With one high spring, Lad had cleared the ground and was over the
closed tonneau door and amid a ruck of luggage and rugs. The rear
seat was filled by a steamer-trunk, strapped tightly in place
there. And the bottom of the car was annoyingly crowded by bumpy
bags and other gear.
Still, by the simple and ancestral process of turning himself
around several times, Lad was able to clear enough space on the
floor to permit of his lying down; albeit in a very compact
bunch.
He settled himself into place on the floor with a satisfied
jounce which loosened a car-rug draped over the trunk. Down
slithered the rug; and fell athwart the dog's shaggy back and one
of the bags. It was not heavy enough to annoy Lad or hurt his
feelings. And its draped folds served as the top of a sort of
cave for him. On the whole, Lad rather enjoyed the rug's descent.
It made his narrow resting-place snugger and warmer on this
chilly early morning. Patiently, Lad lay there; waiting for the
car to start.
He did not have long to wait. In another minute or two, the
Mistress and the Master came out from breakfast; and got into the
front seat.
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