He is perfectly safe to guard a baby, if he is gently treated, but he is a sure throat hold to a stranger who bespeaks him roughly or attempts to strike.

He would be of no use as a guard to valuable property while I sleep if he were otherwise.

Bel, come here! Lie still." The dog sank to the floor beside the Harvester, but his sharp eyes followed the Girl, and the hair arose on his neck at every rasping note of the old man's voice.
"I wouldn't give such a creature house room for a minute," insisted the guest.
"Wait until you see him work and become acquainted with him, and you will change that verdict," prophesied the Harvester.
"I never was known to change an opinion.

Never, sir! Never!" cried the testy voice.
"How unfortunate!" remarked the Harvester suavely.
"Explain yourself! Explain yourself, sir!" "There never has been, there never will be, a man on this earth," said the Harvester, "wholly free from mistakes.

Are you warm now ?" He turned to the little lady, cutting off a reply with his question.
"Nice and warm and quite sleepy," she said.
"What may I bring you for a light lunch before you go to bed ?" "Oh, could I have a bite of something ?" "If only I am fortunate enough to have anything you will care for.