the manual

which Barbara had left lying on the chair, he
again turned to the page containing the Morse
code, demanding, Well, are you going to hear me
this or not?
Barbara, attempting to look very ashamed, but
not succeeding very well, quickly put the compact
back in her purse, and, perching stiffly on the
edge of her chair, assumed the manner of a stern
schoolmarm. Now, Mr. Allen, kindly stand up
before the class, and recite the alphabet in code.
In spite of the facetious beginning, the two did
apply themselves in earnest to the task at hand.
Barbara Ann quizzed Bob, reviewing again and
again those symbols of which he was not quite
certain. Before the lesson was over the girls alert
mind had acquired a definite knowledge of the
code, and she was able to recite it with almost as
much ease as the young assistant scoutmaster.
Their work was interrupted by the entrance of
Mrs. Wilson, carrying a tray containing a pitcher
of lemonade and some cookies. Bob jumped up
quickly and hastened to relieve her of the tray.
Thanks, Bob, she said, smiling in friendly
fashion at the tall youth. I thought you both had
been studying so hard that you might need a little
refreshment.
62

Oh, thanks, Mumsey, exclaimed her daughter,

that certainly does look good.
You bet it does, Mrs. Wilson. The lemonade
will just hit the right spot. And I bet you made
those cookies yourself, too.
You dont even know if they are good, for you
havent eaten any yet. Here, help yourselves, said
Mrs. Wilson, indicating the plate, while she
quickly filled three tall glasses with the refreshing
liquid.
As the little group sat in the cheerful living
room, sipping their lemonade and munching the
cookies, they conversed pleasantly. Mrs. Wilson
had the rare gift of making any guest in her home
feel completely at ease, and this was particularly
true when she entertained young people. Both she
and Mr. Wilson were very popular with their
daughters friends, and the Wilson home was the
center of many youthful activities. Even Bob
Allen, gangling young Id low that he was, felt less
awkward and more sure of himself in the presence
of Mrs. Wilson than with most people. Barbara
Ann was telling her mother what she had learned
about the Morse code, its different uses, and even
the meaning of certain symbols.
Bob remarked, Babs was helping me review
the code because I am taking the troop on a hike
63

Saturday, and I want to teach the boys some

signaling.
Oh, thats right, you are going on a hike
Saturday, arent you? said Barbara Ann. I wish I
were going on a hike, but Ill have to spend
Saturday afternoon at the library, working on
that horrible old history paper again.
Do you absolutely have to do that, Barbara?
questioned her mother, looking anxiously at her
daughter. It would do you so much more good to
be out in the sunshine rather than cooped up
indoors. You dont get out in the air enough now,
dear. I think you are working entirely too hard at
school.
Barbara laughed gaily as she replied. Dont
worry, Mother. Your daughter will never get sick
from overwork, I can assure you. It is my own
fault I have so much to do now. Our history
teacher told us about that paper at the beginning
of the term, but of course as usual I didnt start
working on it until it was just about due.
Naturally it means some concentrated effort on
my part.
Well, I do wish you would learn not to leave
things to the last minute, said her mother. You
dont do that, do you, Bob?
Bob grinned sheepishly, Im afraid were pretty
64

much alike in that respect, Mrs. Wilson. I have an

English theme due tomorrow which I havent
started on. Hearing a clock strike, he jumped up
quickly. Golly, is that five-thirty already? Well, I
II say I had better be getting home if that paper
is going to be finished by tomorrow. He shook
hands with Mrs. Wilson. Thanks for the swell
lemonade and cookies. Goodbye.
Good-bye, Bob. Come over soon again. Were
always glad to see you.
Barbara accompanied her friend to the door,
once again expressing her gratitude for his help
with the geometry problems.
Say, will you stop thanking me for nothing?
Besides, didnt you help me, too, with my scout
work?
Barbara laughingly remarked, Well call quits
then, shall we?
Bob nodded. Just before going out of the door,
however, he turned and rather haltingly said,
There is something I would like to ask you.
Whats that, Bob?
Would youI meanwould you care to go on
the Senior Boat Ride with me?
Oh, Id love to, the girl responded quickly, her
gray eyes glowingthat is, she added, if
Mother says it is all right.
65

Well, I hope she says it will be okay. Tell me

tomorrow, will you, because I had better be going
now. So long, and the long legs went flying down
the front steps.
When Bill Goodwin had stated that once he
started on a case he got results quickly, his
boast had not been entirely an idle one. At least,
he and his men wasted no time in obtaining a
complete report on all of the employees of Wilson,
Radcliffe & Company. Saturday afternoon, exactly
one week after formulating his plan of action, he
placed on the desk before Mr. Wilson a little pile
of slightly rumpled typewritten sheets.
What are these? asked Mr. Wilson, picking up
the papers.
Thats the lowdown on your office force. And
believe me, if there is anything we havent found
out about them, they dont know it themselves.
But did you find anything of importance in the
case? demanded Radcliffe rather impatiently.
You know were not exactly interested in whether
they had ham or bacon for breakfast.
A scowl appeared on the detectives usually
good-natured face, and his tone was rather sharp
as he replied, Neither are we, M r. Radcliffe. But
a good detective knows that no detail is too small
66

or unimportant to overlook in solving a case.

Extracting the inevitable black cigar from his vest
pocket, he bit the end off vigorously and spat it
out on the floor without regard for the handsome
rug. Then he continued speaking. Now, if you
want all the information boiled down in a
nutshell, I can just tell you that from everything
we found out there is only one person here we
have any reason for suspecting.
And who is that? questioned Mr. Wilson,
while his partner quickly added, Allen?
Bill Goodwin nodded, and leaned forward in his
chair. Yep, hes the one I meant, all right. Of
course, theres nothing definitejust enough to
make us want to keep an eye on him, though.
Mr. Wilson quietly remarked, Supposing you
tell us just what grounds you have for your
suspicions other than the fact that Allen started
working for us just shortly before we first heard of
Howard & Johnston.
Ill be glad to, gentlemen. It is all there in the
report, but you can study that at your leisure.
Once more tilting his chair at a dangerous angle,
the detective continued, Well, first of all, I told
you I was going to check up on whether he had
been doing any fancy spending lately, as an
indication of his having made some extra cash.
67

The very first pop out of the box, I find he just

bought a car for his kid.
So you already know about the car, murmured
Mr. Wilson, nervously twirling a pencil on the
desk.
Whats that? Sure! But when did you hear
about it? Goodwin asked, looking sharply at Mr.
Wilson.
Oh, just the other day. My daughter mentioned
itshe goes to the same school as young Allen,
and knows him pretty well.
Have you seen the car? As Mr. Wilson shook
his head to indicate that he hadnt, the detective
continued, Well, it is a pretty swell boat. Last
years model, but entirely gone over so it looks like
new. Of course, I didnt see the bill of sale,
because he bought it from some private
individual, not a company, but Ill bet a tin
whistle he paid plenty for that buggy. Now,
candidly, Wilson, tell me do you think a man who
has just had a salary cutoh, yes, we found out
about that, loo -should be spending money on a
big car?
Mr. Wilson hesitated a moment before replying.
Well, he said, just because you or I wouldnt do
such a thing doesnt make it a crime for Allen to
have bought the car. After all, Goodwin, you cant
68

accuse a man of crookedness, just because he

spends his money foolishly!
Radcliffe chimed inNo ones accusing Allen
yet, Wilson. Were just looking at facts now and
youll have to admit that his suddenly buying a
car with his present salary is .something to be
considered.
Yes, but hang it all, protested Mr. Wilson, I
dont like this idea at all of going around spying
on Allens every move. Ive always liked the man
hes a quiet fellow, and a hard worker. Tends to
his own business, tooit doesnt seem right that
we have to be butting into his.
Dont forget, Mr. Wilson, remarked Mr.
Goodwin, still chewing on his cigar, still water
often runs deep.
Thats true, said Radcliffe. Supposing we
hear what else Goodwin has to say before drawing
any further conclusions.
Assuming an air of great importance, Bill
Goodwin again started speaking. There are just
two other circumstances concerning Allen which I
feel need explaining. First, did either of you two
men know that just a year before Jim Allen came
to work for you he had his own architectural
firm? The startled expressions on the faces of the
two men he was addressing were sufficient
69

indication to the detective that his information

was a complete surprise. NoI thought he hadnt
mentioned that little matter, Goodwin continued,
but nevertheless it is a fact. Allen is a graduate
architect, and had his own firm in Winchester for
seven years. He didnt make a go of it, though, and
in order to avoid bankruptcy, sold out just a year
before he came to you. In the meantime he took a
job as draftsman with flic firm of Burns &
Smithquite a comedown after having his own
firmbut he was in ;i pretty tight place,
financially, and was glad of any work at all, I
guess.
It was Burns & Smith he gave us as references
when he sent in his application, remarked
Radcliffe. They are a very reliable firm and gave
him such good references we never inquired
further. Seems mighty queer, though, he should
try to hide the fact that he once had his own firm.
By this time Mr. Wilson had sufficiently
recovered from his own surprise to say, Why do
you both insist he was trying to hide something?
Isnt it possible for a man to be rather ashamed of
a failure and not to wish to speak about it,
especially when never directly questioned in the
matter?
Possible, but not probable, answered his
70

partner. Particularly not when he knew it would

be to his advantage if we knew he had had
excellent architectural experience.
Mr. Wilson said nothing, and there was
complete silence for a moment among the little
group. Then Bill Goodwin again started speaking,
The other matter concerning Allen which I said
needed explaining is this. You know ever since
last Saturday I have had my men stationed so
that they could get a perfect view of anyone who
went in or out of your suite after hours. They have
been there every night and all day Sunday, and,
aside from your night janitor and cleaning
woman, they havent seen anyone even go near
your office after closing timethat is, with one
exception.
The two men leaned forward in their chairs
expectantly while the detective continued. Last
Wednesday, after both of you had already left,
Allen and two of the other men came out together.
According to reports, they were the last to leave.
They went as far as the corner together, then,
Allen made some remarkprobably said he forgot
something, and went back up to the office.
Evidently he has a keythe two partners
noddedand with this he let himself into your
suite. Mulligan, one of my men, who was stationed
71

at the end of the hall on your floor, reports that he

was in there ten minutes. Naturally Mulligan
couldnt see what he was doing while in there, but
he came out carrying a small, flat package.
Did your men follow Allen? asked Radcliffe
excitedly.
Yes, but he went straight home.
Mr. Wilson arose suddenly. He spoke slowly
and in a rather low tone, as if struggling to
remain calm. Goodwin, he said, we hire you to
clear up this trouble because you are supposed to
be one of the best in your line. It is no more than
fair that my partner and I permit you to proceed
with your investigations as you wish. Only, one
word of warningbe very sure of yourself before
you make any accusations against an innocent
man. Thats dangerous business! That is all,
gentlemen, he strode quickly across the room.
Suddenly, he stopped, as he saw his daughter
standing in the doorway. Why, Babs honey, I
didnt hear you come in! How long had she been
standing there, and how much had she heard?
But, though he gazed searchingly at the young
face before him, he could find there no answer to
his unspoken questions.
Her tone was somewhat apologetic as she said,
Im sorry to have interrupted a meeting, Dad. I
72

thought just you and Mr. Radcliffe were in here

and, since Miss Martin wasnt here to tell me not
to, I walked right in.
Thats all right. We had just finished our
meeting, anyway. Taking his daughter by the
arm, he gently but rather hastily, led her out of
the room into the outer office.
As they walked, arm in arm, Barbara Ann
remarked, Your office certainly is a dead place on
Saturday with everyone off for the afternoon
everyone, that is, excepting the janitor. I noticed
he was sweeping up in the drafting room.
Well, Im surprised you didnt start talking to
him and find out his life history before you were
through. You generally do, dont you, Skeezix?
Mr. Wilson smiled in amused fashion at his
daughter.
She ignored his question, but remarked, I
would have spoken to him, but he doesnt appear
to be a very friendly sort of person. I dont
remember ever seeing him before, Dad. Has he
been working here long?
Over a year, I believe. You probably have seen
him from time to time, but have just forgotten.
Barbara Ann shook her head in vigorous denial.
No, I never saw him here before, because I know
I would have remembered him if I had. He is
73

rather odd-looking, dont you think? He has such

dark hair, yet his eyes are light blue, and his skin
is very fair.
Well, honey, I dont know that I have ever
noticed Tony that closely.
Tony? Is he Italian, Dad?
I think he is. He speaks with some sort of an
accent, anyway. I dont know very much about
him myself, because he is on a night shift and just
starts work late in the afternoon. We dont see
him around the office very much. At that
moment, entering the drafting room, Mr. Wilson
noticed the subject of their conversation. He was
still busily sweeping the room. As they passed the
man Mr. Wilson greeted him in friendly fashion.
Hello, Tony. Keeping you busy, I see.
The man glanced up for a moment, and then,
directing his gaze once more on the floor, without
smiling, replied, Always plenty to do, Meester
Wilson.
Youve never met my big girl, have you, Tony?
Barbara Ann smiled. How do you do, Tony,
she said. As the man said nothing, she continued,
attempting to make conversation, Did you get
your pipe back? I found it lying on the window sill,
and Mr. Allen said it belonged to you, so I left it
there.
74

The man looked sharply into the face of the

young girl. Then, quickly resuming his sweeping,
he answered rather shortly, Yes, Miss. I finda da
pipe.
Well, Babsy, remarked Mr. Wilson, we had
better go home. Mother will be waiting for us.
As the two walked out of the room the janitor
suddenly ceased his industrious sweeping and
stood looking after them, a rather sullen
expression on his face.

75

CHAPTER VI
AN EVENTFUL OUTING
Barbara Ann was worriedmore worried than
she cared even to admit to herself. Although she
had said nothing to her father, she had overheard
enough of the conversation between the two
partners and Detective Goodwin to know that Mr.
Allen was under suspicion. Mr. Allen, Bobs dad,
suspected of being dishonest! Oh, how could they
even think of such a thing? It was just too silly
believing for a moment that he could possibly be
the one copying the plans. Of course it was the
detective who had suggested such a thinghe was
just foolish enough to do something like that. But
now that the mischief had been done how were
they going to prove Mr. Allens innocence?
The only thing, of course, was to find the one
really guiltybut that was easier said than done.
If only she could do something to helpjust
anything! But she was only a girland at the
thought Barbara Anns pretty face was screwed up
in an expression of disgust. What could a girl do?
76

If she could just confide in someone, perhaps

together they could work out something. But to
whom could she go? Her dad was so worried she
didnt want to bother him further with questions.
He would worry, too, if he thought she knew they
suspected Mr. Allen. And mother would never
have a moments peace of mind if she knew her
daughter was going to take an active part in
locating the criminal. Bob would probably be a
great help if he were only informed of the trouble
it the office, but he would be very hurt to learn of
the attitude toward his father. No, she could not
possibly confide in him; besides, hadnt she
promised her dad not to say a word to anyone
about the whole affair? That meant she would
have only herself to rely on, if she were to prove
Mr. Allen innocent. Well, it might be hard but she
would do it somehow!
Barbara Ann was startled from her thoughts by
the shrill sound of the telephone ringing. Lifting
up the receiver she at once recognized the voice at
the other end of the line as that of Beverlys.
Judging from her little exclamation of delight,
Barbara was quite pleased at what she heard.
After a few minutes of excited conversation she
said, Just a minute, Bevy. Ill ask Mother
whether or not it is all right for me to go. She ran
77

quickly into the kitchen where Mrs. Wilson was

instructing Annie concerning preparations for the
evening meal. The young girl eagerly sought her
mothers permission to go to the steak fry to be
given by the Wentworths the following day at
their summer cottage on the river.
You say Mr. and Mrs. Wentworth are going
along, too, Barbara Ann?
Her daughter nodded, and added, And there
will be ten of the kids toofive girls and five boys.
Bevy said if the weather is nice well leave early in
the morning and stay out there until after supper.
It should be heaps of fun! But, Mother, Bevy is
waiting at the telephone to find out whether or
not I may go.
Well, dear, since Mr. and Mrs. Wentworth are
themselves going along, and it is too early in the
season for me to worry about your going
swimming, I see no reason why you shouldnt go.
Ill make a big chocolate cake for you to take along
if you wish.
Oh, Mumsy, that would be grand! Thanks!
And the young girl gave her mother an impulsive
hug and kiss.
Now, lets see. Have we everything here ready
to take along? Where are the water jugs? Oh,
78

there they are. You take both of them in your car,

Bob, and here, take the steaks, too, only dont go
running off with l hem.
Bob grinned at Mr. Wentworths jesting
remarks and rapidly began storing bags and boxes
into his car. Several of the boys and girls standing
by began to help him, and, as the young people,
eager to be on their way, Worked energetically, it
was not yet ten oclock when the little group was
ready to start on the days outing. There were
twelve people going and only two cars. Mr.
Wentworth, surveying the scene in perplexed
fashion, said, Lets seehow are we going to
arrange this? I suppose, Beverly, you would rather
go in Bobs caryou see enough of your old
mother and dad every day. And dont go making
faces at me, young lady, either! Well, anyway,
supposing you, Barbara, Jim, Alice, and Don go in
Bobs car. Then Jane Richards, you come in the
car with Mrs. Wentworth and myselfI want to
keep an eye on you anyway, young lady, to keep
you out of mischief. Jane giggled delightedly at
this remark. Now, then, let me see, continued
Mr. Wentworth. Margery, Mort, and Jerry, you
get in my car, and then we are all accounted for.
As the young people happily scrambled into the
two cars, Beverlys father gave Bob directions to
79

