made of brass or something. Then we came away.

"The Doctor isn't back yet," said Matthew, "or the gate wouldn't
be locked."

"What were all those things in paper-bags you gave the dog?" I
asked.

"Oh, those were provisions," said Matthew--"things for the
animals to eat. The Doctor's house is simply full of pets. I
give the things to the dog, while the Doctor's away, and the dog
gives them to the other animals."

"And what was that curious collar he was wearing round his neck?"

"That's a solid gold dog-collar," said Matthew. "It was given to
him when he was with the Doctor on one of his voyages long ago.
He saved a man's life."

"How long has the Doctor had him?" I asked.

"Oh, a long time. Jip's getting pretty old now. That's why the
Doctor doesn't take him on his voyages any more. He leaves him
behind to take care of the house. Every Monday and Thursday I
bring the food to the gate here and give it him through the bars.
He never lets any one come inside the garden while the Doctor's
away--not even me, though he knows me well. But you'll always be
able to tell if the Doctor's back or not--because if he is, the
gate will surely be open."