He was afraid lest he might hurt this cross little animal, and get into trouble with the Boy.

So he kept jumping out of the way, stiff-leggedly, as if very much amused, and at the same time he kept barking, as if to call the Boy to come and see.

Young Grumpy, feeling very big, followed him up with short, threatening rushes, till he found himself just at the open gate leading into the farmyard.
"Parading solemnly before the gate was a big gray gander with only one eye.

That one eye, extra keen and fierce, caught sight of Young Grumpy, and probably mistook him for an immense rat, thief of eggs and murderer of goslings.

With a harsh hiss and neck outstretched till it was like a snake, the great bird darted at him.
"Young Grumpy hesitated.