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+The Project Gutenberg EBook of The Young Acrobat of the Great North
+American Circus, by Horatio Alger Jr.
+
+This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with
+almost no restrictions whatsoever.  You may copy it, give it away or
+re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included
+with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org
+
+
+Title: The Young Acrobat of the Great North American Circus
+
+Author: Horatio Alger Jr.
+
+Release Date: September 5, 2007 [EBook #22521]
+
+Language: English
+
+Character set encoding: ISO-8859-1
+
+*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK YOUNG ACROBAT ***
+
+
+
+
+Produced by David Edwards, Constanze Hofmann and the Online
+Distributed Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net (This
+file was produced from scans of public domain material
+produced by Microsoft for their Live Search Books site.)
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+                THE YOUNG ACROBAT
+
+                    of the
+
+          Great North American Circus
+
+
+                      BY
+
+               HORATIO ALGER, Jr.
+
+  AUTHOR OF "THE ERIE TRAIN BOY," "RAGGED DICK,"
+              "TATTERED TOM," ETC.
+
+
+
+
+                  NEW YORK
+              HURST AND COMPANY
+                 PUBLISHERS
+
+
+
+
+THE YOUNG ACROBAT
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER I.
+
+KIT WATSON.
+
+
+There was great excitement in Smyrna, especially among the boys.
+Barlow's Great American Circus in its triumphal progress from State to
+State was close at hand, and immense yellow posters announcing its
+arrival were liberally displayed on fences and barns, while smaller
+bills were put up in the post office, the hotel, and the principal
+stores, and distributed from house to house.
+
+It was the largest circus that had ever visited Smyrna. At least a dozen
+elephants marched with ponderous steps in its preliminary procession,
+while clowns, acrobats, giants, dwarfs, fat women, cannibals, and hairy
+savages from Thibet and Madagascar, were among the strange wonders which
+were to be seen at each performance for the small sum of fifty cents,
+children half price.
+
+For weeks the young people had been looking forward to the advent of
+this marvelous aggregation of curiosities, and the country papers from
+farther east had given glowing accounts of the great show, which was
+emphatically pronounced greater and more gorgeous than in any previous
+year. But it may be as well to reproduce, in part, the description given
+in the posters:
+
+     BARLOW'S GREAT NORTH AMERICAN CIRCUS.
+Now in its triumphal march across the continent, will
+         give two grand performances,
+                   AT SMYRNA
+   On the afternoon and evening of May 18th.
+       Never in all its history has this
+Unparalleled show embraced a greater variety of attractions,
+    or included a larger number of world famous
+Acrobats, Clowns, Bare back Riders, Rope walkers, Trapeze
+           Artists, and Star Performers,
+   In addition to a colossal menagerie, comprising
+       Elephants, Tigers, Lions, Leopards,
+    and other wild animals in great variety.
+   All this and far more, including a hundred
+                  DARING ACTS,
+ Can be seen for the trifling sum of Fifty cents;
+              Children half price.
+            COME ONE!      COME ALL!
+
+Two boys paused to read this notice, pasted with illustrative pictures
+of elephants and circus performers on the high board fence near
+Stoddard's grocery store. They were Dan Clark and Christopher Watson,
+called Kit for short.
+
+"Shall you go to the circus, Dan?" asked Kit.
+
+"I would like to, but you know, Kit, I have no money to spare."
+
+"Don't let that interfere," said Kit, kindly. "Here is half a dollar.
+That will take you in."
+
+"You're a tip-top fellow, Kit. But I don't think I ought to take it. I
+don't know when I shall be able to return it."
+
+"Who asked you to return it? I meant it as a gift."
+
+"You're a true friend, Kit," said Dan, earnestly. "I don't know as I
+ought to take it, but I will anyhow. You know I only get my board and a
+dollar a week from Farmer Clifford, and that I give to my mother."
+
+"I wish you had a better place, Dan."
+
+"So do I; but perhaps it is as well as I can do at my age. All boys are
+not born to good luck as you are."
+
+"Am I born to good luck? I don't know."
+
+"Isn't your uncle Stephen the richest man in Smyrna?"
+
+"I suppose he is; but that doesn't make me rich."
+
+"Isn't he your guardian?"
+
+"Yes; but it doesn't follow because there is a guardian there is a
+fortune."
+
+"I hope there is."
+
+"I am going to tell you something in confidence, Dan. Uncle Stephen has
+lately been dropping a good many hints about the necessity of being
+economical, and that I may have my own way to make in the world. What do
+you think it means?"
+
+"Have you been extravagant?"
+
+"Not that I am aware of. I have been at an expensive boarding school
+with my cousin Ralph, and I have dressed well, and had a fair amount of
+spending money."
+
+"Have you spent any more than Ralph?"
+
+"No; not so much, for I will tell you in confidence that he has been
+playing pool and cards for money, of course without the knowledge of the
+principal. I know also that this last term, besides spending his pocket
+money he ran up bills, which his father had to pay, to the amount of
+fifty dollars or more."
+
+"How did your uncle like it?"
+
+"I don't know. Ralph and his father had a private interview, but he got
+the money. I believe his mother took his part."
+
+"Why don't you ask your uncle just how you stand?"
+
+"I have thought of it. If I am to inherit a fortune I should like to
+know it. If I have my own way to make I want to know that also, so that
+I can begin to prepare for it."
+
+"Would you feel bad if you found out that you were a poor boy--like me,
+for instance?"
+
+"I suppose I should just at first, but I should try to make the best of
+it in the end."
+
+"Well, I hope you won't have occasion to buckle down to hard work. When
+do you go back to school?"
+
+"The next term begins next Monday."
+
+"And it is now Wednesday. You will be able to see the circus at any
+rate. It is to arrive to-night."
+
+"Suppose we go round to the lot to-morrow morning. We can see them
+putting up the tents."
+
+"All right! I'll meet you at nine o'clock."
+
+They were about to separate when another boy, of about the same age and
+size, came up.
+
+"It's time for dinner, Kit," he said; "mother'll be angry if you are
+late."
+
+"Very well! I'll go home with you. Good morning, Dan."
+
+"Good morning, Kit. Good morning, Ralph."
+
+Ralph mumbled out "Morning," but did not deign to look at Dan.
+
+"I wonder you associate with that boy, Kit," he said.
+
+"Why?" inquired Kit, rather defiantly.
+
+"Because he's only a farm laborer."
+
+"Does that hurt him?"
+
+"I don't care to associate with such a low class."
+
+"Daniel Webster worked on a farm when he was a boy."
+
+"Dan Clark isn't a Webster."
+
+"We don't know what he will turn out to be."
+
+"I don't consider him fit for me to associate with," said Ralph. "It may
+be different in your case."
+
+"Why should it be different in my case?" asked Kit, suspiciously.
+
+"Oh, no offense at all, but your circumstances and social position are
+likely to be different from mine."
+
+"Are they? That's just what I should like to find out."
+
+"My father says so, and as you are under his guardianship he ought to
+know."
+
+"Yes, he ought to know, but he has never told me."
+
+"He has told me, but I am not at liberty to say anything," said Ralph,
+looking mysterious.
+
+"I think I ought to be the first to be told," said Kit, not
+unreasonably.
+
+"You will be told soon. There is one thing I can tell you, however. You
+are not to go back to boarding school on Monday."
+
+Kit paused in the street, and gazed at his companion in surprise.
+
+"Are you going back?" he asked.
+
+"Yes; I'm going to keep on till I am ready for college."
+
+"And what is to be done with me?"
+
+Ralph shrugged his shoulders.
+
+"I am not at liberty to tell you," he answered.
+
+"I shall ask my uncle this very day."
+
+"Just as you please."
+
+Kit walked on in silence. His mind was busy with thoughts of the change
+in his prospects. He did not know what was coming, but he was anxious.
+It was likely to be a turning point in his life, and he was apprehensive
+that the information soon to be imparted to him would not be of an
+agreeable nature.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER II.
+
+INTRODUCES THREE CURIOSITIES.
+
+
+Stephen Watson, uncle of Kit and father of Ralph, was a man of middle
+age. It was difficult to trace any resemblance between him and his
+nephew. The latter had an open face, with a bright, attractive
+expression. Mr. Watson was dark and sallow, of spare habit, and there
+was a cunning look in his eyes, beneath which a Roman nose jutted out
+like a promontory. He looked like the incarnation of cold selfishness,
+and his real character did not belie his looks.
+
+Five years before Kit Watson's father had died. He resembled Kit in
+appearance, and was very popular in Smyrna. His brother wound up the
+estate, and had since been living in luxury, but whether the property
+was his or his nephew's Kit was unable to tell. He had asked the
+question occasionally, but his uncle showed a distaste for the subject,
+and gave evasive replies.
+
+What Kit had just heard made him anxious, and he resolved to attack his
+uncle once more. After dinner, therefore, he began:
+
+"Uncle Stephen, Ralph tells me I am not going back to school on
+Monday."
+
+"Ralph speaks correctly," Mr. Watson replied in a measured voice.
+
+"But why am I not to go?"
+
+"I will explain before the time comes."
+
+"Can you not tell me now? I am anxious to know."
+
+"You must curb your curiosity. You will know in good time."
+
+Kit regarded his uncle in silence. He wished to know what had caused
+this remarkable change, but it seemed useless to ask any more questions.
+
+The next morning he and Dan Clark, according to agreement, met in front
+of Stoddard's store.
+
+"I had hard work to get away," said Dan. "Let us go right over to the
+circus grounds."
+
+These were located about a third of a mile from the hotel, in a large
+twenty-acre pasture. The lot, as it was called, was a scene of activity.
+A band of canvas men were busily engaged in putting up the big tent.
+Several elephants were standing round, and the cages of animals had
+already been put in place inside the rising tent.
+
+On a bench outside sat a curious group, comprising Achilles Henderson,
+the great Scotch giant, who was set down on the bills as eight feet
+three inches in height, and was really about seven feet and a half;
+Major Conrad, the dwarf, who was about the size of an average child of
+three years, and Madame Celestina Morella, the queen of fat women, who
+was credited on the bills with a weight of five hundred and eighty seven
+pounds. She was certainly massive, but probably fell short a hundred and
+fifty pounds of these elephantine proportions.
+
+Kit and Dan paused to look at this singular trio.
+
+"I wonder how much pay they get?" said Dan, turning to Kit.
+
+"I saw in some paper that the fat woman gets fifty dollars a week."
+
+"That's pretty good pay for being fat, Kit."
+
+"Would you be willing to be as fat for that money?"
+
+"I think not," said Dan, "though it's a good deal more than I get now."
+
+They were standing near the bench on which the three were seated.
+Achilles, who looked good-natured, as most big men are, addressed the
+boys.
+
+"Well, boys, are you coming to see the show?"
+
+"Yes," answered both.
+
+"I used to like to myself when I was a boy. I didn't expect then I
+should ever travel with one."
+
+"Were you very large as a boy?" asked Dan, with curiosity.
+
+"When I was twelve years old I was six feet high, and people generally
+thought then that I was eighteen. I thought perhaps I shouldn't grow any
+more, but I kept on. When I was sixteen I was seven feet tall, and by
+twenty I had reached my present height."
+
+"Are you eight feet three inches tall, Mr. Henderson?"
+
+"Is that what the bills say?"
+
+"Yes."
+
+"Then it must be so," he said with a smile.
+
+"How long have you been traveling with the circus?"
+
+"Five years."
+
+"How do you like it?"
+
+"It's a good deal easier than working on a farm, especially in Vermont,
+where I was born and bred."
+
+"But they call you the Scotch giant."
+
+"It sounds well, doesn't it? My father was born in Scotland, but my
+mother was a Vermont Yankee. You know Americans are more willing to pay
+for a foreign curiosity than for one home born. That's why my _great_
+friend here"--emphasizing the word great--"calls herself Madame
+Celestina Morella."
+
+The fat lady smiled.
+
+"People think I am French or Italian," she said, "but I never was out of
+the United States in my life."
+
+"Where were you born, Madame Morella?"
+
+"In the western part of New York State. I know what you are going to ask
+me. Was I always fat? No, when I was sixteen I only weighed one hundred
+and twenty. Then I had a fit of sickness and nearly died. After
+recovering, I began to gain flesh, till I became a monster, as you see."
+
+As she said this, she laughed, and her fat sides shook with merriment.
+Evidently she did not let her size weigh upon her mind.
+
+"I suppose your real name isn't Celestina Morella?" said Kit.
+
+"My real name is Betsey Hatch. That is what they called me in my
+girlhood, but I should hardly know who was meant if I was called so
+now."
+
+"Have you been long in the show business?"
+
+"About seven years."
+
+"Do you like it?"
+
+"I didn't at first, but now I've got used to moving about. Now when the
+spring opens I have the regular circus fever. But I have my troubles."
+
+"What are they?" asked Kit, seeing that the fat woman liked to talk.
+
+"Well, I find it very difficult to secure at the hotels a bed large
+enough and strong enough to hold me. I suppose you won't be surprised to
+hear that."
+
+"Not much."
+
+"At Akron, Ohio, where the hotel was full, I was put in a cot bed,
+though I protested against it. As soon as I got in, the whole thing
+collapsed, and I was landed on the floor."
+
+She laughed heartily at the remembrance.
+
+"I remember that very well," said the giant, "for I slept in the room
+below. Half an hour after getting into bed, I heard a fearful noise in
+the room above, and thought at first the hotel had been struck by
+lightning, and a piercing shriek that echoed through the house led me to
+fear that my esteemed Italian friend was a victim. But my mind was soon
+relieved when I learned the truth."
+
+"I suppose, major, you never broke down a bed," said the giant, turning
+to the dwarf.
+
+"No," answered the major, in a shrill piping voice, "I never lie awake
+thinking of that."
+
+"I believe you served in the civil war, major?"
+
+"Yes, I was in the infantry."
+
+It was a stale joke, but all four laughed at it.
+
+"How much do you weigh, major?" Kit ventured to ask.
+
+"Twenty-one pounds and a half," answered the dwarf. "I have with me some
+of my photographs, if you would like to buy," and the little man
+produced half a dozen cards from his tiny pocket.
+
+"How much are they?"
+
+"Ten cents."
+
+"I'll take one," said Kit, and he produced the necessary coin.
+
+"If you go into the tent you can see some of the performers rehearsing,"
+suggested Achilles.
+
+"Let us go in, Dan."
+
+The two boys reached the portals and went into the big tent.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER III.
+
+KIT ASTONISHES TWO ACROBATS.
+
+
+The circus tent was nearly ready for the regular performance. Kit and
+Dan regarded the sawdust arena with the interest which it always
+inspires in boys of sixteen. Already it was invested with fascination
+for them. Two acrobats who performed what is called the "brothers' act"
+were rehearsing. They were placarded as the Vincenti brothers, though
+one was a French Canadian and the other an Irishman, and there was no
+relationship between them. At the time the boys entered, one had climbed
+upon the other's shoulders, and was standing erect with folded arms.
+This was, of course, easy, but the next act was more difficult. By a
+quick movement he lowered his head, and grasping the uplifted hands of
+the lower acrobat, raised his feet and poised himself aloft, with his
+feet up in the air, sustained by the muscular arms of his associate.
+
+"That must take strength, Kit," said Dan.
+
+"So it does."
+
+"No one but a circus man could do it, I suppose?"
+
+"I can do it," said Kit quietly.
+
+Dan regarded him with undisguised astonishment.
+
+"You are joking," he said.
+
+"No, I am not."
+
+"Where did you learn to do such a thing?" asked Dan, incredulous, though
+he knew Kit to be a boy of truth.
+
+"I will tell you. In the town where I attended boarding school there is
+a large gymnasium, under the superintendence of a man who traveled for
+years with a circus. He used to give lessons to the boys, but most
+contented themselves with a few common exercises. I suppose I should
+also, but there was an English boy in the school, very supple and
+muscular, who was proud of his strength, and ambitious to make himself a
+thorough gymnast. He persuaded me to take lessons in the most difficult
+acrobatic feats with him, as two had to work together."
+
+"Did you pay the professor extra to instruct you?" asked Dan.
+
+"He charged nothing. He was only too glad to teach us all he knew. It
+seems he was at one time connected with Barnum's circus, and prepared
+performers for the arena. He told us it made him think of his old circus
+days to teach us. At the close of last term we gave him five dollars
+apiece as an acknowledgment of his services. He assured us then that we
+were competent to perform in any circus."
+
+"Could you really do what the Vincenti brothers are doing?"
+
+"Yes; and more."
+
+"I wish I could see you do it."
+
+The boys were seated near the sawdust arena, and the last part of their
+conversation had been heard by the acrobats. It was taken as an
+illustration of boyish braggadocio, and as circus men are always ready
+for practical jokes, particularly at the expense of greenhorns, they
+resolved that there was a good chance for a little fun.
+
+One tipped the wink to the other, and turning to Kit, said: "What's that
+you're saying, kid?"
+
+"How does he know your name?" said Dan, mistaking kid, the circus name
+for boy, for his friend's nickname.
