A dog is presented as man's one absolute, unselfish friend in a world where children may prove ungrateful, trusted companions may become traitors, money may be lost, reputation may be ruined, and admirers may turn malicious in failure. In prosperity and poverty, in health and sickness, the dog remains by his master's side, sleeping on the cold ground to stay near him, accepting hardship without complaint, guarding his rest, and offering affection even when given nothing in return. When other friends desert, when fortune is gone, and when a man is cast out friendless and homeless, the faithful dog still accompanies him, protects him from danger, and fights his enemies. Even after the master's death and burial, the noble dog remains at the graveside, watchful, sad, faithful, and true.