Page:History of Duncan Campbell, and his dog Oscar (1).pdf/2



Duncan Campbell came from the Highlands. wh six years of age. to live with an old maiden aunt from Edinburgh, and attend the school. His mother was dead: but his father had supplied her place, by marrying his houskeeper. Duncan did not trouble himself about these matters, nor indeed about any other matters, save a black foal of his father's and a large sagacious colley, named Oscar, which belonged to one of the shepherds. There being no other boy save Duncan about the house, Oscar and he were constant companions —with his garter tied round Oscar's neck, and a piece of deal tied to his busby tail, Duncan would often lead him about the green, pleased with the idea that he was conducting horse and cart. Oscar submitted to all this with great cheerfulness, but whenever Duncan mounted to ride on him, he found means instantly to unhorse him either by galloping, or rolling himself on the green. When Duncan threatened him, he looked submissive and licked his face and hands; when he corrected him with the whip, he cowered at his feet;—matters were soon made up. Oscar would lodge no where during the night but at the door of the room where his young friend slept, and wo be to the man or woman who ventured to enter it at untimely hours.

When Duncan left his native home he thought of his father, nor any of the servants. He was fo{illegible text}} of the ride, and some supposed that he even scarce thought of the black foal; but when he saw Oscar standing looking him ruefully in the face, the tears immediately blinded both his eyes. He caught him around the neck, hugged and kissed him,—" Good b'ye Oscar," said he blubbering; "good-b'ye, God