would be interested in finding out the reason for the
housekeeper's search in the garden, but just at present he wanted
something else. He remembered some remark of the old man's about the
"poor little dog," and on this he built his plan.

"Oh, well," he said carelessly, "almost everybody is nervous and
impatient now-a-days. I suppose Mrs. Bernauer felt uneasy because
she couldn't find the paper right away. There's nothing particularly
interesting or noticeable about that. Anyway, I've been occupying myself
much more these last years with sick animals rather than with sick
people. I've had some very successful cures there."

"No, really, have you? Then you could do us a great favour," exclaimed
Franz in apparent eagerness. Muller's heart rejoiced. He had apparently
hit it right this time. He knew that in a house like that "a poor dog"
could only mean a "sick dog." But his voice was quite calm as he asked:
"How can I do you a favour?"

"Why, you see, sir, we've got a little terrier," explained the old man,
who had quite forgotten the fact that he had mentioned the dog before.
"And there's been something the matter with the poor little chap for
several days. He won't eat or drink, he bites at the grass and rolls
around on his stomach and cries--it's a pity to see him. If you're fond
of animals and know how to take care of them, you may be able to help us
there."

"You want me to look at the little dog? Why, yes, I suppose I can."

"We'll appreciate it," said the old man with an embarrassed smile. But
Muller shook his head and continued: "No, never mind the payment, I
wouldn't take any money for it. But I'll tell you what you can do
for me. I'm very fond of flowers. If you think you can take the
responsibility of letting me walk around in the garden for a little
while, and pick a rose or two, I will be greatly pleased."

"Why, of course you may," said Franz. "Take any of the roses you see
there that please you. They're nearly over for the season now and it's
better they should be picked rather than left to fade on the bush.
We don't use so many flowers in the house now when the family are not
there."

"All right, then, it's a bargain," laughed Muller, signalling to the
landlord. "Are you, going already?" asked the old servant.

"Yes, I must be going if I am to spend any time with the little dog."

"I suppose I ought to be at home myself," said Franz. "Something's the
matter with the electric wiring in our place.