It had been left, with a bucket of water, outside the shed.

He drew out the piston, filled the syringe, then discharged its contents straight at the dog.

But at that most unlucky moment a quick change took place on the wall; the collie retired in favor of his master, and the stream of water charged full into the astonished countenance of a precise and elderly gentleman from next door.

For a few moments there was a ghastly silence, while he wiped his face and recovered his dignity.

Then he demanded in withering tones: "May I ask what is the meaning of this ?" Ingred and Hereward, overwhelmed with confusion, stuttered out apologies and explanations.