58 Gentleman Jack 



voice carolling notes of love. There was a sudden 

 movement at the corner just beyond. \Vhat was 

 once a noble mastiff, but had become a rabid devil, 

 darted into view. His mouth was white with foam ; 

 his crimson eyes seemed to stand out from his head ; 

 his harsh voice was fiercer than the bloodhound's. 

 He saw the children, and their innocent presence 

 seemed to increase his fury. He rushed straight for 

 my child. I saw his movement, saw the policeman 

 who came panting around the corner in pursuit, saw 

 the look of horror upon the faces of the children, 

 but I was powerless to move a muscle paralyzed 

 by the deadly peril of my innocent child. By a 

 supreme effort I collected my faculties, and rushed 

 forward ; but I knew I should be too late. There 

 was an inaudible prayer upon my lips : then came a 

 quick flash of white across the scene, and my prayer 

 was answered. In another moment my child was 

 safe in my arms, while in a writhing, growling mass 

 upon the ground, Jack and the rabid giant were set- 

 tling the question of existence. I knew how it 

 would end, but joy for the safety of my child drove 

 from my mind all other thoughts. I caressed her, 