the cottage. Just follow Highway 49, he said,

until you reach Burnham Road. Turn right on
Burnham, and follow it for about five miles, until
you come to a little town called Sherwood. You
cross the railroad tracks and ride a short distance
until you come to a fork in the road. Wait there for
me, if my car is not already there, as I had better
lead the way from that point. It is just about a
half mile from there to our cottage, but the road is
gravel and there are a few bad spots, so you had
better follow me. Beverly will show you the way if
you forget my directions.
Bob nodded and started his engine. His car,
newer and more powerful than that of Mr.
Wentworth, quickly took the lead. As they sped
along the highway on all sides their eyes were
greeted by the wild beauty of green fields covered
with blossoming shrubs and vivid hued wild
flowers. In the distance could be seen dim outlines
of rolling hills thickly dotted with trees. As the
brilliant sun cast its rays upon the foliage it
formed a pattern of light and shadow very
beautiful to see.
Isnt it a glorious day! exclaimed Beverly. We
couldnt have chosen a nicer one for an outing if
we had tried. And yesterday it looked cloudy and I
was afraid it would rain today. Can you imagine
80

that?
You had better not crow too soon, commented
Jimmy Henderson, the day isnt over yet.
Listen to Jimmy, chuckled Barbara Ann.
Instead of Calamity Jane Id say it should be
Calamity Jim!
Oh, I dont think it will rain today, remarked
Alice Murdock. The sky looks too clear. Alice, a
thin, quiet girl, was a classmate of Barbara and
Beverly and, while inclined to be much more
serious than the two fun-loving chums, was well
liked by both of the girls.
Anyway, remarked Beverly, if it did rain,
Jimmy, we could always go inside the cottage and
keep dry that way. We could play games, cards, or
anything you might care to do.
Yesbut who wants to go out to the river and
stay indoors playing bridge? Not me! And the
dark-haired boy seated on the right of Alice spoke
with more vehemence than grammatical
precision.
Lets hope we wont have to, said Bob. I dont
think theres anything much to worry about so far
as the weathers concerned. Even if it did rain, we
could still eat, and thats the most important
thing. Im getting hungry already.
Bob Allen! You ought to be ashamed of
81

yourself. Such a beautiful day as this and all you

can think of is food! Barbara Anns tone was
severe but her eyes danced merrily.
Well, Ill bet almost anything that when we
start eating youll do your share all right, Miss
Wilson. I have never noticed anything wrong with
your appetite!
Stop talking about food, will you? Youll be
getting us all so hungry well start eating those
steaks raw. How much longer before we get there,
Bev? inquired Jimmy, pulling out his watch and
examining it.
Ohin about half an hour. But you boys
neednt think you are going to eat right away.
There are plenty of other things to do first.
What, for instance? asked Don.
First of all, you boys will have to gather some
wood for the fire if you want those steaks grilled.
Then you can pump some water, too.
I thought we brought along some large jugs of
water, said Alice.
Thats for drinking. We dont like to drink the
water out there. Although some people say it is
perfectly safe, Dad thinks it is wiser to bring our
drinking water from the city. But we always use
the cistern water for washing purposes, and for
making coffee, because boiling the water kills any
82

germs it might possibly contain. So you see, boys,

we wont deprive you of the pleasure of filling
several buckets of water at the pump.
Say, what is this? questioned Don
indignantly. I thought you invited us out for a
good time, and all you are talking about is putting
us to work. What are you girls going to do while
we men strain our muscles in manly labor?
Oh, well stand around and offer inspiration
while you work, replied Barbara, smiling sweetly.
To silence the exclamations of disgust issuing
from each of the boys at this remark Beverly said,
Dont worry, boys. I promise Ill find some work
for Barbara and the rest of the girls too. And
besides, youll find time for plenty of fun. There
are some grand trees to climb and you can toss
horseshoeswe have a set thereplay baseball,
take a walk, or do whatever you please.
A game of baseball would be great! said
Jimmy enthusiastically. How about it, Bob?
Think you would like to do some pitching?
That would suit me all right.
Youll have to let the girls in on the game,
Beverly quickly remarked. The three boys cast
amused glances at one another.
And you dont have to go poking fun at us,
either, said Barbara. Just wait and seewell
83

show you we know something about the game!

Further discussion of the subject was prevented
by Beverlys rapid exclamation. Slow up, Bob! I
think that next road is Burnham and we turn off
there. Bob immediately slowed down and, upon
reading a sign, discovered that Beverly was
correct. I n accordance with Mr. Wentworths
directions, Bob turned to the right off the main
highway. He drove somewhat more slowly as the
side road was constructed of gravel, and travel
was more difficult than on the concrete highway.
What has happened to your dad, Beverly?
asked Jimmy, craning his neck to see out of the
back window. I havent seen any sign of his car
for several miles.
Oh, hell come rolling along eventually. Well
have to wait for him at the crossroads, though.
Our car is pretty old, you know, and Dad is afraid
it will fall apart if he goes very fast. Our poor
dilapidated boat couldnt begin to keep up with
your beautiful car, Bob.
I think it is pretty swell myself, said Bob,
grinning proudly. After a moment, he added, We
ought to be getting to that little town soon. What
is its name?
Sherwoodand you compliment it when you
call it a town. I think there is a general store, a
84

post office, and a church there.

You forget the cow and three pigs, Bevy,
remarked Barbara Ann. I saw them crossing the
road the last time I went to your cottage.
Arriving shortly at the little town under
discussion, the group of young people discovered
that the comments of Beverly and Barbara were
not greatly exaggerated. Surrounded on all sides
by rolling farm land, Sherwood was the typical
sleepy country hamlet consisting of one main
street and a few scattered residences. Crossing
the railroad tracks, Bob drove a few yards until,
arriving at the fork in the road, he steered the car
to the side and switched off the engine.
Heres where we wait, isnt it, Beverly?
Yes. We might as well get out and stretch our
legs as I know Dad wont arrive for about ten
minutes.
The young occupants of the car, restless and
stiff from sitting in such cramped quarters,
eagerly hastened to follow their hostess
suggestion. Beverly, who was the first to alight,
stepped in front of the car and started to cross the
road. Suddenly, a startled exclamation escaping
from her lips, she stepped back, flattening herself
against the side of Bobs car, just in time to avoid
being hit by a large black sedan which at that
85

moment came careening madly down the road.

Whew! gasped the young girl. Talk about
speed! That car must have been doing every bit of
eighty miles an hour. Why, it was right on top of
me before I even saw it.
People who drive like that should be locked
up! exclaimed Bob with great indignation. Why
they didnt even honk their hornyou could have
been killed!
They didnt even slow up at all when they saw
you. They really deserve to be arrested, said
Alice, speaking with what was for her unusual
vehemence.
Slow up! I should say not! Did you see the way
they took that curve aheadI wouldnt say they
even took it on two wheelsone would be more
like it, and Don teetered precariously on one foot
in imitation of the cars progress down the road.
Thank goodness they took the left hand road
and we take the right. I wouldnt like the thought
of having them try to pass us tonight on our way
home anywhere along that stretch of unpaved
road between our cottage and here.
I wonder why they were in such a hurry, said
Barbara Ann, gazing thoughtfully into space. Do
they have a cottage somewhere near here, Bev?
Not that I know of. I dont remember ever
86

seeing them before, but then they whizzed by so

fast, and I was so busy getting out of their way
that I just caught a glimpse of the two men in the
car.
Glancing down the road in the direction from
which their party had just come she exclaimed
suddenly, Talking about speedhere come
Mother, Dad, and the others, tearing down the
road at about ten miles an hour! By the way, dont
mention my narrow escape to Mother because she
will worry all day about it.
That sounds like my mother, remarked
Barbara Ann. She worries more than anyone I
know about things that might have happened but
didnt.
I believe all mothers are very much alike in
that respect, remarked Alice.
By this time, the other car, with loud honking of
horn and shrieking of brakes, had drawn up
beside Bobs sedan and stopped.
Been here very long? called Mr. Wentworth.
About ten minutes, answered Beverly. You
must have been speeding, Dad.
Now dont go making fun of your old dad.
Besides, we would have made much better time if
it werent for your mothershe is a terrible back
seat driver.
87

Why, John Wentworth, how can you say such a

thing? Mrs. Wentworth protested indignantly. I
didnt say a word about your driving and you
know it.
Well, my dear, I must lay the blame for our
slow pace on someone. If I admit that the car was
at fault our daughter will be after me more than
ever to buy a new one.
After riding over that last stretch, I believe I
quite agree with her.
What, you too? Come on, lets get started
before my family decides I need a Rolls Royce. Ill
lead the way as I know the rough spots. Our
cottage is at the top of a hill and it is a pretty
steep climb so you had better get a good start.
Taking the right fork of the road the little group
started merrily on its way, the shiny, highpowered car following the older machine.
Although the road was bad and the ascent of the
hill quite difficult, the two cars arrived without
mishap at their destinationa small white and
green frame cottage situated on the very top of a
bluff overlooking the river.
As the young people climbed hurriedly out of
the car, carrying bags and boxes with them, there
was a babble of excited voices mingled with
exclamations of delight at each new discovery.
88

With the exception of Barbara Ann, none of the

other girls and boys, had visited the summer
cottage, and their first activity after arriving was
to explore every nook and cranny of the place. The
Wentworth cottage was very similar to many of
the other cottages lining the banks of the rivera
small bungalow consisting of three rooms
completely surrounded by a large screened-in
porch. Its chief claim to beauty lay in its
locationits position on the very summit of the
hill commanded a view of miles of surrounding
countryside. The cottage itself attained a measure
of privacy from the shelter of the beautiful trees
surrounding it. The river flowing swiftly by at the
foot of the cliff, not only added to the
attractiveness of the scene, but in addition
afforded an ideal opportunity for cooling off on hot
summer days.
Beverlys earlier remarks about wood to be
gathered and water to be pumped were soon
verified by Mr. Wentworth. While the boys were
busy with the tasks assigned, the girls helped
Mrs. Wentworth. We wont eat yet for about an
hour and a half, she remarked, but we might as
well have everything ready, because, judging from
past experience, when the men decide it is time
for dinner they dont want to be kept waiting a
89

minute.
Well all have good appetites, said Barbara
Ann, especially if we play that ball game.
As soon as the work was finished Bob and
Jimmy finally succeeded in organizing a ball
game. One team had an extra player as Mrs.
Wentworth flatly refused to participate in the
game. They finally agreed that, since Bob was the
outstanding player there, his team would have
only five members.
The game proved thoroughly enjoyable. The
teams were rather evenly matched and, on both
sides, the girls and boys played hard. Of course,
the boys were greatly amused by the girls efforts.
Neither Barbara Ann nor Beverly were very good
players, although the former could run swiftly and
the latter was a good catcher. The best player
among the girls, however, was Margery Hilton.
Margery, an athletically built girl, excelled in
most sports and was considered one of the star
members of the school G.A.A. (Girls Athletic
Association). She could play as well as most of the
boys and better than some. Naturally, when the
captains chose sides, Margery was the first girl to
be selected, while Alice, whose liking for books
was stronger than that for sports, was the last.
Jane was a great trial to the members of her team
90

as she refused to take the game seriously. She was

always finding some cause for laughter and that
didnt improve her playing. However, in spite of
wild, pitching and poor catching, the players
enjoyed the game and the morning passed all too
quickly.
When the game was finished they didnt have to
consult their watches to know it was noon, their
appetites, always hearty but increased by the
healthy outdoor exercise, were forceful reminders
that it was time to eat. Preparing the meal proved
an exciting and amusing task. Mr. Wentworth
took entire charge of the steaks. Picking up the
large bundle containing the meat he remarked,
Now, girls, you keep out of our way. We boys will
fix some steaks that will melt in your mouths. In
the meantime, you and Mrs. Wentworth can
prepare the rest of the meal, and you had better
fix enough food if everyone is as hungry as I am.
When everything was finally ready, the group,
with much chattering and joking, gathered
eagerly about the table. Judging from the
quantity of food with which the table was laden,
Mrs. Wentworth had taken her husbands remark
quite seriously. There were huge bowls of
homemade potato salad, platters of deviled eggs,
mounds of rolls and sliced bread, jars of olives and
91

pickles, peanut butter, fresh strawberry

preserves, cheese, and, most important of all, the
grilled steaks. And what steaks they were! Every
boy and girl there vowed they had never tasted
anything quite so delicious. Mr. Wentworth, who
was secretly quite proud of his skill as a cook,
beamed happily as the young people devoured his
masterpiece. Beverlys mother, too, was well
content with the praise accorded her efforts, as
she watched the piles of food grow steadily
smaller. When the last crumb of chocolate cake
had been scraped from each plate they pushed
back their chairs and arose.
Whew! exclaimed Barbara Ann, I dont
believe I could possibly have swallowed another
mouthful. Im so stuffed I can hardly move.
I know what is good for that, Beverly retorted
quickly. A little exercise with a good old dish
towel will soon work down that meal. Here,
catch, with excellent aim she tossed a dish towel
over to her chum.
Too bad you cant throw a ball as well as a
towel, retorted Barbara Ann as she began
vigorously to dry dishes. Our team would have
appreciated a little better aim on your part
several times this morning.
A little less talking and a little more working I
92

am certain would be appreciated by Mrs.

Wentworth, announced Margery, who was busily
clearing the dishes away from the table.
Right you are, Margery, exclaimed Bob who
had been standing near by. Come on, fellows,
suppose we all pitch in and well have the dishes
cleaned up in a hurry.
Oh, there is no need for you to help, boys, said
Mrs. Wentworth. I already have plenty of
helpers. Besides, I couldnt keep you all busy. You
go outside and amuse yourselvestoss some
horseshoesand well be through here in just a
few minutes, wont we, girls?
The prospect of a game of horseshoes proved far
more attractive than the thought of drying dishes,
and the boys needed very little persuasion to
follow their hostess suggestion. Mrs. Wentworths
boast was not an idle one. It was just twenty
minutes later when, the last dish dried and put
away, the girls joined the boys in the yard.
Well, exclaimed Beverly, Dad certainly looks
comfortable sleeping there in the hammock. And I
just had my mind made up to do the same thing!
He beat me to it, though, so I suppose this chair is
the next best thing, and the young girl sprawled
lazily into a comfortable-looking steamer chair.
This is the life! said Margery, sighing
93

contentedly as, following Beverlys example, she

reclined in another steamer chair.
Whos winning? called Jane as she stood
watching the horseshoe contest. Jim and Don
were playing as partners against Jerry and
Morton.
Who do you think? answered Jerry, a merry
twinkle in his eyes. Jerry Drake, a short, slightly
built boy, was a favorite among his classmates
because of his unfailing good nature and pep.
They havent a chance playing against Mort and
me. We are just too good for them.
Dont be bragging too soon, warned Jim as be
took careful aim. It is still early in the game and
you are only five points ahead of usor rather I
should say four, he added, beaming proudly as
the horseshoe he had just tossed landed very close
to the stake. Another quarter of an inch and that
would have been a ringer.
Jerry ruefully regarded his opponents
horseshoe, then, picking up his own, winked
mischievously at his partner and said, Come on,
Mort, lets show the girls some real pitching now!
At that moment Barbara Ann joined the little
group. Glancing at the four players, she remarked,
Those boys seem to be the only people with any
energy around here. All the rest of you look as if
94

you were about ready to go to sleep. Whats the

matter with you, Bob? she called, as she noticed
the lanky form of the young man sprawled on the
ground.
Nothingexcepting that I ate too much.
Well, said Barbara Ann impatiently, you all
look just too comfortable. Lets do something!
What do you suggest? asked Bob. Nothing too
strenuous, I hope.
How about a walk? answered the young girl.
That would do us all good after that huge meal.
Who wants to join me?
If you promise to take it easy, Ill tag along,
and Bob, with great effort, rose slowly to his feet.
Thats fine! Now how about the rest of you?
Beverly, dont you want to come along?
I should say not, and have someone else grab
this perfect chair the minute I vacated it! No,
thanksIm afraid you will have to excuse me
this time, Babs.
The others, with the exception of Jane, also
declined Barbaras invitation. Jane, however, said
that she wanted to explore around a bit and would
accompany Barbara and Bob. As they started on
their way, Jane exclaimed indignantly, Did you
ever see such lazy people? Come all the way out
here just to sleep!
95

