In fact they were as merry as sky-larks, and often made the island resound with song and mirth and laughter.
And the dogs, as well as Flossy, were merrier still.

They barked and laughed as only dogs can, and chased each other round and round in great circles, often disappearing for ten minutes at a time, and springing out and rolling Flossy over and over when she least expected them.
Flossy was gay enough, although she couldn't run, and often leapt fully six feet high, turning over and over in the air before she came down again.
And when she did manage to entice the dogs into the water, it was her turn to show them her skill; and indeed her feats in the water were marvellous.

Anyhow, she used quite to astonish the dogs.

They were all very well in the woods, but couldn't match Flossy in the water, and there was no use trying it..