Mrs. Chester hurried into the home, and in company with thestable-man I crossed the yard towards the bear.

"You are sure he is gentle?" exclaimed I.

"Mild as milk!" said the man. "I was a-playin' with him last night.He'll let you do anything with him! If you box his ears, he'll layover flat down on his side!"

When we were within a few feet of the bear he sat upright, dangled hisfore paws in front of him, and, with his head on one side, he partlyopened his mouth and lolled out his tongue. "I guess he's beggin' forhis breakfust," said John.

"Can't you get him something to eat?" I asked. "He ought to be fed, tobegin with."