A Loyal Companion

by Barbara Metzger

  Sonia was not to be diverted. “That’s the point of the new school, Darius. The one we have is for children, to teach them their letters and such. I want another place where those adults in need can learn a skill. Weaving or fancy needlework, perhaps, or learning to keep accounts. Even cooking and the ways of polishing a gentleman’s boots. Anything that might secure someone a position. Then they can earn their own way and need not depend on the parish rolls.”

  “Clever wife, saving me money in the long run. Have I told you lately that I love you?”

  “Not since breakfast,” she answered with dimples showing.

  “Oh, much too long ago.” He proceeded to show her in convincing fashion.

  “And have I told you recently how happy you make me?” she asked.

  “Never often enough. Come, let’s go back to the house while the children are— What’s that hen-witted dog done now?”

  “Fitz,” Sonia ordered. “Put that puppy down! You know it’s too young. I told you yesterday and the day before, too. I cannot imagine how the mother permits you to keep scooping it up and taking it away.”

  Darius knelt. Fitz gently placed the pup in his cupped hands.

  “I don’t know why Fitz persists in bringing us this same little fellow,” Sonia said, stroking the shiny black fur while the puppy wrestled with his lordship’s glove.

  Darius grinned. “Don’t you, my love?”

  *

  Now, don’t get me wrong, I’m not ready to chase my last cat, but, after all, every dog must have his day.