At this Vigilant made shift to weep, and to cross his paws over his heart in a most beseeching manner.
"Your distress is very touching, young sir," said the child. "You think your horse is dead?"
"Alas, I do!" answered the dog in a long pitiful whine.
"It is indeed very unfortunate that a young gentleman of your quality should find himself in this predicament in such a lonely place," pursued Lydia. "Your parents are no doubt anxiously awaiting your return?"
"You've just hit it! You're quite right," the eager barking seemed to reply.
"Ah! I understand," went on Lydia, her face brightening with a sudden gleam of comprehension. "You have perhaps disobeyed your mother?"
"Yes, I have," Vigilant confessed with a very penitent air.
"Then you are being punished for your misbehavior," rejoined Lydia with the air of a grandmother. "So much the worse for you. You've been naughty, and you must take the consequences. I can't do anything for you, young sir. Good-luck and good-bye to you. Come, Nalla, we must go on our way."
But Nalla did not stir, and began to make certain mutterings as though he were begging Lydia for something.