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 "May I have this, too?" he asked, laying his hand on the dog's head. "He would keep me from being lonesome. He loves you, too. We would be company for each other. We would talk about you on the march, or in camp. I want him very much."

"Pierre! Pierre! He is the dearest thing I have. Pierre, can I give you away?" The Airedale looked up inquiringly, first at his mistress, and then at the Colonel.

"Yes," she said at last. "Take him, and God keep you both."

The Colonel glanced at his watch again. "Time is up," he said. "Good-bye, my lady. If we do not meet again, we have had these five immortal minutes. I shall live them over again many times. Are you coming with me, my little soldier?"