epaired."

Upon arriving at their cottage, Mr. Nichols and Penny were pleasantly
surprised to find Mrs. Masterbrook hard at work. She had cleaned up
all the rooms, and she came out to the car to help carry in the
groceries.

"The electric company man was here while you were gone," she told Mr.
Nichols. "The lights are on now."

"Fine," replied the detective. "And how about our supply of wood?"

"Herman sent over enough for today and to-morrow. He said he'd get
busy and cut more. But I'd not count on it. Herman is as lazy as all
get out."

Mr. Nichols laughed and told the housekeeper that he and Penny were
going for a little walk before lunch.

"It will be ready at one o'clock sharp," Mrs. Masterbrook warned. "I
hope you'll be back on time, because I don't like to keep victuals
waiting."

"We'll be here," promised the detective. When he and Penny were beyond
hearing, he added: "I'm afraid we made a big mistake in hiring that
woman. I can see right now that she means to be the boss of the show."

"Oh, well, if the weather is nice we can stay away from the cottage
most of the time," laughed Penny.

After exploring the ravine, they went back to the cottage to find that
luncheon was nearly ready. In justice to Mrs. Masterbrook, the
detective admitted that the meal was excellent. She had made biscuits,
cake, and gravy, besides preparing the usual vegetables and meat.

However, without being requested to do so, the housekeeper seated
herself at the head of the table. Penny and her father had assumed
that she would take her meals alone, but neither of them had the
courage to make the suggestion. They were a little afraid of the
woman's sharp tongue.

Conversation was difficult in Mrs. Masterbrook's presence. Penny and
Mr. Nichols did not wish to say anything of a personal nature lest the
housekeeper repeat it to her acquaintances. Mrs. Masterbrook talked
enough for everyone. She prattled on about the gossip of the town
until Penny and her father were thoroughly bored. They were relieved
when the meal was over.

"I believe I'll drive back to town this afternoon," the detective
announced. "I want to buy a newspaper, and I'll order a telephone
installed."

"I thought you were eager to lose contact with the world," laughed
Penny.

"To a certain extent--yes," replied Mr. Nichols. "Bui I also like to
keep informed."

"You don't need to worry about that part," chuckled Penny. "Mrs.
Masterbrook