"That's the dog!" he exclaimed. "The dangerous brute! Take care, gentlemen; she's vicious!" The magistrates evidently thought otherwise. A ripple of laughter ran through the court. "By Jove!" thought Fordyce, an inspiration flitting across his mind. "I'll risk it for Flirt's sake. Mr. Clinton," he said in a low tone to his solicitor. "We decided that I was not to be put into the witness-box. I've changed my mind. Call me as the first witness for the defence, if you please." The solicitor shrugged his shoulders. "I wouldn't if I were you," he remarked. "But as you like." The court opened, Fordyce's case was the first to be called. The clerk read the indictment, the defendant pleaded not guilty, and John Mindiggle was asked to give evidence. He did so, stating most emphatically on oath that the dog present in court was the animal that had bitten him. Sub-Lieutenant Noel Fordyce, called and sworn, was equally emphatic in his statement that the dog was not with him on the day in question, and consequently could not have bitten the complainant. If he, Fordyce, had apologized, he had done so on behalf of another dog. "And you can see for yourselves, gentlemen," he concluded, "that this animal is quite a harmless, well-conducted dog. I can affirm that to the best of my knowledge and belief she has never bitten or even attempted to bite anyone." The magistrates consulted, and soon gave a unanimous verdict for the defendant. "Costs, I presume, against the prosecution?" asked Fordyce's solicitor. "Certainly; the prosecution is to pay costs," was the mandate. Calling to the dog, the Sub left the court. Not until he was several streets away did he give vent to his pent-up feelings of delight. "Well, old girl," he exclaimed, "you've saved my Flirt. By Jove, it was a rotten trick, though! I wouldn't have done it if that skunk hadn't tried to make me do an underhand job. He forced my hand. It was for Flirt's sake." Had Fordyce known the true facts his qualms of conscience would not have troubled him in the least. As it was, the knowledge that he had won by means of a piece of sharp practice was not in accord with his instincts as an officer and a gentleman. "Well?" enquired his father laconically. "Verdict against Mindiggle, with costs," replied Noel. "Dash it all!" exclaimed Mr. Fordyce when his son had told him of what had occurred. "You young scoundrel, I've half a mind to write to Mindiggle and explain. In any case, I'm not going to be saddled with Flirt while you're away. You'll have to find another home for her." "Very well, Dad," replied Noel quietly, knowing that in such matters his parent's word was law. It was Mr. Fordyce's decision that prevented Noel confiding in him concerning the interview with Mindiggle. In spite of his sense of independence the young officer was anxious to obtain advice on the matter, but now another possible chance was denied him.