120 DOGGED JACK.

the key of the boat house to those who might
wish for it.
 When Mr. Gilbert's phaeton drove up to the door
of the shooting lodge, only Dr. Brown was to be
seen on the gravel in front.
 He came forward at once and helped Mrs. Leslie
and the children to alight.
 "You see we won the race," he said, laughing.
"I fancy you were a little late in starting, Gilbert."
Then turning to Mrs. Leslie he added, My wife
is in the house unpacking her hamper, and I think
Adolphus is helping her."
 "Then I will go in, too, and deliver my hamper
to Mrs. Muffin, as I have something to be cooked,"
answered Mrs. Leslie as she left the gentlemen and
went into the house.
 So you would not ride, my boy ?" said the doctor
turning round to Jack; I'm afraid it was your good-
nature that induced you to give up your pony to
Adolphus," he added kindly.
 Jack muttered something about having "enjoyed
the drive very much," and then afraid of further ques-
tions, ran off to join the other two boys, who had
ridden their ponies straight into the yard.
 On arriving there he heard their voices in the
stable, and found them in high conclave, discussing
Adolphus' faults and examining Baffle.