+
+"He said kid, not Kit," answered our hero.
+
+"Do you think you can do our act?" continued the acrobat.
+
+"I think I can," replied Kit.
+
+This elicited a broad grin from the acrobat.
+
+"Look here, kid," he said, "do you know how long it took me to learn the
+business?"
+
+"I don't know, but I should like to know."
+
+"Three years."
+
+"No doubt you can do a great deal more than I."
+
+"Oh, no, certainly not!" said the acrobat, ironically.
+
+"I see you don't believe me," said Kit.
+
+"I'll tell you what you remind me of, kid. There was a fellow came to
+our circus last summer, and wanted to get an engagement as rider. He
+said he'd been a cowboy out in New Mexico, and had been employed to
+break horses. So we gave the fellow a trial. We brought out a wild
+mustang, and told him to show what he could do. The mustang let him get
+on, as was his custom, but after he was fairly on, he gave a jump, and
+Mr. Cowboy measured his length on the sawdust."
+
+Kit and Dan both smiled at this story.
+
+"I am not a cowboy, and don't profess to ride bucking mustangs," he
+said, "though my friend Dan may."
+
+"I'd rather be excused," put in Dan.
+
+"I'll tell you what, kid, if you'll go through the performance you've
+just seen I'll give you five dollars."
+
+The fellow expected Kit would make some hasty excuse, but he was
+mistaken. Our hero rose from his seat, removed his coat and vest, and
+bounded into the arena.
+
+"I am ready," he said, "but I am not strong enough to be the under man.
+I'll do the other."
+
+"All right! Go ahead!"
+
+The speaker put himself in position. Kit gave a spring, and in an
+instant was upon his shoulders.
+
+There was an exclamation of surprise from the second acrobat.
+
+"Christopher!" he exclaimed. "The boy's got something in him, after
+all."
+
+"Now what shall I do?" asked Kit, as with folded arms he stood on the
+acrobat's shoulders.
+
+"Keep your place while I walk round the arena."
+
+Kit maintained his position while the acrobat ran round the circle,
+increasing his pace on purpose to dislodge his young associate. But Kit
+was too well used to this act to be embarrassed. He held himself erect,
+and never swerved for an instant.
+
+"Pretty good, kid!" said the acrobat. "Now reverse yourself and stand on
+my hands with your feet in the air."
+
+Kit made the change skillfully, and to the equal surprise of Dan and the
+other acrobat, both of whom applauded without stint.
+
+"Can you do anything else?" asked Alonzo Vincenti.
+
+"Yes."
+
+Kit went through a variety of other feats, and then descending from his
+elevated perch, was about to resume his coat and vest, when the circus
+performer asked him, "Can you tumble?"
+
+Kit's answer was to roll over the arena in a succession of somersaults
+and hand springs.
+
+"Well, I'm beat!" said the acrobat. "You're the smartest kid I ever met
+in my travels. Are you sure you're not a professional?"
+
+"Quite sure," answered Kit, smiling.
+
+"You never traveled with a show, then?"
+
+Kit shook his head.
+
+"Where on earth did you pick up all these acts?"
+
+"I took lessons of Professor Donaldson."
+
+"You did! Well, that explains it. I say, kid, you ought to join a
+circus. You'd command a fine salary."
+
+"Would I? How much could I get?" asked Kit, with interest.
+
+"Ten or twelve dollars a week and all expenses paid. That's pretty good
+pay for a kid, isn't it?"
+
+"It's more than I ever earned yet," answered Kit, with a smile.
+
+"I shouldn't wonder if Mr. Barlow would give you that now. If you ever
+make up your mind to join a show, come round and see him."
+
+"Thank you," said Kit.
+
+Soon after the boys left the circus lot and went home.
+
+"Would you really join a circus, Kit?" asked Dan.
+
+"It isn't the life I would choose," answered Kit, seriously, "but I may
+have to find some way of earning a living, and that very soon."
+
+"I thought your father left you a fortune."
+
+"So did I; but I hear that I am to be taken from boarding school, and
+possibly set to work. Ralph has given me a hint of it. I shall soon
+know, as my uncle intimates that he has a communication to make me."
+
+"I hope it isn't as bad as you think, Kit."
+
+"I hope so too, but I can tell you better to-morrow. We will meet
+to-night at the show."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IV.
+
+A SCENE NOT DOWN ON THE BILLS.
+
+
+Just before supper Kit was asked to an interview with his uncle.
+
+"You wish to speak to me, Uncle Stephen?" he said.
+
+"Yes; I have decided not to postpone the explanation for which you asked
+yesterday."
+
+"I shall be glad to hear it, sir."
+
+"Ever since your father's death I have supported you, not because I was
+morally or legally bound to do so, but because you were my nephew."
+
+"But didn't my father leave any property?" asked Kit in amazement.
+
+"He was supposed to have done so."
+
+"This house and grounds are surely worth a good deal of money!"
+
+"So they are," answered Stephen Watson, dryly, "but unfortunately they
+did not belong to your father."
+
+"This is certainly a mistake," exclaimed Kit, indignantly.
+
+"Wait till I have finished. These stood in your father's name, but there
+was a mortgage of two thousand dollars held by the Smyrna Savings Bank."
+
+"Surely the place is worth far more than two thousand dollars!"
+
+"Curb your impatience, and you will soon understand me. The place _is_
+worth far more than two thousand dollars. I consider it worth ten
+thousand."
+
+"Then I don't see----"
+
+"Your father left large debts, which of course had to be paid. I was
+therefore obliged to sell the estate, in order to realize the necessary
+funds."
+
+"For how much did you sell the place?"
+
+"For nine thousand dollars. I regarded that as a good price, considering
+that it was paid in cash or the equivalent."
+
+"To whom did you sell?"
+
+"I bought it in myself; I was not willing that the place which my
+brother had loved so well, should pass into the hands of strangers."
+
+"May I ask who was my father's principal creditor?" asked Kit.
+
+"Ahem! I was," answered Stephen Watson, in a tone of slight
+embarrassment.
+
+"You!" exclaimed Kit, in fresh surprise.
+
+"Yes; your father owed me twelve thousand dollars borrowed at various
+times."
+
+"How could he have been obliged to borrow so much?" asked Kit. "He
+always seemed comfortably situated. I never once heard him complain of
+being pressed for money."
+
+"Very likely; he was very reticent about his affairs. I would explain,
+but the matter is rather a delicate one."
+
+"I think I am entitled to know all about it, Uncle Stephen," said Kit,
+firmly.
+
+"Be it so! Perhaps you are right. Let me tell you in the briefest terms,
+then, that in his later years your father speculated in Wall Street--not
+heavily, for he had not the means, but heavily for one of his property.
+Of course he lost. Almost every one does, who ventures into the
+'street.' His first losses, instead of deterring him from further
+speculation, led him on to rasher ventures. It was then that he came to
+me for money."
+
+"Didn't you urge him to give up speculating?" asked Kit.
+
+"Yes, but my words availed little. Perhaps you will think I ought to
+have refused him loans, but he assured me in the strongest terms that
+unless he obtained money from some source he would be ruined, and I
+yielded. I might have been weak--it was weak, for I stood a chance of
+losing all, having merely his notes of hand to show for the money I
+lent. But it is hard to refuse a brother. I think I should do the same
+again."
+
+Kit was silent. His uncle's words were warm, and indicated strong
+sympathy for Kit's father, but his tone was cold, and there seemed a
+lack of earnestness. Kit could not repress a feeling of incredulity.
+There was another obstacle to his accepting with full credence the tale
+which his uncle told him. He had always understood from his father that
+his uncle was a poor and struggling man. How could he have in his
+possession the sum of twelve thousand dollars to lend his brother? This
+question was certainly difficult to answer. He paused, then refraining
+from discussing the subject, said:
+
+"Why have you not told me this before, Uncle Stephen?"
+
+"Would it have made you any happier?" returned Stephen Watson.
+
+"No."
+
+"Till you had acquired a fair education, I thought it better to keep the
+unpleasant truth from you. It would only have annoyed you to feel that
+you owed everything to my generosity, and were in fact a child of
+charity."
+
+Kit's face flushed deeply as he heard this expression from his uncle's
+lips.
+
+"Do you mean that my father left absolutely nothing?" he asked.
+
+"Yes, absolutely nothing. Well, no, not quite that. I think there was a
+balance of a little over a hundred dollars left after paying all debts.
+That is hardly worth counting."
+
+"Yes, that is hardly worth counting," said Kit in a dull, mechanical
+tone.
+
+"Still, I determined to educate you, and give you equal advantages with
+my own son. I have done so up to the present moment. I wish I could
+continue to do so, but Ralph is getting more expensive as he grows older
+(and you also), and I cannot afford to keep you both at school. You will
+therefore stop studying, and I shall secure you some work."
+
+"If things are as you say, I cannot complain of this," Kit said in a
+dull, spiritless tone, "but it comes upon me like a thunderbolt."
+
+"No doubt, no doubt. I knew it would be a shock, and I have postponed
+telling you as long as possible."
+
+"I suppose I ought to thank you. Have you anything more to say to me
+now?"
+
+"No."
+
+"Then, sir, I will leave you. I will ask further particulars some other
+day."
+
+"He takes it hard," muttered Stephen Watson, eyeing the retreating form
+of his nephew thoughtfully. "I wonder if he will suspect that there is
+anything wrong. Even if he does, he is only a boy, and can prove
+nothing."
+
+       *       *       *       *       *
+
+"What makes you so glum, Kit?" asked Dan Clark, when they met at seven
+o'clock, as agreed, to go together to the show.
+
+"Not much, Dan, only I have learned that I am a pauper."
+
+"But the estate--the house and the grounds?" said Dan, bewildered.
+
+"Belong to my uncle."
+
+"Who says so?"
+
+"He says so. But I don't want to say any more about it now. Let us start
+for the circus, and I will try to forget my pauper position, for one
+evening at least."
+
+Before they reached the lot, they heard the circus band discoursing
+lively music. They were in a crowd, for all Smyrna, men, women and
+children, were bound for the show. It was a grand gala night. In the
+city, where there are many amusements, the circus draws well, but in the
+country everybody goes.
+
+Outside the great tent were the side shows. In one of them Kit found his
+friends of the morning, the giant, the dwarf, and the fat lady, with
+other curiosities hereafter to be mentioned. Just inside the tent, in
+what might be called the ante chamber, was the collection of animals.
+The elephants were accorded more freedom than the rest, but the lion,
+tiger, and leopard were shut up in cages. The lion seemed particularly
+restless. He was pacing his narrow quarters, lashing his tail, and from
+time to time emitting deep growls, betokening irritation and anger.
+
+"How would you like to go into the cage?" asked Dan.
+
+"I don't care for an interview with his majesty," responded Kit.
+
+A stranger was standing near the cage.
+
+"Don't go too near, boys!" he said. "That lion is particularly fierce.
+He nearly killed a man last season in Pennsylvania."
+
+"How was that?"
+
+"The man ventured too near the cage. The lion stretched out his claws,
+and fastened them in the man's shoulder, lacerating it fearfully before
+he could be released. He came near dying of blood poisoning."
+
+Kit and Dan sheered off. The lion looked wicked enough to kill a dozen
+men.
+
+At eight o'clock the performance commenced. First there was a procession
+of elephants and horses, the latter carrying the bareback riders and
+other members of the circus, with the curiosities and freaks. Then came
+two bareback riders, who jumped through hoops, and over banners, and
+performed somersaults, to the wondering delight of the boys. Then came
+tumblers, and in preparation for another scene a gaudily dressed clown
+entered the ring. Suddenly there was heard a deep baying sound, which
+struck terror into every heart. It was the lion; but seemed close at
+hand. In an instant a dark, cat-like form, rushing down the aisle,
+sprang into the ring.
+
+The great Numidian lion had broken from his cage, and the life of every
+one in the audience was in peril. Ladies shrieked, strong men grew pale,
+and all wildly looked about for some way of escape.
+
+Striking down the clown, and standing with one foot on the prostrate
+form, the lion's cruel eyes wandered slowly over the vast assemblage.
+
+Only ten feet from him, in front seats, sat Kit and Dan.
+
+Kit rose in his seat pale and excited, but with a resolute fire in his
+eyes. He had thought of a way to vanquish the lion.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER V.
+
+HOW KIT VANQUISHED THE LION.
+
+
+The danger was imminent. Under the canvas there were at least two
+thousand spectators. Smyrna had less than five thousand inhabitants, but
+from towns around there were numerous excursion parties, which helped to
+swell the number present. Had these people foreseen the terrible scene
+not down on the bills, they would have remained at home and locked the
+doors of their houses. But danger is seldom anticipated and peril
+generally finds us unprepared.
+
+Dan Clark saw Kit about to leave his seat.
+
+"Where are you going?" he cried.
+
+"I am going into the arena."
+
+"What? Are you out of your head?" asked Dan, and he took hold of Kit to
+detain him. But the boy tore himself from the grasp of his friend, and
+with blanched brow, for he knew full well the risk he ran, he sprang
+over the parapet, and in an instant he stood in the sawdust circle
+facing the angry monarch of the wilds, whose presence had struck terror
+into the hearts of two thousand members of a superior race.
+
+The sudden movement of Kit created a sensation only less than the
+appearance of the lion.
+
+The residents of Smyrna all knew him, but they could not understand the
+cause of his apparent fool-hardiness.
+
+"Come back! Come away, for your life!" exclaimed dozens of Kit's friends
+and acquaintances.
+
+"Who is that boy? Is he one of the circus men?" asked strangers who were
+present.
+
+"You will be killed, Kit! Come back!" implored Dan Clark, appalled at
+the danger of his friend.
+
+Kit heard, but did not heed, the various calls. He knew what he was
+about, and he did not mean to be killed. But there seemed the greatest
+danger of it. He was six feet from the angry beast, who lashed his tail
+with renewed wrath, when he saw his new and puny foe. Kit knew, however,
+that the lion's method of attack is to spring upon his victims, and that
+he needs a space of from twelve to fifteen feet to do it. He himself,
+being but six feet distant, was within the necessary space. The lion
+must increase the distance between them in order to accomplish its
+purpose.
+
+Now it happened that Mr. Watson had in his kitchen an elderly woman, who
+had for years been addicted to the obnoxious habit of snuff taking--a
+habit, I am glad to be able to say, which is far less prevalent now than
+in former days. Just before Kit had started for the circus, Ellen, who
+was a Scotch woman, said: "Master Kit, if you are going near the store,
+will you buy me a quarter of a pound of snuff?"
+
+"Certainly, Ellen," answered Kit, who was always obliging.
+
+The snuff he had in his pocket at the time of the lion's appearance in
+the ring, and it was the thought of this unusual but formidable weapon
+that gave him courage. If he had merely had a pistol or revolver in his
+pocket, he would not have ventured, for he knew that a wound would only
+make the lion fiercer and more dangerous.
+
+The lion stood stock still for a moment. Apparently he was amazed at the
+daring of the boy who had rushed into his presence. His fierce eyes
+began to roll wickedly and he uttered one of those deep, hoarse growls,
+such as are wont to strike fear alike into animals and men. He glared at
+Kit very much as a cat surveys a puny mouse whom she purposes to make
+her victim.
+
+It was a few brief seconds, but to the audience, who were spellbound,
+and scarcely dared to breathe, it seemed as many minutes that the boy
+and lion stood confronting each other without moving. Indeed, Kit stood
+as if fascinated before the mighty beast, and a thrill passed through
+his frame as he realized the terrible danger into which he had
+impulsively rushed. But he knew full well that his peril was each
+instant growing greater. He could not retreat now, for the furious beast
+would improve the chance to spring upon him and rend him to pieces.
+
+With curious deliberation he drew from his pocket a paper parcel, while
+the lion, as if stirred by curiosity, eyed him attentively. He opened it
+carefully, and then, without an instant's delay, he flung a handful of
+the snuff which it contained full in the eyes of the terrible animal.
+
+No sooner had he done so than he gave a spring, and in a flash was over
+the parapet and back in his seat.
+
+It was not a moment too soon!
+
+The lion was blinded by the snuff, which caused him intense pain. He
+released the terrified clown, who lost no time in escaping from the
+arena, while the vanquished beast rolled around on the sawdust in his
+agony, sending forth meanwhile the most terrible roars.
+
+By this time the circus management had recovered from its momentary
+panic. The trainer and half a dozen animal men (those whose duty it was
+to take care of the animals) rushed into the circle, and soon obtained
+the mastery of the lion, whose pain had subdued his fury, and who was
+now moaning piteously.
+
+Then through the crowded tent there ran a thrill of admiration for the
+boy who had delivered them all from a terrible danger.
+
+One man, an enthusiastic Western visitor, sprang to his feet, and,
+waving his hat, exclaimed: "Three cheers for the brave boy, who has
+shown more courage than all the rest of us put together! Hip, hip,
+hurrah!"
