a moment a familiar voice was heard.

"Bow-wow-wow! Bow-wow-wow!"

"Rover has come back!" shouted Sandy, flinging himself upon the door in
his hurry to open it.

"Rover has come back!" cried little Jessie.

"The sheep have come back!" said their mother, looking out into the
yard. Yes, there were the sheep,--every one of them safe and sound. And
there beside them, wagging his tail with joy and pride, was poor, tired,
cold, hungry Rover. He was hoarse from barking and breathless from
running, but he was the happiest dog in all the world.

The unhappy sheep had paid dearly for their wish to get out. They were
glad to go back into their warm shed and eat a good meal of turnips. As
for Rover, he was treated like a prince. He had the supper he liked
best, and a soft bed was made for him near the fire. He put his curly
head down on his paws and went to sleep, while Sandy and Jessie watched
him lovingly. How far he had tramped over the hills or how he had found
the sheep he could not tell.

"He is tired out," said the shepherd. "He must have a long rest now, for
he has earned it. Good, faithful, grateful Rover!"




FAMOUS DOGS.