“No, only Jennings. He served Mrs. Willoughby.”
“Why were the others not searched?”
“I did not deem it necessary. They were occupied at tables in other parts of the room and could not have snatched the purse without being detected.”
“May I talk with Jennings, please?”
“Certainly. But it will only be a waste of time. He had nothing to do with the robbery, I am sure.”
“If you please, I think I will ask him a few questions.”
“I’ll call him.”
The manager stepped to the kitchen door. Presently she returned, followed by Jennings. He was tall, precise in gait, and a trifle sullen in appearance. He regarded Nancy Drew with obvious misgiving.
“Jennings,” the girl began quietly, “where were you at the time of the automobile accident?”
“I was on my way to the kitchen with a tray of dishes, Miss. Someone let out a scream. I set the tray on a table and ran to the door to see what had happened.”
“On your way to the door did you pass Mrs. Willoughby’s table?”
“No, Miss.”
“At any time did you notice Mrs. Willoughby’s purse?”
The waiter hesitated before answering this question and Nancy regarded him sharply.