+
+The call was responded to with enthusiasm. Men and even women rose in
+their seats, and joined in the cheering. But some of the friends of Kit
+amended the suggestion by crying, "Hurrah for Kit Watson!"
+
+"Hurrah for Kit Watson!" cried the Western man. "He's the pluckiest kid
+I ever saw yet."
+
+Kit had not been frightened before, but he felt undeniably nervous when
+he saw the eyes of two thousand people fixed upon him. He blushed and
+seemed disposed to screen himself from observation. But at this moment a
+tall, portly man advanced from the front of the tent, and came up to
+where Kit was sitting.
+
+"My boy," he said, "do me the favor to follow me. I am Mr. Barlow."
+
+It was indeed the proprietor of the circus. He had come in person to
+greet the boy who had averted such a tragedy.
+
+Mechanically Kit followed Mr. Barlow, who led him again into the arena.
+Then the manager cleared his throat, and said:
+
+"Ladies and gentlemen, I have nothing to show you here to-night that is
+better worth your attention than the young man whose heroic act you
+have just witnessed and profited by. I introduce to you the boy hero,
+Kit Watson!"
+
+"Speech! speech!" exclaimed the spectators, after a liberal meed of
+applause.
+
+Kit stood erect, and spoke modestly.
+
+"I don't pretend to be a hero," he said. "I was as much frightened as
+anybody, but I thought of the snuff in my pocket, and I recalled to mind
+a story of a man who subdued a lunatic by means of it. So, on the
+impulse of the moment, I jumped into the ring. I am very much obliged to
+you for your cheers, and I wish I was as brave as you seem to think. I
+won't take up any more of your time, for I know you want the show to go
+on."
+
+Kit retired amid a burst of applause, and resumed his seat.
+
+The entertainment of the evening now proceeded, greatly to the
+satisfaction of the crowded ranks of spectators. But from time to time
+glances were cast towards the seat which Kit occupied.
+
+"Kit," whispered Dan, "I am proud of you! I didn't think you had it in
+you."
+
+"Don't say any more, Dan, or I shall become so vain you can't endure me.
+Look! there are our friends, the acrobats."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VI.
+
+KIT'S POOR PROSPECTS.
+
+
+There was one of the spectators who did not admire Kit's heroic conduct,
+nor join in the applause which was so liberally showered upon him. This
+was Ralph Watson, who sat on the opposite side of the tent, with his
+chum, James Schuyler, a boy who had recently come to Smyrna from the
+city of New York. Ralph had been very pale when the lion first made his
+appearance in the arena, and trembled with fear, and no one had felt
+greater relief when the danger was past. But, being naturally of a
+jealous disposition, he was very much annoyed by the sudden popularity
+won by Kit.
+
+"Isn't that your cousin?" asked James Schuyler.
+
+"Yes," answered Ralph shortly.
+
+"What a brave boy he is!"
+
+Ralph shrugged his shoulders.
+
+"I don't see much bravery about it," he said. "It isn't as if the lion
+was a wild one in his native forest. This one was tame."
+
+"He didn't look very tame to me," rejoined James, who, though rather
+snobbish, was willing to admit the danger they had all incurred. "The
+people didn't think so either. Hear them cheer your cousin."
+
+"It will make him terribly conceited. He will actually think he's a
+hero."
+
+"I wouldn't have given much for any of our lives if he hadn't jumped
+into the ring, and blinded the lion."
+
+Meanwhile Kit was enjoying the performance, and thinking very little of
+how his action would be regarded by Ralph, for whom he had no very
+cordial feeling, though they had been, from the necessity of the case,
+close companions for many years.
+
+On their return home, Kit and Ralph reached the gate together.
+
+"It seems you're a great hero all at once," said Ralph, with a sneer.
+
+Kit understood the sneer, but did not choose to notice it.
+
+"Thank you for the compliment," he responded quietly.
+
+"O, I didn't mean to flatter you! You are puffed up enough."
+
+"Are you sorry I jumped into the ring, Ralph?" asked Kit good-naturedly.
+
+"I don't believe there was any real danger."
+
+"Then I must congratulate you upon your courage. All the rest of us were
+frightened, and even Mr. Barlow admitted that there was danger."
+
+"The lion was half tame. It isn't as if he were wild."
+
+"He looked wild enough to me when I faced him in the ring. I confess
+that my knees began to tremble, and I wished myself at home."
+
+"You'd better set up as a lion tamer," said Ralph.
+
+"Thank you; I think I should prefer some other business, where my life
+would be safer."
+
+"You are likely to have your wish, then."
+
+"What do you mean?" asked Kit quickly, detecting a significance in
+Ralph's tone.
+
+"I mean that father intends to have you learn a trade."
+
+"Has he told you so?"
+
+"Yes."
+
+"Doesn't he propose to consult me?"
+
+"Why should he? You are only a boy, and can't judge what is best for
+yourself."
+
+"Still I am likely to be more interested than any one else in the way I
+am to earn my living. What trade are _you_ going to learn?"
+
+"What trade am I going to learn?" repeated Ralph, with the assumption of
+insulted dignity. "None at all. I shall be a merchant or a professional
+man."
+
+"And why should not I be the same?" asked Kit.
+
+"Because you're a poor boy. Didn't my father tell you this afternoon
+that you had no money coming to you?"
+
+"Yes; but that needn't prevent me from becoming a merchant, or studying
+a profession."
+
+"So _you_ think. You can't expect my father to pay for sending you to
+college, or support you while you are qualifying yourself to be a
+merchant."
+
+"I don't know yet what I am entitled to expect."
+
+"You will soon know."
+
+"How soon?"
+
+"To-morrow. There's a blacksmith in the next town, Aaron Bickford, who
+has agreed to take you as an apprentice."
+
+"So it's all settled, is it?" Kit asked, full of indignation.
+
+"Yes, if Mr. Bickford likes your appearance. He's coming to Smyrna on
+business to-morrow, and will call here. You're to live at his house."
+
+"Indeed! I am very much obliged for the information."
+
+"Oh, you needn't get grouty about it. I've no doubt you'll have enough
+to eat."
+
+"So I am to be a blacksmith, and you a merchant or----"
+
+"Lawyer. I think I shall decide to be a lawyer," said Ralph,
+complacently.
+
+"That will make quite a difference in our social positions."
+
+"Of course; but I will help you all I can. If you have a shop of your
+own, I will have my horses shod at your place."
+
+"Does your father think I am particularly well fitted to be a
+blacksmith?"
+
+"He thinks you will get along very well in the business, if you are
+industrious. A poor boy can't choose. He must take the best he can get."
+
+Kit did not sleep very much that night. He was full of anger and
+indignation with his uncle. Why should his future be so different from
+his cousin's? At school he had distinguished himself more in his
+studies, and he did not see why he was not as well fitted to become a
+merchant or a lawyer as Ralph.
+
+"They can't make me a blacksmith without my consent," was his final
+thought, as he closed his eyes and went to sleep.
+
+Kit was up early the next morning. As breakfast was not ready, he
+strolled over to the hotel, which was only five minutes' walk from his
+uncle's house.
+
+The circus tent had vanished. Late at night, after the evening
+performance was over, the canvas men had busied themselves in taking
+them down, and packing them for transportation to a town ten miles
+distant on the railroad, where they were to give two exhibitions the
+next day. The showy chariots, the lions, tigers, elephants and camels,
+with all the performers, were gone. But Mr. Barlow, the owner of the
+circus, had remained at the Smyrna Hotel all night, preferring to
+journey comfortably the next morning.
+
+He was sitting on the piazza when Kit passed. Though he had never seen
+Kit but once, his business made him observant of faces, and he
+recognized him immediately.
+
+"Aha!" he said, "this is the young hero of last evening, is it not?"
+
+Kit smiled.
+
+"I am the boy who jumped into the ring," he said.
+
+"So I thought. I hope you slept well after the excitement."
+
+A sudden thought came to Kit. Mr. Barlow looked like a kind hearted man,
+and he had already shown that he was well disposed toward him.
+
+"I slept very poorly," he said.
+
+"Was it the thought of the danger you had been in?"
+
+"No, sir; I learned that my uncle, without consulting me, had arranged
+to apprentice me to a blacksmith."
+
+Mr. Barlow looked surprised.
+
+"But you look like a boy of independent means," he said, puzzled.
+
+"I have always supposed that this was the case," said Kit, "but my uncle
+told me yesterday, to my surprise, that I was dependent upon him, and
+had no expectations."
+
+"You don't want to be a blacksmith?"
+
+"No, sir; I consider any kind of work honorable, but that would not suit
+me."
+
+"You would succeed well in my business," said the showman, "but I am
+very careful how I recommend it to boys. It isn't a good school for
+them. They are exposed to many temptations in it. But if a boy has a
+strong will, and good principles, he may avoid all the evils connected
+with it."
+
+Kit had not thought of it before, but now the question suggested itself:
+"Why should I not join the circus. I should like it better than being a
+blacksmith."
+
+"How much do you pay acrobats?" he asked.
+
+"Are you an acrobat?" asked Mr. Barlow.
+
+Kit told the story of his practicing with the Vincenti Brothers.
+
+"Good!" said Mr. Barlow. "If they indorse you, it is sufficient. If you
+decide to join my company, I will give you, to begin with, ten dollars
+a week and your expenses."
+
+"Thank you, sir," said Kit, dazzled by the offer, "Where will you be on
+Saturday?"
+
+"At Grafton on Saturday, and Milltown on Monday."
+
+"If I decide to join you, I will do so at one or the other of those
+places."
+
+Here the railroad omnibus came up, and Mr. Barlow entered it, for he was
+to leave by the next train.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VII.
+
+AARON BICKFORD, THE BLACKSMITH.
+
+
+Kit returned to breakfast in good spirits. He saw a way out of his
+difficulties. Though he had no false pride, he felt that a blacksmith's
+life would be distasteful to him. He was fond of study, and had looked
+forward to a college course. Now this was out of the question. It seemed
+that he was as poor as his friend, Dan Clark, with his own way to make
+in the world. When he left school, at the beginning of the vacation, he
+supposed that he would inherit a competence. It was certainly a great
+change in his prospects, but now he did not feel dispirited. He thought,
+upon the whole, he would enjoy traveling with the circus. His duties
+would be light, and the pay liberal.
+
+Before he returned to breakfast, Ralph had come down-stairs, and had a
+few words with his father.
+
+"I think you are going to have trouble with Kit, father," he commenced.
+
+"What makes you think so, and what about?" asked Mr. Watson.
+
+"I told him last evening about your plan of apprenticing him to Mr.
+Bickford."
+
+"You did wrong. I did not propose to mention the matter to him till Mr.
+Bickford's arrival. What did he say?"
+
+"He turned up his nose at the idea. He thinks he ought to become a
+merchant or a professional man like me. He is too proud to be a
+blacksmith."
+
+"Then he must put his pride in his pocket. It will be all I can do to
+pay the expenses of your education. I can't provide for two boys."
+
+"When Kit is off your hands won't you increase my allowance, father?"
+asked Ralph, insinuatingly.
+
+"Suppose we postpone that matter," replied Mr. Watson, in a tone of
+voice that was not encouraging. "I have lost some money lately, and I
+can't do anything more for you just at present."
+
+Ralph looked disappointed, but did not venture to press the subject.
+
+"Where have you been, Kit?" he asked, as he saw his cousin entering the
+gate, and coming up the path to the front door.
+
+"I have been taking a walk," answered Kit, cheerfully.
+
+"It's a good idea to rise early."
+
+"Why?"
+
+"Because you will probably be required to do so in your new place."
+
+"What new place?"
+
+"At the blacksmith's."
+
+Kit smiled. To Ralph's surprise he did not appear to be annoyed.
+
+"I see you are getting reconciled to the idea. Last evening you seemed
+to dislike it."
+
+"Your father has not said anything about it to me."
+
+"He will very soon."
+
+"Won't you come round and see me occasionally, Ralph?" asked Kit, with a
+curious smile.
+
+"Yes; I may call on Saturday. I should like to see how you look."
+
+Kit smiled again. He thought it extremely doubtful whether Ralph would
+see him at the blacksmith's forge.
+
+Half an hour after breakfast, while Ralph and Kit were in the stable,
+the sound of wheels was heard, and a stout, broad-shouldered man, with a
+bronzed complexion, drove up in a farm wagon. Throwing his reins over
+the horse's neck, he descended from the wagon, and turned in at the
+gate. Mr. Watson, who had been sitting at the front window, opened the
+door for him.
+
+"Glad to see you, Mr. Bickford," he said.
+
+"Is the boy ready?" asked the blacksmith. "I can take him right over
+with me this morning."
+
+"Come into the house, I will send for him."
+
+Mr. Bickford noticed the handsome appearance of the hall, and the front
+room, the door of which was partly open, and said: "If the boy's been
+used to livin' here, he must be kind of high strung. I can't give him no
+such home as this."
+
+"Of course not, Mr. Bickford. He can't expect it. He's a poor boy, and
+will have to make his own way in the world. Beggars can't be choosers,
+you know."
+
+A servant was sent to the stable to summon Kit. Ralph, who thought he
+should enjoy the scene, accompanied him.
+
+Kit regarded the blacksmith with some curiosity.
+
+"This is Mr. Aaron Bickford, of Oakford, Kit," began his uncle.
+
+"I hope you are well, Mr. Bickford," said Kit, politely.
+
+The blacksmith gazed at Kit with earnest scrutiny.
+
+"Humph!" said he; "are you strong and muscular?"
+
+"Pretty fair," answered Kit, with a smile.
+
+"Kit," said his uncle, clearing his throat, "in your circumstances I
+have thought it desirable that you should learn a trade, and have spoken
+to Mr. Bickford about taking you as an apprentice."
+
+"In what business?" asked Kit.
+
+"I'm a blacksmith," said Mr. Bickford, taking it upon himself to reply,
+"and it's a good, healthy business as any you'd want to follow."
+
+"I have no doubt of it," said Kit, quietly, "but I don't think I should
+like it all the same. Uncle Stephen, how does it happen that you have
+selected such a business for me?"
+
+"I heard that Mr. Bickford needed an apprentice, and I have arranged
+matters with him to take you, and teach you his trade."
+
+"Yes," put in Mr. Bickford, "I've agreed to give you your board and a
+dollar a week the first year. That's more than I got when I was
+'prentice. My old master only paid me fifty cents a week."
+
+Kit turned to his uncle.
+
+"Do you think my education has fitted me for a blacksmith's trade?" he
+asked.
+
+"It won't interfere," replied Mr. Watson, a little uneasily.
+
+"Wouldn't it have been well to consult me in the matter? It seems to me
+I am rather interested."
+
+"Oh, I supposed you would object, as you had been looking forward to
+being a gentleman, but I can't afford to keep you in idleness any
+longer, and so have arranged matters with Mr. Bickford."
+
+"Suppose I object to going with him?" said Kit, calmly.
+
+"Then I shall overrule your objections, and compel you to do what I
+think is for your good."
+
+Kit's eye flashed with transient anger, but as he had no idea of
+acceding to his uncle's order, he did not allow himself to become unduly
+excited. Indeed he had a plan, which made temporary submission a matter
+of policy.
+
+"What's the boy's name?" asked Aaron Bickford.
+
+"I am generally called Kit. My right name is Christopher."
+
+"Then, Kit, you'd better be getting your traps together, for I can't
+stop long away from the shop."
+
+"I have arranged to have you go back with Mr. Bickford to-day," said
+Stephen Watson.
+
+"That's rather short notice, isn't it?" Kit rejoined.
+
+"The sooner the matter is arranged, the better!" answered his uncle.
+
+"Very well," said Kit, with unexpected submission. "I'll go and pack up
+my clothes."
+
+Mr. Watson looked relieved. He had expected to have more trouble with
+his nephew.
+
+In twenty minutes Kit reappeared with his school valise. He had packed
+up a supply of shirts, socks, handkerchiefs, and underclothing.
+
+"I am all ready," he said.
+
+"Then we'll be going," said the blacksmith, rising with alacrity.
+
+Kit took his place on the seat beside Mr. Bickford.
+
+"Good-by, uncle!" he said; "it may be some time before we meet again."
+
+"What does the boy mean?" asked Stephen Watson, turning to Ralph with a
+puzzled look.
+
+"I don't know. He's been acting queer all the morning."
+
+So Kit rode away with Aaron Bickford, but he had not the slightest
+intention of becoming blacksmith. Instead of blacksmith's forges,
+visions of a circus ring and acrobatic feats were dancing before his
+mind.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VIII.
+
+KIT'S RIDE TO OAKFORD.
+
+
+Oakford was six miles away. The blacksmith's horse was seventeen years
+old, and did not make very good speed. Kit was unusually busy thinking.
+He had taken a decisive step; he had, in fact, made up his mind to enter
+upon a new life. He had not objected to going away with the blacksmith,
+because it gave him an excuse for packing up his clothes, and leaving
+the house quietly.
+
+It may be objected that he had deceived Mr. Bickford. This was true, and
+the thought of it troubled him, but he hardly knew how to explain
+matters.
