When Frankie heard this, he lavished more caresses on his pet, and told her she was safe now.
[CHAPTER VI.]
TONY'S LOVE FOR HER MASTER.
I AM sure the little boys and girls who read this, will be glad to know that good care, nourishing food, and Frankie's caresses, at last restored Tony; though it was a long time before she could run and jump as she had before. It was quite affecting to see her try to spring after Frankie's ball when he bid her bring it to him. She would seem to forget for a moment how feeble she was, and then, quite exhausted, she would lie down puffing and panting for breath, but keeping her eyes on her master as if to say, "I would obey you, if I could."
Then Frank would blame himself for telling her to do it; and he would ask her pardon, and kiss her over and over again. Oh, they were very good friends, indeed!
Frankie's school was about a quarter of a mile from the house. Before Tony was stolen, she used to go with him until they were in sight of the school-house, and then scamper back as fast as she could go; but now Tony was not allowed beyond the gates.
The faithful creature seemed to know when it was time for Frank to come home. The first day she could crawl down the yard, she stationed herself where she could see far down the road, and at the first glimpse of his figure, began to bark out her welcome.
One day, for whispering, he was kept after school was dismissed. Tony watched and watched, and, after Eddy came home, showed great impatience. She even stole through the gate, and walked cautiously toward the school-house.
At last Frankie came in sight, not running and jumping as usual; but walking slowly, with his handkerchief at his eyes.
Tony was sure, now, that something was the matter. She sprang up, licked his hand, and tried, in every way that a dog could try, to show her sympathy.