Page:The Mystery of Central Park.djvu/56

50 "Well, not exactly," hesitatingly, "it will take time to clear it all up, you know."

"Tell me, do you know her name yet, and where she came from, and was she really murdered?"

"Slowly, slowly; would you have me spoil my luck by telling what I have done?" asked Richard evasively, his eyes twinkling.

"Oh, you superstitious boy," laughed Penelope, lightly tapping him with her hand, which he immediately caught and held captive in his own.

"Don't be unkind," he pleaded, as she tried to draw her hand away.

"Not for worlds," she replied gravely, ceasing to struggle. "Mr. John Stetson Maxwell called here last night, and he told me of an experience he had when he was an editor, that made me resolve never to speak or act unkindly if I can help it."