+
+Not much conversation took place till they were within a mile of
+Oakford. Aaron Bickford had filled his pipe at the beginning of the
+journey, and he had smoked steadily ever since. At last he removed his
+pipe from his mouth, and put it in his pocket.
+
+"Were you ever in Oakford?" he asked.
+
+"Yes," answered Kit. "I know the place very well."
+
+"How do you think you'll like livin' there?"
+
+"I don't think I shall like it."
+
+Mr. Bickford looked surprised.
+
+"I'll keep you at work so stiddy you won't mind where you are," he
+remarked dryly.
+
+"Not if I know it," Kit said to himself.
+
+He knew Mr. Bickford by reputation. He was a close-fisted, miserly man,
+who was not likely to be a very desirable employer, for he expected
+every one who worked for him to labor as hard as himself. Moreover, he
+and his wife lived in a very stingy manner, and few of the luxuries of
+the season appeared on their table. The fact that complaints upon this
+score had been made by some of Kit's predecessors in his employ, led Mr.
+Bickford to make inquiries with a view to ascertaining whether Kit was
+particular about his food.
+
+"Are you partic'lar about your vittles?" he asked abruptly.
+
+"I have been accustomed to good food," answered Kit.
+
+"You can't expect to live as you have at your uncle's," continued the
+blacksmith. "Me and my wife have enough to eat, but we think it best to
+eat plain food. Some of my help have had stuck up notions, and expected
+first class hotel fare, but they didn't get it at my house."
+
+"I believe you," said Kit.
+
+Mr. Bickford eyed him sharply, not being sure but this might be a
+sarcastic observation, but Kit's face was straight, and betrayed
+nothing.
+
+"You'll live as well as I do myself," he proceeded, after a pause. "I
+don't pamper my appetite by no means."
+
+Kit was quite ready to believe this also, but did not say so.
+
+"What time did you get up at your uncle's?" asked the blacksmith.
+
+"We have breakfast a little before eight. I get up in time for
+breakfast."
+
+"You do, hey?" ejaculated the blacksmith, scornfully. "Wa'al, I declare!
+You must be tuckered out gettin' up so airly."
+
+"O no, I stand it very well, Mr. Bickford," said Kit, amused.
+
+"Do you know what time I get up?" asked Mr. Bickford, with a touch of
+indignation in his tone.
+
+"I would like to know," answered Kit meekly.
+
+"Wa'al, I get up at five o'clock. What do you say to that, hey?"
+
+"I think it is very early."
+
+"I suppose you couldn't get up so early as that?"
+
+"I might, if there was any need of it."
+
+"I reckon there will be need of it if you're goin' to work for me."
+
+Kit cleared his throat. He felt that the time had come for an
+explanation.
+
+"Mr. Bickford," he said, "I owe you an apology."
+
+"What?" said Bickford, regarding his young companion in surprise.
+
+"I have deceived you."
+
+"I don't know what you're talkin' about."
+
+"I don't think I did right to come with you to day."
+
+"I can't make out what you're talkin' about. Your uncle has engaged to
+let you work for me."
+
+"But I haven't engaged to work for you, Mr. Bickford."
+
+"Hey?" and the blacksmith eyed our hero in undisguised amazement.
+
+"I may as well say that I don't intend to work for you."
+
+"You don't mean to work for me?" repeated Bickford slowly.
+
+"Just so. I have no intention of becoming a blacksmith."
+
+"Is the boy crazy?" ejaculated Aaron Bickford.
+
+"No, Mr. Bickford; I have full command of my senses. You will have to
+look out for another apprentice."
+
+"Then why did you agree to come with me?"
+
+"That is what I have to apologize for. I wanted to get away from my
+uncle's house quietly, and I thought it the best way to pretend to agree
+to his plan."
+
+Aaron Bickford was not a sweet tempered man. He had a pretty strong will
+of his own, and was called, not without reason, obstinate. He began to
+feel angry.
+
+"Well, boy, have you got through with what you had to say?" he asked.
+
+"I believe so--for the present."
+
+"Then I guess it's about time for me to say something."
+
+"Very well, sir."
+
+"You'll find me a tough customer to deal with, young man."
+
+"Then perhaps it is just as well that I do not propose to work for you."
+
+"But you are goin' to work for me!" said the blacksmith, nodding his
+head.
+
+"Whether I want to or not?" interrogated Kit, placidly.
+
+"Yes, whether you want to or not, willy nilly, as the lawyers say."
+
+"I think, Mr. Bickford, you will find that it takes two to make a
+bargain."
+
+"So it does, and there's two that's made this bargain, your uncle and
+me."
+
+Mr. Bickford was not always strictly grammatical in his language, as the
+reader will observe.
+
+"I don't admit my uncle's right to make arrangements for me without my
+consent."
+
+"You know more'n he does, I reckon?"
+
+"No, but this matter concerns me more than it does him."
+
+"Maybe you expect to live without workin'!"
+
+"No; if it is true, as my uncle says, that I have no money, I shall have
+to make my living, but I prefer to choose my own way of doing it."
+
+"You're a queer boy. Bein' a blacksmith is too much work for you, I
+reckon."
+
+"At any rate it isn't the kind of work I care to undertake."
+
+"What's all this rigmarole comin' to? Here we are 'most at my house. If
+you ain't goin' to work for me, what are you goin' to do?"
+
+"I should like to pass the night at your house, Mr. Bickford. After
+breakfast I will pay you for your accommodations, and go----"
+
+"Where?"
+
+"You must excuse my telling you that. I have formed some plans, but I do
+not care to have my uncle know them."
+
+"Are you going to work for anybody?" asked the blacksmith, whose
+curiosity was aroused.
+
+"Yes, I have a place secured."
+
+"Is it on a farm?"
+
+"No."
+
+"You're mighty mysterious, it seems to me. Now you've had your say, I've
+got something to tell you."
+
+"Very well, Mr. Bickford."
+
+"You say you're not goin' to work for me?"
+
+"Yes, sir."
+
+"Then I say you _are_ goin' to work for me. I've got your uncle's
+authority to set you to work, and I'm goin' to do it."
+
+Kit heard this calmly.
+
+"Suppose we postpone the discussion of the matter," he said. "Is that
+your house?"
+
+Aaron Bickford's answer was to drive into the yard of a cottage. On the
+side opposite was a blacksmith's forge.
+
+"That's where you're goin' to work!" he said, grimly, pointing to the
+forge.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IX.
+
+KIT MAKES A NEW ACQUAINTANCE.
+
+
+Grafton, where Barlow's circus was billed to appear on Saturday, was
+only six miles farther on. Oakford was about half way, so that in
+accompanying the blacksmith to his home, Kit had accomplished about half
+the necessary journey. Now that he had undeceived the blacksmith as to
+his intention of staying he felt at ease in his mind. It was his plan to
+remain over night in the house and pursue his journey early the next
+day.
+
+"Are these all the clo'es you brought with you?" asked Bickford,
+surveying Kit's neat and rather expensive suit with disapproval.
+
+"Yes. Am I not well enough dressed for a blacksmith?" asked Kit, with a
+smile.
+
+"You're a plaguy sight too well dressed," returned Bickford. "You want a
+good rough suit, for the forge is a dirty place."
+
+"I thought I told you I did not intend to work for you, Mr. Bickford."
+
+"That's what you said, but I don't take no stock in it. Your uncle has
+bound you out to me, and that settles it."
+
+"If he has bound me out, where are the papers, Mr. Bickford?" asked Kit,
+keenly.
+
+This question was a poser. The blacksmith supposed that Kit might be
+ignorant that papers were required, but he found himself mistaken.
+
+"There ain't no papers, but that don't make no difference," he said. "He
+says you're to work for me, and I'm goin' to hold you to it."
+
+Kit did not reply, for he saw no advantage in discussion.
+
+"You'll get a dollar a week and your board, and you can't do better. I
+reckon dinner is about ready now."
+
+Kit felt ready for the dinner, for the morning's ride had sharpened his
+appetite. So when, five minutes later, he was summoned to the table, he
+willingly accepted the invitation.
+
+"This is my new 'prentice, Mrs. Bickford," said the blacksmith, by way
+of introduction, to a spare, red headed woman, who was bustling about
+the kitchen, where the table was spread.
+
+Mrs. Bickford eyed Kit critically.
+
+"He's one of the kid glove kind, by his looks," she said. "You don't
+expect to get much work out of him, do you?"
+
+"I reckon I will, or know the reason why," responded Bickford,
+significantly.
+
+"Set right down and I'll dish up the victuals," said Mrs. Bickford. "We
+don't stand on no ceremony here. What's your name, young man?"
+
+"People call me Kit."
+
+"Sounds like a young cat. It's rediculous to give a boy such a name.
+First thing you know I'll be calling you Kitty."
+
+"I hope I don't look like a cat," said Kit laughing.
+
+"You ain't got no fur on your cheeks yet," said the blacksmith, laughing
+heartily at his own witticism. "What have you got for dinner, mother?"
+
+"It's a sort of picked-up dinner," answered Mrs. Bickford. "There's some
+pork and beans warmed up, some slapjacks from breakfast, and some fried
+sassidges."
+
+"Why, that's a dinner for a king," said the blacksmith, rubbing his
+hands.
+
+He took his seat, and put on a plate for Kit specimens of the delicacies
+mentioned above. In spite of his appetite Kit partook sparingly,
+supplementing his meal with bread, which, being from the baker's shop,
+was of good quality. He congratulated himself that he was not to board
+permanently at Mr. Bickford's table.
+
+When dinner was over, the blacksmith in a genial mood said to Kit: "You
+needn't begin to work till to-morrow. You can tramp round the village if
+you want to."
+
+Kit was glad of the delay, as early the next morning he expected to bid
+farewell to Oakford, and thus would avoid a conflict.
+
+He had been in Oakford before, and knew his way about. He went out of
+the yard and walked about in a leisurely way. It was early in June, and
+the country was at its best. The birds were singing, the fields were
+green with verdure, and Kit's spirits rose. He felt that it would be
+delightful to travel about the country, as he would do if he joined
+Barlow's Circus.
+
+He overtook a boy somewhat larger than himself, a stout, strong country
+boy, attired in a rough, coarse working suit. He was about to pass him,
+when the country boy called out, "Hallo, you!"
+
+"Were you speaking to me?" asked Kit, turning and looking back.
+
+"Yes. Didn't I see you riding into town with Aaron Bickford?"
+
+"Yes."
+
+"Are you going to work for him?"
+
+"That is what he expects," answered Kit diplomatically. He hesitated
+about confiding his plans to a stranger.
+
+"Then I pity you."
+
+"Why?"
+
+"I used to work for him."
+
+"Did you?"
+
+"Yes, I stood it as long as I could."
+
+"Then you didn't like it?"
+
+"I guess not."
+
+"What was the trouble?"
+
+"Everything. He's a stingy old hunks, to begin with. I went to work for
+a dollar a week and board. If the board had been decent, it would have
+been something, but I'd as soon board at the poorhouse."
+
+"I have taken dinner there," said Kit, smiling.
+
+"Did you like it?"
+
+"I have dined better. In fact I have seldom dined worse."
+
+"What did the old woman give you?"
+
+Kit enumerated the articles composing the bill of fare.
+
+"That's better than usual," said the new acquaintance.
+
+"I suppose the dollar a week is all right," said Kit.
+
+"Good enough if you can get it. It's about as easy to get blood out of a
+stone, as money out of old Bickford. Generally I had to wait ten days
+after the time before I could get the money."
+
+"How is the work?"
+
+"Hard, and plenty of it. It's work early and work late, and if there
+isn't work at the forge, you've got to help the old woman, by drawing
+water and doing chores. You don't live in Oakford, do you?"
+
+"No; I came from Smyrna."
+
+"I thought not. Bickford can't get a boy to work for him here. What made
+you come? Couldn't you get a place at home?"
+
+"I didn't try."
+
+"Well, you haven't done much in coming here."
+
+"I begin to think so," Kit responded, with a smile.
+
+"Hasn't the circus been in your town?"
+
+"Yes."
+
+"I wanted to go, but I guess I'll manage to see it in Grafton. It shows
+there to-morrow."
+
+"Are you going?" asked Kit with interest.
+
+"Yes; I shall walk. I'll start early and spend the day there."
+
+"We may meet there."
+
+"You don't expect to go, do you? Bickford won't let you off."
+
+Kit smiled.
+
+"I don't think Mr. Bickford will have much to say about it," he said.
+
+"Are you going to hook jack?" asked his new acquaintance.
+
+"I didn't mean to tell you, but I will. I have made up my mind not to
+work for Mr. Bickford at all."
+
+"Then why did you come here?"
+
+"Because my uncle saw fit to arrange with him."
+
+"What are you going to do, then?"
+
+"I am offered work with the circus."
+
+"You are!" exclaimed the country boy, opening wide his eyes in
+astonishment. "What are you going to do?"
+
+"I'm going to be an acrobat."
+
+"What's that?"
+
+Kit explained as well as he could.
+
+"What are they going to pay you?"
+
+"Ten dollars a week and my expenses," answered Kit, proudly.
+
+"Jehu!" ejaculated the other boy. "Why, that's good wages for a man. Do
+you think they'd hire me, too?"
+
+"If you think you can do what they require, you can ask them."
+
+"Why can't I do it as well as you?"
+
+"Because I have been practicing for a long time at a gymnasium. What is
+your name?"
+
+"Bill Morris."
+
+"Then, Bill, don't say a word to any one about my plans. Suppose we go
+to Grafton together?"
+
+"All right!"
+
+Before the boys parted they made an agreement to meet at five o'clock
+the next morning, to set out on their walk to Grafton.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER X.
+
+KIT'S FIRST NIGHT AT THE BLACKSMITH'S.
+
+
+At nine o'clock the blacksmith, giving a deep yawn, said: "You'd better
+be getting to bed, young feller. You'll have to be up bright and airly
+in the morning."
+
+Kit was already feeling sleepy, and made no objection. Though it was yet
+early, he had found it hard work to get through the evening, as he could
+find nothing to read except a weekly paper, three months old, and a copy
+of "Pilgrim's Progress." In truth, neither Mr. Bickford nor his wife
+were of a literary turn, and did not even manage to keep up with the
+news of the day.
+
+"I am ready," said Kit.
+
+"Mother, show him to his room," added the blacksmith. "To-morrow I'll
+give him a lesson at the forge."
+
+"Perhaps you will," said Kit to himself, "but I think it doubtful."
+
+Kit's room was a small back one on the second floor. The front apartment
+was occupied by Mr. and Mrs. Bickford, and there was one of the same
+size which was used as a spare chamber.
+
+Kit's room was supplied with a cot bed, and was furnished in the
+plainest manner. One thing he missed. He saw no washstand.
+
+"Where am I to wash in the morning?" he asked.
+
+"You can wash in the tin basin in the kitchen," answered Mrs. Bickford.
+"There's a bar of soap down there and a roller towel, so I guess you
+won't have to go dirty."
+
+Kit shuddered at the suggestion. He had seen bars of yellow soap in the
+grocery at home, and didn't think he should enjoy its use. Nor did he
+fancy using the same towel with the blacksmith and his wife. He had seen
+the roller towel hanging beside the sink, and judged from its appearance
+that it had already been used nearly a week.
+
+"I have been accustomed to wash in my own room," he ventured to say.
+
+"You've been used to a great many things that you won't find here,"
+replied Mrs. Bickford, grimly.
+
+Kit thought it extremely likely.
+
+"If you can't do as the rest of us do, you can get along without
+washing," continued the lady.
+
+"I will try and manage," answered Kit, bearing in mind that he expected
+to leave the Bickford mansion forever the next morning.
+
+"That new boy of yours is kind of uppish," remarked Mrs. Bickford, when
+she returned to the sitting room.
+
+"What's the matter now?"
+
+"He wants to wash in his own room. He's too fine a gentleman to wash in
+the kitchen."
+
+"What did you tell him?"
+
+Mrs. Bickford repeated her remark.
+
+"Good for you, mother! We'll take down his pride a little."
+
+"Is he goin' to work in them fine clo'es he brought with him?"
+
+"He didn't bring any others."
+
+"He'll spile 'em, and not have anything to wear to meetin'."
+
+"Haven't we got a pair of overalls in the house--one that the last boy
+used?"
+
+"Yes; I'll get 'em right away."
+
+"They'll be good for him to wear."
+
+Before Kit got into bed, the door of his chamber was unceremoniously
+opened, and Mrs. Bickford walked in, carrying a faded pair of overalls.
+
+"You can put these on in the mornin'," she said. "They'll keep your
+clo'es clean. They may be a mite long for you, but you can turn up the
+legs at the bottom."
+
+She left the room without waiting for an answer.
+
+Kit surveyed the overalls with amusement.
+
+"I wonder how I should look in them," he said to himself.
+
+He drew them over his trousers, and regarded his figure as well as he
+could in the little seven by nine glass that hung on the wall.
