(#39) The Clue of the Dancing Puppet (16 page)

“‘The day shall not be up so soon as I,
To try the fair adventure of tomorrow.’ ”

“That fits me,” thought Nancy. “I’m ready for a new mystery to solve, even if it’s before dawn!” Fate was waiting for her to take on
The Moonstone Valley Mystery.

The caller, Mr. Trask, who had been looking on in astonishment, now repeated his offer to buy the puppets.

“More money for the Footlighters!” George exclaimed. “Nancy’s not only an ace detective, but a money-maker and a top actress!”

Nancy waved aside the praise. “The club will vote, of course, on what to do with the puppets; but if you ask me,” she added, her eyes twinkling, “we should keep the dancing puppet and her friends. They may come in handy sometime, when a live performance isn’t ready to go on!”

Mr. Spencer laughed heartily. “Detective Drew,” he said, “you’re absolutely right. Puppets saved us once, and these just might save us again!”