I said, in a trembling voice, as I approached them, "I--I don't think he meant it." "He'll have to be punished--just the same--ayes--he will." We went into the house together, I sniffling, but curious to see what was going to happen.

Uncle Peabody, by prearrangement, as I know now, lay face downward on the sofa, and Aunt Deel began to apply the strap.
It was more than I could bear, and I threw myself between my beloved friend and the strap and pleaded with loud cries for his forgiveness.
Uncle Peabody rose and walked out of the house without a word and with a sterner look in his face than I had ever seen there.

I searched for him as soon as my excitement had passed, but in vain.

I went out back of the cow barn and looked away down across the stumpy flats.

Neither he nor Shep were in sight.