I am called Jim. I was born at Amritsar three years ago. My father was a terrier and my mother was of a common breed. I inherited my father’s strong body. I grew up to be strong and ferocious. Other dogs of the street were afraid of me. They ran away at my very sight.
I had several brothers and sisters. But they all died of starvation. I was the only survivor. An old dog of the street loved me very much. He trained me in the art of fighting and stealing eatables from the houses of people of the street.
I roamed about the street and when I found no one in the kitchen, I stole into it and ran out with all the eatables I could get. I grew fat and strong on this stolen food. I was thought to be a nuisance in the street. Once a housewife caught me red-handed while I was stealing from her cupboard. I ran hard but her domestic servant soon over-took me and beat me black and blue.
I was one day prowling in the street like other stray dogs. A municipal officer of the Health Department caught me and locked me up in a small room. I was feeling very uneasy. I pined for freedom. One day, I got a chance and effected my escape.
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A hunter caught sight of me. He took a fancy to me. He took me home. The members of his family a so showed a great liking for me. They patted and fondled me. I was collared. A licence badge was fixed to my collar. Now I am no longer a wretched street dog.
I go hunting with my master every now and then. I guard my master’s house against thieves at night. I do not allow anybody to trespass. My master gives me good things to eat. I daily get milk, butter and curd. My body is daily washed clean with plenty of water and soap. My work is quite light.
Now I wish for nothing better than my present lot.