Word was sent forth that all dogs were to be returned to their benches and that the judging of the collies and of certain other breeds would begin at once.
There was a general hustle and confusion, as exhibitors led forth their dogs from shelter; benching them and plying brush and chalk and towel in frantic haste.
Higham summoned Rice and another of the kennel men and bade them bring forth the Lochaber dogs.

Instead of helping them with his task, Higham himself ran to the top of the clubhouse steps, from which he could survey not only the benches but also the stables and the lawn between.
There, quivering with hard-held excitement, he stood; with the air of one who has chosen a grandstand seat for some thrilling event.

He wore a pair of thick gloves.

As he had discarded the linen duster which he had worn during the dyeing process, there was no betraying splash of color on his severely correct garb.
People were trooping out from the shelter of the clubhouse.

With half an eye, Higham observed these; chuckling at thought of the everincreasing number of spectators to his rare comedy.