“What are the dogs after?” said Alfred.
“Just what the Strawberry wants, and told me to get for her,” replied Malachi; “we will dig him out to-morrow.”
“What is it, Strawberry?” said Mary.
The Strawberry pointed to her mocassins, and then put her finger on the porcupine-quills with which they were embroidered.
“I don’t know the English name,” said she, softly.
“A porcupine you mean,” said Mary; “the animal those quills come from.”
“Yes,” replied the Strawberry.
“Is there a porcupine there, Malachi?” said Mrs Campbell.
“Yes, ma’am, that is certain; the dogs know that well enough, or they would not make such a noise. If you like, we will go for the shovels and dig him out.”
“Do, pray; I should like to see him caught,” said Emma; “it shall be our evening’s amusement.”