Maybe the ball game this morning was too

much for them, replied Bob laughingly. It almost
wore me out, I know!
If I hadnt seen you play in some real games I
might believe you, said Barbara Ann. After a
slight pause she added, Well, where shall we
walk? Have either of you any suggestion?
Oh, lets walk to that fork in the road,
answered Jane. You know, the place where you
waited for our car to catch up with you.
Barbara nodded and Jane continued speaking.
Then lets walk along that other road and see
what there is in that section.
Probably some more cottages similar to the
Wentworths, commented Bob. But we might as
well walk along that road as anywhere else.
Walking briskly and humming merrily some of
the popular melodies of the day, the three young
friends lost no time in following Janes suggestion.
As they walked further along the other fork in the
road, they discovered there were fewer cottages
than in the section where the Wentworth
bungalow was situated. What cottages there were
were scattered, and large areas of uncultivated,
wooded land separated one from the other. The
foliage was very heavy, which made walking,
except on the automobile road, quite difficult.
96

Wild flowers bloomed in careless profusion adding

a colorful note to the scene.
What a perfectly wonderful place to go
exploring! shouted Jane, as she skipped excitedly
along ahead of her two companions. Did you ever
see such beautiful flowers? Lets pick some and
bring them back to the city when we return.
She quickly darted from the side of the road
and pushed her way through the tall grass. Oh,
no, Jane, called Barbara Ann. Dont pick those
flowers. They look much prettier growing there in
the field than they would ever look in a vase.
Besides, they would probably wither before we
carried But Barbara Ann didnt finish her
sentence. She was interrupted by a sharp scream
from Jane, who, at that moment, sprawled
headfirst upon the ground. Barbara and Bob
covered the distance to the spot where Jane was
lying in record time. As Barbara Ann knelt beside
the limp body of her friend, her face was almost as
pale as the one into which she gazed anxiously.
Jane, dear, she cried, what is the matter? Are
you badly hurt?
Slowly Jane opened her eyes, only to close them
again as a slight moan escaped from her lips.
After a moment, however, she again opened her
eyes and gasped, Oh, my ankle! Bob gently
97

raised Jane to a sitting position allowing her to

rest against him for support. Glancing at the two
serious faces regarding her with such anxiety, a
flicker of a smile appeared on her lips as she said
with an attempt at her usual gaiety, Dont look so
frightened, you two. I promise you not to faint,
although I never came quite so close before to
doing that very thing. For a moment everything
went blackI suppose the pain in my ankle made
me a little dizzy. Glancing ruefully at her aching
foot, she added, It is beginning to swell already.
But what did you do? inquired Bob. How did
you happen to fall?
There was a hole in the ground which I didnt
see and I stepped right in it. I gave my ankle a
bad wrench, Jane winced as she moved a bit. I
do hope that I didnt break any bones!
Let me have a look at your ankle, Jane, said
Bob. Maybe I can bind it up temporarily so that it
will feel a little easier. Ive had some experience
along that line with my scout work.
With Barbaras aid Jane removed her shoe and
stocking. After examining the badly swollen
ankle, Bob shook his head. Im afraid you cant
step down now on that foot, Jane, even if I did
bind it up. It looks to me as if you have a nasty
sprain there. You may have torn some ligaments,
98

too. I dont think there are any broken bones, but

of course when you see a doctor hell take an X-ray
and tell you definitely.
But what are we going to do now if I cant
walk? How are we going to get back to the
cottage?
Thats a problem, answered Bob, running his
fingers through his hair and looking quite
perplexed. What do you think, Babs?
Well, if we could only manage to find someone
in one of the cottages near here with a car,
perhaps he wouldnt mind driving us back if we
explained the situation.
Yes, but the only one near here is the one we
passed about a quarter mile back. You know, the
one so far from the road, it is almost hidden from
sight. If there were more cars traveling along this
road we might hail one, but there hasnt been a
single machine passing all the time we have been
walking. In fact, we havent even seen any people.
This certainly must be an out of the way section.
No, continued Bob, glancing down the road,
there would be no use in relying on getting a lift
from a passing car. There is nothing in sight and
there is no telling when there will be. The only
thing to do is to follow your suggestion, Babs. Ill
walk down to that house while you stay here with
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Jane.
Do you think it might be better if I went, Bob?
asked Barbara Ann. Sometimes people get a little
frightened when a strange man comes to their
door and they might be afraid to give you a ride.
But most people would not distrust a girlat
least, they wouldnt be afraid to get into a car with
her.
I think Babs is right, said Jane. You had
better let her go, Bob. In the meantime perhaps
you can do something to make this ankle feel a
little easier. It hurts like the dickens right now.
Ill hurry as fast as I can, Janey, called
Barbara Ann over her shoulder as she started
running down the road. Dont worry, well get you
to the cottage in a jiffy, then home and to a doctor
before you realize what is happening.
As Barbara hurried along towards her
destination her mind was busy with strange
thoughts. She had had a very definite reason for
wanting to call at that particular cottage herself.
She had been careful not to disclose anything of
this to Bob, for fear that he would not permit her
to go alone. Barbara Ann was certain that the
cottage she was about to approach belonged to the
men in the speeding carthe one which had
almost run over Beverly earlier in the day. As
100

Jane and Bob and she had passed the place while
on their walk, her observant eyes had noticed the
large black sedan standing beside a tree a few
yards from the cottage. Somehow, Barbara Ann
felt that she must learn more about the occupants
of that car. Just why she felt that way she could
not say, but there was some instinct urging her
on. Perhaps, who knows, those men could throw
some light on the mystery surrounding her
fathers plans! It was a silly thought of course
but, nevertheless, she could not drive it from her
mind. It had persisted all day and, as she climbed
the steps of the cottage, she was still thinking of
the same thing.
What an ideal place for some gangsters
hideout, thought Barbara Ann, and she
shuddered slightly at the idea. The place did
indeed present rather a sinister appearance.
Situated rather far back from the road, it was
almost completely hidden from view by the heavy
foliage surrounding it. The cottage was sadly in
need of a fresh coat of paint and, on the whole,
appeared to be in a very run-down condition.
Barbara Ann thought that it looked as though it
might have been vacant for a long time before its
present occupants had moved in and they
evidently had not as yet time to make it more
101

attractive. The cottage was evidently much older

than the Wentworths and quite different in
appearance. This structure consisted of two
stories, with a porch extending only across the
front. As the young girl walked up the path
leading to the porch, she noticed the large
automobile still standing where it had been when
they passed by earlier. Thank goodness it is still
there, She thought, at least, if they refuse to
help us, they cant say they would only they
havent a car.
Barbara Ann stood quietly on the porch a
moment, attempting to calm her wildly beating
heart before knocking at the door. As she waited
she heard the sound of voicesa womans and a
mansbut she could not hear what they were
saying as they spoke too softly. Then, just as she
was about to knock on the door, a very curious
thing occurred. Through a corner of her eye
Barbara Ann noticed the window shade of the
front window stealthily being drawn back a crack,
and suddenly, for a brief moment, a masculine
face appeared at the window. It was gone again,
however, in a second. That was queer, Babs
thought. Then, throwing back her shoulders, a
determined expression on her face, Barbara Ann
rapped sharply on the door.
102

CHAPTER VII
THE SINISTER FARMHOUSE
To Barbara Ann it seemed an interminable age
before there was any response to her knock. In
fact, the young girl, standing nervously on the
porch of the strange house, was about to rap once
more when she heard hurried footsteps
approaching the door. The door was pulled open a
crack and the face of a woman peered out
furtively. Barbara had a quick impression of a
swarthy skin, unkempt black hair, and, as the one
redeeming feature in the unattractive face,
beautiful large dark eyes.
The woman looked sharply at Barbara Ann and
inquired, none too civilly, what she wanted. There
was a soft slurring about her speech which rather
puzzled Barbara when later she recalled the
conversation. It was too slight to be classified as a
foreign accent, but the womans enunciation was
definitely different from that to which Barbara
was accustomed. At the moment, however, she
103

was too frightened to think of anything else but

the womans question. She made a desperate
effort to control herself so that the woman might
not notice how much she was shakingand,
somehow or another, she managed to stammer out
the reason for her visit. The woman listened
silently to the young girls explanation, staring at
her with her large eyes, and never opening the
door any further. At the conclusion of Barbaras
speech, she frowned slightly, hesitated a moment,
then said, Sorry, Miss, Id like to help you but I
cant. Im all alone here and I cant leave now.
Barbara had a mental picture of a mans face at
the window, the masculine voice she had heard,
and somehow the knowledge that the woman was
not telling the truth seemed to steady her and to
sharpen her wits.
The woman continued. Id be glad to let you
take the car to drive the girl to your friends, but
the car is out of order. My husband and brother
have gone into the city to get a mechanic for it,
and they wont be back for a few hours.
Barbara knew that the woman, for some reason,
was trying to get rid of her as quickly as possible.
The men couldnt possibly have gone to the city for
they would have had to pass them on the way. If
they had gone down the road in the opposite
104

direction they would be going away from the city.

Why was the woman lying to her? If she just
didnt want to be accommodating she could have
simply said, Im sorry but I cant help you, and
closed the door. Instead, though, she seemed
anxious for Barbara to think that she was alone.
Suddenly, Barbara knew she just must get inside
of that house, but what could she do?
The woman was already closing the door as a
signal that their conversation was at an end when
Barbara quickly said, OhI wonder whether I
might have a glass of Water to take to my friend?
She felt rather faintand if it wouldnt be too
much troubleI know the water would help.
Barbara smiled in her most charming manner as
she stepped up to the door. The woman, however,
was too quick for her and, with a sullen
expression on her face, mumbled, Wait a
minute, then unceremoniously closed the door in
Barbaras face.
Peeling quite chagrined Barbara remained
standing helplessly on the porch not knowing just
what to do. In a moment, however, the woman
returned, and, opening the door only enough to
permit her thin arm to stretch through, handed
Barbara a paper cup filled with water. She hardly
gave Barbara time to thank her before closing the
105

door.
Barbara started back feeling very foolish
indeed. She couldnt help thinking to herself,
Well, young lady, you are not as smart as you
think you areyour little plan didnt work at all.
She even gave you a paper cup so you wouldnt
have any excuse for coming back. As she walked
on, she had a peculiar sensation of eyes following
her, but she didnt dare glance back in the
direction of the cottage. Straightening her
shoulders, she began to walk more rapidly. How
silly she was, anyway, letting her imagination run
away with her. Probably the woman wasnt
dressed, or had some good reason for not opening
the door. But then what about that mans face at
the window? She shook her head slightly and
spoke to herself sharply, There are more
important questions to be thinking about now,
Barbara Ann. What are we going to do about
Jane? A worried frown crossed her face, but she
quickly replaced it with a cheerful smile when she
approached the young people.
Here, drink this, Jane, she said, it will be
refreshing. How does the ankle feel now?
I still know its there, answered Jane,
attempting a feeble grin, but what luck did you
have?
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None whatever. There is only a woman at that

cottage and she says her car is not in running
order.
Thats a big help, exclaimed Bob, and there
isnt another cottage in sight. Well, Jane, I m
afraid there is nothing else to do but for you and
Barbara to wait here while I hike back to the
Wentworths cottage and get my car. Do you think
you can stand the pain that long, old girl? And
Bob peered anxiously at the injured girl.
Im not standingIm sitting, Jane retorted
jokingly, but the expression of pain crossing her
round face made the jest seem rather flat.
I promise to hurry as much as possible. These
long legs are good for something. In the
meantime, rest your foot on Barbaras lap, this
way, and the lad skillfully placed the injured foot
in a comfortable position. There, that will take
the blood away from the ankle, and ease the pain.
That does feel better, Jane smiled gratefully
at Bob as he started away.
In a surprisingly short time the two girls saw
him come running back.
Why, he couldnt possibly have been to the
cottage and returned already, exclaimed Barbara
Ann. But looktheres someone running behind
him. Why, its Don!
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The two boys came hastening up, and then

explanations were in order. Bob had just reached
the fork in the road when he met Jimmy and Don
walking along. Mrs. Wentworth had been a little
worried when the three young people did not
return from their walk as soon as expected, and
had sent the two boys to look for them. Jimmy had
gone back to get the car, and Don had come along
so they could carry Jane out to the road. The two
boys, by clasping each others wrists, formed a
seat, and, with Barbaras aid, Jane was hoisted up
and carried to the road. Their progress was of
necessity slow as the boys tried to avoid jarring
the painful ankle, and they had been waiting
beside the road just a few minutes whim Bobs big
blue sedan with Jimmy at the wheel rounded the
bend.
My! Ive never seen a more welcome sight,
sighed Jane.
As the car drew up Mr. Wentworth, who had
been riding in the front seat next to Jimmy,
jumped out. Hurrying over to Jane, he demanded,
Now, see here, young lady, what mischief have
you been up to? Then, examining the swollen
ankle, he quickly added, But we wont waste time
with questions. Lets get Miss Jane home and to a
physician as quickly as possible. Here, boys, give
108

me a hand.
Jane was lifted into the back seat of the car,
and the little party drove back to the cottage.
When Mrs. Wentworth saw the injured girl she
insisted that they pack and start home at once.
I wont be satisfied until that ankle is properly
bandaged, she remarked. As soon as we get Jane
home and to bed, you young folks can come back
to our house and eat your picnic supper there.
Oh, that will be too much trouble for you, Mrs.
Wentworth, exclaimed Alice. Youll be all tired
out. We can just go to our own homes for supper.
Nonsense! What do you think we would do
with all the food left over! Why, Mr. Wentworth
and Beverly would be eating potato salad and
deviled eggs for the next week. Come now,
everything is all settled.
The trip home was uneventful, and much more
quiet than the mornings jaunt. Everyone was
somewhat tired after the strenuous day and
Janes accident had served to subdue the gay
spirits of the young people. Barbara found herself
busy with thoughts of the afternoons events. Try
as she would Barbara could not rid herself of the
idea that there was some connection between the
dilapidated house and its queer occupants and the
mystery concerning her fathers stolen plans. All
109

the way home she kept her eyes glued to the

window hoping for another glimpse of the large
black car, but although there were many
machines traveling the highway the one which
she was seeking never passed.

110

CHAPTER VIII
THE SHADOW OF SUSPICION
Well, Goodwin, you havent made much
progress in the past three weeks. Here it is the
beginning of May and we are no nearer a solution
of our problem than when we first hired you, Mr.
Wilson leaned back in his chair, gazing directly at
the detective. At these words the plump little man
who was perched on the corner of the mahogany
desk jumped down and started to pace excitedly
around the room.
Now, thats just the trouble, gentlemen, he
remarked, gesticulating wildly as he spoke. You
are all alikeno patience at all! You expect us
detectives to do the impossible.
All I have to say, Mr. Radcliffe remarked
rather drily, is that we had better have some
results soon. All blueprints for that auditorium
must be submitted no later than June first and we
dont want to take any chances of losing that job
in the same way we have been losing the others.
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Have you been following my instructions about

locking up your plans in the safe every night, and
not leaving them lay around at any time when you
are out of the office?
We certainly have, answered Mr. Wilson.
Whoever copies those plans will either have to be
a safe cracker or a mind reader.
I am still certain its an inside job, and, as if
for emphasis, Mr. Goodwin produced a somewhat
soiled handkerchief and blew his nose vigorously.
Now, if you gentlemen, and when he said
gentlemen the little defective looked directly at
Mr. Wilson, would not object so strenuously to
our questioning a few of your men
See here, Goodwin, interrupted Mr. Wilson
angrily, weve gone into that often enough and
you ought to understand by now that, until you
have some definite evidence that points toward
any of our employees, no one is to know anything
about this business of stolen or rather copied
plans. So far as I know, none of our force know
you are a detective and working for us, and they
are not to know, either, unless it becomes
necessary. Why, you might as well suspect
Radcliffe or myself, for all the evidence you have
against any of our men.
Now, dont get excited, Mr. Wilson. Im doing
112

just as you say in the matter, although, speaking

of suspicious evidence, what about those facts
concerning Allen?
There was nothing conclusive about that, Mr.
Wilson quickly retorted, while his partner added,
No, nothing conclusive, but those facts should not
be overlooked!
By the way, continued the detective, I meant
to ask both of you whether, to your knowledge,
Allen has been doing any work at home for you
lately. Both partners shook their heads in denial.
Well, then, perhaps you can explain why, for the
past few weeks, Allen has been working on some
blueprints at his home almost every evening.
How do you know that? inquired Mr. Wilson
quickly, leaning forward in rather startled
fashion.
Ive had one of my men shadow his house and
he can see Allen working at the dining room table
almost every evening. You know I here is a
window right near the table.
But how can he tell from that distance just
what sort of work he is doing?
You underestimate our ability, retorted Mr.
Goodwin, pulling himself up to the full extent of
his five-feet-four and one-half inches. Last week I
had Mulligan disguise himself as a telephone
113

inspector and he pretended to be doing some work

on Allens phone. As the telephone is in the dining
room he managed to get a good look at the work
Allen was doing. He was working on some
sketcheslooked like sketches of roomsand he
had several drawings and also some blueprints
lying around the table. Some day soon I mean to
get ahold of one of those sketches and see whether
you men find anything familiar about it.
Mr. Wilson shook his head uneasily. Watch
your step, Goodwin. Ive told you before you might
be suspecting an innocent man. Allen may be
doing some work of his own which has nothing to
do with our plans. I certainly hope that is the
case, anyway. Ive always respected Allen and felt
that he had real ability. Taking his hat off the
hat rack, he said, If you two men will excuse me,
I have a luncheon engagement so will have to
leave you now. The two men watched him as he
slowly left the office.
I dont know where the past few weeks have
gone. The time has just flown! remarked Beverly
Wentworth as she curled up into a comfortable
armchair.
Well, studying for those quarterly exams took
up quite a bit of time, replied Barbara Ann.
114

