The Mystery of the Singing Ghost by Gertrude Chandler Warner

Author:Gertrude Chandler Warner
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Albert Whitman & Company
Published: 2008-05-31T00:00:00+00:00

The Aldens all crowded around Violet and looked at the diary. “I’m not sure it’s right to read it,” Jessie said.

“Jessie, the diary is years and years old. Celia Roth is probably dead now. What harm is there in reading it?” Violet asked.

Jessie said firmly, “I wouldn’t want anyone reading my diary — even seventy-five years later.”

Violet turned to Mr. Alden, who was listening to the conversation. “What do you think, Grandfather?”

Mr. Alden said, “Well, I don’t really see anything wrong in reading the diary of someone who wrote it so long ago.”

Violet opened the book, and Henry said, “See if there are any entries for August, the month she disappeared.”

Violet read aloud: “August 1, 1917 … Dear Diary, I told Father last night that I was in love with George Collins and that we wanted to get married. I explained that since George is in the army and due to go overseas we wanted to be wed before he went. Father was very upset. He said he would never allow that. He said George and I didn’t know each other well enough and that it was a foolhardy thing to do. He said he would never give his permission. I cried and cried but he refused to change his mind.”

Jessie sighed. “Isn’t that romantic?”

“Read some more, Violet,” Henry said.

Violet went on. “August 3, 1917 … Dear Diary, I tried to talk to Father about George again, but he still won’t listen to how I feel. He wants George and me to wait until the end of the war. But who knows how long it will last? George is coming over tonight and he is going to try to change Father’s mind.

“August 4, 1917 … Dear Diary, George had no luck either. I am so unhappy. I don’t want to disobey Father, but I want so much to marry George now.

“August 5, 1917 … Dear Diary, George and I had a long talk today. He is sure he is going to be shipped to Europe soon. What are we going to do? I never thought Father could be so stubborn. I know Father loves me and I love him. But I love George, too.

“August 6, 1917 … Dear Diary, I feel much better tonight. Father seemed so calm and kind today. I am sure that if I’m patient he will come around and see my point of view. He almost always does. I’m sure everything will be fine.”

Violet flicked the pages. “That’s the last entry,” she said.

Jessie frowned. “It seems as if Mr. Roth really didn’t understand how unhappy Celia was.”

Benny said, “I think it’s all very mushy.”

The other children laughed. Grandfather said, “Well, children, you certainly have made an interesting discovery. But now it’s late. Benny, I think you should be off to bed.”

Benny kissed Mr. Alden good night and started for the stairs. He smiled broadly. “Tomorrow Aunt Jane will be here.”

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