all summer unless I can find a new housekeeper to take Hannah Gruen’s place.”
“Your servant is leaving?”
“Yes. Her sister is ill, and she’s expecting to be called away any day now to take care of her. I dread looking for another to take her place. You don’t know where I can find a good housekeeper, do you?”
“Indeed I don’t. I’m afraid you’ll have quite a time finding anyone.”
“I don’t doubt it,” Nancy sighed. “But at least I’ll have several days before Hannah leaves. That will give me a chance to break in a new girl.”
The two finished their luncheon, and although Emily protested, Nancy insisted on paying the check. They left the dining room, pausing outside the door.
“If you’ll excuse me for a minute, I’ll make a telephone call,” Nancy said. “I must let Dad know that I’ll be late in reaching River Heights, or he’ll be worried.”
Hurrying away, she sought a telephone booth and quickly put in a call to River Heights. After a brief wait, she heard her father’s voice at the other end of the wire.
“Hello, Nancy,” Carson Drew began before she could say a word. “Jove! I’m glad you called just now. I’ve been trying to reach you for the last two hours.”
“Why, what has happened?” Nancy demanded in alarm.
“I just received a telegram from Judge Graham—you know, he’s one of the biggest men in the state. He’ll spend the coming weekend with us.”