( It's the dog he wants to touch, the one he keeps turning to, the clatter of his fox mask's lower jaw suggesting perhaps he keeps opening, then shutting his mouth.

It is such a big an handsome dog — and he retires his hand behind his back hastily, no sooner than the girl's done speaking. )

I think you're going to die. Because that's all you know to do. ( He looks away. ) You should just leave me your dog. I'd look after him.