the owner of this house, and ask him if he will let you keep your dog
during your visit."

This was one ray of sunlight on a cloudy day, and Fritz and Pixy
followed down the long steps. Mrs. Steiner rang the bell of the first
floor apartments, and Mr. Steerer opened the door and invited them in.

"Now tell the gentleman why we have come," said Mrs. Steiner.

But Fritz was weeping too bitterly to make explanations, and his aunt
had to speak for him.

"I have no objection to the dog staying," replied Mr. Steerer kindly,
"providing he does not bark and annoy my tenant on the second floor."

"Now, Pixy, thank the gentleman for his kindness," said Aunt Fanny, and
immediately the intelligent animal sat upon his hind feet and waved his
right fore foot back and forth.

"But you must speak," commanded Fritz, who was smiling through his
tears, whereupon Pixy gave a sharp little bark while again waving his
paw.

"Now we will call and ask Mrs. Hagner if your dog can stay," said Aunt
Fanny when they reached the door of the old lady's apartments and gently
tapped.

"Come in! Come in!" laughed a voice within, "and I am pretty sure that I
know why you have come."