But, the collie was not inclined to caution.

He hailed with evident relief the sight of open spaces and of light after the gloomy trail's windings.

And he broke into a canter.
Fearing to call aloud, Brice chirped and hissed softly at the careering dog.

The collie, at sound of the recall, hesitated, then began to trot back toward Gavin.

But, glancing wistfully toward the light, as he started to obey the summons, his eye encountered something which swept away all his dawning impulse of obedience.
Athwart the bright end of the path, sprang a furry gray creature, supple, fluffy, indescribably formless and immense in that deceptive half-light.
Brice peered at the animal in astonishment, seeking to classify it in his mind.