Sukey in a rage uttered a series of choking “Rookety cahoos!” then she flew on the Judge’s shoulder.
Titus was awestruck. “Do you let her do that?” he asked.
“I can’t help it,” said the Judge, sheepishly trying to drive her away.
She resisted him, and rapidly turning would give Titus a wrathful glance, and would then peck lovingly at the Judge’s ear.
“I’ve spoiled her,” said the Judge, weakly.
Titus sank into a chair.
“Here take her,” said his grandfather, reaching up both hands, seizing the bird bodily, and depositing her on his grandson’s knee.
The boy held her, and gently stroked her head. Struggling furiously, she caught hold of his fingers, bit them sharply until he released her, when she flew to the Judge’s knee, and seemed to be telling him a long story of insult and injury.
The Judge could not help laughing, and finally Titus laughed too. Then he said, “W-w-well, I’ve lost my pigeon.”
“Never mind,” said his grandfather, “you shall have some others for yourself. I spoke to a carpenter the other day about making a loft up at the stable for you.”