“I really can’t say,” the manager evaded. “After the accident took place, I rushed outside with a number of the others. When I returned I learned that the purse had disappeared.”
“I have been told that two of the guests failed to return to the dining room after the accident.”
“I took it upon myself to investigate that angle, Miss Drew. I called the Mercy Hospital this morning and learned that the victims of the automobile accident were brought there by two persons who had been dining here.”
“Then you discredit Mrs. Willoughby’s theory that her purse was snatched by one of the guests.”
“Yes, I do.”
Nancy Drew accepted this for what it was worth, making ample allowance for the fact that the manager undoubtedly was bent on preserving the reputation of Lilac Inn. She determined that she would not drop this clue without a little investigation of her own.
“How about your help?” she inquired, starting out on a new line. “Are you sure that everyone in your employ is honest?”
“Yes. I am very particular. The handbag could not have been taken by anyone who works at the Inn.”
“How many waiters were in the dining room at the time when Mrs. Willoughby discovered her loss?”
“I employ fifteen waiters. Eight or nine were in the room, I should judge.”
“Were they all searched?”