But hard work it was, from the fact that the snow was loose and powdery.
But at long, long last they reached the mouth of the cave.
And now a curious spectacle was witnessed, for to the number of at least a hundred, and headed by a huge curly-horned ram, with a chorus of baa-a-ing, out rushed the imprisoned sheep, kicking and leaping with joy to see once more the light of day.
Behind them came the shepherd's bawsont-faced collie Korran. But after licking Vike's ear he rushed back once more into the cave, and the rescuers quickly lighting a fire with some withered grass, found the body of the shepherd with Korran standing over it. Was he dead?
That had yet to be seen. They carried him out, and placing him on plaids, began to rub his face with snow and chafe his cold, hard hands.
In less than ten minutes Sandie opened his wondering eyes.
He could swallow now, and a restorative was administered.
I need scarcely say that this restorative was Highland whisky.
After about half an hour Sandie was able not only to eat and talk but to walk.
His story was a very brief one. He had, with the assistance of Korran, driven the sheep into the cave, and never dreaming that he would be snowed up, and remained with them for a time. Alas! it was a long time for the poor fellow and his faithful dog!