+
+"There is Kit, the young blacksmith!" he said with a smile. "On the
+whole, I don't think it improves my appearance. I'll take them off, and
+leave them for the next boy."
+
+"What did the boy say, mother?" asked Mr. Bickford, upon his wife's
+return.
+
+"He just took 'em; he didn't say anything."
+
+"I s'pose he's never worn overalls before," said the blacksmith. "What
+do you think he told me on the way over?"
+
+"I don't know."
+
+"He said he wasn't goin' to work for me at all. He didn't like the
+blacksmith's trade."
+
+"Well, of all things!"
+
+"I just told him he hadn't no choice in the matter, that me and his
+uncle had arranged matters, and that I should hold him to the
+contract."
+
+"I'm afraid he'll be dainty about his vittles. He didn't eat much
+dinner."
+
+"Wait till he gets to work, mother. I guess he'll have appetite enough.
+I mean he shall earn his board, at any rate."
+
+"I hope we won't have no trouble with him, Aaron."
+
+"You needn't be afraid, mother."
+
+"Somehow, Aaron, you never did manage to keep boys very long," said Mrs.
+Bickford, dubiously.
+
+"Because their folks were weak, and allowed 'em to have their own way.
+It'll be different with this boy."
+
+"What makes you think so?"
+
+"Because his uncle is anxious to get rid of him. He told me the boy,
+till lately, had imagined he was goin' to have property. He's supported
+him out of charity, dressin' him like a gentleman, sendin' him to
+school, and spendin' a pile of money on him. Now he thinks it about time
+to quit, and have the boy learn a trade. Of course the boy'll complain,
+and try to beg off, but it won't be no use. Stephen Watson won't make no
+account of what he says. He keeps a horse himself, and has promised to
+have him shod at my shop."
+
+"Well, it may be for the best; I hope so."
+
+Aaron Bickford felt a good deal of confidence in himself. He understood
+very well that Kit was averse to working in his shop, but he meant to
+make him do it.
+
+"I'd like to see the boy I can't master," he said to himself,
+complacently. "Years hence, when the boy has a forge of his own, he'll
+thank me for perseverin' with him. There's money to be made in the
+business. Why, when I began I wasn't worth a hundred dollars, and I
+owed for my anvil. Now I own this house and shop, and I've got a tidy
+sum in the bank."
+
+This was true. But it must be added that the result was largely due to
+the pinching economy which both he and his wife had practiced.
+
+When Mr. Bickford woke up the next morning it was half-past five
+o'clock.
+
+"Strange how I came to oversleep," he said. "I guess I must have been
+more tuckered out than I supposed. Well, the boy's had a longer nap than
+I meant he should. However, it's only for one mornin'."
+
+Mr. Bickford did not linger over his toilet. Five minutes was rather an
+overstatement of the time.
+
+He went to Kit's chamber, and, opening the door, went in as
+unceremoniously as his wife had done the night before.
+
+A surprise awaited him.
+
+There was no one in the bed.
+
+"What! has the boy got up a'ready?" he asked himself, in a bewildered
+way. "He's better at gettin' up than I expected."
+
+Looking about him, he discovered on a chair by the bedside the overalls,
+and upon them a note and a silver dollar.
+
+"What's all that mean?" he asked himself.
+
+Looking closer he saw that the note was directed to him. Beginning to
+suspect that something was wrong, he opened it.
+
+This was what the note contained:
+
+     MR. BICKFORD--I leave you a dollar to pay for my food and lodging.
+     I do not care to become a blacksmith. Good by.
+
+                                                     KIT WATSON.
+
+"I'll have him back!" exclaimed Aaron Bickford, an angry look appearing
+on his face. "He ain't goin' to get the best of me."
+
+Mr. Bickford harnessed up his horse, and started after the fugitive. But
+in what direction should he drive? He was not long at fault. He met a
+milkman who had seen two boys starting out on the Grafton road, and so
+informed him.
+
+"I guess they're bound for the circus," he said.
+
+"Like as not," returned the blacksmith.
+
+But he had a long chase of it. It was not until he was within half a
+mile of the circus tents that he descried the two boys, trudging along,
+Kit with his valise in his hand. Hearing the sound of wheels, the boys
+looked back, and in some dismay recognized their pursuer.
+
+The blacksmith stood up in his wagon, and pointing his long whip at Kit,
+cried out, "Stop where you are, Kit Watson, or I'll give you the worst
+thrashing you ever had!"
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XI.
+
+KIT FALLS INTO THE HANDS OF THE ENEMY.
+
+
+If Aaron Bickford expected to frighten Kit by his threat, he was
+destined to find himself badly mistaken.
+
+Kit was startled at first, not having anticipated that the blacksmith
+would get upon his track so soon. But he was a boy of spirit, and had no
+thought of surrender. Mr. Bickford halted his horse, and Kit faced him.
+
+"Didn't you find my note?" he asked.
+
+"Yes, I did."
+
+"Then you know that I don't care to work for you."
+
+"What's that got to do with it? Your uncle and me have settled that you
+shall."
+
+"Then you'll have to unsettle it. I have a right to choose my own
+occupation, and I don't intend to become a blacksmith. Even if I did, I
+should choose some one else as my teacher."
+
+"None of your impudence, young man! You'll have a long account to settle
+with me, I warn you of that."
+
+"I had but one account to settle--for my board and lodging--and I've
+attended to that. Good morning, Mr. Bickford."
+
+Kit turned and began to continue his journey.
+
+"Hallo! Stop, I tell you!" shouted the blacksmith.
+
+"Have you got any more to say? If so, I'll listen."
+
+"What more I have to say, I shall say with a horsewhip!" retorted
+Bickford, grimly, preparing to descend from his wagon.
+
+"Come, William, we must run for it," said Kit. "Are you good at
+running?"
+
+"Try me!" was the laconic reply.
+
+By the time Aaron Bickford was out of his wagon, the boys had increased
+the distance between them by several rods.
+
+"Oho, so that's your game, is it?" said the blacksmith. "If I don't
+overhaul them, my name isn't Aaron Bickford."
+
+Kit was a good runner--quite as good as his pursuer--but he had one
+serious disadvantage. His valise was heavy, and materially affected his
+speed. He had carried it several miles, and though he had shifted it
+from one hand to the other, both arms were now tired.
+
+"Let me take it, Kit," said his companion, who was now on intimate terms
+with him.
+
+"It'll be just as heavy for you as for me."
+
+"Never mind! He isn't after me."
+
+"Well, if you don't mind carrying it a little while."
+
+The advantage of the change was soon apparent. Kit increased his speed,
+and William, whose arms were not tired, was not materially retarded by
+his burden.
+
+"If I had no valise I would climb a tree," said Kit, while running. "I
+don't believe Mr. Bickford is good at climbing."
+
+"We haven't got far to go to reach the circus tents," returned William.
+
+But though the boys held out well, Aaron Bickford gradually gained upon
+them. Many years at the anvil had given him plenty of wind and
+endurance. Besides, he was entirely fresh, not having taken a long walk
+already, as the boys had done.
+
+"You'd better give up!" he cried out, in the tone of one who was sure of
+victory. "It takes more than a boy like you to get the best of Aaron
+Bickford."
+
+It did indeed seem as if the boys must surrender. Within a few rods
+Bickford would be even with them.
+
+Kit came to a sudden determination.
+
+"Jump over the fence!" he cried.
+
+There was a rail fence skirting one side of the road.
+
+No sooner said than done. Both boys clambered over the fence, and with
+that barrier between them faced the angry blacksmith.
+
+"Well, I've got you!" he cried, panting.
+
+"Have you? I don't see it," answered Kit.
+
+"You might as well give up fust as last."
+
+"Suppose we discuss matters a little, Mr. Bickford," said Kit, calmly.
+"What right have you to pursue me?"
+
+"What right? Your uncle's given me the charge of you."
+
+"That is something he had no right to do."
+
+"Why not? Ain't he your guardian?"
+
+"No."
+
+"Who is, then?"
+
+"I have no guardian but myself."
+
+"That's a likely story. I can't listen to no such foolish talk."
+
+Aaron Bickford felt that it was time to move upon the enemy's
+entrenchments, and, putting one leg on the lower rail, he proceeded to
+climb over the fence.
+
+But the boys had anticipated this move, and were prepared for it. By the
+time the blacksmith was inside the field, the boys, who were
+considerably lighter and more active, had crossed to the reverse side.
+
+"Here we are again, Mr. Bickford," said William Morris.
+
+The blacksmith frowned.
+
+"Don't you be impudent, Bill Morris," he said. "I haven't anything to do
+with you, but I sha'n't let you sass me."
+
+"What have I said that's out of the way?" asked William.
+
+"Oh, you're mighty innocent, you are! You're aidin' and abettin' Kit
+Watson to escape from me, his lawful master."
+
+"I have no master, Mr. Bickford," said Kit, proudly.
+
+"Well, that's what they used to call 'em when I was a boy. Boys weren't
+so pert and impudent in them days."
+
+Meanwhile the blacksmith was recrossing the fence.
+
+Kit and William took the opportunity to run, and by the time Mr.
+Bickford was again on the roadside they were several rods away.
+
+This naturally exasperated the blacksmith, who felt mortified at his
+failure to overtake the youngsters. A new idea occurred to him.
+
+"You, Bill, do you want to earn a dime?" he asked.
+
+"How?" inquired William.
+
+"Just help me catch that boy Kit, and I'll give you ten cents."
+
+"I don't care to earn money that way, Mr. Bickford," responded William,
+scornfully.
+
+"Good for you, William!" exclaimed Kit.
+
+"You won't earn ten cents any easier," persisted Bickford.
+
+"I wouldn't do such a mean thing for a dollar, nor five dollars,"
+replied William. "Kit's a friend of mine, and I'm going to stand by
+him."
+
+The blacksmith was made angry by this persistent refusal. Then again he
+was faint and uncomfortable from having missed his breakfast, which
+seemed likely to be indefinitely postponed.
+
+"I'll lick you, Bill Morris, as well as Kit, when I catch you," he said.
+
+"Probably you will--when you catch me!" retorted William, in an
+aggravating tone. "Run faster, Kit."
+
+The boys ran, but again they were impeded by the heavy valise, and
+slowly but surely the blacksmith was gaining upon them.
+
+Kit, who was again carrying the burden, began to show signs of distress,
+and dropped behind his companion.
+
+"I can't hold out much longer, Bill," he said, puffing laboriously.
+
+Aaron Bickford heard these words, and they impelled him to extra
+exertion. At last he caught up and grasped Kit by the collar.
+
+"I've got ye at last!" he cried, triumphantly.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XII.
+
+MR. BICKFORD'S DEFEAT.
+
+
+Aaron Bickford was a strong man. By his work at the forge he had
+strengthened his muscles till they were like iron. So was Kit a strong
+boy, but it would be absurd to represent him as a match for the sturdy
+blacksmith.
+
+"I've got ye at last!" repeated Bickford tightening his grasp of Kit's
+coat collar.
+
+"Let go my collar!" cried Kit, not struggling, for he knew that it would
+be useless.
+
+"I'll let go your collar when I've got ye in the wagon," answered the
+blacksmith, "and not till then. You, Bill, bring along his valise. I'll
+take ye home in the wagon, though it would be only right if I let ye
+walk."
+
+"Mr. Bickford," said Kit, "you have no right to touch me. You have no
+authority over me."
+
+"I ain't, hey? Well, we'll argy that matter when we get home."
+
+And he commenced dragging Kit in the direction of the wagon.
+
+It certainly seemed as if Kit's plans were destined, if not for defeat,
+to postponement. Unconditional surrender was his only choice against the
+superior strength of Aaron Bickford. It was certainly very vexatious.
+
+But help was nearer than he anticipated.
+
+They were now within sight of the circus tents, and Kit, to his joy,
+descried the giant, Achilles Henderson, taking a morning walk, and
+already within hearing distance.
+
+"Mr. Henderson!" he called out, eagerly.
+
+"Who is that you're calling?" asked the blacksmith sharply.
+
+Achilles heard, and instantly recognized the boy who had talked with him
+at Smyrna.
+
+It took but a few strides to bring him to the spot where Kit was held in
+captivity.
+
+"What does this mean?" he asked.
+
+"This man is dragging me away without authority," answered Kit.
+
+"Who is he?" asked the giant.
+
+"He is a blacksmith, and claims me as an apprentice, but I never agreed
+to work for him."
+
+"That's a lie," said the blacksmith, "he's my runaway apprentice."
+
+"I would believe the boy sooner than you," said Achilles, not favorably
+impressed by the blacksmith's bull dog look.
+
+"It doesn't make any difference what you believe," said Bickford,
+rudely; and he began to pull Kit in the direction of the wagon.
+
+"Let go that boy's collar," cried Achilles, sternly.
+
+"I won't!" retorted the blacksmith. "I advise you to mind your own
+business."
+
+Achilles Henderson, like most big men, was good natured, but he was
+roused by the other's insolence. He carried war into the enemy's camp by
+seizing the blacksmith and shaking him till he was compelled to release
+his grasp.
+
+"What do you mean by this outrage?" demanded Bickford, furiously.
+
+"It's only a gentle hint," said Achilles, smiling. "Now, my friend, I've
+got a piece of advice to give you. If that is your wagon back there
+you'd better get into it as soon as convenient--the sooner the
+better--and get out of my way or I'll give you a stronger hint."
+
+The blacksmith was too indignant to be prudent. What! Confess himself
+vanquished, and go home without the boy! The idea was intolerable to
+him.
+
+"I'm goin' to take the boy," he said, angrily, and darting forward he
+essayed to seize Kit by the collar again.
+
+"Oho! You need a stronger hint," said Achilles. With this he grasped the
+blacksmith about the middle, and tossed him over the fence into the
+adjoining field as easily as if he were a cat.
+
+Aaron Bickford did not know what had happened to him. He lay motionless
+for a few seconds, and then picked himself up with some difficulty, and
+confronted the giant with mingled fear and anger.
+
+"I'll have the law of ye for this," he shouted.
+
+Achilles laughed.
+
+"It's as you like," he said. "I've got my witnesses here," pointing to
+the two boys.
+
+Mr. Bickford got over the fence, and sullenly turned in the direction of
+his deserted wagon.
+
+"You'll hear from me again, all of you!" he shouted, shaking his fist.
+
+"Don't trouble yourself to write," said the giant, jocosely. "We can
+worry along without a letter."
+
+The blacksmith was too full of wrath for utterance. He kept on his way,
+muttering to himself, and shaking his fist at intervals.
+
+"Now what's all this about?" asked Achilles. "What's the matter with our
+amiable friend?"
+
+Kit explained.
+
+"So you don't want to be a blacksmith? Where are you going, if I may
+inquire?"
+
+"I'm going to join the circus," answered Kit.
+
+"In what capacity--as a lion tamer?"
+
+"No; I shouldn't fancy that business. I am to be an acrobat."
+
+"An acrobat! But are you qualified?" asked Achilles, somewhat surprised.
+
+He had not heard of Kit's practice with the Vincenti brothers on the day
+of his first visit to the circus.
+
+"I am pretty well qualified already," answered Kit, "I saw Mr. Barlow
+yesterday morning, and he promised me an engagement at ten dollars a
+week."
+
+"Good!" said Achilles, heartily. "I am pleased to hear it. I took a
+liking to you the other day, and I'm glad you're going to join us. But
+do you think it wise to choose such a life?"
+
+"You have chosen it," said Kit.
+
+"Yes; but what could I do--a man of my size? I must earn more than a
+common man. My board and clothes both cost more. What do you think I
+paid for this suit I have on?"
+
+"I couldn't tell, sir."
+
+"Sixty dollars. The tailor only charges thirty dollars to a man of
+ordinary size, but I am so absurdly large that I have to pay double
+price."
+
+"Why don't you buy your suits ready made?" asked Kit, smiling.
+
+Achilles laughed heartily at the idea.
+
+"Show me a place where I can get ready made clothes to fit me," he
+answered, "and I will gladly accept your suggestion."
+
+"That may be a little difficult, I admit."
+
+"Why, you have no idea how inconvenient I find it to be so large. I
+can't find a bed to suit me in any hotel. If I go to the theater I can't
+crowd myself into an ordinary seat. I have to have all kinds of
+clothing, inside and outside, made to order. My hats and shoes must also
+be made expressly for me."
+
+"I suppose you get very well paid," suggested Kit.
+
+"Seventy-five dollars a week sounds pretty large, and would be if my
+expenses were not so great. You wouldn't be a giant for that money,
+would you?"
+
+"I am not so ambitious," replied Kit, smiling. "But there was a moment
+when I wished myself of your size."
+
+"When was that?"
+
+"When the blacksmith grasped me by the collar."
+
+"You don't have to work very hard," said William Morris.
+
+"My boy, it is pretty hard work to be stared at by a crowd of people. I
+get tired of it often, but I see no other way of making a living."
+
+"You would make a pretty good blacksmith."
+
+"I couldn't earn more than a man of average strength, and that wouldn't
+be enough, as I have explained."
