Handing over the bowl and sponge to his
assistant, Higham produced from under his coat a thick burlap bag
with a drawstring at its neck. Then, he opened the door of the
box stall, a few inches and stared in.
By straining his eyes, he could just see the vague outline of the
big collie. The dog arose from a bundle of straw, stretched
himself fore and aft, and walked gravely forward to welcome the
visitors who were so kindly easing his loneliness. He was barely
visible, in the dimness.
But there was light enough for Higham's purpose. With practiced
hand, he shoved the bag over the beautiful silken head, as the
collie stepped majestically toward him. Then, deftly, he threw
the indignant and struggling dog to the floor, and bade the boy
come in; and shut the gate behind him.
With the passing of another hour, the rain ceased; and a glory of
afternoon sunlight bathed the freshened world. At about the same
time, the belated collie judge arrived at the clubhouse. Word was
sent forth that all dogs were to he returned to their benches and
that the judging of the collies and of certain other breeds would
begin at once.
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