she asked , thinking the tender moment might have come . Imagine the shock when , instead of some interesting confidence or affectionate word , Dan swung round , saying bluntly : ' I was wishing I could smoke . ' Mrs Jo laughed at the downfall of her hopes , and answered kindly : ` You may , in your room ; but do n't set the house afire . ' Perhaps Dan saw a little disappointment in her face , or the memory of the sequel of that boyish frolic touched his heart ; for he stooped and kissed her , saying in a whisper : ` Good night , mother . ' And Mrs Jo was half satisfied . Chapter 5 . VACATION Everyone was glad of a holiday next morning , and all lingered over the breakfast-table , till Mrs Jo suddenly exclaimed : ` Why , there 's a dog ! ' And on the threshold of the door appeared a great deer-hound , standing motionless , with his eyes fixed on Dan . ` Hallo , old boy ! Could n't you wait till I came for you ? Have you cut away on the sly ? Own up now , and take your whipping like a man , ' said Dan , rising to meet the dog , who reared on his hind legs to look his master in the face and bark as if uttering an indignant denial of any disobedience . ` All right ; Don never lies . ' And Dan gave the tall beast a hug , adding as he glanced out of the window , where a man and horse were seen approaching : ' I left my plunder at the hotel over night , not knowing how I should find you . Come out and see Octoo , my mustang ; she 's a beauty . ' And Dan was off , with the family streaming after him , to welcome the newcomer . They found her preparing to go up the steps in her eagerness to reach her master , to the great dismay of the man , who was holding her back . ` Let her come , ' called Dan ; ` she climbs like a cat and jumps like a deer . Well , my girl , do you want a gallop ? ' he asked , as the pretty creature clattered up to him and whinnied with pleasure as he rubbed her nose and slapped her glossy flank .
` That 's what I call a horse worth having , ' said Ted , full of admiration and delight ; for he was to have the care of her during XXXXX 's absence .
Dan Don Hallo Jo Octoo disobedience house left night right