I know where a great deal of it was spent,

Jane Richards smilingly added. Right here, with
you two girls bringing me my daily assignments
and explaining the days lessons to me. You
certainly have been real friends, she exclaimed,
and her tone was more serious than that in which
the jolly girl usually spoke.
As had been their custom every day after school
since Janes accident, the three girls were
gathered in the living room of the Richards home.
Jane, her ankle still bandaged, was reclining on
the divan. She continued speaking. Thank
goodness, you wont have to be coming here much
longer. To the indignant exclamations issuing
from her two friends, Jane laughingly replied,
Oh, I dont mean that Im not happy to have you
come to see meyou know I didnt mean that, you
silly things! I meant, though, that Dr. Murdock
said yesterday he thought, with the help of a cane,
I would be able to walk on my foot again in a few
days.
Oh, how perfectly grand! exclaimed Barbara.
All the girls will be happy to have you back at
school again. They have all missed you more than
you realize.
Yes, said Beverly, things have been
practically dead at school without you to stir up
115

some excitement. The only thing halfway

interesting now is the Senior Boat Ride. That will
be a week from Saturday night.
I know, nodded Jane, Don Andrews asked me
to go with him.
Oh, but will you be able to go? exclaimed the
two chums both talking at once.
Dont worry that was one of the first questions
I asked Dr. Murdock, and yesterday he said, if I
would promise not to dance, he didnt see any
reason why I couldnt go on that boat ride. So,
even if I shall have to be a wallflower, Ill be
there!
A wallflower, indeed! laughed Beverly.
Instead, youll be an interesting invalid
surrounded by attractive young men.
Im afraid I dont look much like an invalid,
and certainly not very interesting, Jane ruefully
remarked, as she took out a mirror from her purse
and began critically to examine her plump cheeks
and healthy complexion. Putting away the mirror
with a sigh, she turned to her companions. Did
Jimmy Henderson ask you to go with him? she
asked. When the latter nodded, she turned to
Barbara. And I suppose there is no need in
asking whether you are going with Bob.
What do you meanno need? Dont you think
116

anyone else might ask me to go? responded

Barbara indignantly. Then smiling slightly, she
added, It just so happens I am going with Bob,
though.
Glancing at her wrist watch, Barbara hurriedly
jumped up exclaiming, Goodness, it is four oclock
already! Ill have to rush if I am going to get
downtown before the stores close. Beverly
Wentworth, if you are coming with me, you had
better get a move on.
Thank goodness, I didnt have any trouble
finding that present for Margery. I do dislike
buying gifts in such a hurry, but I completely
forgot about Margerys birthday until you
mentioned it at school.
Barbara and Beverly, their shopping completed,
were walking along the downtown streets in the
direction of the bus they were to take home.
I am hungry, remarked Beverly, stopping
before a confectioners window. Doesnt that
fudge look good, Babs?
Her companion, however, didnt hear the
question, for at that moment she was busily
engaged in watching a woman alight from a
streetcar. Beverly started to repeat her question
when Barbara Ann, taking her hand, began to
fairly pull her down the street. Come on, she
117

said to the dark-haired girl. Dont ask any

questions now, but just follow me.
Beverly looked at her friend as if she had
suddenly lost her reason, but she had no time to
ponder on Barbaras strange actions because she
almost had to run to keep up with the girls fast
pace. Barbaras eyes never left the tall, angular
figure of the woman who walked a few feet in
front of her. As the woman turned a corner she
had a better view of her features. Yes, she was
positive they were those of the woman in the
strange house at the river. At that moment the
woman entered an office building. Barbara Ann
stopped so suddenly that she caused Beverly to
stumble slightly.
For goodness sakes, Barbara Ann Wilson,
have you gone mad? First, you take a notion to
chase wildly after some strange woman, and then
you stop suddenly without warning. What is the
matter with you, anyway? and she eyed her chum
suspiciously.
The gray eyes of Barbara Ann sparkled with
amusement. No, Bevy, Im not entirely insane. I
just wanted to see whether that wasnt the queer
woman who gave me the water for Jane that day
when she sprained her ankle. You remember, I
mentioned her to you.
118

Well, what if it was? asked Beverly rather

crossly. I dont see why you had to go dashing
madly after her. I dont think youll ever grow up,
she shook her dark head in severe disapproval.
Barbara Ann merely smiled, then said, We had
better start doing some dashing homeward. It
really is getting late. Glancing once more in the
direction of the building which the woman had
entered, she clasped Beverlys hand and started
walking down the street.
After dinner that evening, Barbara Ann
suddenly looked up from the pages of her Modern
European History book and glanced at her father.
Dad, she said, where did you say the offices of
Howard and Johnston are?
Mr. Wilson, rather puzzled at the sudden
question, looked quizzically at his daughter. In
the Ferguson building, Skeezix, but why that
question out of a clear sky?
Oh, I was just wondering, answered his
daughter, and she appeared once more to
industriously apply herself to her studies. But
there was a startled expression on her face, as she
thought once more of a dark-eyed woman entering
the Ferguson building.
119

CHAPTER IX
THE LIGHT IN THE OFFICE
Unless you make more progress than you are
doing, were going to lose out on that deal, and
the dark, thick-set man scowled unpleasantly at
his sandy-haired companion.
And I tell you I cant work any faster than I
am, the man retorted shortly as he wiped beads
of perspiration from his face. Theyre suspicious
and being plenty careful, which means I have to
watch my step, too. One slip and you know what
that would mean
The older man shrugged slightly. Careful,
yesbut if you used that head of yours for
anything other than a hat rack you could have
had more information by this time.
The two men were seated in a small, rather
plainly furnished office, and the hot noonday sun
streaming in was evidently making I hem
uncomfortable and helping to shorten their
tempers. Although it was not quite the middle of
120

May, the heat of summer seemed to have already

descended upon the city. The dark-complexioned
man continued speaking, clipping his words off in
terse fashion.
Now see here, Johnston, you know as well as I
that the estimate of the high school auditorium
has to be submitted before June first. That gives
us just a little over two weeks to finish up and we
have barely started. The mans thick lips curved
into a sarcastic grin. Do you think the high school
board will wait until we are good and ready to
turn over our plans because of our growing
importance in the community?
Now, Howard, no use getting nasty about it. I
havent failed before, and I wont this timebut
you have plenty of nerve criticizing me! What are
you doing to help the cause along?
Seeing he had gone a little too far, the older
man changed his tone of voice in an effort to
placate his partner. Well, maybe I was a little
hasty. But Im getting jumpythis business is too
much for my nerves. Ill be glad when we get
enough to clear out of here.
The blond man arose and, taking his hat,
walked toward the door. Youll not be any more
relieved than I will. After a slight pause he
opened the door and remarked, Ill see you
121

tomorrow and report. I have a hunch Ill be more

successful this evening.
On that same May afternoon quite a different
scene was being enacted at the Wilson home.
Gathered in the living room were several young
girls, their happy faces alight with fun and
excitement.
Arent you glad it is so warm today? asked
Beverly Wentworth. It will be just delightful on
the boat this evening. We wont be too cool in our
summer formals. Oh, I am so anxious to see your
dresses.
I imagine yours will be lovely, Beverly, from
the way you describe it. I hope you will like mine,
Alice smiled gently, knowing well that her formal
was most becoming. It was her first long dance
frock and, in her quiet way, she was very thrilled
at the prospect of the evening ahead.
Babs, what is the matter with you? inquired
Jane Richards. You havent had a word to say for
the past two minutes!
Barbara aroused herself from her reverie to
retort gaily, With you around, Jane, it is a
wonder anyone else has a chance to talk at all.
Really, though, strange as it may seem, I was
thinking. I just remembered that a few weeks ago
122

Mother said because of Dads business worries I

wasnt to have any more new dresses this
Springand then she surprised me with that
adorable formal. I know she probably did without
a new dress herself, which she certainly could use,
to make up for having bought mine. Arent
mothers and dads the most unselfish people you
ever saw? Do you think well be like that when we
are married and have children of our own? she
inquired of her friends.
If it is a matter of not buying a new formal for
myselfparticularly if the styles are as attractive
as at presentIm afraid here is one parent who
wont be so self-sacrificing. In fact, added Jane,
nodding her head vigorously, I think Ill just solve
the whole problem by not getting married and
having any children. Then I can be as selfish as I
like, and have much more fun!
Youll change your mind, Jane, when you are
older and the right man comes along, said Mrs.
Wilson as she entered the room. I just overheard
the last part of your conversation, and, although it
is an interesting subject, I would suggest that you
youngsters defer your discussion until another
time. I dont want to seem inhospitable, but since
tonight is a very important occasion, and you all
want to look your prettiest, I think you should go
123

home now and take a short beauty nap before

dinner. I know Babs, for one, will enjoy herself
more if she has had a little rest, and the same is
true for the rest of you. Smilingly offering a hand
to the girls, Mrs. Wilson proceeded to pull them
out of the comfortable chairs. Now then, one, two,
three, skidoo, all of you! she merrily added.
Why, Mother, what a poor hostess you are
telling your guests to leave! exclaimed Barbara in
mock horror.
Your mother is perfectly right, said Alice,
and I think we had better take her advice. Come
on, girls, lets get started. Well see you tonight,
Babs.
After hurried good-byes and the noisy banging
of the front door, sudden quiet descended upon the
room in which Barbara and her mother stood.
Putting her arms about her mother and giving her
an affectionate hug, the young girl looked directly
into the eyes of the older woman. Thanks loads,
Mumsy, for that formal. I know you should not
have bought it for me. You and Dad are just too
good to me! But some day and I hope it will be
soonIm going to try and do something for both
of you to show my appreciation.
The moon shone brightly as Bob Allen helped
124

Barbara Ann into his car. Gee, you look swell,

Babs! he remarked as he switched on the motor.
That dress is about the prettiest Ive seen. Of
course, I never notice girls clothes muchbutoh
well, it just kind of suits you.
Thanks, Bob, replied Barbara, smiling
happily. I think it is pretty, too. But you look
very nice yourself in that new suit.
The youth grinned sheepishly and then busied
himself steering the car safely out of its parking
space. Mr. and Mrs. Wilson, standing at the front
door looking out, could not help smiling proudly at
the young couple. Indeed, other people passing on
the street could not keep from turning their heads
and glancing again at the attractive young girl in
the charming white dance frock and at her tall,
well-groomed escort. Barbaras gray eyes were
dark with excitement and, against the white of
her dress, her clear skin looked smooth and
glowing. It was small wonder that Bob gazed at
her with admiring eyes.
Driving along downtown in the direction of the
river, the two chatted gaily. Their conversation
finally centered upon the subject of graduation.
Wont you be rather sorry to leave the old
school? queried Barbara Ann. I was just
thinking the other day that, in spite of everything,
125

it isnt such a bad place!

Yes, in some ways, it will seem rather tough to
be saying good-bye to the old Alma Mater,
answered Bob. But then, Im anxious to get out
and find some work, so that I can start college
soon.
What do you mean, Bob? Arent you going to
college in the Fall?
Not unless I am fortunate enough to get a loan
scholarship or a part-time job which will pay for
my tuition. What I am planning to do is get a job
as soon as I can after school is out, and then work
for a year, until I have enough money saved to
start school. You see, Dad cant afford to send me
to college at present.
Oh, Babs remarked rather thoughtfully, I
thought your dad must be doing rather well when
he gave you this beautiful car for a graduation
gift.
Bob smiled, Yes, the car does look like a pretty
swell gift. Dad never did tell me the details, but I
believe he must have managed to get a very good
deal on this car, or he could never have bought it.
Dad hasnt had an easy time financially for the
past few years, but none of us ever hear him
complain. Anyway, I think it is up to me to pay for
my own education from now onand Im going to
126

do it too! and there was an air of determination

about the boyish face which somehow made it look
older. Naturally, he continued, there is nothing
I should like better than to enroll next September
with the rest of the fellows in my class. The
architectural engineering course is a long enough
one, and the sooner I can graduate, the sooner I
can get started making a living and helping out at
home. But then, a part-time jobI mean a job
which would permit me to attend classes during
the day and then work at night or at odd hours
is not easy to find. Maybe Ill be lucky. If not, Ill
just have to start a year later.
That wouldnt be so terrible, Bob. You would be
in my class, then, and we would both be freshies
together.
Thats right, he said, smiling at her
comforting remark. Just the same, young lady, I
would rather be a sophomore when you are a
freshman.
I do wish you luck, Bob, said Barbara softly.
They drove along in silence for some moments.
They had entered the downtown section, and Bob
found the handling of the car claimed all his
attention in the heavy traffic.
Why, here we are already in the street where
Dads office is, exclaimed Barbara Ann. In fact,
127

there it is, she said, as the car glided up in front

of a tall office building. Glancing back, she
suddenly called, Wait a minute, Bob, drive more
slowly if you can. I think I see a light in Dads
office.
Slowing down as his companion had requested,
the boy said teasingly, Now see what youve done,
young ladymade me miss the green lightwell
have to wait now until the signal changes.
Barbara said nothing, but kept craning her
head to look up at the twelfth floor of the building.
Finally she said, Yes, Im certain there is a light
up there. Bob, I wonder if you would mind parking
the car and going up there with me for a moment?
We still have plenty of time to catch the boat.
Bob looked rather puzzled. But why, Babs?
What if there is a lightwhats so queer about
that? Maybe one of the men is working late.
Barbara shook her head vigorously. They
havent been that busy lately. Oh, I know it is
crazy, but I want to go up there anyway. Please,
Bob! Then, realizing how queer her insistence
might seem, she added rather lamely, Most likely
Dad or someone forgot to turn out the light when
they left and well save them the cost of some
electricity by turning it out.
The boy glanced rather shrewdly at the girl
128

beside him but, saying nothing, expertly parked

the car in the nearest available place. As they
walked toward the building, Bobs long strides
easily keeping pace with the young girls halfrunning steps, he asked, Do you think youll be
able to get into the office? Are the elevators
running, and how about a key?
The freight elevator runs all night, she
replied, at least, thats what Dad always said he
had to use when he worked late. And as for the
key, the night watchman will let us in because he
knows me quite well.
The night watchman did know Barbara Ann
and seemed very pleased to see her. As he smiled
indulgently at the pretty girl standing before him,
he led the way to the freight elevator. And what
mischief are you two youngsters up to now? he
asked as he closed the elevator gates, wanting to
get into your pas office at this hour of the night?
No mischief at all, Mr. Ryan, smilingly
answered Barbara Ann. I just remembered I left
something at the office when I was here the other
day, and I have to have it for tomorrow. Sorry to
have to bother you for the keywell bring it back
to you right away. Thanks. And, stepping quickly
out of the elevator, she fairly dragged the big
youth down the hall.
129

Whats the rush? he started to exclaim, when

Barbara Ann, rounding a corner, suddenly put a
warning finger up to her lips. Then, slowing her
pace, she tiptoed silently to the door and placed
the key in the lock.

