“I know you did.”

“Well, I said a very big fib.”

“Oh, Bob!”

“David knew me when I trundled a rag and bone cart along the streets of London in company with my first owner, Mistress Sally Brimstone.”

“Yes, Bob. Rag and bone cart. Sally Brimstone? I can’t understand it!” cried Snowie, aghast.

“No, but I can. Old Sally sold me to old Jenkins for thirty shillings. That’s where I came from, Snowie. Fact!”

“But you always told me you were gently reared.”

“I’m afraid I always told you fibs. Now I’m going to turn over a new leaf in this new situation. From henceforth I shall speak the truth.”

“Bob.”