He went on with his task of locking up; and returned in a minute or two to the veranda.
As he did so, Lad came walking slowly up the porch steps.

In his mouth he carried something large and white and dusty.

This he proceeded to deposit with much care at the feet of the Mistress.

Then he stood back; tail waving, dark eyes mischievously expectant.
"Another dividend from the curve!" laughed the Master.

"What is it, this time?
A pillow or-- ?" He broke off in the middle of his amused query.