Ship's Company, Part 5 Jacobs, W. W. (William Wymark) 1863-1943 creator Owen, Will 1869-1957 text utu 2004 monographic en 1 online resource : multiple file formats "Watch-Dogs" by W. W. Jacobs is a humorous short story likely written during the early 20th century. This piece blends elements of comedy with a keen observation of village life and human behavior, focusing specifically on the theme of kindness to animals. The story presents the quaint and quirky dynamics of a small community reacting to a gentleman's strange obsession with animal welfare, leading to unforeseen and comical consequences. The narrative centers around Bob Pretty, a village laborer who becomes entangled in a local contest for a gold watch offered by Mr. Bunnett, a wealthy Londoner passionate about animal kindness. Bob's nonchalant demeanor contrasts sharply with other villagers, who clumsily attempt to outdo one another in showing kindness to animals, often leading to ridiculous scenarios. As Bob appears to play along with the charade while maintaining his cool, he surprisingly manages to manipulate the situation to his advantage. Eventually, through a farcical encounter involving his dog Joseph and Mr. Bunnett, Bob cleverly secures the gold watch by presenting a farcical display of compassion, showcasing Jacobs' sharp wit and commentary on societal tendencies towards irrationality. (This is an automatically generated summary.) Release date is 2004-01-01 Produced by David Widger Original publication data not identified Humorous stories, English England -- Social life and customs -- Fiction PR Original publication data not identified https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/10565 https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/10565 UtSlPG 260607 20260610133244.0 10565