+
+"Were your parents very tall?" asked Kit.
+
+"My father was six feet in height, but my mother was a small woman. I
+don't know what put it into me to grow so big. But here we are at the
+lot. Will you come in?"
+
+"When can I see Mr. Barlow?" asked Kit, anxiously.
+
+"He is at the hotel. He won't be round till half-past nine. Have you two
+boys had breakfast?"
+
+"No," answered Kit; "I'm nearly famished."
+
+"Come round to the circus tent. You are to be one of us, and will board
+there. I guess we can provide for your friend, too."
+
+Never was invitation more gladly accepted. Both Kit and William felt as
+if they had not broken their fast for a week.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIII.
+
+BREAKFAST IN THE CIRCUS TENT.
+
+
+Achilles entered the circus inclosure--the "lot," as it is generally
+called,--and made his way to a small tent situated not far from the one
+devoted to the performances. An attendant was carrying in a plate of hot
+steak and potatoes from the cook tent near by.
+
+"Is breakfast ready?" asked Achilles.
+
+"Yes; any time you want it."
+
+"Is anybody inside?"
+
+"Only Mademoiselle Louise."
+
+"Well, I want three breakfasts--for myself and my two young friends
+here."
+
+"I didn't know you had sons," said Mike, the attendant, regarding Kit
+and William with some curiosity.
+
+"I haven't. One of these young men is an acrobat, who will be one of us.
+The other is his friend. Bring along the grub as quick as possible--we
+are all hungry."
+
+"All right, sir."
+
+Running the length of the tent, which was about twenty feet by ten, was
+a long table surrounded by benches.
+
+The giant took his seat and placed the boys one on each side of him.
+Just opposite sat a woman of twenty-five or thereabouts, who was already
+eating breakfast.
+
+"Good morning, Mlle. Louise," said the giant.
+
+"Good morning, Mr. Henderson," responded the lady. "Who are your young
+companions?"
+
+"I don't know their names, but this one," placing his hand on Kit's
+shoulder, "has been engaged by Mr. Barlow as an acrobat."
+
+"Indeed! He looks young."
+
+"I am sixteen," volunteered Kit.
+
+"What circus have you traveled with before this season?" asked Mlle.
+Louise.
+
+"I have never traveled with any, madam."
+
+"But you are an acrobat?"
+
+"I have had my practice in a gymnasium."
+
+"How came Mr. Barlow to engage you?"
+
+"At Smyrna I practiced a little with the Vincenti brothers."
+
+"At Smyrna? Why, that's where the lion dashed into the arena!"
+
+"Yes."
+
+"Do you know the boy who had the courage to face him?"
+
+Kit blushed.
+
+"I am the boy," he said.
+
+"You don't mean it!" exclaimed the lady, vivaciously. "Why, you're a
+hero. I must shake hands with you," and she reached across the table and
+gave Kit a hearty grasp of the hand.
+
+"Is that so?" interposed Achilles. "Why, I didn't know you were the boy.
+I was not present at the time, and only heard of it afterwards. Mlle.
+Louise is right. You are a brave fellow."
+
+"I am much obliged to you both for your favorable opinion," said Kit
+modestly, "but I didn't realize my danger till afterwards."
+
+"Oh, heavens! I can see him now--that wicked beast!" exclaimed the lady.
+"I was nearly scared out of my senses. As for poor Dupont, he was nearer
+death than I ever want to be till my time comes."
+
+"Was Dupont the clown?" asked Kit.
+
+"Yes. The lion held him down, with his foot upon the poor clown's back,
+and but for your brave act he would have torn the poor fellow to pieces.
+Mr. Henderson, you missed the most thrilling act of the evening."
+
+"So I begin to think. By the way, boys, I ought to have introduced this
+lady. She is the famous aerial artist, whom you saw the other evening in
+her wonderful feats upon the trapeze."
+
+"Yes," said Mlle. Louise, complacently, "I think I have a pretty good
+act. I get plenty of applause, eh, Mr. Henderson?"
+
+"That's true. I think I should leave the circus if I had to appear in
+your act. I never could summon up courage."
+
+The lady laughed.
+
+"Monsieur Achilles," she said, "I wouldn't advise you to emulate me. I
+don't believe you could find a rope strong enough to support you, and if
+you should fall, I pity the audience."
+
+"You have convinced me. I shall give up all thoughts of it," said the
+giant, with mock gravity. "It would suit better our young friend here,
+who is an acrobat."
+
+"Did you ever practice on a trapeze?" asked Mlle. Louise, turning to
+Kit.
+
+"Yes, often," answered Kit, "but never at a great height."
+
+"Would it frighten you to find yourself so high up in the air?"
+
+"I don't think so; I have a cool head."
+
+"You must practice. I will give you a few hints myself. If you are cool
+and courageous, as I judge you will soon learn. By the way, what is your
+name?"
+
+"Kit Watson."
+
+"It'll be something else when you begin work."
+
+"Do all performers have assumed names?"
+
+"Generally. Here I am Mademoiselle Louise Lefroy, but it isn't a bit
+like my real name."
+
+Before this the boys had been served with breakfast. The steak was
+rather tough, and the coffee not of the best quality, but Kit and
+William thoroughly enjoyed it, and thought it about the best breakfast
+they had ever eaten. Mlle. Louise continued to converse with them, and
+was very gracious.
+
+"Are you too an acrobat?" she asked William.
+
+William became so confused that he swallowed some coffee the wrong way,
+and came near choking.
+
+"No, ma'am," he answered bashfully, "but I'd like to go round with the
+show."
+
+"You'll be better off at home if you've got one," said the giant. "You
+are not a performer; you are too small for a property man, and not
+strong enough for a razorback."
+
+"What's a razorback?" asked William, in amazement.
+
+Achilles smiled.
+
+"It's a boy or man who helps load and unload the circus cars," he
+answered. "It is heavy work, and you would be thrown among a low lot of
+people--canvasmen, and such. Our young friend here, on the other hand,
+will have a good sleeping berth, eat at the first table, and be well
+provided for generally."
+
+William looked disappointed. He had never thought particularly about
+traveling with a circus till now, but his meeting with Kit had given him
+a circus fever.
+
+At ten o'clock Mr. Barlow came to the grounds, and Achilles volunteered
+to go with Kit to speak with him about his engagement.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIV.
+
+SOME CIRCUS PEOPLE.
+
+
+Mr. Barlow recognized Kit instantly.
+
+"So you have kept your promise, my young friend," he said. "Well, have
+you come to join us?"
+
+"Yes, sir, if your offer holds good."
+
+"My offers always hold good; I never go back on my word."
+
+Kit was glad to hear this, for he would have been placed in an
+embarrassing position if, like some men, Mr. Barlow had forgotten an
+offer made on the impulse of the moment.
+
+"Have you any directions to give, sir?"
+
+"You may report to my manager, Mr. Bryant. First, however, it may be
+well for you to see the Vincenti brothers, and arrange for a joint act."
+
+"When do you wish me to appear, sir?"
+
+"Whenever you are ready. You may take a week to rehearse, if necessary.
+Your pay will commence at once."
+
+"Thank you, Mr. Barlow; you are very kind and considerate."
+
+Mr. Barlow smiled, and, waving his hand, passed on.
+
+He was very popular with all who were in his employ, and had a high
+reputation for kindness and strict integrity.
+
+"I'd like to work for him," said William Morris, who had listened to the
+conversation between Kit and the circus proprietor.
+
+"I should like to have you along with me," replied Kit, "but from what
+Mr. Henderson says there is no good opening."
+
+It was not till eleven o'clock that Kit met his future partners, the
+Vincenti brothers.
+
+"Good!" said Alonzo, in a tone of satisfaction. "We must get up a joint
+act. I suppose you haven't got a suit of tights?"
+
+"No. I never expected to need one."
+
+"I have an extra one which I think will fit you. Though I am ten years
+older than you we are about the same size."
+
+Kit had occasion to remark that circus performers are short as a rule.
+Many of them do not exceed five feet four inches in height, but
+generally they are compactly built, with well developed muscles, and
+possess unusual strength and agility.
+
+The circus suit was brought out. It proved to be an excellent fit.
+
+William Morris eyed Kit with admiration.
+
+"You look like a regular circus chap, Kit!" he exclaimed. "I wish I was
+in your shoes."
+
+"Wait till you see whether I am a success, William," replied Kit.
+
+"Now, if you are ready, we will have a little practice," said Alonzo
+Vincenti.
+
+"May I look on?" asked William.
+
+"Oh, yes; we don't generally admit spectators, but you are a friend of
+the boy."
+
+They all entered the tent, and for an hour Kit was kept hard at work.
+
+In the act devised by the Vincenti brothers, he stood on the shoulders
+of the second, who in his turn stood on the shoulders of the first.
+Various changes were gone through, in all of which Kit proved himself an
+adept, and won high compliments from his new associates.
+
+"Can you tumble?" asked Antonio.
+
+Kit smiled.
+
+"I was afraid I should when I first got on your shoulders," he answered.
+
+"That was what I meant,--something like this," and he whirled across the
+arena, rolling over and over on hands and feet in the manner of a cart
+wheel.
+
+Kit imitated Antonio rather slowly and awkwardly at first, but rapidly
+showed improvement.
+
+"You'll soon learn," said Antonio. "Now let me show you something else."
+
+This something else was a succession of somersaults, made in the most
+rapid manner.
+
+Kit tried this also, slowly at first, as before, but proving a rapid
+learner.
+
+"In the course of three or four days you will be able to do it in
+public," said Alonzo.
+
+"When do you advise me to make my first appearance?" asked Kit.
+
+"To-night, in our first act."
+
+"But shall I be ready?"
+
+"You'll do. We may as well make a beginning."
+
+"I wish I could see you, Kit," said William.
+
+"Can't you?"
+
+"I was going to the afternoon performance. It would make me too late
+home if I stayed in the evening."
+
+"Won't there be some people over from Oakford that you can ride back
+with?"
+
+"I didn't think of that. Yes, John Woods told me that his father was
+coming, and would bring him along. I could ride home with them."
+
+"Good! then you'd better stay."
+
+"Perhaps I'd better go over and buy a ticket."
+
+But to William's satisfaction he was given free admission as a friend of
+Kit. Not only that, but he was invited to take dinner and supper at the
+circus table. In fact, he was treated with distinguished consideration.
+
+"Kit," he said, "I was in luck to meet you."
+
+"And it was lucky for me that I met you. I shouldn't like to have met
+Aaron Bickford single handed."
+
+"I wish old Bickford would come to the circus to-night. Wouldn't he be
+surprised to see you performing in tights?"
+
+"I think it would rather take him by surprise," said Kit, smiling.
+
+Kit and William occupied seats at the afternoon performance as
+spectators, it having been arranged that Kit's _début_ should be made in
+the evening. Our hero regarded the different acts with unusual interest,
+and his heart beat a little quicker when he heard the applause elicited
+by the performances of the Vincenti brothers, for he had already begun
+to consider himself one of them.
+
+When the performance was over, and the audience was dispersing, Kit felt
+a hand laid upon his shoulder.
+
+He turned and his glance rested upon a man of about forty, with a grave,
+serious expression. He was puzzled, for it was not a face that he
+remembered to have ever seen before.
+
+"You don't know me?" said the stranger.
+
+"No, sir."
+
+"And yet you have done me a very great service."
+
+"I didn't know it, sir."
+
+"The greatest service that any one person can do to another--you have
+saved my life."
+
+Then a light dawned upon Kit's mind, and he remembered what Achilles
+Henderson had said to him in the morning.
+
+"Is your name Dupont?" he asked.
+
+"Yes; I am Joe Dupont, the clown, whom you saved from a horrible death.
+I tell you, when Nero stood there in the ring with his paw on my breast
+I gave myself up for lost. I expected to be torn to pieces. It was an
+awful moment!" and the clown shuddered at the picture which his
+imagination conjured up. "Yes, sir; I wouldn't see such another moment
+for all the money Barlow is worth. I wonder my hair didn't turn white."
+
+"Excuse me, Mr. Dupont, but I find it hard to think you are Joe Dupont,
+the clown," said Kit.
+
+"Why?"
+
+"Because you look so grave and sedate."
+
+Joe Dupont smiled.
+
+"I only make a fool of myself in the ring," he said. "Outside you might
+take me for a merchant or minister. Indeed, I am a minister's son."
+
+"You a minister's son!" ejaculated Kit.
+
+"Yes; you wouldn't think it, would you? I was rather a wild lad, as
+minister's sons often are. My poor father tried hard to give me an
+education, but my mind wasn't on books or school exercises, and at
+sixteen I cut and run."
+
+"Did you join a circus then?"
+
+"Not at once. I tried hard to earn my living in different ways. Finally
+I struck a circus, and got an engagement as a razorback. When I got
+older I began to notice and imitate the clowns, and finally I made up my
+mind to become one myself."
+
+"Do you like the business?"
+
+"I have to like it. No; I am disgusted with myself often and often. You
+can judge from one thing. I have a little daughter, Katy, now eight
+years of age. She has never seen me in the ring and never will. I could
+never hold up my head in her presence if she had once seen me playing
+the fool before an audience."
+
+All this surprised Kit. He had been disposed to think that what clowns
+were before the public they were in private life also. Now he saw his
+mistake.
+
+"You contribute to the public amusement, Mr. Dupont," said Kit.
+
+"True; but what sort of a life record is it? Suppose in after years Katy
+is asked, 'Who was your father?' and is obliged to answer, 'Joe Dupont,
+the clown.' But I ought not to grumble. But for you I should have died a
+terrible death, and Katy would be fatherless, so I have much to be
+thankful for after all."
+
+Kit listened to the clown not without surprise. He could hardly realize
+that this was the comical man whose grotesque actions and sayings had
+convulsed the spectators only an hour before. When he came to think of
+it, he felt that he would rather be an acrobat than a clown.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XV.
+
+MR. BICKFORD GOES TO THE CIRCUS.
+
+
+When Aaron Bickford, balked of his prey, was compelled to get into his
+wagon and start for home, he felt uncommonly cross. To begin with, he
+was half famished, having harnessed up and set out on what turned out to
+be a wild goose chase without breaking his fast. Yet he could have borne
+this with comparative equanimity if he had effected the purpose which he
+had in view--the capture of his expected apprentice.
+
+But he had been signally defeated. Indeed he had been humiliated in
+presence of Kit and William Morris, by being unceremoniously picked up
+and tossed over the fence. As William was an Oakford boy, he foresaw
+that his discomfiture would soon be known to all his fellow townsmen,
+and that public ridicule would be his portion. There seemed no way to
+avoid this, unless by begging William to keep silent, and this he could
+not bring himself to do, even if the request was likely to be granted.
+
+"Where's the boy?" asked his wife, as, after unharnessing his horse, he
+went into the house.
+
+"I don't know where he is," answered Bickford, in a surly tone.
+
+"Didn't you find him?"
+
+"Yes, I found him."
+
+"Wouldn't he come back?"
+
+"He didn't."
+
+"I'd have made him if I were you."
+
+"Perhaps you would, and then perhaps you wouldn't. Perhaps you
+couldn't."
+
+"You don't mean to say, Aaron Bickford, that you let a whippersnapper
+like that defy you?"
+
+"What could I do against a man eight feet high?"
+
+"Goodness, Mr. Bickford, have you been drinking?" ejaculated his wife.
+
+"No, I haven't been drinking."
+
+"Do you mean to tell me that boy is eight feet high?"
+
+"No, I don't mean to tell you the boy is eight feet high. But I won't
+answer any more foolish questions till you give me something to eat. I
+am fairly faint with hunger."
+
+"Sit down, then, and I hope after you've gratified your appetite you'll
+be a little less mysterious."
+
+Mrs. Bickford was privately of opinion that her husband had stopped at
+some drinking place--otherwise why should he prate of men eight feet
+tall?
+
+Aaron Bickford ate almost ravenously, though the food set before him was
+not calculated to gratify the taste of an epicure. But all things are
+acceptable to an empty stomach.
+
+When he seemed to be satisfied, his wife began anew.
+
+"Who is it that is eight feet high?" she asked.
+
+"The giant at the circus."
+
+"What did you have to do with him?"
+
+"Not much, but he had something to do with me," answered Bickford,
+grimly.
+
+"How is that?"
+
+"I overhauled the boy, and was dragging him back to the wagon, when this
+fellow hove in sight. It seems he knew the young rascal, and took his
+part. He seized me as easily as you would take up a cat, and flung me
+over the fence."
+
+"I wish I'd been there!" exclaimed Mrs. Bickford, angrily.
+
+"What could you have done. You would have been flung over too," said her
+husband, contemptuously.
+
+"I would have got a good grip of his hair, and I guess that would have
+made him let go."
+
+"You'd have to stand on a ladder, then."
+
+"So the boy got away?"
+
+"Of course he did."
+
+"And where did he go?"
+
+"I expect he went to the circus along with William Morris."
+
+"Was that boy with him?"
