Then the place would not be half so
depressing. But of course if it gets a reputation of being haunted that
will settle it as far as people with weak nerves are concerned. Are you
girls going to take up Lagg's offer?"
"We haven't thought of it lately," replied Grace.
"Too busy arranging for our grand tour," added Mollie.
"Well, we fellows may decide to take it up, and get the reward--it would
come in handy for vacation money," said Will.
The car was now descending a slope, and soon Shadow Valley was out of
sight, as was the strange old mansion. The girls breathed easier, and
perhaps the boys did also, for, though nothing had actually occurred,
the reputation of the place, and the sudden and startling appearance of
the old man, had given them all a thrill.
"This is the second time some one has tumbled out almost under our
auto," said Mollie, as they turned on a road toward Deepdale. "The
third time may not be so lucky for them--or for us."
"That's so," agreed Amy. "The first was that girl who disappeared so
mysteriously. I wonder what became of her?"
"So do I," spoke Grace.
"And if she ever went back to the mysterious 'him' of whom she talked?"
added Betty.
"Perhaps it was her--sweetheart--and they had a quarrel," suggested
Will.
"Is it silly to--have a sweetheart?" asked Allen, with a glance at
Betty, whose face was then turned toward him.
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