130

CHAPTER X
A SCARE
The reception office was dark and the two
young people stood quietly side by side,
attempting to adjust their vision to the absence of
light. A slight sound from the direction of the
inner office made both of them start, and, with a
muffled Come on, Barbara Ann pulled Bob after
her in the direction of the sound. Her heart was
beating so rapidly that she thought her
companion must certainly have heard the sound of
its pounding. Something of her excitement must
have been conveyed to the youth for, as they
stopped before a door from which a thin shaft of
light issued, he stepped in front of the girl and
said, Herelet me go first. Clasping his hand,
Barbara Ann followed as Bob, without further
hesitation, pushed open the door.
Oh! gasped Barbara Ann. At the sound of her
voice, a man who had been kneeling in front of the
safe, wheeled around and, with a muffled oath,
131

arose to his feet. The startled and angry face of

Tony, the janitor, greeted the frightened young
people.
What do you want sneaking up here like this?
he shouted angrily, his voice harsh and
unpleasant. Did she imagine it in her excitement,
or was it true, wondered Barbara Ann, that the
man seemed to be speaking without any accent?
Then, seeming to recover somewhat from his
shock, the janitor picked up his dust cloth which
had been lying on the floor and began to
vigorously polish the safe. Bowing slightly, he
continued, a rather forced smile on his lips,
Excusa me, Mees Barbara, but you gavea me the
scare. Eets so quiet here and I not hear you and
your young man until you almost on top of me.
By this time, Barbara Ann had also recovered
some of her composure, she replied, Im sorry we
startled you, Tony. I imagine you must have been
frightened to have someone barge in on you at this
hour. But Bob and I were just driving by on the
way to the Senior Boat Ride when I remembered I
had left a library book when I was here the other
day. We saw the light and I supposed one of the
men was working late. I never thought of the fact
that you would be here cleaning up the office. By
the way, did you see my book?
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The man shook his dark head in denial and

busied himself polishing the knobs on the safe.
Is this it, Barbara? asked Bob, holding up a
book which had been lying on the desk.
Why yes, Bobthanks! Well, come onwe had
better be going if we dont want to miss the boat.
For goodness sakes, dont lose that book or let me
forget to take it out of the car when I get home.
Looking back over her shoulder she called,
Goodnight, Tony.
The young girl didnt say another word until,
seated once more in the car beside her escort, she
threw back her head and, resting it against the
seat, allowed a long-drawn-out exclamation to
escape from her lips. Whew! Sitting quietly for a
little while, her slender body which had been rigid
from excitement gradually became less tense and
more relaxed. A little color came back into the
smooth young cheeks, and she turned with a
slight smile to gaze at the young boy sitting beside
her.
Feel better now? he inquired rather anxiously.
Much! Barbara Ann replied. But I wont deny
that I was plenty frightened. How about you?
Werent you almost scared out of your wits too?
The youth grinned rather ruefully. Well, Ill
admit when I saw that fellow kneeling before the
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safe my pulse shot up to about one hundred and

twenty. But I certainly did feel silly when I found
out he was only the janitor cleaning up.
So did I! But, Bob, dont you think he was even
more frightened than we were? Even though he is
so dark-complexioned I could swear he looked
absolutely pale when he saw us.
Yeshe did seem pretty nervousbut anyone
would be frightened at having someone suddenly
break in on him like we did without any warning.
He isnt a very pleasant-looking specimen, though,
is he?
Nohe sort of makes cold shivers run down
my spine, and Barbara Ann shook slightly. But,
she continued, wasnt it queer that he should be
fooling around the safe?
What was queer about that? He was polishing
it, which is part of his job as janitor. The safe was
closed, you know. Peering more closely at
Barbara Ann, Bob continued speaking. And
talking about queer, Miss Wilson, I should say
your actions were the ones that demanded
explanations! Why in the world, all of a sudden,
just because you see a light in your fathers office,
you should decide to go dashing madly up there is
more than I can understand!
But I did forget that library book, she rather
134

weakly replied.
Dont try to fool me, Babs! You just thought
that one up after you saw the book lying there and
you certainly could have had your father bring it
home tomorrow. No that wasnt the reason you
went up there. But then, shaking his head, he
continued, what man ever could understand a
woman?
Barbara laughed gaily at this comment. Then
her face suddenly assumed a serious expression as
she said, Youre right, Bob, I made up that excuse
about the book. But I did have a very good
reason for wanting to go up to that office.
However, I cant tell you the real reason now.
Youll just have to trust me, and I hope that very
soon Ill be able to explain everything. In the
meantime please dont say anything to anyone
about our experience. And now, lets get started
for the boat and forget about everything else
except having a good time.

135

CHAPTER XI
THE FACE IN THE MATCHLIGHT
Barbara Ann Wilson, are you getting too
snobbish to speak to your old friends or are you
just absent-minded? Bob Allen planted himself
squarely in front of the young lady he was
addressing. Barbara looked up rather startled,
and then her gray eyes lighted with pleasure as
she saw who it was blocking her path.
Why hello, Bob, she greeted him. I really
must have been lost in thought because I didnt
see you until this minute. Anyway, its nice seeing
you again.
Have you a moments time, Babs? As the girl
nodded, he continued, How about sitting down
here on the steps for a few minutes? We still have
ten minutes until classes start. Besides, I have
something to tell you, and this is the first chance I
have had to say more than hello since the boat
ride.
Yes, said Barbara Ann, attempting to adjust a
136

curl which the soft morning breeze had

disarranged, weve both been very busy. What
with exams, and your getting ready for
graduation, and my working with that silly play
there just hasnt been time to breathe. Oh dear,
she suddenly exclaimed, that breeze feels grand,
but it is certainly hard on my hair.
You girls and your hair! exclaimed the boy in
great disgust. Cant you ever forget about it?
Besides, I like your hair when it is mussed up.
But, he continued, I didnt ask you to sit down
here to talk about your hair. I have some news!
What is it, Bob? eagerly inquired the girl,
good or bad?
Ill let you be the judge. I just received this
yesterday afternoon, drawing out a small flat
envelope from his pocket, he handed it to Barbara
Ann.
Eagerly scanning the contents of the letter, she
looked up, her face shining happily. Oh, Bob!
How perfectly grand! They have granted you that
loan scholarship for which you applied. I thought
they would, though, because of your recordand
now that means you can start college in the fall.
Im so glad!
Well, Im pretty pleased myself, replied the
lad smiling broadly. Now, if only I can land a nice
137

job this summer Ill be able to get some money

saved up toward paying off the loan. Ive written
to several resorts out west, as they often have jobs
for college fellows either driving sight-seeing cars
or waiting on tables or something along that line.
I dont think there would be much chance of
getting anything here for the summer as it is
pretty quiet.
Their conversation was interrupted by the
sound of the first bella warning to start to the
classroom. As they climbed up the steps, they
were joined by several of their friends. Barbara
regaled them with the good news of Bobs
scholarship, and, amidst much back-slapping and
hilarious congratulations, the little group entered
the school building. Inside the halls they
conducted themselves of necessity with slightly
more decorum. They dispersed in the directions of
their classrooms and, as Beverly and Barbara
walked down the hall together, arm in arm, past
the office of the school principal, Barbara Ann
suddenly-stopped.
For goodness sakes! What is the matter with
you, Babs? remarked Beverly. You look as if you
had seen a ghost.
Who is that man? Barbara whispered.
What man? her friend questioned in
138

bewildered fashion.
The man talking to Mr. Bradshaw.
How should I know, answered Beverly. But
what is there so exciting about him? He looks like
any other ordinary human to me. The blackhaired girl gazed calmly at the blond man busily
conversing with the principal.
Barbara, however, appeared rooted to the spot
and seemed unable to withdraw her gaze from the
mans face. Where have I seen that man before?
What is there so familiar about his face? As she
stood there, unobserved by the two men, they
appeared to be terminating their conversation.
They walked together toward the doorway of the
office. As they passed, Barbara Ann heard Mr.
Bradshaw say, Your ideas sound very good, Mr.
Johnston, but dont forget those blueprints must
be in by next Monday, the first. Theyll be
considered then, along with the other estimates. If
your price is as good as your ideas you may stand
a good chance of getting the contract.
Barbara caught her breath. She stepped back
into the shadow of the wall so that the man might
not notice her as he passed. He, however, was too
preoccupied with his own thoughts to observe
anything that was going on around himpleasant
thoughts they must have been, too, thought
139

Barbara, as she watched a slight smile play about

his thin lips. Just before going out of the door, the
man stopped, placed a cigarette in his mouth and,
taking a match, held it up to the cigarette. As the
flame illuminated his face, quite suddenly the
alert eyes of Barbara Ann saw clearly another
picturea dark early spring evening, a young girl
breathless, handing a man his pipe, an
unpleasant face, and then, Thats George
Wilsons girl! So it had been Mr. Johnston of
Howard and Johnston whom she had bumped into
that night.

140

CHAPTER XII
BARBARA ANN MAKES UP HER MIND
Dad, will you please tell me something?
Certainly, honey girlwhat is it? Mr. Wilson
peered inquiringly over the edge of his newspaper
at his daughter. The evening meal was over and
the Wilson family was quietly seated in the living
room. Only the sound of Annie in the kitchen
washing dishes broke the silence. Mrs. Wilson was
busily darning socks and Mr. Wilson was scanning
the evening news. Since it was Friday, Barbara
Ann had declared a holiday from studying and
was simply sitting curled up in an armchair busy
with her thoughts.
All day long, even during classes, Barbara could
not keep her mind off the little scene of the
morningthe principal and Mr. Johnston.
Particularly the words of the principal seemed to
echo and re-echo in her ears. If your price is as
good as your ideas you may stand a good chance of
getting the contract. What did that mean? What
141

were Johnstons ideas? Were they the same as

those of her fathers firm? In fact, would they
again be direct copies of their plans? But how
could that be possible, she reasoned with herself,
the detective, Mr. Goodwin, had had the place
constantly guarded. He had even known about the
time Bob and she had gone up to the office and
had reported the incident to her father. Noyou
couldnt accuse Mr. Goodwin of not being on the
job. The plans, too, whenever they were not being
worked on, had been kept in the safe.
In spite of all this precaution, and though her
reason told her such an idea was foolish, Barbara
Ann could not rid herself of the feeling that all
was not well. Instinctively, she knew that when
Howard and Johnston submitted their plans, they
were going to be once more stolen from those of
Wilson and Radcliffe. Just why she was so certain
she could not tell, unless it was because of that
smug expression on the face of Mr. Johnston as he
left the school.
Well, daughter, Im still waiting to hear your
question, said Mr. Wilson, looking at his
daughter in rather amused fashion.
Oh, Im sorry, Dad, said Barbara Ann, quickly
glancing up, I must be getting oldanyway I
cant seem to keep my mind from wandering.
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What I wanted to know, though, was whether or

not you have already sent in your blueprints for
that auditorium?
Yeswe sent them in last Wednesday. You
know they are having their board meeting
Monday, and they are going to vote then on the
different bids. But why do you ask, Babs?
Oh, I was just wondering. You know, I am
pretty interested in more ways than one.
I know, Skeezix, said Mr. Wilson, a slight
frown shadowing his face, and there is no one
who would rather see you get to take that
Colorado trip than your mother and I. But, of
course, it all depends on whether we get that
contract.
But, George, said Mrs. Wilson, looking up
from her darning, isnt it almost certain that your
firm will get that contract? My! You have worked
so hard on those plans and from what you have
told me they seem wonderful! And you certainly
have given them a reasonable estimate.
I know, Ellen, answered her husband, shaking
his head slightly, but you never can tell. You
know there is many a slip twixt the cup and the
lip.
Yes, said Mrs. Wilson, but you have taken so
many precautions this time against anything
143

happening to your plans. Those detectives have

watched carefully, havent they, George?
Oh, they have been careful, agreed Mr.
Wilson, but they havent been successful in
tracking down the way in which the plans were
copied in all the previous cases. Of course,
Goodwin has various theories and suspicions, but
until he has more substantial proof I am not going
to listen to him.
Barbara Ann looked hard at her father. Then
you dont really believe the horrible things he
says, Dad?
Mr. Wilson looked at his daughter in some
surprise. I am not certain just how much you
know of what is going on, young lady, but Im
willing to wager that those sharp ears and eyes of
yours havent missed much. Anyway, I wont
believe any of Goodwins theories until he can
present actual facts.
Barbara looked relieved. Suddenly sitting up
very straight in her chair, she again addressed
her father. But, Dad, I just happened to think,
even if you do get the contract, how will you be
able to afford to send me to Colorado? You wont
be paid until the auditorium is completed, and
that wont be before next winter.
Mr. Wilson smiled. Skeezix, youre beginning
144

to resemble your mother more and morealways

finding something about which to worry. Well, let
me tell you, you had better concentrate all your
worrying on whether we land the contract,
because after it is once obtained there will be easy
sailing. You see, the school board stipulated that
work on the auditorium must start immediately
and, in order to avoid any delay, the firm awarded
the contract will receive twenty-five thousand
dollars in advance payment. The board is
particularly anxious that all the outside work be
finished on the auditorium before bad weather
sets in to delay the construction, and they dont
want the firm handling the building to be
handicapped by lack of funds.
Twenty-five thousand dollars in advance
whew! That is a nice sum! exclaimed Barbara.
Oh, Dad, you just must get that contract! she
added impulsively.
Her fathers kindly eyes looked into her own
bright ones and his tone was serious as he replied,
All I can say, daughter, is that we have really
tried.
Barbara Ann simply could not fall asleep that
night. Try as she mightcount sheep, spell words
backwards, and all the old tricksnothing would
145

make sleep come to her eyes. Finally she stopped

trying, and simply gave herself up to her
thoughts. How could she, Barbara Ann Wilson, a
mere slip of a girl, manage to get that contract for
her father? Worst of all, there was so little time in
which to do anything. Howard and Johnston, she
had gathered from the conversation she had
overheard, had not as yet submitted their
blueprints, but they would be certain to get them
in tomorrow, Saturday, as that was their last
possible chance. Now, if only in some way, before
those plans were submitted, she could get proof
that they were stolen copies of her fathers
blueprints. But how could she do that? How,
indeed?
The frown deepened on her face as Barbara Ann
tossed restlessly about in her bed. Suddenly she
lay quiet, a new thought occurring to her. Every
piece of drafting paper in her fathers office had
the firm name stamped upon it. Even the paper
upon which first drafts and sketches were drawn,
and often discarded, was specially stamped firm
paper. Now, if only she might gain access to the
office of Howard and Johnston, if, as she firmly
believed, by some ingenious method they had
managed to get ahold of her fathers plans,
perhapsonly perhaps, of courseshe might find
146

some blueprints or sketch stamped with the name

Wilson, Radcliffe and Company. If she could do
that there would be no difficulty in proving the
mens dishonesty.
Of course, it was more than probable that the
men would already have destroyed any evidence
of their guilt. But then, since they would still be
working Saturday morning on their blueprints,
there was just a bare chance there might be a
scrap of the incriminating paper about. It was a
chance in a thousand but Barbara Ann knew it
was a chance she would have to take. Fortunately,
Beverly, who was generally Barbaras Saturday
afternoon companion, was going with her family
to their cottage at the river that weekend, so she
could be alone without causing any comment. Just
how she would manage to enter the office in the
Ferguson building, unobserved, she hadnt the
slightest ideabut get in she would was the last
thought of Barbara Ann as sleep finally descended
upon her tired body.

147

CHAPTER XIII
A DESPERATE CHANCE
When Barbara Ann awoke the next morning the
sound of the steady patter of rain greeted her
ears. Gazing out of her window, she thought, Im
glad I hadnt planned to play tennis or swimthis
looks like an all day rain.
Her mother, entering the bedroom that
moment, called cheerfully, Good morning, sleepy
headI see you did finally wake up. I thought I
would let you sleep as long as you liked this
morning because you have been working so hard
lately.
Why, what time is it, Mother? asked Barbara
Ann, giving an exasperated glance at her wrist
watch which she had forgotten to wind.
Ten minutes after eleven.
Ten after eleven! Oh, my goodness, Ill have to
rush! Barbara Ann picked up her robe and
started to dash madly toward the bathroom.
Her mother called after her, Why, Barbara
148

Ann, what in the world is all the rush about?

Youre certainly not planning to go out in all this
rain?
Amid sounds of the shower running and much
splashing about, Mrs. Wilson managed to hear a
disconnected word or two of her daughters reply.
It sounded something like Downtown
graduation giftsno more time Shaking her
head, and remarking to herself, That child! Mrs.
Wilson went slowly down the steps.
The hands on her wrist watch pointed to exactly
one-thirty when Barbara Ann Wilson stood
outside the entrance to the Ferguson building.
She had dressed, gulped down in record time a
combination breakfast and lunch, ridden
downtown, even purchased three graduation gifts
in just a little over two hours. That was pretty
fast time, even if I do say so myself, thought the
young girl, an amused smile played about her lips
as she recalled her mothers bewildered
expression at the wild antics of her daughter.
Well, anyway, here she was at the Ferguson
buildingand now what should she do?
As she stood there contemplating her next
move, she was startled to see two men, the one
dark and thick-featured, the other taller and more
149

blond, leave the building. Barbara Ann quickly

joined the crowd crossing the street in order to
avoid being recognized by Mr. Johnston. As she
stood on the other side of the street she was
careful to observe every movement of the men.
The older appearing man carried a brief case
Those must be the blueprints for the auditorium
thought the young girl as she watched the
partners walk briskly down the street. Suddenly
they stopped beside a car parked at the curb and
getting in, the older man at the wheel, drove
rapidly away. Barbara Ann looked after the car
it was a large black sedan. She knew that car!
There wasnt the slightest doubt in her mind that
it was the same car which had been parked beside
the mysterious house at the river!
Turning around, Barbara Ann waited for the
traffic signal to change, and then once more
crossed the street and approached the entrance to
the Ferguson building. She couldnt help but think
how lucky she had been to see the men come out.
Now, at least, she knew they werent in the office.
Of course there might be a stenographer or
someone in the office but, since it was Saturday
afternoon, that wasnt very likely. Since the men
were carrying the brief case, she felt quite certain
they had gone to submit their estimate and were
150

through at the office for the afternoon. Her only

problem then was to get into the office without
being seen. But that was a big enough problem,
thought Barbara Ann as she wrinkled her
forehead in perplexity.
Entering the building Barbara stopped before
the office directory. Glancing at the names listed
under H, she saw in neat white letters the words
Howard and Johnston, Architects, Room 427.
Stepping into the elevator she said, Four, please.
Her voice sounded queer to her own ears, and she
realized she was even trembling slightly. As she
stepped out of the elevator she glanced quickly
down the hall. No one was in sight. Hesitating a
moment, she noticed in which direction the
numbers ran, and then walked as softly as
possible along the corridor. It was an old building,
the floors were carpeted, and no sound of footsteps
broke the silence of the empty halls.
Barbara Ann turned a corner and at the end of
the passageway found herself standing before
room 427. The name on the door told her it was
the office she was seeking. Thank goodness, she
thought, it is not near the elevator, so that means
Ill be less likely to be seen. Trying the handle of
the door, she found that it was locked, just as she
had expected. Then, opening her purse, she
151

