The morning sun’s warming rays had yet to start their day’s work thus dew adorned the lawns and worthy puppers were brushed in the breezeway. Keaton lay against the iron-lacework gates. Next to him was Liquorice, putting one of their day beds to good use. I placed the mat next to them on the floor in readiness for their grooming session. The mat makes life easier on my aging knees! I returned shortly afterward with the brushes and three hard puppy biscuits, two for Liquorice and one for the young master. Liquorice gobbles her biscuits down in nothing flat while Keaton “plays” with his, sometimes eating it, sometimes leaving it. Liquorice bounded off her cot and lay on the mat ready to receive her biscuits, and my attentions; and probably with that preference too! Liquorice lay facing away from the lacework gates, munching her treats, finishing them almost as I started with the brushes. Keaton merely toyed with his biscuit. The morning was peaceful, and pleasantly cool, perfect for a relaxing time brushing my little darlings. One side of Liquorice nearly finished when Ma called me for something. I had taken but three steps away when Liquorice let fly with a series of deep ominous bellows that had me nearly jumping out of my skin!!!! Spinning around I saw that Liquorice had pivoted 180 degrees on her rump and was aiming her full fury at the new neighbor’s house! Keaton, also was taken by surprise, had sprung to his feet bellowing thunderously, also at the neighbor’s house! He knew not what threatened his domain but made it clear that he would stand shoulder to shoulder with Liquorice against any foe! And Liquorice, well she gently lowered herself to the floor and innocently dined on Keaton’s “abandoned” biscuit.
The expression of disenchantment on Keaton’s face when, turning to Liquorice for guidance as to what he should be barking at, the realization set in that he had been royally “had”!
The gallant Keaton was prepared to vanquish rampaging hordes in order to defend Liquorice’s honor and her realm. And all the conniving Liquorice desired was to lay siege to his edible. Poor little fellow. Naturally I fetched the young master another biscuit, which an appreciative Keaton ate under the covetous gaze of the cunning Liquorice!
Arthur Witten
Liquorice – Like shooting fish in a barrel!
Keaton – Hey Dad! Liquorice needs to go on a diet!