+
+"Yes."
+
+"They were pretty well matched. What can they do at the circus?"
+
+"I don't know. Perhaps their long-legged friend will give them a ticket
+to the show."
+
+"Aaron, suppose we go to the circus?"
+
+"What for?"
+
+"You may get hold of the boy, and bring him back. The giant won't be
+with him all the time."
+
+"I'd like to get the boy back," said Bickford, in a wavering tone. "I'd
+give him a lesson."
+
+"And so would I. I guess between us we could subdue him. But of course
+he must be got back first."
+
+"I'll think of it, Sarah."
+
+Later in the day Mr. Bickford told his wife he would go to the circus,
+but he tried to evade taking her in order to save the expense of another
+ticket. To this, however, she would not agree. The upshot was, that
+after supper the old horse was harnessed up, and the amiable pair, bent
+on vengeance, started for Grafton.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVI.
+
+MR. BICKFORD AT THE CIRCUS.
+
+
+Mr. Bickford's chief object in going to the circus was to regain
+possession of Kit, his runaway apprentice, as he chose to consider him.
+But, besides this, he really had a curiosity to see the show, and
+thought this would afford him a good excuse for doing so. The same
+remark will apply to Mrs. Bickford, whose curiosity had been excited the
+year previous by seeing a circus procession. The blacksmith and his wife
+were not prejudiced against amusements, like many others, but were too
+frugal to attend them. Now that they could combine business with
+pleasure, they threw to the winds all hesitation.
+
+"Do you think you'll get the boy, father?" asked Mrs. Bickford, as they
+jolted over the road to Grafton.
+
+"I'll make a try for it, Sarah. He's a good strong boy, and he'll make a
+capital blacksmith. Did you notice his broad shoulders?"
+
+"He looks like he'd have a hearty appetite," said the careful spouse.
+
+"We won't pamper him, Sarah," replied Bickford, smiling grimly. "He
+won't get no such victuals as he did at home. Plain food and plenty of
+it, that's the way to bring up boys."
+
+"Perhaps he won't be at the circus," suggested Mrs. Bickford.
+
+"I'd be surprised if he wasn't. Boys have a natural hankering for the
+circus. I had when I was a boy."
+
+"Did you ever go, Aaron?"
+
+"No; I didn't have the money."
+
+"Do you know how much they charge?"
+
+"Fifty cents, I believe."
+
+"It's an awful sight of money to pay for amusement. If it lasts two
+hours, that makes twenty-five cents an hour."
+
+"So it does, Sarah. That's as much as I can earn by hard work in that
+time."
+
+"I don't know as it's right to fling away so much money."
+
+"I wouldn't do it if it wasn't for gettin' the boy back. He'll be worth
+a good deal to me if I do. He's a good deal stronger than Bill Morris."
+
+"Of course that makes a difference. I don't care so much for the circus,
+though I should like to see the man stand up on a horse and jump through
+hoops. I wonder if the horse jumps through too."
+
+"I don't know, but we'll soon know all that is to be known. The boy
+won't expect to see us, I reckon," concluded the blacksmith, with a
+chuckle.
+
+At length they reached the circus grounds. All was bustle and excitement
+in the neighborhood of the lot.
+
+"I declare, Aaron, it looks like Fourth of July," said Mrs. Bickford.
+
+"So it does. It beats all--what a crowd there is."
+
+They bought tickets and entered the inclosure.
+
+In a small tent near the entrance were the curiosities. They were about
+to walk in when a young man curtly asked for tickets.
+
+"We bought tickets at the gate. Here they are."
+
+"All right; but you need separate tickets here."
+
+"I declare that's a swindle," said Mrs. Bickford. "I thought we could
+see the whole show on these."
+
+"We only charge ten cents extra for this."
+
+"It's a shame. Shall we go in, Aaron?"
+
+"I guess we will. I want to see that 'ere fat woman."
+
+"I'd like to see the dwarf and the woman with hair five feet long. A
+circus is dreadful expensive, but bein' as we're here we might as well
+see the whole thing."
+
+Twenty cents was paid at the door, and the economical pair, grown
+suddenly so extravagant, walked in.
+
+The first object on which the blacksmith's eyes rested kindled him with
+indignation, and recalled mortifying memories. It was Achilles
+Henderson, the giant, who, on his side recognized Aaron Bickford.
+
+"Good evening, my friend," he said, with a smile. "I believe we have met
+before."
+
+"Do you know him?" asked Mrs. Bickford, in surprise.
+
+Aaron's brow contracted as he answered:
+
+"It's the ruffian that threw me over the fence this morning."
+
+"I see you remember me," said Achilles, good-naturedly.
+
+"I ought to remember you," retorted the blacksmith.
+
+"Come, don't bear malice. It was only a little joke."
+
+"I don't like such jokes."
+
+"Well, well; I'll give you satisfaction. I'll let you throw me over the
+fence any time you want to, and I won't make a particle of resistance."
+
+Somehow this proposal did not strike the blacksmith as satisfactory. He
+asked abruptly: "Where's the boy?"
+
+"There were two boys."
+
+"I mean the stout, broad-shouldered boy."
+
+"I don't know just where he is at present."
+
+"Do you know why I've come here this evening?"
+
+"To see the show, I expect."
+
+"I've come to get that boy. I've no doubt he's somewhere about here."
+
+"Oho!" thought the giant; "I must put my young friend on his guard."
+
+"If you'll help me I'll do as much for you some time."
+
+"So you are going to carry him back with you?" went on Achilles,
+desirous of learning the extent of Kit's danger.
+
+"Yes, I am."
+
+"You say he is your apprentice?"
+
+"Of course he is."
+
+"And you've got the papers to show for it?"
+
+"I don't need no papers. I've got his uncle's consent."
+
+"I think, my friend, you're not familiar with the law," thought
+Achilles. "Kit won't go with you to-night."
+
+But it was nearly time for the performance. Mr. and Mrs. Bickford left
+the smaller tent, and entering the big one took their seats. They
+watched the performance with great wonder and enjoyment till the
+entrance of Kit and the Vincenti brothers. They did not immediately
+discover him, but when he stood on the shoulders of Alonzo Vincenti,
+who, in turn, stood on the shoulders of Antonio, and the three-storied
+acrobat walked round the ring, Mrs. Bickford recognized Kit, and,
+pointing with her parasol to the young acrobat, as she half raised
+herself from her seat, she exclaimed in a shrill voice: "Look, Aaron,
+there's your boy, all rigged out in circus clothes!"
+
+"Well, that beats all!" ejaculated the blacksmith, gazing with wide open
+mouth at Kit.
+
+Just then, Kit, reversing his attitude, raised his feet in the air and
+was borne round the ring, amid the plaudits of the spectators.
+
+"How do you think he does it?" asked Mrs. Bickford in astonishment.
+
+"I give it up," said the blacksmith.
+
+"He's a smart critter. Do you think they pay him?"
+
+"I reckon he gets two or three dollars a week, but he hain't no business
+to hire out to the circus folks. He's going back with us to-night, and
+I'll turn him out a blacksmith in two years."
+
+When Kit had finished his act, he went to the dressing room and changed
+his clothes.
+
+"I wonder whether the old fellow is after me!" he thought. "What could
+have put it into his head that I was here?"
+
+As he emerged from the dressing room he met Mr. Barlow, the proprietor
+of the circus, who advanced towards him, and shook his hand cordially.
+
+"Bravo, my young friend!" he said. "You did yourself great credit. Are
+you sure you have never performed in a circus before?"
+
+"Quite sure, sir."
+
+"You went through your act like an old professional. You did as well as
+either of the other two."
+
+"Thank you, sir. I am glad you are satisfied."
+
+"I ought to be. I regard you as a decided acquisition to my show. Keep
+on doing your best, and I can assure you that your efforts will be
+appreciated. How much did I agree to pay you?"
+
+"Ten dollars a week, sir."
+
+"That isn't enough. I raise your salary at once to twenty-five."
+
+Kit was dazzled by his good fortune. What! Twenty-five dollars a week
+and traveling expenses for a boy of sixteen! It seemed marvelous.
+
+"I am afraid I am dreaming, Mr. Barlow," he said. "I can't believe that
+I am really to receive so handsome a salary."
+
+"You will realize it to-night when you collect your first week's pay."
+
+"But this won't be a full week, sir."
+
+"Never mind! You shall receive full pay. Do you think I forget your
+heroic act at Smyrna?"
+
+"Thank you, sir. I hope nothing will prevent my continuing in your
+employ."
+
+"What should prevent?" asked Mr. Barlow, quickly. "Have you had an offer
+from another show?"
+
+"No, sir; I am not well known enough for that; but I saw a man in the
+audience who would probably like to get me away."
+
+"Who is it?"
+
+"A blacksmith from Oakford."
+
+"I don't understand. What have you to do with a blacksmith?"
+
+Kit explained briefly.
+
+"When do you think he will try to recover possession of you?" asked the
+circus proprietor.
+
+"Just after the show is over."
+
+"Has he any papers?"
+
+"Not one."
+
+"Then he has no claim on you. If he makes any trouble let me know."
+
+"I will, Mr. Barlow."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVII.
+
+KIT'S STRATAGEM.
+
+
+Kit, when dressed, sought the part of the house where he knew that
+William Morris was seated.
+
+"How did I do, Will?" he asked.
+
+"Splendidly!" answered the boy enthusiastically. "I felt proud of you."
+
+"I think I have a right to be satisfied myself. I have had my pay
+raised."
+
+"You don't mean to say you are to get more than ten dollars?" said his
+friend, opening his eyes in amazement.
+
+"I am raised to twenty-five."
+
+"You don't mean to say you are to get twenty-five dollars a week, Kit?"
+
+"Yes, I do."
+
+"And your board?"
+
+"And my board and traveling expenses," added Kit, with a smile.
+
+"I wish I were in your shoes, Kit," said William. "Think of me with only
+one dollar a week."
+
+"Would you be willing to go through my acts for the money I am going to
+receive?"
+
+William shook his head.
+
+"I couldn't do it, Kit," he replied. "It always makes me dizzy when I
+have my head down. I don't believe I could ever do anything in a
+circus."
+
+"Well, William, I won't forget you. If I save money, as I am sure to do,
+I'll see if I can't do something for you by and by. By the way, did you
+see Mr. and Mrs. Bickford?"
+
+"No, you don't mean to say they are here?"
+
+"Look over there!"
+
+William followed the direction of Kit's finger, and he easily discovered
+the blacksmith and his wife.
+
+"By gracious! You're right!" he said. "It's the first money I've known
+old Bickford to pay for any amusement for years."
+
+"They came after me, William."
+
+"You won't go back with them?"
+
+"Not much. I don't care to give up twenty-five dollars a week for the
+privilege of learning the trade of a blacksmith."
+
+"Suppose they try to carry you off?"
+
+"That gives me an idea. With your help I'll try to play a trick on them.
+It'll be capital fun."
+
+"Go ahead and tell me what it is, Kit. I'm with you!"
+
+"My plan is that you should ride home with Mr. Bickford," said Kit.
+
+"I don't understand," said William, looking puzzled.
+
+"I'll tell you my idea. Bickford has come here with the intention of
+taking me back with him to Oakford."
+
+"But you don't mean to go?"
+
+"Of course not, but when the show is over I shall put myself in his way,
+and after a little objection agree to go. I will ask for five minutes to
+get ready. In that time I will change hats with you, and as it is dark
+you can easily pass yourself off for me."
+
+"Capital!" exclaimed William, laughing. "Won't the old man look foolish
+when he finds out who is with him?"
+
+"Don't let him know till you arrive, or he would force you to leave the
+carriage, and walk home alone, and a six mile walk is no joke."
+
+"All right Kit! I understand, and I think I can carry out your idea. I
+haven't much love for the old man or his wife either, and I am glad of a
+chance to get even with them."
+
+The performance continued till ten o'clock. The blacksmith and his wife
+enjoyed it beyond their anticipations. Amusements of any kind were new
+to them, and their pleasure was like that of children.
+
+"I begin to think, Sarah, we shall get our money's worth," said Aaron
+cautiously, as the entertainment neared its end; "this is a great show."
+
+"So it is, Aaron. I don't begrudge the money myself, though fifty cents
+is a pretty high price to pay. Then, besides, you'll have a chance to
+carry the boy home."
+
+"That's so, Sarah. Just as soon as the show is over, foller me, and
+we'll try to find him."
+
+At length the last act was ended, and the crowd of spectators began
+pouring from the tent.
+
+Mr. Bickford hurriedly emerged from the audience, and began to look
+around for Kit. He had but little trouble in finding him, for the boy
+purposely put himself in his way. Aaron Bickford strode up to him.
+
+"Well, I've caught you at last!" he said, putting his hand on the boy's
+shoulder.
+
+"What do you want of me, Mr. Bickford?" said Kit.
+
+"What do I want of you? Well, I want you to go home with me, of
+course."
+
+"Won't you let me stay with the circus a week?" asked Kit, in a subdued
+tone.
+
+"No, I won't. I've got the wagon here, and I'm goin' to take you back
+with me to-night."
+
+"If you really think my uncle wishes it, perhaps I had better go," said
+Kit, in what appeared to be a wavering tone.
+
+Mr. Bickford was quite elated. He feared he should have trouble in
+persuading Kit to accompany him. He would not have been surprised if the
+boy had disappeared, and given him trouble to find him, and his
+unexpected submissiveness was an agreeable surprise.
+
+"Well, boy, it's time to be goin'. Oakford's six miles off, and we won't
+get home before midnight unless we start right off."
+
+"I'll go and get my things, Mr. Bickford. Where is your horse and
+wagon?"
+
+"Out by the entrance. It's hitched to a tree."
+
+"All right! You go and unhitch the horse, and I'll be right along."
+
+"But suppose you give me the slip? You'd better go along now."
+
+"I'll bring him with me, Mr. Bickford," said the giant. "I'm sorry he
+isn't going to stay with us, and I'll see him off."
+
+Achilles Henderson spoke in so straightforward a manner that Mr.
+Bickford was deceived.
+
+"Very well," he said. "I'll go along with Mrs. Bickford. Don't keep me
+waitin', for it's gettin' late."
+
+The blacksmith and his wife took up their march to the place where their
+team had been hitched. They found it safe, and untied the horse.
+
+"We're goin' to have a dark ride home, mother," he said.
+
+"Yes, Aaron, but you've done a good evening's work."
+
+"That's so, Sarah. I expected I'd have more trouble with the boy."
+
+"There's nothing like being firm, Aaron. When he saw you were in
+earnest, he gave up."
+
+"I mean to keep a tight rein on him, Sarah. He's a boy that likes to
+have his own way, if I ain't greatly mistaken. We must break his will."
+
+The horse was unhitched, and still Kit had not arrived. Mr. Bickford
+began to fear that he had been tricked after all, when two figures,
+contrasting strongly with each other, appeared. One was the giant, in
+his ample height, and the other was a boy.
+
+"There they are, Aaron!" said Mrs. Bickford, who was the first to descry
+the oddly assorted pair.
+
+"Where is the boy to sit?" asked Achilles.
+
+"In the back seat. Mother and I will sit in front."
+
+"All right! There you are!" said Mr. Henderson, lifting the boy in his
+arms, as easily as if he were a kitten, and putting him on the rear
+seat.
+
+"Good-by, Kit!" he said. "I'm sorry you're going to leave us. Perhaps
+Mr. Bickford will let you off if we show anywhere near here."
+
+"The boy will be at work, and can't be let off," said the blacksmith,
+stiffly. "But it is time we were off."
+
+"Good-by, then, Kit!"
+
+"Good-by!" said the supposed Kit, in a low tone, for he feared that the
+difference in his voice would be recognized. But Mr. Bickford had no
+suspicions. He was anxious to get started, for he and his wife were
+always in bed by this time ordinarily.
+
+So the team started, and Achilles Henderson, suppressing a laugh,
+strode away to the circus cars, which were already being prepared for a
+midnight journey to the next place. It may be explained here that the
+circus of to-day generally owns its own cars, which are used for the
+conveyance of all connected with it, their luggage, the tents, the
+animals, and all the paraphernalia of the show. As soon as the show is
+ended, the canvas men set to work to take down and fold up the tents.
+All the freight is conveyed to the cars, and the razorbacks, already
+referred to, set about loading them. The performers, ticketmen, and
+candy butchers seek their berths in the sleeping cars and are often in
+the land of dreams before the train starts.
+
+While Mr. Bickford was driving in the darkness to Oakford with the
+supposed Kit on the back seat, the real Kit was in his berth in the
+circus cars, preparing for a refreshing night's rest.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVIII.
+
+MR. BICKFORD'S MORTIFYING DISCOVERY.
