“But I'm not nearly so tired as I am at home, Alexander, truly.”
“Let me help you, grandfather,” offered the Girl.
She went to him and took his hat and stick.
“Leave me my cane,” he cried. “Any instant that beast may attack some of us.”
The Girl laughed merrily.
“Why grandfather!” she chided, “Bel is the finest dog you ever knew, he is my best friend here. By the hour he has protected me, and he is gentle as a kitten. He's crazy over my coming home.”
She knelt on the floor, put her arms around the dog's neck, and the delighted brute quivered with the joy of her caress and the sound of her loved voice.
“Ruthie!” cautioned the gentle lady.
“Put that cur out of doors, where animals belong,” roared the old man, lifting his stick.
“Careful!” warned the grave voice of the Harvester.