extracted from it a small bunch of oddly assorted

keys that she had remembered to take with her.
She tried each key but not one of them was
successful in turning the lock. Well, thats that!
she remarked softly to herself. She returned the
keys to her handbag. Remembering she had read
stories about thieves picking locks with hairpins,
she next proceeded to attempt that method of
gaining entrance. The only results of her effort
were several hairpins bent beyond any further
usefulness.
Standing before the door Barbara was startled
by the sound of voices coming down the hall.
Adjusting her hat which had slipped about during
her strenuous efforts at lock picking, she began to
saunter down the hall, attempting to create the
impression that she had just stepped out of one of
the offices. As she reached the corner she
encountered the source of the voices. There, two
women, one holding a vacuum cleaner, the other a
pail and scrub brush, were conversing in rather
shrill tones. Why, it is only the cleaning women,
she thought. As she passed she heard one say,
You start in 427, Kitty, and Ill start in 415.
Suddenly Barbara had an inspiration! Wheeling
sharply about, she hurriedly caught up with the
heavy set, straggly haired woman ahead.
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Oh, I beg your pardon, she said somewhat

breathlessly, but I think I just heard you say you
are going into room 427.
The woman looked at the young girl before her
and replied in a good-natured Irish brogue, Shure
and I am.
Well, continued Barbara Ann, I wonder if you
would mind letting me in there to use the
telephone? You see, I am Mr. Johnstons niece,
and I was supposed to meet him at the office at
one oclock. But I was detained, and just now
arrived, and of course found my uncle already
gone. He probably thought I wasnt coming. I
know where he went and I want to call him up
and tell him I am here now.
You are a bit late, maamits after two now,
and you know gintlemen, theyre not fond of bein
kept waitin. You better be doin some explainin,
Im thinkin. And the Irish woman opened the
door of 427 and motioned to Barbara to enter.
Barbara walked directly to the telephone which
was in full view situated on top of a desk. Seating
herself before the desk, she picked up the receiver.
Glancing about, she was relieved to notice that
the woman was already busy straightening up the
office. Being careful to keep her finger on the
receiver, Barbara Ann began to carry on a
153

fictitious conversation. After offering explanations

for her tardiness, she added, Then you want me
to wait right here in your office for you? After a
short pause, she continued, Oh, thats all right,
even if you cant get here very soon. You waited
long enough for me. Ill see you later, then, Uncle.
Bye. And hanging up the receiver she was
pleased to observe that the cleaning woman had
taken in every word of her conversation. Well,
she said, addressing the woman, since I have to
wait here, I might as well amuse myself by
looking around a bit. She began slowly to stroll
into the next room.
Barbara Ann could see at a glance that the
suite of rooms occupied by Howard and Johnston
was indeed much smaller and far less attractive
than that in which her fathers firm was situated.
The suite consisted of the outer office which was a
combination reception room and business office,
and from this office a door opened into a smaller
room which was obviously used as a drafting
room. On the other side of the general office
another door opened into a nook which was too
small to be classified as a room. This was
evidently used by the men as a dressing room, as
several articles of clothing were hanging on hooks
in the walls and a washstand stood in the corner.
154

That was all there was to the suite. The furniture,

too, was rather meager and of an inexpensive
type. A large desk with a wastebasket beside it
stood at the far end of the room. Near the door
was placed a small table which held a lamp and
several copies of architectural forum magazines. A
throw rug and four or five chairs scattered about
the room completed the furnishings. In the
drafting room two tables and a couple of benches
were the only pieces of furniture.
She would have to wait until the cleaning
woman had left before she could make a thorough
search, thought Barbara, but, as she wandered
about, there was little which escaped her keen
eyes. She stayed for some time in the drafting
room idly picking up blueprints, glancing at them
and replacing them. She did not want to stay
there too long for fear her actions might arouse
suspicion in the charwomans mind, so she walked
into the dressing room and there began powdering
her nose and combing her hair before the mirror
hanging above the wash-stand. As she stood there
her eyes took in every detail of the little room. She
would have to search the pockets of those work
trousers, she thought, as soon as the woman left.
Oh dear, would she never go? Having spent as
long a time as possible primping, she returned
155

into the reception room and then, taking one of

the magazines off the chair, pretended to read.
After what seemed hours to the anxious Barbara,
the scrub woman finally gathered up her utensils
and started for the door. Good-bye, called
Barbara, and thanks for letting me in.
Shure, and it was nothin, answered the
woman, smiling broadly. Now dont be a-gettin
too lonesome waitin.
I wont, said Barbara Ann, as the womans
broad, unsuspecting frame disappeared around
the corner. Barbara felt a twinge of conscience at
her deception. A sudden feeling of panic engulfed
the young girl. What was she doing there alone in
that strange officecoming in like a common thief
and preparing to search the place? What if she
were wrongwhat if her father were mistaken
and it had all been just coincidence? But noit
just couldnt have been possible that they had had
the same plans so many times. Once more she
visualized the smug expression on the pale face of
the tall light-haired man as he walked out of the
principals office. In that moment, her doubts
vanished. No longer did she hesitate to begin her
careful search of the office.
The drafting room, much to Barbara Anns
disappointment, revealed nothing. All of the
156

blueprints and sketches were printed on paper

distinctly different from that used in her fathers
office. The work trousers, too, revealed nothing
more than a few pencils, a stick of chewing gum,
and other odds and ends. Then Barbara began to
minutely go over the contents of the large desk. As
she was careful to replace articles exactly as she
had found them, the search took some time and,
in her absorption in her task, she failed to notice
that the shadows were lengthening. Her careful
perusal of the desk drawers revealed nothing.
And feeling tired, hot, and discouraged,
Barbara arose, thinking that perhaps, after all,
her attempt had been a fruitless one. As she stood
up, however, her foot kicked the wastebasket
which she had not before noticed standing beside
the desk. The basket toppled over spilling some of
its contents. As she stooped to pick it up the
thought occurred to her that the wastebasket was
the very first place she should have looked. What
a fool you are, Barbara Ann, she said half aloud,
and, squatting down on the floor, her cheeks pink
with excitement, she began sorting out the trash.
Suddenly she stoppedthat piece of paperyes,
there was something familiar about it! Her hands
shook so that she could scarcely flatten out the
paper on the floor. When she had smoothed out
157

most of the creases, she held up the sketch so that

she might catch the rays of light coming in
through the window. Yesthere in the corner
were the words, Wilson, Radcliffe and Company.
Oh! she gasped, but the exclamation froze in
her throat, for the sound of a latch clicking made
her wheel around. There in the doorway stood
Howard and Johnston!

158

CHAPTER XIV
TRAPPED!
No one said a word for a few secondsto
Barbara Ann those seconds seemed like years.
Finally, Johnston turned to his partner and in a
jeering tone remarked, We have company,
Howard. Were you expecting a caller? Then,
going up to Barbara Ann, he suddenly dropped his
bantering tone, roughly grasped her arm, and
peered down at her with narrowed eyes. Just
what do you think you are doing here, young
lady? he demanded, his voice harsh and
unpleasant. For a moment Barbara Ann found it
physically impossible to replyshe was simply too
frightened to form words. Gradually, however, the
blood rushed back to her extremities and she
found herself once more able to move and think.
Theres nothing else I can do about it, she
thought, Im caught now and will have to face the
music. I might as well tell them the truth and let
them know I found out that they are thieves.
159

Drawing herself up to the full extent of her five

feet one and a half inches, and shaking his hand
free from her arm, she forced herself to reply to
the mans question in a tone which was almost
calm. If you must know, I came here to find the
plans you stole from my father!
An angry flush spread over the face of the man.
For a moment he looked as if he would have liked
to strike the small girl standing before him.
Controlling himself, however, he turned to his
partner who, at Barbara Anns words, had stepped
forward. The older mans thick lips were curled up
into what was meant to be a smile. His eyes,
thought Barbara, look almost frightened.
Standing before Barbara Ann but not looking
directly at her, he began speaking in a rather
whining manner. Now, now, little girl, he said,
there must be some mistake. That is a serious
statement you just made which can get you into
troublebut you dont really mean it, I know.
Something in his manner infuriated Barbara
Ann and, forgetting all fear or caution, she
retorted angrily, I did mean itevery word of it
and more. You and your partner have been
stealing my fathers plans for over a year now.
Every single contract you have had has been
obtained by your crooked methods. I dont know
160

how you have managed it, but you have copied my

fathers blueprints in every instance. Why, I dont
believe you are architects at all, just common
thieves! And the girls eyes flashed scornfully.
While she was speaking, the smile gradually
left the lips of the older man and a sullen
expression appeared on his face. He picked up a
pencil from the desk and began twirling it about
in his hands. Horrible hands, thought Barbara,
fat, hairy and blunt-fingered, but they seemed to
fascinate her and she could scarcely draw her eyes
away. The man started to speak once more, his
manner still wheedling. Little girl, you dont
know what you are talking about but I warn you
to be careful. Theyve put people in prison for
much less than that, for accusing people falsely.
They call that defamation of character and it is a
serious offense. You know you havent a single
proof of anything you have said, and no one would
ever believe your preposterous story.
Oh, havent I? answered Barbara Ann,
trembling now with anger. What do you call this
then? Holding up the paper she had retrieved
from the wastebasket, she triumphantly shook it
in the face of the two men standing before her.
She immediately regretted her action, however
she realized that she should have hidden the
161

paper and should never have revealed the fact

that she had it. The effect of her action on the two
men was like an electric current. Howard
immediately dropped his whining tonesnatched
the paper from her handand turned toward his
younger partner, his voice shrill.
Didnt I tell you to burn every scrap of stuff
you had around the office? You havent a brain in
your heada two-year-old would have known
better than to throw that in the wastebasket!
The younger man appeared somewhat cowed by
the other mans rage and muttered some excuse
about the sketch having been mixed up with his
other papers. The older man cut him short with a
brusque, Never mind any lame excuses! The
question is what are we going to do now? This girl
knows entirely too much for our good!
Barbara looked anxiously from one to the other.
What were they planning to do to her?
She still cant prove anything, said Johnston.
If we let her go and she does start spreading the
story around, what good would it do? We cant be
arrested just on suspicion of a kid like that. There
wont be a single bit of evidence to substantiate
her case.
Barbara Ann had to admit the truth of this
statement to herself. After all, what had she
162

accomplished? Nothing but to get herself into a

jam. What a fool she was to have shown them that
paper! At least, she could have given it to the
detective as proof that Howard and Johnston were
definitely getting hold of the Wilson-Radcliffe
plans. Then Mr. Goodwin might have figured out
some way to trap them at their game.
She was recalled from her thoughts by the voice
of Mr. Howard. Yesthat is all well and good
but dont you see we cant afford to have any delay
now. The girl will talktherell be an
investigation and, in the midst of all that rumpus,
you dont think those birds on the school board
will be crazy enough to hand us the contract and
along with it twenty-five thousand dollars?
The younger man looked frightened. Then
what are we going to do?
Do? answered his partner, his body tense and
his eyes cold as he turned to the girl before him,
There is only one thing to do! This young lady is
not going to say anything about this whole affair!
Something menacing in his manner made
Barbara Ann shiver, and it was with difficulty
that she stifled a scream.
What do you mean? asked Johnston, grasping
the back of a chairhis knuckles gleaming white
against the dark wood.
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Just what I said, smoothly answered Mr.

Howard.
Hes too calm, thought Barbara Ann, and his
calmness frightened her more than had his anger.
This girl isnt going to have a chance to talk
until we have that twenty-five thousand dollars
and are several thousand miles away from here!
Youre not planning to harm the kid, are you?
asked Johnston, his face a chalky white. You
know, Wilson is pretty influential in this city, and
we might land ourselves into some pretty hot
water.
No, Im not going to hurt herthat is, not if
she is sensible and doesnt try to make any
trouble. But you look as if you had a pretty good
head on your shoulders, and you can understand
that it will be a great deal better for you to do just
as we say.
Barbara Ann said nothing, but remained
standing, looking with frightened eyes from one to
the other. If only she could slip past them and
dash to the door, perhaps she could call for help.
But she remembered it was Saturday and quite
late so that the building was practically empty.
Besides, the two men were standing in such a way
as to very effectually prevent her from making the
attempt.
164

But what are you going to do with her? You

cant hide her herethere are too many people
going in and out all the time.
Of course not, lame brain! I havent any such
intention. But what about our place at the river?
Thats an ideal spot. The place can hardly be seen
from the road, and practically no one ever passes
by there, anyway. She could scream and yell to
her hearts content and no one could hear her.
Besides, Molly could watch her when we have to
go into the city Monday. Its a perfect set-up! and
the thickset man smiled almost good-naturedly.
His partner, however, did not appear to be so
easily convinced. Yes, but supposing there is
some slip up? Kidnapping is a federal offense.
There wont be any slip up! grimly answered
Howard. Well keep her locked up until we get
the check and have it cashedthat ought to be
Tuesday at the latest. Then well clear outthats
what we planned to do anyway since things were
getting so hot for us. By the time they find the kid
well be out of the country.
Barbara felt suddenly faint as she pictured
herself locked up in the deserted house. By the
time someone found her, perhaps she would have
starved to death!
How are we going to get her down to the car
165

without anyone seeing us % She may try to start

some trouble.
She wont try acting up very much when she
sees this, replied Mr. Howard calmly, extracting
a small, shiny looking object from his pocket.
Thrusting it before Barbaras face, he jeeringly
remarked, See this, Miss Wilson? Wellits
loaded, too, and I know how to use it! Barbara
turned her head away so that she might not have
to look at the revolver. Now, then, continued the
senior partner, his voice becoming brusque and
businesslike, you get the car and drive it around
to the alley. Park it before that rear entrance.
Well walk her down the back steps and right into
the car. It is dark now and the building is
practically deserted so we wont be seen.
The younger man appeared to hesitate a
second, then started toward the door. I hope
youre right about this whole thing, he said as he
walked quickly down the hall.
Inside the office Mr. Howard, still dangling the
revolver between his fingers, turned to Barbara
Ann and, in a tone of mock courtesy, said, Wont
you sit down, Miss Wilson? No need to stand while
waiting.
Barbara Ann darted a glance of hatred at the
man as she sank into a chair. Only as she sat
166

down did she realize how weak her knees felt. The
smug complacency of the man sitting opposite her
infuriated her to a point where she longed to pick
up some object and throw it at him with all her
force. As she sat quietly, however, gradually her
reason began to assert itself. Barbara Ann
Wilson, she thought, if you ever had any brains,
now is the time to use them. You have to figure a
way out of this mess. And she began to try and
think of some plan for escape. She didnt have
long to ponder, for, in an incredibly short time,
Johnston was back with the announcement that
the car was in the rear. Mr. Howard drew his
thick body out of the chair and walked over to
Barbara Ann. Putting his left arm through hers,
and holding the pistol concealed in his right hand,
he motioned to Johnston to take Barbaras other
arm. They walked out quietly, arm in arm, for all
the world as if they were going for a friendly
stroll, thought Barbara Ann. Her sense of humor
asserted itself, and she couldnt help smiling at
the incongruity of the situation. The halls were
deserted and they saw no one as they walked
quietly down the four flights of stairs, out of the
door, and into the long black sedan.

