he afternoon was over before they realized it.

hey headed back toward the aster field at top speed with Jorlie holding on tightly to Merrick's neck. Because Merrick didn't want his new friend to get in trouble, he ran all the way to Jorlie's door, where her mother waited.

upper's ready," Jorlie's mother said. She looked at Merrick and added. "You're welcome to join us if you like."

Jorlie's mother had prepared savory carrot stew, a simple meal; but it would have been rude to turn away a stranger.

errick gratefully ate the small portion he was given and licked the bowl, as dogs are apt to do.

orlie was feeling fondly toward their big spotted guest and offered him her serving. "No, thank you. I need to be going." He was beginning to sense that Jorlie's mother did not like dogs as much as Jorlie. "Thank you for the delicious stew, Ma'am," Merrick said as he prepared to leave. He said good-bye to Jorlie at the door and they promised to keep in touch. 

orlie!" her mother said when Merrick was gone, "What could you possibly see in that animal? He didn't even use his napkin!"