Book excerpt: Michael, an Irish terrier bred in the Solomon Islands, serves on a ship used for recruiting native labour. When his owner, Captain Kellar, accidentally forgets him on the beach, he befriends Dag Daughtry, a steward from another schooner. Along with his new master, Michael starts his journey around the world. Michael's life seems perfectly happy until Daughtry is diagnosed with leprosy and sent to the pest house. The dog falls into the hands of Harry Del Mar and after some time is given to Harris Collins, a well-known animal trainer.