Suddenly the descent of something cold and clammy on his bent neck roused him with a most unpleasant shock.
Quick as lightning he faced round, snatching at his assailant; but Louie was off, scudding among the bilberry hillocks with peals of laughter, while the slimy moss she had just gathered from the edges of the brook sent cold creeping streams into the recesses of David's neck and shoulders.

He shook himself free of the mess as best he could, and rushed after her.

For a long time he chased her in vain, then her foot tripped, and he came up with her just as she rolled into the heather, gathered up like a hedgehog against attack, her old hat held down over her ears and face.

David fell upon her and chastised her; but his fisticuffs probably looked more formidable than they felt, for Louie laughed provokingly all the time, and when he stopped out of breath she said exultantly, as she sprang up, holding her skirts round her ready for another flight, 'It's greened aw yur neck and yur collar--luvely! Doan't yo be nassty for nothink next time!' And off she ran.
'If yo meddle wi me ony moor,' he shouted after her fiercely, 'yo see what I'll do!' But in reality the male was helpless, as usual.

He went ruefully down to the brook, and loosening his shirt and coat tried to clean his neck and hair.