her room to straighten up and gather together a few things which needed mending. Bringing her sewing downstairs, she curled up on the davenport and tried to occupy herself with her work. But try as she would, she found it impossible to settle down. Every time the telephone rang she jumped to her feet and ran to answer it.
“Oh, dear,” she thought restlessly. “I know Dad won’t call for an hour or two, anyway; but I seem to be all on edge. I think I’ll run out and see Emily Crandall this morning. It will help kill the time and she’ll probably need cheering.”
Dropping her sewing, she dashed out into the kitchen to tell Mrs. Carter that she was going for a little drive and would be back in half an hour. The morning air was cool and crisp, and as Nancy drove toward the cottage on the lake she felt refreshed. Walking up the path with a carefree stride, she knocked on the front door. Almost at once it was opened by Emily.
“Oh, Nancy Drew!” the girl cried excitedly. “I’m so glad you came. Do come inside! Tell me, have you good news?”
Nancy’s face clouded. She wished with all her heart that she could give her friend encouragement.
“I haven’t anything definite to report yet,” she returned quietly; “but I’m hoping to have something soon.”
“Oh, Nancy, you must help me! If you can’t do it no one can!” Emily’s face clouded and she clutched Nancy by the arm. “Everything depends on getting those jewels back. Dick’s future and my happiness! And then there’s poor Mrs. Willoughby. The police are trying to brand her as a thief. Oh, it’s too dreadful!”
“Don’t give up hope, Emily. I’m doing everything I can.”