Going, Going, Gone!

I left him on the porch.
He did not have on his beeper collar, but that hasn't seemed to make a difference.
I talk on the phone. I fix supper. DH comes home, "where's the dog?" he asked. I said "in the utility room I guess. I think I let him in." No dog. No dog inside. No dog outside. No dog anywhere.
Called the dog. Look for the dog. No dog.
Resign self to fact dog has decided to leave. Continue to fix supper.
DH looks outside once more.
Riley is on the porch licking his personal places and looking very pleased with himself.
We let him in.
The inquisition begins. Yet he remains silent. No explaination. No apology.
Dogs...what can you say?