Accordingly, after an early luncheon she backed her roadster from the garage and set off for the Crandall cottage on the lake. It was with high anticipation that she walked up the path to the house. She rapped on the door, but there was no response. After a little wait, she rapped again, louder than before. Still no one came to open the door. Somewhat mystified, Nancy walked around the house. There appeared to be no one at home.
“It’s only ten minutes after one,” Nancy thought, glancing at her wrist watch. “Emily probably didn’t expect me this early. She may come back later, but I don’t believe I had better wait. I can see the jewels at some later time.”
She returned to the roadster and after a moment’s hesitation started the motor and headed for River Heights again. She had driven less than two miles when she noted the approach of a sedan.
“Why, I believe that’s Mrs. Willoughby’s sedan,” she told herself. “It must be Emily.”
She brought the roadster to a halt and waved her hand. Instantly, there was a grinding of brakes and the sedan came to a stop alongside. Emily Crandall sprang from the car and came running over to the roadster.
“Oh, Nancy, I’m so sorry! I know you must have stopped at the cottage. I intended to get back before you came.”
“I just wanted to congratulate you on your birthday, Emily.”
“Thanks, Nancy. I’m as happy as a lark today.”
“Then you must have received your inheritance.”
Emily Crandall’s pretty face clouded.