tment when Susan Altman burst in upon her.

"Congratulations!" she beamed. "I see by the morning paper that you
are famous!"

"Did you ever see such a horrible picture?" Penny complained. "It's
three years old at least. Why, I look positively juvenile. Where the
editor found it I don't know."

"You should worry about such a trifle as that!" Susan scoffed. "Tell
me the entire story."

"There's nothing to report except what's in the paper," Penny replied.

Although she longed to relate the part which Jimmie had played, she
wisely refrained from mentioning his name. If he were to have his
opportunity to begin life anew, the past must be forgotten.

For days Penny found herself besieged by friends and acquaintances who
were eager to learn all the details of her adventure. When she walked
downtown she was gazed upon with awe and admiration.

At the trial of Rap Molberg and George Brunner, she appeared as the
state's star witness. The garage owner, well fortified with
dishonestly acquired money, had employed one of the best criminal
lawyers in the state to defend him. Penny was put through a severe
test when she took the stand, but although nervous, she answered all
questions calmly and clearly. Her testimony was largely responsible
for the conviction of both Rap Molberg and Brunner. The two were
ordered confined to the state penitentiary for a long term of years.

Mr. Nichols was jubilant at the result of the trial.

"This definitely clears up the case," he declared. "And I think it
calls for a big celebration."

The victory event took the form of a gala dinner at Belton City's
leading hotel. Penny invited Susan and many of her high school
friends. In addition, policemen, detectives and all persons who had
aided in the capture of the thieves, were present.

"We will have no speeches," Mr. Nichols had promised. "Only good food
and plenty of fun."

Penny therefore was surprised when her father, who occupied the chair
at the head of the table, arose and faced the expectant group.

"I don't mean to break my promise about speech making," he smiled.
"For that reason, without any formality, I shall present to my
daughter, Penny, this token of merit from the officials of the Reliance
Insurance Company for her splendid work in connection with the Molberg
case."

Penny gasped as her father held up a tiny bejeweled wrist watch and
placed it in her hand. It was the daintiest and most exquisite
timepiece