By studying a map of the area, they had discovered a little-used road which led to the abandoned estate. Though this woodland route was rough and dusty, Bess preferred it to another boat trip.
"Hope we don't get a flat tire," Nancy remarked, maneuvering the car to avoid jagged rocks. "How much farther is it?"
George peered at the odometer and noted that they had traveled about five miles from the outskirts of River Heights.
"We're coming to something!" she exclaimed a moment later.
Through the trees the girls caught a fleeting glimpse of a tall tower. The car rounded a sharp curve, blotting it from view. Then the road ended abruptly in front of a high, vine-covered stone wall.
"The front boundary of the estate!" Bess announced. "There's the name Heath Castle on the gate."
Nancy jumped from the car and led the girls to the iron gate. It was fastened by a heavy iron chain, secured by a huge padlock.
"The key I have won't open this padlock," Nancy said. "It's for the front door."
"Who put the padlock on?" Bess asked.
"Probably Daniel Hector, the executor," George replied.
"Whoever it was is determined to keep everyone out," Nancy said thoughtfully.
"How do we get in?" Bess asked.
"Over the top, commando style," George urged. "Lucky we wore jeans."
Nancy and Bess looked with misgivings at the sharp iron spikes of the high, rusty gate.
"I don't like the idea of climbing over that. There must be an easier way to get in," Nancy said, her gaze roving along the crumbling, ivy- covered wall.
The girls walked alongside for some distance. Finally they came to a spot which was a bit lower than the gate and offered good toe holds. It was not difficult for them to grasp vines and pull themselves to the top. Bess was reluctant to go, but decided to follow. The three friends leaped down on the other side of the wall and started through the dense growth of trees and shrubs. It was damp and cool beneath the canopy of leaves. There were many eerie noises. As they progressed, Bess said she felt very uneasy.