“To bravest heart, the tenderest touch belongs.”
It is evening, and the family party, young and old, are gathered on the porch, talking over the pleasures of the past day, whilst Ranger lies close at Mr. Harwood’s feet.
Mr. Haven remarks, “That’s a grand mastiff, Fred, but what has become of my old friend Tiger? How much he used to enjoy your yachting parties! How his tail showed the interest he took in our fishing, and how frantic he became whenever a fine fish was drawn on board! He was a nice fellow, I should like to see him again.”
“His disappearance has never fully been accounted for,” replied Mr. Harwood. “Perhaps, Artie, you and Daisy have never heard how Ranger came to us?”
“No, sir,” eagerly answered the children. “Is there a story about it?”
“You may be sure, youngsters,” Papa laughingly interposed, “that where there’s a dog there’s sure to be a tale.”
“Yes, sir,” quickly added Jem, “but it isn’t every dog that leaves a tale behind him.”
“You are right, Jem, I yield the point, and ask the company’s pardon for keeping the tale hanging.”
“Your Aunt Gertrude,” continued Mr. Havens, “has a brother, an Army Surgeon, who was at one time stationed at a Florida fort close by the Everglades.”