A PROFESSIONAL DOG STEALER.

Pelorus Guardian and Miners' Advocate., Volume 15, Issue 31, 19 April 1904, Page 7

A PROFESSIONAL DOG STEALER.

The recent dog-stealing episodes call to mind the story told by the late Sir Edwin Landseer. Ho was about to put the finishing touches to the portrait of a dog belonging to Lord X and was expecting a visit Trom his model, when the owner arrived in great perturbation, without the dog—the animal had been stolen. After talking the matter over with Sir Edwin, the owner decided to leave the matter in the painter’s hands, together with a ten pound note as a reward for the recovery of the dog. Now, Sir Edwin’s acquaintance with the dog fanciers was large and ho summoned to his aid one Jem Smith, who ho thought might put him on the right track. He showed the' man the picture, and the banknote, and promised that if the dog were restored no questions should be asked. Jem Smith said he would do his best and went away. Six weeks later Jem Smith arrived at the studio leading the missing dog by a piece of''String. “Is this the dorg. Sir Edwin ? ” There was no need to ask the question for the animal was the very picture of his portrait. “ Here is your ten pounds,” said the artist, “and I suppose I must ask no questions. But now that the affair Is done with you may as well tell me about it. After a moment’s hesitation the man confessed that he himself was the thief. “ You ! You thundering x-ascal! ” exclaimed Sir Edwin, “ then why on earth have you kept us in suspense all this time ! ” " Well, you see, guvnor ” was the answer, !“ I stole the dorg, but the gentleman I sold him to kep’ him so jolly close that I hadn’t a chance of nickin’ him again till yesterday, and tbat’H. the truth, a’elo me.” ■_ _