A small man of indeterminate age walked down the steps from the house. He whistled and the dogs immediately became like pets, wagging their tails and jumping up at him. He patted them roughly. Smiling pleasantly, he nodded at Alan.

‘That means we can get out of the car.’

‘But the dogs?’ Donna’s voice was frightened.

‘They won’t come near you once Jamesie’s there, don’t worry.’

Alan slipped from the car and walked cautiously towards the smaller man. The dogs began scampering around him, sniffing him and waiting to be petted.

Alan stroked them all in turn, murmuring endearments.

‘What’s the matter with your companion? Is she frightened of my wee boys?’ Laughing, Jamesie went to the car and opened the door. ‘Come on, dearie, they won’t hurt you. Give them a stroke and you’ll have friends for life.’

Donna, an animal lover, stroked the thick warm fur and gingerly slipped out of the car.

‘Sit down, you buggers, before you ruin her good suit!’

The three dogs sat obediently and Donna smiled widely.

‘They’re gorgeous. They certainly know their jobs, don’t they?’ She knelt down and put her arms around the largest of the dogs, kissing its furry muzzle.

Jamesie grinned. ‘See? There’s nothing to be afraid of. The only people I canna keep them from attacking is folk in uniform, but I don’t worry too much about that. I was never a lover of the polis myself!’

Alan laughed and took Donna’s arm as they followed Jamesie into the house. The three dogs sat once more by the front door, as it was shut in their faces.

‘As much as I love them, their place is outside. In Germany they sleep in six foot of snow. If you bring them into the house they moult all bloody year. It’s the central heating, you see. Come away in and I’ll make us all a drink.’

As they followed him through the impressive entrance hall into a large drawing room, four small Jack Russells set up a cry.

Donna knelt down to stroke them all, impressed despite herself by the house and the animals.

‘How many dogs have you got?’

Jamesie shook his head. ‘Too many to count. I’m a breeder, you see - I have kennels in the grounds. My dogs are very sought-after. You like dogs, I take it?’

Donna nodded. ‘I love them. My old dog died about two years ago, and I still miss him.’

‘You do get attached.’ Jamesie began making them all hot toddies. Donna was absolutely fascinated by the small kettle hanging over the wood fire. Picking up a tea towel he took the kettle from its hook and poured steaming water into three thick glasses.