As NANCY'S convertible leaned precariously, its right wheels in the ditch, the panel truck roared on around the bend and out of sight.  Nancy braked her car to a stop, thankful it had not turned over.

"That driver ought to have his license revoked!" she thought indignantly.  She knew it would be difficult to get out of the muddy ditch.  "Well, I'll have a try," she decided.  "Here goesl"

She tried to rock the car gently back and forth to gain momentum.  The right tires spun crazily and sank lower into the mire.

Nancy tried again.  No use.  She feared it might be some time before a car would come along in this deserted area.  Finally she decided to search for some objects to force under the right wheels for traction.

Just then, Nancy heard an automobile approaching.  "Thank goodness!" she murmured a moment later.  "A State Police car."

It drew up and parked at the side of the road.  A young officer hopped out.

"Having trouble, miss?" he asked.  "Lieutenant Brice, Benton State Police Barracks," he said pleasantly.

Nancy introduced herself, then explained.  He asked if she had noted the truck's license plates.  "No," she replied, but described the truck and the chrome eagle ornament on its hood.

Lieutenant Brice said that if he found the truck, he would see that the driver was brought to court.

"I have a tow chain in my car.  I'll try to pull you out.  Keep the engine in gear."

Five minutes later the convertible was out of the ditch.  Nancy thanked the trooper for his help, then drove off.

It was almost six o'clock when Nancy pulled into the Lilac Inn parking lot.  She went at once to the patio, where the Willoughbys, Maud, Helen, and John were gathered.

"I'm glad you could return in time for supper, Nancy," said Mrs. Willoughby.

The others plied the girl detective with questions about the Drews' burglar.  Nancy gave an ac-count of her day's experiences, concluding with the reckless truck driver.

"Why, how terrible!" Emily exclaimed.