Тайна загадочной лестницы [with w_cat] | страница 35

Or, she reflected further, it was not inconceivable that Mr. Drew had found Willie Wharton, only to have Willie hold the lawyer a prisoner.

[505] As Nancy sat lost in anxious thought, Helen came into the hall. "Something the matter?" she asked.

[506] "I don't know," Nancy replied, "but I have a feeling there is. Dad telegraphed to say that he wouldn't be here tomorrow. Instead of wiring, he always phones me or Hannah or his office when he is away and it seems strange that he didn't do so this time."

[507] "You told me a few days ago that your father had been threatened," said Helen. "Are you afraid it has something to do with that?"

"Yes, I am."

[508] "Is there anything I can do?" Helen offered.

[509] "Thank you, Helen, but I think not. There isn't anything I can do either. We'll just have to wait and see what happens. Maybe I'll hear from Dad again."

[510] Nancy looked so downcast that Helen searched her mind to find something which would cheer her friend. Suddenly Helen had an idea and went to speak to Miss Flora and Aunt Rosemary about it.

[511] "I think it's a wonderful plan if Nancy will do it," Aunt Rosemary said.

[512] Helen called Nancy from the hall and proposed that they all go to the attic to look in the big trunk containing the old costumes.

[513] "We might even put them on," Miss Flora proposed, smiling girlishly.

[514] "And you girls could dance the minuet," said Aunt Rosemary enthusiastically. "Mother plays the old spinet very well. Maybe she would play a minuet for you."

[515] "I love your idea," said Nancy. She knew that the three were trying to boost her spirits and she appreciated it. Besides, what they had proposed sounded like fun.

[516] All of them trooped up the creaky attic stairs. In their haste, none of the group had remembered to bring flashlights.

[517] "I'll go downstairs and get a couple," Nancy offered.

"Never mind," Aunt Rosemary spoke up.

"There are some candles and holders right here. We keep them for emergencies."

[518] She lighted two white candles which stood in old-fashioned, saucer-type brass holders and led the way to the costume trunk.

[519] As Helen lifted the heavy lid, Nancy exclaimed in delight, "How beautiful the clothes are!"

[520] She could see silks, satins, and laces at one side. At the other was a folded-up rose velvet robe. She and Helen lifted out the garments and held them up.

[521] "They're really lovelier than our formal dance clothes today," Helen remarked. "Especially the men's!"