The neighbors conceded generously that it was more than they hadexpected of an "old grouch." George Allan and Danny Kelly, from outtheir superior wisdom in hound affairs, agreed that while improbable, ithad never been impossible for a freighter to develop into a racer underfavorable conditions. While most gratifying of all, Dubby came in toexpress, with strenuous waggings of his stubby but eloquent tail, hissurprise and satisfaction that a member of a purely sporting fraternityhad distinguished himself so highly; had acted, in fact, in a mannerworthy of a dependable huskie. And Baldy, knowing that Dubby had himselfand his unblemished career in mind, felt that this was indeed the climaxof approval.

Gradually he was coming to realize that through his unremitting effortsto be of service, and because of real worth, there was an attitude ofkindly interest manifested toward him that had taken the place of thecovert criticism and careless indifference that had once caused him somuch sorrow.

"Now that he's led once," confided George to George and Dan, "I don'tbelieve Baldy'll ever be satisfied again t' stay in the wheel. It seemst' me that every minute he's awake he's tryin' t' do much better inside his work.That race kinda roused him in every way."

"He'll never have to stay in the wheel," observed "Scotty." "The Derbywas a revelation to me in regard to Baldy. I confess frankly I didn'tthink he was capable of the ability he showed that day and," with asmiling glance toward the Woman, "there were those of less faith thanmine who were completely won over."

"If you mean me," she rejoined, "you are quite right. I've apologized toGeorge and Baldy every day since the Derby. I sometimes have even admitted thatBaldy's legs are as good as Jack McMillan's, if not better. Couldhumility go further in making amends?"