And they
advanced no farther.
Lad, for a few rods, gave chase to the retreating Schwartzes.
Then, the heavy exertions of the past minute or two began to
exact toll on his aging body. Also, the baby was still whimpering
in a drowsy monotone, as the paregoric sought to renew its sway
on the racket awakened brain.
The dog turned pantingly back to the bundle; pawed it softly, as
though to make sure the contents were not harmed; then once more
picked it up gingerly between his reddened jaws; and continued
his sedate homeward journey.
The Mistress and the Master. were sitting on the veranda. It was
almost bedtime. The Master arose, to begin his nightly task of
locking the lower windows. From somewhere on the highroad that
lay two hundred yards distant from the house, came the confused
noise of shouts. Then, as he listened, the far-off sounds ceased.
He went on with his task of locking up; and returned in a minute
or two to the veranda.
As he did so, Lad came walking slowly up the porch steps. In his
mouth he carried something large and white and dusty.
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