They could give no further details but, while they were waiting for Mr. Sterling, Peter told them quickly how she had found Mr. Evans. They listened carefully to her story, and when at last her father appeared the sergeant said, "Look here, Peter. I've got a suggestion. We've got a lot to talk to your father about and may be some time. Why don't you get dressed and ride over to Witchend, and see those twins? I should think you'll all have a lot to talk to each other about, won't you?"

"I don't want to," said Peter firmly. "I want to stay here and find out what the mystery is about - but I'll run up and dress first if you like."

"Peter, my dear," her father said. "I want you to do as asked and not argue. Ride over to Witchend and see how they all are. I want to know about the twins especially and of course the Ingles or Mrs. Morton will give you breakfast. You can stay as long as you like, if you're not in the way."

Peter was so surprised at his firmness that she replied quietly, "Righto. I'll go! But you might tell me what's it all about."

"We'll tell you everything soon enough," the sergeant said, "but we know you could be more useful over at Witchend this morning. Good-bye, Peter, and thanks for waking up so quickly this morning."

She was so thrilled and happy at the news of the twins that she forgot to be annoyed at this summary manner of getting her out of the way. Just as well perhaps to talk the mystery and adventure over with the others instead of waiting about here with the grown-ups. So she saddled Sally and set off down the valley in the sunshine.

At the plank bridge she turned and saw her father walking with the three men up to the dam. He was pointing, but when she waved to them there was no response. They were busy about something, but it was all very mysterious.

10. The Reservoir

Peter was unusually excited as she set off on Sally down the Hatchholt Valley. It was a glorious morning and as she trotted down the track she was thinking that all their recent adventures were connected in some way and that today many of the mysteries might be solved. It seemed ages since she had seen the others. The news that the twins were safe was a great relief for she had grown very fond of those two with their impulsive loyalty and odd understanding of each other. Peter smiled to herself as she pictured the way in which they would interrupt as they told their story of the greatest adventure that had ever happened.