Seattle Puzzle by Gertrude Chandler Warner Page A

Connecticut. Even the boxcar was given a special place in the backyard. The children often used it as a clubhouse.
    “I love dogs,” said Reena. “I wish Watch had come along.”
    Jessie was surprised by Reena’s words. How did she know Watch’s name?
    “Watch is at home,” said Benny. “He’s keeping Mrs. McGregor company.”
    “Mrs. McGregor is our housekeeper,” explained Violet.
    “And a super cook,” added Benny. “Sometimes I even have second helpings.”
    “Oh, Benny!” Henry laughed. “You always have seconds!” The youngest Alden was known for his appetite.
    As they drove into the city, Grandfather said, “One thing’s for sure, you won’t go hungry on this trip, Benny.”
    Finn was quick to agree. “Yes, we have some wonderful restaurants in Seattle.”
    “That reminds me of something,” said Reena. “I was hoping I could take you out to lunch tomorrow. Maybe show you some of the sights. How does that sound?”
    “That sounds wonderful!” said Jessie. “Are you sure it won’t be too much trouble?”
    “No trouble at all,” Reena assured her. “I work at a pet store, but tomorrow’s my day off.”
    “Is that all right with you, Grandfather?” asked Violet.
    Grandfather gave his youngest granddaughter the thumbs-up sign. “That’ll work out just fine,” he told her. “I’ll be tied up with business most of the day.”
    “Here we are!” Finn announced, as the car slowed to a stop outside the hotel.
    Everyone scrambled out. Henry helped Finn unload the suitcases from the trunk.
    As they stepped inside the hotel lobby, a young man in a blue blazer smiled at them from behind the front desk.
    “You must be the Aldens,” he said, looking at his guest list.
    “That’s us!” Benny piped up. “We’re staying for a whole week.”
    “Glad to hear it! If you need anything, just ask for Toby Spinner.” He pointed to the nametag pinned to his blazer. “That’s me.”
    The youngest Alden grinned. “Hi, Toby. I’m Benny, and this is Henry, Jessie, and Violet.” He pointed to his brother and sisters. “We’re going sightseeing tomorrow.”
    As Grandfather checked in, Toby said, “You’re welcome to use the indoor pool anytime. Oh, and here are a few brochures you might find helpful. They list all the tourist attractions.” He placed a handful on the counter. “And how about a few maps? We wouldn’t want you getting lost.”
    Grandfather chuckled. “Not much chance of that,” he said. “My grandchildren know how to take care of themselves.”
    “Jessie always gets us where we’re going,” Violet said, a note of pride in her voice. “She’s the best map-reader in the family.”
    “I help, too!” put in Benny.
    “You sure do,” said Jessie. “We count on your sharp eyes, Benny.” The youngest Alden had a way of seeing things the others didn’t.
    “Well, if you need anything, just let me know,” said Toby. “I’m new on the job, so I’m still learning the ropes. But if I can’t answer your questions, I’ll find someone who can.”
    “Thanks, Toby,” said Henry, speaking for them all.
    “We’ll leave you to get settled in,” Finn told Grandfather.
    “I’ll see you kids tomorrow,” added Reena. “Why don’t we meet at the Hungry Heart Diner around noon, rain or shine. It’s just down the street. You can’t miss it.”
    “We’ll be there!” Henry promised.
    While the Aldens waited for the elevator, Jessie suddenly remembered the brochures and the maps. As she hurried back to get them, she noticed Reena deep in conversation with Toby.
    Jessie didn’t mean to eavesdrop, but she couldn’t help overhearing.
    “If they find out something fishy’s going on,” Reena was saying, “it’ll ruin everything.”
    “Don’t worry,” said Toby. “You can count on me.”
    As Jessie stepped up to the counter, Reena looked startled, as if she’d been caught doing something wrong.
    “Oh!” Reena smiled uneasily. “I was, um, just … asking about