“Jackanapesby Juliana Horatia Ewing,” Kathryn said, playing her part well. “Or another book like it.”
“Yes, of course,” Miss Clampett said. “There’s a children’s section in the back of the building.”
When she made no move to show Grace and Kathryn where to look, Grace gave her a smile, though I could tell she was nervous. “Could you show us, please? I would love for you to make some suggestions, if possible. I’m certain your expertise is invaluable.”
“Well. My goodness.” Miss Clampett’s cheeks turned pink at the praise. “I would be happy to show you.”
“We’ll wait here for you,” I told Grace. “Take your time. Lydia and I could use a nice long visit.”
Miss Clampett didn’t seem to think anything was out of place as she led Grace and Kathryn away.
I didn’t waste a moment, glancing around one more time to make sure there were no other employees within sight before I moved to the back side of the circulation desk and opened the filing system. My heart dropped immediately because it was obvious that the system was not categorized by the title of book but by the name of the borrower. And there were hundreds of cards to look through.
“Lydia,” I said, motioning her to join me, my heart pumpinghard. “Start in that drawer. Under each name, look for a book titledThe Annalsof San Francisco. Hurry. And watch for another staff member.”
She didn’t ask any questions and joined me, opening the drawer next to mine.
I started with theAs, hoping and praying I wouldn’t miss anything in my desire to be quick.
Lydia began with theFs in the next drawer.
My hands were shaking as I glanced up often, wondering how much time we would have before Miss Clampett got suspicious.
Minutes ticked by, but it felt like it was taking us forever. I was in theDs when Lydia let out a little squeal.
“I found it!”
With another glance toward the back of the library, I closed my drawer with relief.
“It was checked out by a woman named Elizabeth Hennesy,” she said. “And her address is listed.”
“Where does she live?” I asked, sweat gathering on my brow.
“It says 103 West 4th Street, Los Angeles.”
I repeated it, memorizing the address.
Movement at the back of the library made Lydia fumble with the card as she shoved it back into place and closed the drawer. I took Lydia’s hand and pulled her out of the circulation desk as Kathryn came into view, followed by Grace and Miss Clampett.
“Did you find something?” I asked, breathless.
“Yes, faster than I expected,” Grace said, questioning me with her eyes.
I gave a quick nod, and her shoulders relaxed.
“Shall I open an account for you to check out the book?” Miss Clampett asked Kathryn.
“You can use mine.” I smiled, trying to even out my breath. “What book did you decide upon, Kathryn?”
“We thought some English folktales and legends would be fun,” Grace said. “Robin HoodandKing Arthur and the Knightsof the Round Table.”
Kathryn smiled, but then her face grew serious. “My friend Austen said these are his favorites.”
She had told me that Austen’s parents had died two years ago in her other path, and he had been sent off to boarding school. Every time she brought up his name, I could hear the sadness in her voice.
As soon as possible, we left the library and headed down Hollywood Boulevard toward Los Angeles in the automobile we’d borrowed from Julia.
“Do you want to come with me or go home?” I asked Grace.
