THE LITTLE HIGHLANDER’S BIRTHDAY.
When Henry’s birthday came, he put a garland of red roses around Malcom’s neck. Malcom was a handsome brown fawn, with a white breast. He did not stay with the other deer in the park, but had a place fenced off for his own playground. Henry brought him sugar and sweet cakes, and he fed from his hand, and followed his little master around like a pet dog.
Henry lived in Scotland, and his father was the chief of the MacDonald clan. Upon his birthday, all the tenants, with their wives and children, came to the castle to dinner. Tables were spread in the great hall, loaded with good things. Henry, dressed in his Highland dress, stood by his father’s side, and listened to the speeches made in his honor. Afterward, there were games played in the park, cricket, wrestling matches, and shooting with the bow and arrow. Prizes were given to the boys who showed the most skill.
While Henry was watching the games, Malcom came and rubbed his nose against him, as if to say, “Don’t forget me.” But when the bagpipes began to play, he was frightened, and bounded off amongst the trees.
As soon as Malcom’s horns grow, he will be turned out with the herd of deer, but Henry will get the keeper to put a mark upon his pet, so that he may always know him.
MALCOM.