"Well, well, I'm pleased. So this is the Nubian Demon. I beg your pardon, but it is the reputation you have earned. Regulus, isn't it? Of course. Ah, you shall like it here. Yes, indeed. But please stop that infernal hissing. You see, it really doesn't work up here. Just crawl into that basket over there. And please, pull the top over you. My, what a surprise you shall be to my charmer.
"As for you, Demo, once more well done. I'm amazed at your resourcefulness. But do keep in mind that my little black cloud was helpful. Good day, my boy."
With a sudden thump Demo found himself once more in his own front yard. The fall had ended so abruptly the sand-and-silt plugged ears were cleared, and he could hear once more.
"Demo, I told you to stay out of that tree. My, I hope you haven't broken anything. Well get up from there and come to eat. We have such wonderful company. Theresa is staying for supper."
Rough licked his cheek and grinned a dog grin.
Evening came early.
They ate their supper in a strangely quiet mode.
Afterward his mother looked at him for a moment, turned away, wiped a tear from her eye.
"Mother, are you ill? What is wrong!" Demo rose quickly, stepped to her side.
"Demo, I have a story to tell you. Sit down, don't interrupt me."