; do."

The woman gave him a pleasant nod of farewell and walked with
springing step back in the direction of the house. As she went Walter
saw her halt and speak to old Tim, who was at work in the rose garden,
and beheld the gardener leap proudly forward to cut for her a blossom
she had evidently admired.

It was even as Jerry had said. She was the idol of Surfside.

After she had disappeared he opened the wicket and stepped out,
letting Achilles follow him.

Instantly the great creature put his nose to the ground and with a
joyous bark he was gone in search of his mistress.

It was now or never with the new master of the hounds.

The lad whistled but the dog did not turn. Again he gave a quick call.
This time the rushing beast paused, looked round, and then slackening
his pace, continued to jog along on his way.

Helplessly the boy saw him go farther and farther out of reach.

He must compel obedience somehow.

"Achilles!" shouted he sternly. "Achilles! Back, sir!"

Although he uttered the words he had not the slightest faith they
would have any effect and was amazed to see the dog waver in his
tracks.

"Achilles, come here!" repeated he sharply.

With reluctance the dog turned and looked at him.

"Here, sir!" called Walter, with coaxing cadence.

The dog continued to regard him intently but he did not move. Then
suddenly there was a rush and with panting jaws widespread the Belgian
came bounding toward him. It was not until he was close at hand that
he abated his speed. Then he came to the side of his new master and
gently laid his cold nose on his sleeve.

Walter patted the great head affectionately.

The battle was won. He had conquered Achilles.

CHAPTER VI

HIS HIGHNESS IN A NEW ROLE

Before a week had passed the strangeness of living at Surfside had to
a certain extent abated and Walter found himself not only content in
his new position but enjoying it. He rose early, feeding the dogs,
exercising them, and making fresh their quarters before he breakfasted
himself. Afterward, despite the score of odd duties with which the
morning was filled, he contrived to do many little kindnesses for
Jerry, Tim, Wheeler, and the other men. He was always willing to do a
favor and amid an atmosphere where generosity was rare the virtue of
aiding others rendered him immensely popular.

In the meantime he had made such headway in the affections of Achilles
that the big Belgian not only tagged at h