Bill's home is a lodge by the gates of Sir Giles' mansion, and within stone throwing distance of the jealous and naughty children who live in the estate bordering the dogs short chain and tiny living space. Used as target practice, Duke is driven to madness regularly and soon acquires a false reputation for being the fiercest, growliest, bitiest dog on the planet. Brought to the farm by Bill, for a few idyllic days, he too gives in to the enormous love that is bestowed upon him.