167

CHAPTER XV
PRISONER!
Shoving Barbara Ann unceremoniously into the
back seat, Howard extracted a large white
handkerchief from his pocket and, nodding toward
his partner, said, Let me have one of yours.
Then, with an amazing amount of speed and
dexterity, he quickly placed one of the
handkerchiefs over the girls mouth and, with the
other, securely fastened her wrists together.
There, he exclaimed as he stepped out of the car,
thats just so we wont be taking any chances
while we are driving in traffic. You sit back there
and keep an eye on her, then, when we get out of
the city and can do some fast traveling, you can
untie her. It wont matter then if she yells because
no one can hear her.
The blond man slid into his seat beside Barbara
and Howard started the car. Barbara Ann sat as
far over in her corner as possible. She felt hot and
thirstythe gag interfered slightly with her
168

breathing, and her wrists ached from being bound

so tightly. Altogether, she felt thoroughly
miserable! She was greatly relieved when, as the
car drove past the city limits, the older man,
stepping on the accelerator, called back, O.K.
Untie her! At least, thought Barbara Ann, the
men werent brutesthey werent trying to make
her any more uncomfortable than necessary. The
thought was small comfort, though, with the
realization that the men were desperate and
would not be likely to stop at anything to gain
their ends.
Barbara stretched her tired arms as the
handkerchief was removed. The air was cooler in
the country and the breeze coming through the
window of the speeding car fanned her hot cheeks.
Her taut body relaxed a little and she was able to
turn her attention to her companions. Her eyes,
already accustomed to the dark, were able to
discern the dim outlines of his features. What was
there about that face which was so familiar to
her? Of course, she had seen him twice before that
dayonce on the street and again at the school
but she felt certain that she had seen the man
several other times. But, thought Barbara, I
have something more important to think about.
How can I escape from these men?
169

Looking out at the deserted road Barbara

realized that it would be useless to scream and to
attempt to jump out of the racing car would be
certain death. Nothere was nothing to do but to
sit quietly and permit herself to be taken to the
farmhouse. But there must be something I can
do! thought the girl, biting her lips in
desperation. Suddenly an idea occurred to her.
Glancing covertly at her captor, she opened her
purse. The man looked at her suspiciously but, as
she merely drew out a handkerchief and began to
wipe her face, he turned his head and began again
to look out the window next to him. Before closing
her purse, however, Barbara Ann deftly extracted
two objects, and, unobserved, held them clutched
tightly in her hand. One was her compactthe
silver one with the rose buds, her gift from Bob
the other, a fountain pen on which her name was
stamped. Desperately, Barbara peered out of the
window in an attempt to discover where they
were. Having driven over the same road several
times on the way to the Wentworth cottage, in
spite of the cloudy night, Barbara Ann was able to
distinguish several landmarks. She recognized the
little town of Sherwood, although they raced past
it, and knew that at any moment they would
reach the fork in the road. Because of the bad
170

spots in the gravel, Howard was forced to drive

more slowly. Just after they reached the fork and
started driving along the left hand road, Barbara,
her hand resting idly on the window, quietly
dropped her compact outside the car. My, I hated
to throw that away, she thought ruefully, but if I
dont manage to escape from that farmhouse I
may never have any use for it again anyway. A
few yards further on she permitted the fountain
pen to slip from her fingers, and then, just before
the car started to turn off the road into the yard of
the farmhouse, she dropped her handkerchief.
Parking the car near a clump of trees where it
could not be seen from the road, and switching off
all the lights, Howard jumped quickly out of the
front seat and opened the rear door. Come on, he
said, addressing the occupants of the car in low
tones, and hold on to the kid, he added as he
walked ahead.
Firmly grasping Barbaras arm, his partner
rapidly followed, and the strange little group
approached the farmhouse. Barbara made a
hurried survey of the dilapidated buildingit was
even more seedy looking than she remembered.
Grass hadnt been cut for several years, she
decided, since it was so tall and overgrown with
weeds. One side of the house was almost entirely
171

covered with vines and wild ivy. The trees

surrounding the place, too, were more thickly
covered with foliage than they had been when she
had last been there, and the house was now
almost completely hidden from view. The older
man knocked softly on the door. Then, as no one
answered, he rapped more sharply. There was a
sound of shuffling feet and then a womans head
appeared at the window. Seeing the men, she
quickly opened the door. Barbara Ann at once
recognized her as the woman to whom she had
spoken before, only she looked even more
unkempt wearing a discolored old bath robe and
ragged bedroom slippers.
I didnt expect you tonight, Sam, speaking
with the peculiar slurring fashion Babs had noted
before. Then, for the first time seeing Barbara,
she started and, with a frightened exclamation,
glanced up into the face of Sam Howard. What
are you doing with her? she queried, raising her
voice in her excitement.
Shut up! angrily retorted the man. Do you
want to get us all in trouble screaming like a fire
engine? Ill explain everything, but in the
meantime get us some food. We havent had any
supper, and a little nourishment will make us feel
less jittery. But, for Petes sake, dont go turning
172

on any more lights than necessary. We want this

place kept as dark as possible.
The woman scurried off to do the mans bidding,
her dark eyes wide with fright.
Locking the front door and placing the key in
his pocket, Howard motioned Barbara Ann to be
seated. Looking about in the dimly lit room, the
girl could perceive it to be typical of the poorer
type farmhouse. In one corner stood an old coal
stove. Several dilapidated looking chairs, three
cots, and a table were the only other furnishings.
The single evidence of the modern age, thought
Barbara Ann, is that electric light. She noticed
the bulb hanging on a cord from the ceiling, and,
somehow, she found the thought of the light
comforting. At least it helped her realize she
wasnt entirely cut off from civilization. The only
other room on the first floor of the house was the
kitchen. Through the doorway Barbara Ann could
see the woman paddling about getting together
various articles of food. She had lighted a small
kerosene lamp and placed it on the table and with
this as the only illumination was preparing the
meal. Finally she called softly, All rightcome
on!
The two men arose abruptly and the younger
man said, Come on, kid. Barbara started to
173

protest that she wasnt hungry but, thinking

better of it, sat down at the table with the men.
Ill need every ounce of strength now, she
thought, so she forced herself to eat some
scrambled eggs and bread and butter, and drank a
glass of milk. She felt better after the meal
perhaps she had been hungry after all. No
wonder, she thought, noticing her wrist watch,
its after ten and I havent eaten since noon.
As they arose from the table, Howard curtly
ordered Barbara Ann to help the woman with the
dishes. The girl willingly complied, glad to have a
brief respite from her turbulent thoughts. Before
leaving the kitchen, the older woman locked the
back door, and put the key in her pocket. They
certainly dont want me to forget I am a prisoner,
thought Barbara Ann, as she watched the men
walk into the next room where they sat conversing
in whispered tones.
As she silently dried the dishes which the
woman washed, she felt her companions eyes
constantly upon her. Finally, the woman broke
the silence to say, You are Mr. Wilsons daughter,
no? Barbara Ann nodded her head in assent and
nothing more was said. One thing caught her
eyein the corner she noticed a pile of drafting
paper and blueprints. So this is where they did
174

some of their dirty work, she thought. No

wonder the woman didnt want to let me in that
day!
Finally, when the last dish was put away, they
joined the men in the other room. Sam Howard
appeared to be in better spirits since his meal, and
was seated in an arm chair, a paper before him,
smoking a cigarette. The younger man, however,
was pacing up and down, his hands in his pockets,
a frown on his face. His partner looked up and
spoke sharply. Say, Bill, will you cut out that
walking back and forthyou give me the jitters.
Sit down, cant you? Relaxsmoke your pipe
anything, but keep quiet!
Muttering something under his breath, Bill
Johnston walked over to the nail where he had
hung his coat, took out his pipe, filled it with
tobacco, then sat down on one of the wobbly
chairs. Striking a match, he proceeded to light the
pipe. Suddenly Barbara sat bolt upright in her
chair. By the light of the match the pipe clearly
stood outevery detail sharply illuminated.
Barbara Ann knew that pipe! There was the slight
nick in the bowlpeculiar carving on the
handle oh, there was not the slightest doubt
that it was Tony, the janitors pipe! But, what was
Bill Johnston doing with that pipe? As she sat
175

fascinated, her eyes glued to the pipe, there came

to her mind once more the picture of the last time
she had seen the man before her light a pipe.
Suddenly she realized that it had been that very
same pipe she had knocked out of his hand on the
occasion of their first encounter. That was why,
when she had seen the pipe on the window sill in
her fathers office, it had looked so familiar. The
young girl wrinkled her smooth forehead in
perplexity. How could Tony and Bill Johnston
both own the same pipe? Closing her eyes,
Barbara Ann tried to visualize the sullen face of
the janitorthe black hair, the light eyes and fair
skin, the foreign sounding accent. Then she
remembered him as he had looked that night
when she and Bob had surprised him in front of
the safe. His words seemed to echo in her ears and
at that moment she was positive he had spoken
without an accent. The light dawned on Barbara
Ann! Jumping to her feet, she walked over to Bill
Johnston and gasped, Why, youre Tony, the
janitor!

176

CHAPTER XVI
THE SEARCH
When Barbara Ann failed to return from
downtown as soon as expected, Mrs. Wilson called
her husbands office to see whether she had
stopped in there and was coming home with him.
No, Ellen, answered Mr. Wilson over the
phone, she hasnt been here all afternoon. But
dont start worryingcall up some of her friends.
You will probably find her at one of their homes.
And Mr. Wilson hung up the receiver, smiling
slightly at his wifes worrisome disposition.
Mrs. Wilson proceeded to follow her husbands
advice, but though she called up all of her
daughters acquaintances she could remember,
not one of them had recalled seeing her that day.
Beginning to feel quite terrified, and imagining all
the bad accidents which might have befallen her
daughter, Mrs. Wilson was quite relieved when
she heard a key turn in the lock. She ran quickly
to greet her husband, her face filled with anxiety.
177

Ive phoned every one imaginable, she

exclaimed, and no one has even seen Babs.
For a moment a worried frown crossed her
husbands facethen, quickly regaining his
composure, he soothingly patted his wife on the
cheek. Now, now, Mothertheres no need to
worry! That young scalawag of ours is probably
out somewhere enjoying herself and just didnt
notice the time. Perhaps she went to a movie and
it had one of those long double feature bills.
Mrs. Wilson shook her head in vigorous denial.
You know Barbara Ann never would go to a
movie by herself, and it isnt a bit like her not to
let me know if she decided to go somewhere from
downtown. She always phones. Noyou can say
all you like, George, but I am really frightened. If
she isnt home in a short while I am going to call
the police.
Please, Ellen, dont get excited! Lets just sit
down quietly and try to figure out where she could
possibly be. Mr. Wilson wearily sank his large
frame into an easy chair. Nowlets see. What
did Beverly say when you spoke to her? She
generally knows all about Babs activities.
I didnt speak to Beverly, replied his wife.
When I called the maid informed me that the
whole Wentworth family had left this afternoon to
178

spend the week-end at their river cottage.

Do you think there is any chance that Babs
might have gone with them without telling you?
Oh, she wouldnt do that! exclaimed Mrs.
Wilson. Then, reflecting a moment, but of course
theres a bare possibility she may have met
Beverly and they persuaded her to go along just
for the afternoon, anyway. She can take a train
back early in the evening. But certainly she would
have let me knowoh, I just remembered, she
added, there wasnt anyone home this afternoon.
I went to my literary club meeting and I told
Annie that, provided she returned in time to
prepare dinner, she could go to see her sister who
is in the hospital. Mrs. Wilsons face brightened
as she said, She may have telephoned, and of
course no one was here to answer.
Thats probably what happened, agreed Mr.
Wilson, quick to reassure his wife. Did you speak
to young Allen? He seems to see quite a bit of our
daughtermaybe hell know whether she went
along with the Wentworths.
I did call him earlier, but he wasnt in. I
believe Ill call him again. Mrs. Wilson quickly
went into the next room. She returned in a few
minutes. Bob Allen certainly is a nice boy! she
exclaimed. He said he didnt know where
179

Barbara wasin fact, hadnt seen her since

yesterdaybut he offered to come right over. He
said if we didnt hear from Barbara Ann in a few
minutes he would drive out to the Wentworth
cottage and see if she is there.
That certainly is thoughtful of him, said her
husband, but I hope it wont be necessary. It is a
good two hour drive out there at night. Well wait
a while, anyway, until we send him on such a
trip.
In the meantime, Dad, said Mrs. Wilson,
rising and going toward the kitchen, you may as
well eat something. I know you are probably
starved. Ill tell Annie and shell have dinner on
the table in a hurry.
In a short time the two were seated in the
dining room. Each urged the other to eat, but both
left most of the food on their plates untouched.
Before they had arisen from the table, the sound
of the front door bell caused them to jump up
quickly and hasten to the door. Bob Allen stood
outside and, seeing their crestfallen expressions,
he remarked as he entered, I can see by your
faces that Barbara Ann isnt home yet.
Seated once more in the living room, the three
anxious people began to discuss the situation.
Even Mr. Wilson was now frankly worried and
180

didnt hesitate to reveal his concern. Bob wanted

to start immediately for the Wentworth cottage,
but Barbaras father insisted they exhaust every
other possibility before sending the boy out on the
long trip. A soft rain had begun to fall, and he
disliked having the youth drive in wet weather
along roads which were not in good condition.
After again telephoning several friends and
relatives, Mr. Wilson picked up the receiver and
resolutely called all the hospitals. He was
informed that no one answering Barbaras
description had been admitted that day to any of
the institutions. Putting down the telephone, he
took out his watch. He was startled to note that
the hands pointed to five minutes to nine.
Well, Bob, he said, his face grave, I suppose
there is nothing else to do but to send you out to
the Wentworths place. I dont like your driving on
that gravel road in this rain, but I guess it cant be
helped. Youll take it easy, though, wont you? As
the lad nodded, Mr. Wilson continued speaking. I
would go along with you, but I dont like to leave
Mrs. Wilson alone. He glanced anxiously at his
wifes pale face. Besides, I want to be right on
hand in case anything should turn up. Grasping
Bobs hand, he held it a moment firmly in his own.
Youll never realize how grateful we are to you for
181

your kindness.
The youth shook his head in deprecating
fashion. Dont say that, Mr. Wilson, its nothing
at all, you knowI am just as anxious as you to
find Barbara Ann. And well find her too, Mrs.
Wilson, so dont you worry, he added, smiling
affectionately at the woman beside him. Then he
ran down the steps, climbed into his car, and
drove rapidly away.

182

CHAPTER XVII
RESCUED
Barbara Ann Wilson stood alone in the small
stuffy room on the second floor of the farmhouse.
The bed in the center of the room was untouched,
for the young girl knew it would be impossible for
her to sleep. Instead, she paced quietly back and
forth, reviewing the events of the day. She bad
already examined the room to see if she could
discover any possible means of escape, but her
search had proved futile. The door, of course, was
locked from the outsidethe woman had seen to
that after she had escorted Barbara Ann upstairs
to the bedroom with the whispered admonition,
Youd better try to sleep a bit.
In the front of the room there were two small
windows facing in the direction of the road. The
thickly covered branches of the tall trees standing
in front of the house obscured the view of the road.
If only she could reach the branches of those trees,
she thought, she could climb out of the window
183

and down the trunk. But the trees were several

yards beyond her reach and to jump from the
window would be a sheer drop of twenty feet,
which of course made her discard any notion of
using that avenue of escape. There was no doubt
about itshe was very securely imprisoned,
thought Barbara Ann. With a sigh, she sank down
on the edge of the bed and sat there quietly, her
chin propped in her hands. Silence had fallen on
the old farmhousethe whispered conversation of
the men and woman downstairs had now ceased
entirely. She had heard the cots being moved
about, and she assumed that her three captors
were getting ready for bed. Now all was quiet
only the soft patter of rain and the sounds of the
countryside disturbed the stillness of the night.
Seated there, Barbara Ann once more
visualized the expression on the faces of the men
at her words, Why, youre Tony, the janitor!
Both men had appeared quite startledthen the
older man had spoken, smiling sarcastically, You
are a smart young one, arent you? Your father
would have done better to have hired you instead
of that dumb detective he has working for him.
His eyes narrowed, and the expression on his face
was not pleasant to see as he added, But your
smartness isnt going to do you a bit of good, little
184

girl. Youre going to stay right here until we are so

far away that it wont matter how much you have
found out.
Bit by bit, as she sat motionless in the dark,
Barbara began to piece together the puzzle of the
stolen plans. Gradually the whole matter became
clear to her tired brain. Evidently the two men,
Howard and Johnston, had hit upon the ingenious
scheme of making easy money when they first
came to the city over a year and a half ago. Since
her fathers architectural firm was the most
prominent in the city, they had chosen them as
their victims.
Undoubtedly, Johnston, at least, had studied
architectureanyway, he knew enough to read
blueprints and to make a few minor alterations
necessary to disguising the fact that his plans
were duplicates of those made by the larger firm.
Working at night as janitor he was able, without
suspicion, to examine all their blueprints in
minute detail. Until recently, when the plans had
been locked up in the safe, he must have had an
easy time of it, thought Barbara Ann. Oh, how
could she have been so stupid as to let the black
wig fool her all that time? Well, anyway, she
thought, if I ever get out of here alive, Ill be able
to tell that detective what I think of himcasting
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all that suspicion on Mr. Allen! Thank goodness,

Dad was sensible enough not to believe him
without further proof. Well, I have enough proof
now as to the guilty party, but what am I going to
do with it? I know theyll get the contract for the
auditorium. Since they intended to skip out as
soon as they received the twenty-five thousand
dollars, they probably made certain to far
underbid Dad, and now, if their plans succeed,
theyll be safely out of the country long before
anyone can stop them.
Suddenly a new thought occurred to the girl
and a low moan escaped from her lips. Why, she
said half aloud, if they do make their get away
and, even if I am eventually rescued, it will be too
late for Dad to get the contract. The school board
certainly wont be able to raise another twentyfive thousand dollars very quickly after having
been swindled out of all that money. Oh, dear,
she thought, I just must get out of here in time to
warn them before they pay those crooks! But what
can I do? Looking about the dark room a feeling
of utter helplessness overcame the tired girl and,
burying her head in the pillow, for the first time
in that long trying day she let tears fall. After a
few minutes she arose, dried her eyes, and forced
herself to smile. Barbara Ann Wilson, she said,
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you are nothing but a big baby! But the crying

spell somehow had made her feel better. It is this
dark room, she thought, which is making me feel
so depressed. Ill turn on the light and maybe Ill
feel more cheerful.
Raising her hands above her head Barbara
groped about for the electric light bulb which she
had noticed hanging in the center of the room.
Finally her hands grasped the round bulb and,
stretching a bit, she turned the switch. A bright
yellow light flooded the small room. Going to the
window, Barbara Ann looked out once more. As
she did so she noticed how clearly the light shone
out upon the surrounding trees. Suddenly she
wheeled about and, tiptoeing softly over to the
light, turned it out. She stood perfectly still for a
few seconds, straining for any sound from the
occupants of the first floor. Feeling satisfied that
they were sleeping, she softly carried a chair
beneath the electric light and climbed upon it.
Then she began switching the light off and on in a
peculiarly jerky fashion. By reflecting the light on
the trees in a series of flashes, Barbara Ann
Wilson spelt out these words according to the
symbols of the Morse code,S O S B-A-B-S.
As Bob Allen drove swiftly along the dark
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highway his mind was busy with thoughts of

Barbara Ann. Try as he might, he could not but
feel that some harm must have befallen the young
girl. He felt practically certain that his trip out to
the Wentworth cottage would be a useless one.
Knowing Barbara Ann well, he could not believe
that she would be so thoughtless as not to have
informed her parents if she were there. However,
there was a slim chance she might have left a
message with someone who had forgotten to tell
Mrs. Wilson. Buoyed up by this thought, the
young boy bore down harder on the accelerator.
He resolutely forced from his mind any thought of
what was to be done if Barbara Ann was not at
the cottage. When he reached the place where he
turned off Highway 9 and onto the gravel road, be
found it necessary to keep his mind entirely on his
driving.
The rain had made the gravel slippery and,
since the road was narrow and very dark, it was
all Bob could do to keep the big car from skidding
into a ditch. He was forced to drive very slowly
and, by the time he reached the fork in the road,
the clock on the dashboard read eleven fifteen. Ill
really frighten the Wentworth family getting out
there at this hour, he thought. Then, as he
observed the break in the road, be brought the car
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to a full stop. Peering out of the rain-swept

windshield he tried to determine which road to
take. He swore softly at his own stupidity when he
realized that he didnt remember whether he was
to turn right or left. Getting out of the car he
decided to walk a few steps ahead along one of the
roads to see if he could recognize any landmarks
from his previous visit. He chose the left hand
road first, and as he slowly walked along, the
bright headlights from his car illuminated the
ground before him. Suddenly his foot kicked
against something hard and, as the object rolled
along a few feet, it caught the beams from the
headlights and gleamed brightly. Stooping, Bob
Allen picked it up.
In spite of the mud and gravel clinging to the
object, Bob Allen recognized it immediately. It
was Barbara Anns compact! An expression of joy
crossed his face as he clasped the little case. Then
she probably was out at the cottage, anyway.
Queer, though, that she should have dropped her
compactBabs wasnt generally careless. It was a
good thing, though, that she had been this time,
at least he knew now which road to follow. And
returning to his car, he started slowly guiding it
along the left fork.
Although he could hardly restrain himself so
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anxious was he to arrive at the Wentworth

cottage, the poor condition of the road forced Bob
to barely crawl along. Several yards from the
place where he had found the compact, he again
stopped his car. Another shining object lying in
the road had caught his eye. He hurriedly jumped
out of the car and stooping, picked up Barbaras
fountain pen. Suddenly a worried frown creased
his forehead. Something was mighty queer about
the whole thing! Certainly it wasnt logical that
Barbara Ann could have been going along the
road unconcernedly losing her belongings one
after another. Standing perfectly still, the tall
young man began to look anxiously about him.
After a few moments of careful scrutiny came the
realization that he had taken the wrong road. He
now recognized this road as the one on which Jane
Richards, Babs, and he had been walking on the
occasion of Janes accident. But why had Barbara
been passing by on that road when the Wentworth
cottage was in the other direction?
Suddenly the ruddy cheeks of Bob Allen became
pale and he began to tremble slightly from
excitement. In that moment he knew as definitely
as if he had been told that Barbara Ann had been
taken down the road against her will! She had
dropped those two articles intentionally as clues
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to her whereabouts. But what would be the next

thing for him to do, he wondered? He decided that
his best move would be to walk further down the
road searching for other clues of the missing girl.
He drove his car as far to the side of the road as
possible and switched off all the lights excepting
the small parking light in the rear. Then, taking a
flashlight out of the car, he started slowly down
the road. He walked for quite a distance, his eyes
glued to the ground. He saw nothing further and
was just about to return to the car when his
flashlight fell on something white, just a little to
the side of the road. Picking up the rain soaked
object he perceived it to be a girls small
handkerchief. In one corner was embroidered the
letter B. As he had stooped to retrieve the
handkerchief, he had noted fresh tire tracks
starting at right angles from the road. Kneeling
down, his face close to the ground, he carefully
examined the ruts. He could still see the marks of
the tire tread in spite of the falling rain, which
meant that the car could not have been driven
over that ground over two hours ago. Creeping
cautiously along, holding the flashlight very close
to the ground, the lad began to follow the tire
tracks.
He had gone about twenty yards when a flash of
191

light caused Bob to raise his eyes. Plainly

reflected on the treetops, a light was rapidly
flashing on and off. During one of the flashes, Bob
dimly perceived that the light was coming from
the upper story of a house hidden behind the
trees. Keeping his eyes glued to the treetops he
suddenly became aware of the fact that the
flashes were going on and off with definite
regularity. Why, someone was signaling, he
realizedand every muscle in his body tense, he
waited while the flashes of light spelled out in
Morse code signals, SOS B-A-B-S. For a moment
he seemed unable to move as be became fully
aware of the fact that it was Barbara Ann giving
this distress signal from a second story room in
the sinister appearing house.
Beginning to breathe more naturally as he
became slightly more calm, Bob took stock of the
situation. Undoubtedly, Barbara Ann was being
held a prisoner in that house, or she would not
have had to use such a method of signaling for
help. She was evidently alone in the room, or she
could not have signaled. Her captors probably
were sleeping downstairs. But who were her
captors, and how many of them were there? Were
they kidnappers who had stolen the girl intending
to demand ransom from Mr. Wilson? If so, they
192

were probably armed and dangerous to deal with.

Quickly Bob realized that this was a situation
which demanded assistance. If only he could let
Barbara know in some way that he had seen her
signal and was going for help! She must be half
frantic, he thought. Then he remembered his
flashlightif he could just get close enough to
flash it against her window without awakening
the others. He crept slowly and carefully forward,
saying a little prayer of gratitude for that
afternoon when he had taught Babs the Morse
code. Crouching in the shadow of the tree, he held
his flashlight in such a way that the beams fell
directly on one of the upper story windows.
After a moment, the light in the room was
extinguished, and the boy knew that the girl
inside must have seen his light. Turning it on and
off, he spelled out the words, G-O-I-N-G F-O-R HE-L-P B-O-B. In a moment a shadow appeared at
the window and the boy caught his breath as he
made out the dim outline of Barbara Ann. Thank
God, shes all right! he gasped. Suddenly a sound
caught his earsquickly he extinguished the
flashlight and crouched closer against the trees. A
short stout man stepped out of the door and
started going slowly down the steps. Looking
carefully around him, he walked silently about.
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Bob held his breath as the man passed within two

feet of him. Slowly the man turned, retraced his
steps and, as he entered the door, the boy heard
him say, I told you you were just nervous, Bill.
That was probably some animal you heard.
Bob waited a few seconds, not daring to move
until all was again perfectly quiet. Then, glancing
up once more at the window, he noiselessly crept
back to the highway. Once out of sight of the
house he began to run as rapidly as possible over
the dark road, stumbling several times in his
haste. Reaching his car, he started the engine and
quickly turned around.
He drove more swiftly than safety would
permit, but he reached the little town of Sherwood
without accident. Driving quickly to what
appeared to be the towns only hotel, he shook the
sleeping clerk and demanded a telephone. After a
short delay he heard the deep tones of Mr.
Wilsons voice at the other end of the wire.
Speaking softly so as to reveal as little of the
conversation as possible to the now wide-awake
desk clerk, he first hastened to assure the anxious
man that his daughter was unharmed. Trying to
alarm his listener as little as possible and yet
convey something of the seriousness of the
situation, he gave rapid and brief instructions.
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Theres no time for delay, he said, Ill explain

everything later, only call the police at once and
drive out here as fast as you can. Meet me in front
of the hotel in Sherwood. Ill be waiting outside
only hurry! And as the youth replaced the
receiver he saw the curious eyes of the man
behind the desk upon him.
Something wrong, Mister? he inquired,
leaning expectantly forward.
Bob Allen answered curtly, Nothing to worry
about, and, assuming an air of nonchalance,
sauntered slowly out of the hotel. Once outside,
however, his manner changed abruptly. He paced
nervously back and forth. After several minutes
had passed, he climbed wearily into his car and
leaned his head against the cushions. For once
Bob wished that his athletic training didnt forbid
smoking, because he imagined smoking a
cigarette might have calmed him a bit. At least, it
would have been something to doand the youth
stirred restlessly about. That was the worst thing
about the whole affairhis having to sit there in
such helpless fashion doing nothing!
Bobs thoughts constantly strayed to the old
farmhouse. What if the men had heard his
movements as he fled from the house and,
becoming suspicious, had decided to clear out,
195

taking Barbara Ann with them. At the thought,

beads of perspiration appeared on the forehead of
the young man and he clenched his fists tightly.
Maybe I was a fool, he thought, to go off and
leave her there while I went for help. Maybe I
should have just walked in on the men and tried
to beat them up. If anything happens to her Ill
never forgive myself! he thought. The more his
thoughts dwelt on the girls precarious position,
the more convinced he became that he should go
to her. His reason told him that to go there alone
and unarmed was foolhardy, but his emotions
simply would not permit him to sit quietly any
longer. Then, the thought occurred to him that
there would be no way of informing Mr. Wilson
and the police when they arrived where he had
gone. He couldnt tell the clerk at the hotelhe
was already far too curious. Well, there was
simply nothing else to do but wait! Only I hope
they hurry, thought the lad, wiping his
foreheadbefore I lose my mind!
Once more Bob alighted from his car and began
to walk restlessly about, glancing at his wrist
watch every few minutes. After what appeared an
interminably long time, he thought he saw the
faint glimmer of headlights coming rapidly down
the road. As the speeding car approached Bob
196

sprang quickly forward and waved frantically.

With the screeching of brakes the car immediately
slowed down and, before it had come to a full stop,
Mr. Wilson sprang out. His face was harried and
his voice shook as he grasped Bob by the shoulder
and demanded, Are you positive she is all right?
In the face of the older mans anxiety, Bob forced
himself to appear calm and reassuring. As the
three strapping police officers climbed from the
car, he began briefly to relate what he had seen
from the farmhouse. His speech was interrupted
several times by terse questions from the officer in
charge.
Mr. Wilson, however, said nothing, but simply
stood listening intently to every word. At the end
of Bobs recital, however, he spokehis voice
tense with emotion. If they have hurt that little
girl of mine in any way, Ill take the law into my
own hands!
After a whispered conference, the small group
decided upon their plan of attack. They were to
leave the car some distance from the farmhouse
and approach on foot as quietly as possible so as
not to arouse the sleeping occupants of the
farmhouse. Two of the police officers were to go to
the rear and guard the back door. Mr. Wilson was
to stand by the large black sedan in case the men
197

should break away and make a dash for their car.

Bob and the officer in charge were to cover the
front of the house. Not knowing how many men
they would have to deal with nor how well they
were armed, they decided to use strategy in their
capture. If possible, they wished to capture the
kidnappers without firing a single shotGeorge
Wilson had requested that the police avoid all gun
play for fear of a stray bullet injuring his
daughter. But what could they do? The men would
never open the door of their own accord and, if
they attempted to force their way in, the men
would have plenty of time to get their weapons
and fire at them. The only thing to do was to
completely surprise the people inside the house.
But how could that be accomplished? It was Bob
who finally suggested a plan.
The only reason you are afraid to rush the
men, he said, is because of Barbara being in
there. That is right, isnt it? he asked. As the
sergeant and Mr. Wilson nodded in agreement, he
continued. Well then, if I can get her out of there
without awakening the others, you can go ahead
and capture them without having to be so
cautious.
Thats easier said than done, son, commented
Barbaras father, shaking his head.
198

If youll just trust me, answered the boy, I am

positive I can do it!
Something in the young mans earnest manner
seemed to convince the others in the group, and
the sergeant nodded to them to follow as he said,
All right, boy. You lead the way.
The police sergeant and Mr. Wilson drove with
Bob in his car and the two officers followed in the
other car. A short distance after they had passed
the fork in the road, Bob steered his machine to
the side and turned off the ignition. We had
better walk from here, he said. Before starting
off, however, he went to the rear of his car and
opened the trunk. From a corner containing
numerous tools he extracted a long stout tow rope.
I hope this will be long enough, he remarked
half to himself. Then, stooping down, he picked up
several small pebbles from the road.
Walking cautiously, following Bobs whispered
directions, the men approached the farmhouse. As
they reached the clump of trees the young boy
motioned to them to remain silent.
You had better go around to the back, softly
commanded the sergeant to his two men. We
dont want to take any chances on their hearing us
and slipping out the rear entrance.
As the men stole quietly away, Bob took out the
199

handful of pebbles and began to gently throw

them to the second story window. As a small
shadow appeared before the window, Bob Allen
knew he had attracted Barbaras attention.
Choosing the tree growing closest to the window
he began quietly and with great agility to hoist
himself up its branches. Finally, reaching a limb
directly opposite the window where the girl was
standing, he paused for a moment and began
removing the rope which he had previously wound
about his waist. Then he fastened one end
securely about a stout branch of the tree. Babs,
he called very softly, herecatch this! and he
tossed the loose end of his rope over to the
window.
The trembling girl missed it the first time but
was successful on the second attempt. She stood
quietly, rope in hand, her ears straining to catch
his low-spoken instructions. Tie that rope to
something firm, he said, the bedpost will do
only tie it as tightly as possible. The girls hands
shook so that she could hardly fasten the rope.
Finally, though, she managed to tie it securely
and then step back to the window. Now then,
Babs, whispered the boy, climb out and grab
ahold of the rope with both hands. Then swing
yourself across like you have to do in gym on the
200

traveling ladder. As he saw the young girl

hesitate, Bob leaned forward and spoke
encouragingly. Steady now, old girlits not very
farand it is our only chance!
Barbara Ann took a deep breath. Then, not
daring to look down at the twenty-foot drop below
her, she climbed out of the window. The rope
burned and cut her hands, and her arms felt as if
they were being yanked from their sockets as she
dangled in midair. Just as she felt that she
couldnt stand it a minute longer and would have
to let go, she felt a firm arm placed about her and
heard Bobs voice whispering approvingly, Good
girl! as he pulled her safely onto the limb of the
tree.
Somehow, just exactly in what way Barbara
Ann afterwards never could remember, Bob
managed to get her safely down the tree. As she
stumbled into her fathers arms, the big man held
her close, visibly overcome with emotion.
You had better get her out of here quickly,
said the sergeant. Take her back to the car and
wait there for us.
Barbara, still dazed, permitted herself to be
half carried to the road. Bob remained standing
next to the officer. Ill stay here, he remarked
quietly. You may need some help.
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Inside of the car, Barbara Ann began to recover

from her fright, and she even started to smile
naturally as she assured her anxious parent that
she was perfectly all right. Why, Dad, she
jokingly remarked, kissing him tenderly on the
cheek, Im in much better condition than you are.
Look at youyou are shaking like a leaf! Her
father smiled ruefully at the truth of the
statement. Suddenly Barbara Ann sat up, a
peculiar expression on her face. Wheres Bob?
she asked quickly.
WhyI suppose he stayed back there with the
men, answered Mr. Wilson.
The young girls eyes looked frightened as she
exclaimed, Ohbut he may get hurt! Mr.
Howard has a gun!
Her fears, however, were very shortly relieved.
An oddly assorted party were coming quietly down
the road toward the car. Between two policemen
walked two men and a womanone man was
small and heavy setthe other tall and sandyhaired. The woman was weeping. Behind the
group silently marched the police officer and Bob.
Fortunately, when Howard and Johnston had
learned they were surrounded by armed officers of
the law they had surrendered peaceably.
As Bob Allen climbed into the car he turned to
202

the girl at his side and, clasping her hand, he said,

GeeIm happy you are all right!
Smiling softly and squeezing his hand in
response, Barbara Ann replied, YesIm all
right, thanks to you!
On the long drive home, no one had much to
say. All three were worn out from the anxiety and
excitement. Once, though, Barbara raised her
head from its resting place on her fathers
shoulder and remarked, I do hope they arent too
hard on those men and that woman. They really
werent mean to meonly they just wanted to
keep me out of the way. And now that they cant
keep you from getting that contract I feel sort of
sorry for them.
Mr. Wilson looked down tenderly on the small
brown head by his side. Thats just like you,
Skeezixalways willing to forgive those who
injure you! But, my dear, there are certain laws in
this country decent people must abide by. Those
who break them must, in the end, be punished.
* * *
It was nearly dawn when Barbara Ann, feeling
very much like a tired little girl, permitted her
happy mother to tuck her in bed. Mr. and Mrs.
Wilson, hand in hand, looked down on their
daughter as her weary eyelids closed. Softly they
203

started to tiptoe from the room. Suddenly they

were startled to hear Barbara Ann say, one eye
open with a mischievous gleam, Do you think I
had better take my heavy coat along to Colorado?
THE END

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