+
+
+Mr. Bickford was in excellent spirits. He had enjoyed the evening, and
+although he had been compelled to disburse a dollar for two circus
+tickets, a sum which to him seemed large, he was disposed to acknowledge
+that he had received his money's worth. Besides, and this seemed to him
+the greatest triumph of all, he had recovered his runaway apprentice, or
+thought he had. He inwardly resolved that Kit should smart for his past
+insubordination, though he had not yet decided in what way he would get
+even with him. The unexpected submissiveness shown by Kit elated him,
+and confirmed him in the idea he had long entertained that he could
+manage boys a good deal better than the average of men.
+
+"Talk about hard cases," he said one day to his wife. "I'd like to see
+the boy that can get the start of Aaron Bickford. He'll have to get up
+unusually airly in the mornin'."
+
+Mr. Bickford felt a little like crowing over his captive, and turned his
+head partly round to survey the boy on the back seat. Fortunately for
+William the darkness was so great that there was small chance of his
+detecting the imposture.
+
+"I reckon you didn't expect to be ridin' back to Oakford along of me
+this evenin'," he observed.
+
+"No, sir," muttered William in a voice scarcely audible.
+
+"Ho, ho, you feel kind of grouty, eh?" said the blacksmith. "Well, I
+ain't much surprised. You thought you could have your own way with Aaron
+Bickford, but you're beginnin' to see your mistake, I reckon?"
+
+"Yes, sir," replied the supposed Kit, in a meek voice.
+
+"Ho, ho! That's the way boys ginerally come out when they try to buck
+agin' their elders. Not but you might have succeeded with some men, but
+you didn't know the man you had to deal with this time."
+
+There was a sort of gurgle, for William was trying hard not to laugh, as
+he was picturing to himself the rage and mortification of Mr. Bickford
+when he discovered the deceit that had been practiced upon him. But the
+blacksmith misunderstood the sound, and thought Kit was sobbing.
+
+"You needn't take on!" he said, magnanimously. "It ain't so bad as it
+might be. You'll be a good deal better off learnin' a good trade than
+trampin' round the country with the circus. I hope this'll be a lesson
+to you. You'd better not try to run away ag'in, for it won't be no use.
+You won't always have that long-legged giant to help you. If I'd done
+right, I should have had him took up for 'sault and battery. He needn't
+think because he's eight feet high, more or less, that he can defy the
+laws of the land. I reckon he got a little skeered of what he done, or
+he wouldn't have acted so different this evening."
+
+William did not reply to this. He was rather in hopes Mr. Bickford would
+stop addressing him, for he did not like to run the risk of answering,
+as it might open the eyes of the blacksmith to the fact that he had the
+wrong boy in the wagon.
+
+The distance to Oakford steadily diminished, though Mr. Bickford's horse
+was a slow one. At length it had dwindled to half a mile.
+
+"Now I don't care if he does find out who I am," thought William. "It
+ain't but a little way home now, and I shouldn't mind walking." Still
+his own house was rather beyond Mr. Bickford's, and it was just as well
+to ride the whole way, if he could escape detection so long.
+
+"Where did you learn them circus performances, Christopher?" suddenly
+asked the blacksmith, turning once more in his seat.
+
+By this time they were within a few rods of the blacksmith's yard, and
+William became bold, now that he had nothing to lose by it.
+
+"My name isn't Christopher," he answered in his usual tone.
+
+"Your name isn't Christopher? That's what your uncle told me."
+
+"I think you are mistaken," said William quietly.
+
+"What's got into the boy? Is he goin' to deny his own name? What is your
+name, then?"
+
+"My name is William Morris," was the distinct response.
+
+"What!" exclaimed the blacksmith in amazement.
+
+"I think you ought to know me, Mr. Bickford. I worked for you some time,
+you know."
+
+"Take off your hat, and let me look at your face!" said Aaron Bickford,
+sternly.
+
+William laughed as he complied with the request. It was now rather
+lighter, and the blacksmith, peering into his face, saw that it was
+indeed true--that the boy on the back seat was not Kit Watson at all,
+but his ex-apprentice, William Morris.
+
+"It's Bill Morris, by the living jingo!" he exclaimed. "What do you say
+to that, Sarah?"
+
+"You're a master hand at managing boys, Aaron," said his wife
+sarcastically.
+
+"How came you in the wagon, Bill Morris?" demanded Bickford, not caring
+to answer his wife.
+
+"The giant put me in," answered William.
+
+"Where is that boy, Christopher Watson?"
+
+"I expect he is travelin' with the show, Mr. Bickford."
+
+"Who put you up to this mean trick?" demanded the blacksmith,
+wrathfully.
+
+"Kit Watson."
+
+"I've got an account to settle with you, William Morris. I s'pose you
+think you've done something pretty smart."
+
+"I think he has, Aaron," said Mrs. Bickford, who seemed to take a
+malicious pleasure in opening her husband's wounds afresh.
+
+"Mrs. Bickford, it isn't very creditable in you to triumph over your
+husband, just after he's been spendin' fifty cents for your amusement."
+
+"Goodness knows, Mr. Bickford, you don't often take me to shows. I guess
+what you spend that way won't ruin you."
+
+While the married pair were indulging in their little recriminations,
+William had managed to slip out of the wagon in the rear, and he was now
+a rod away.
+
+"Good night, Mr. Bickford!" he shouted. "I'm much obliged to you for
+bringing me home. It's saved me a long walk."
+
+The blacksmith's reply was one that I do not care to record. He was
+thoroughly angry and disgusted. If it hadn't been so late he would have
+got out and tried to inflict punishment on William with his whip, but
+the boy was too far away by this time to make this possible.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIX.
+
+STEPHEN WATSON VISITS OAKFORD.
+
+
+On Monday as Mr. Bickford was about his work a carriage drove into the
+yard, containing Stephen Watson and Ralph.
+
+"Good morning, Mr. Bickford," said Stephen Watson. "I've called over to
+inquire about Kit. I hope he is doing his duty by you."
+
+The blacksmith looked at Mr. Watson with embarrassment, and did not
+immediately reply.
+
+Mr. Watson repeated his question.
+
+"Kit isn't with me," answered Bickford, at length.
+
+"Isn't with you!" repeated Stephen Watson, in surprise. "Where is he?"
+
+"He's run away."
+
+"Run away!" ejaculated Kit's uncle. "What is the meaning of that?"
+
+"He said he didn't want to be a blacksmith, and that you had no
+authority to make him."
+
+"But where has he gone? Have you any idea?"
+
+"He has gone off with Barlow's circus."
+
+"But what object can he have in going off with a circus?" asked Mr.
+Watson, no less bewildered.
+
+"They've hired him to perform."
+
+"Are you sure of this?"
+
+"I ought to be," answered the blacksmith, grimly. "My wife and I saw him
+jumpin' round last evenin' in the circus tent over at Grafton."
+
+"But I don't see what he--a green hand--can do. Ralph, can you throw any
+light on this mystery?"
+
+Ralph explained that Kit had practiced acrobatic feats extensively at
+the gymnasium connected with the school.
+
+"Did he ever talk of going off with a circus?" asked Mr. Watson.
+
+"Never, though he enjoyed the exercise."
+
+"I went after him and tried to get him back," said Mr. Bickford, "but he
+gave me the slip."
+
+"He's done a very foolish and crazy thing. He can't get more than three
+or four dollars a week from the circus, and in the fall he'll be out of
+a job."
+
+"Just as you say, sir. He'd have a good payin' trade if he stayed with
+me. What do you think it is best to do about it, Mr. Watson?"
+
+"I shall do nothing. If the boy chooses to make a fool of himself, he
+may try it. Next fall, and possibly before, he'll be coming back in
+rags, and beg me to take him back."
+
+"I hope you won't take him back," said Ralph, who was jealous of Kit.
+
+"I shall not consider myself bound to do so, but if he consents to obey
+me, and learn a trade of Mr. Bickford, I will fit him, up and enable him
+to do so--out of charity, and because he is my nephew."
+
+"Then you don't mean to do anything about it, sir?" asked Aaron
+Bickford, considerably disappointed, for he longed to get Kit into his
+power once more.
+
+"No, I will leave the boy to himself. Ralph, as our business seems to be
+over, we will turn about and go home."
+
+Mr. Watson drove out of the blacksmith's yard.
+
+"Well, Ralph," he said, as they were on their way home, "I am very much
+annoyed at what your cousin has done, but I don't see that I am to
+blame."
+
+"Of course you're not, pa," returned Ralph, promptly.
+
+"Still the public may misjudge me. It will be very awkward to answer
+questions about Kit. I really don't know what to say."
+
+"Say he's run away and joined the circus. We might as well tell the
+truth."
+
+"I don't know but it will be best. I will add that, though it grieves
+me, I think it advisable, as he is so old, not to interfere with him,
+but let him see the error of his way for himself. I will say also that
+when he chooses to come back, I will make suitable arrangements for
+him."
+
+"I guess that will do. I will say the same."
+
+"I don't mind saying to you that I shall feel it quite a relief to be
+rid of the expense of maintaining him, for he has cost me a great deal
+of money. You are my son, and of course I expect to take care of you,
+and bring you up as a gentleman, but he has no claim upon me except that
+of relationship. I won't say that to others, however."
+
+"You are quite right, pa. As he is poor, and has his own living to make,
+it isn't best to send him to a high-priced school, and give him too much
+money to spend."
+
+It will be seen that there was a striking resemblance between the views
+of father and son, both of whom were intensely selfish, mean and
+unscrupulous.
+
+Stephen Watson foresaw that there would be a difficulty in making
+outside friends of the family understand why Kit had left home. He
+deliberately resolved to misrepresent him, and the opportunity came
+sooner than he anticipated.
+
+On the afternoon of the day of his call upon the blacksmith, there was a
+ring at the bell, and a middle-aged stranger was ushered into the
+parlor.
+
+"I suppose you don't remember me," he said to Stephen Watson.
+
+"I can't say I do," replied Stephen, eying him.
+
+"I knew your brother better than I did you. I am Harry Miller, who used
+to go to school with you both in the old red schoolhouse on the hill."
+
+"I remember your name, but I should not have remembered you."
+
+"I don't wonder. Time changes us all. I am sorry to hear that your poor
+brother is dead."
+
+"Yes," answered Stephen, heaving a sigh proper to the occasion, which
+was intended to signify his grief at the loss. "He was cut down like the
+grass of the field. It is the common lot."
+
+"His wife died earlier, did she not?"
+
+"Yes."
+
+"But there was a son?"
+
+"Yes."
+
+"How old is the boy?"
+
+"Just turned sixteen."
+
+"May I see him? I should like to see the son of my old deskmate."
+
+"Ah!" sighed Stephen. "I wish he were here to meet you."
+
+"But surely he is not dead?"
+
+"No; he is not dead, but he is a source of anxiety to me."
+
+"And why?" asked the visitor, with concern. "Has he turned out badly?"
+
+"Why, I don't know that I can exactly say that he has turned out badly."
+
+"What is the matter with him, then?"
+
+"He is wayward, and instead of being willing to devote himself to his
+school studies like my son Ralph, he has formed an extraordinary taste
+for the circus."
+
+"Indeed! but where is he?"
+
+"He is traveling with Barlow's circus."
+
+"In what capacity?"
+
+"As an acrobat."
+
+Henry Miller laughed.
+
+"I remember," he said, "that his father was fond of athletic sports. You
+never were."
+
+"No, I was a quiet boy."
+
+"That you were, and uncommonly sly!" thought Miller, but he did not
+consider it polite to say so. "Is the boy--by the way, what is his
+name?"
+
+"Christopher. He is generally called Kit."
+
+"Well, is Kit a good gymnast?"
+
+"I believe he is."
+
+"When did he join the circus?"
+
+"Only yesterday. In fact it is painful for me to say so, he ran away
+from a good home to associate with mountebanks."
+
+"And what are you going to do about it?"
+
+"He is so headstrong that I have thought it best to give him his own
+way, and let him see for himself how foolish he has been. Of course he
+has a home to return to whenever he sees fit."
+
+"That may be the best way. I should like to see the young rascal. I
+would follow up the circus and do so, only I am unfortunately called to
+California on business. I am part owner of a gold mine out there."
+
+"I trust you have been prospered in your worldly affairs."
+
+"Yes, I have every reason to be thankful. I suppose I am worth two
+hundred thousand dollars."
+
+Stephen Watson, whose god was money, almost turned green with jealousy.
+At the same time he asked himself how he could take advantage of his old
+schoolmate's good luck.
+
+"I wish he would take a fancy to my Ralph," he thought.
+
+So he called in Ralph, and introduced him to the rich stranger.
+
+"He's a good boy, my Ralph," he said; "sober and correct in all his
+habits, and fond of study."
+
+Ralph was rather surprised to hear this panegyric, but presently his
+father explained to him in private the object he had in view. Then Ralph
+made himself as agreeable as he could, but he failed to please Mr.
+Miller.
+
+"He is too much like his father," he said to himself.
+
+When he terminated his call, he received a very cordial invitation to
+come again on his return from California.
+
+"If Kit has returned I certainly will come," he replied, an answer which
+pleased neither Ralph nor his father.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XX.
+
+A CHAT WITH A CANDY BUTCHER.
+
+
+Kit had a berth assigned him in one of the circus cars. His nearest
+neighbor was Harry Thorne, a young man of twenty-four, who filled the
+position of candy butcher. As this term may sound strange to my readers,
+I will explain that it is applied to the venders of candy, lemonade,
+peanuts, and other articles such as are patronized by those who come to
+see the show. It is really a very profitable business, as will be
+explained in the course of the story.
+
+Harry Thorne was social and ready to give Kit any information about the
+circus.
+
+"How long is it since you joined a circus?" asked Kit, after getting
+acquainted.
+
+"I was younger than you," answered Thorne.
+
+"Why did you join? What gave you the idea?"
+
+"A spirit of adventure, I think. Besides, there was a large family of
+us--I am the oldest--and it was necessary for me to do something."
+
+"That's a queer name--candy butcher."
+
+"It seems so to you, but I am used to it."
+
+"Did you become a candy butcher at once?"
+
+"Not till I was eighteen. Before that I ran errands and made myself
+generally useful. I thought of being an acrobat, like you, but I was too
+stout and not active enough."
+
+"I shouldn't think there would be much money made in your business,"
+said Kit.
+
+"That shows you don't know much about circus matters. Last fall I ran in
+with seven hundred dollars saved, besides paying all my expenses during
+the six months I was out."
+
+"You ought to be pretty well off now, if you have been a candy butcher
+for five or six years."
+
+"I haven't a cent, and am owing two hundred dollars in Philadelphia."
+
+"How is that?"
+
+"You don't often find a circus man that saves money. It's easy come,
+easy go. But I send money home every season--three or four hundred
+dollars at least, if I do well."
+
+"That's a good thing any way. But if I were in your place I would put
+away some money every season."
+
+"I could do it, but it's hard to make up my mind."
+
+"I can't see how you can make such sums. It puzzles me."
+
+"We are paid a fixed salary, say twenty-five dollars a month, and
+commission on sales. I was always pretty lucky in selling, and my income
+has sometimes been very large. But I don't make much in large places. It
+is in the smaller towns that the money is made. When a country beau
+brings his girl to the circus, he don't mind expense. He makes up his
+mind to spend several dollars in having a good time--so he buys
+lemonade, peanuts, apples, and everything that he or his girl fancies.
+In the city, where there are plenty of places where such things can be
+bought, we don't sell much. In New York or Philadelphia I make very
+little more than my salary."
+
+"What is there most profit on?" asked Kit.
+
+"Well, I should say lemonade. You've heard of circus lemonade?"
+
+"Is there anything peculiar about it?"
+
+"Yes, something peculiarly weak. A good-sized lemon will make half a
+dozen glasses, and perhaps more. But there is something cheaper still,
+and that is citric acid. I remember one hot day in an Ohio town. The
+thermometer stood at 99 degrees and there wasn't a drop of spring or
+well water to be had, for we had cornered it. All who were thirsty had
+to drink lemonade, and it took a good many glasses to quench thirst. I
+made a harvest that day, and so did the other candy butchers. If we
+could have a whole summer of such days, I could retire on a small
+fortune in October."
+
+"Do you like the circus business?"
+
+"Sometimes I get tired of it, but when the spring opens I generally have
+the circus fever."
+
+"What do you do in the winter?"
+
+"It is seldom I get anything to do. I am an expense, and that is why I
+find myself in debt when the new season opens. Last winter I was more
+lucky. A young fellow--an old circus acquaintance of mine--has a store
+in the country, and he offered to supply me with a stock of goods to
+sell on commission in country villages near by. In that way I filled up
+about three months, making my expenses, but doing nothing more. However,
+that was a great thing for me, and I start this season only two hundred
+dollars in debt, as I think I told you a few minutes ago."
+
+"Is it the same way with performers?"
+
+"No; they have a better chance. Next winter, if you try, you can
+probably make an engagement to perform at some dime museum or variety
+hall, in New York or elsewhere. I once got the position of ticket seller
+for a part of the winter."
+
+"I don't think I should like to perform in a dime museum," said Kit.
+
+"What's the odds, if you are well paid for it?"
+
+"I don't intend to make my present business a permanent one."
+
+"That's different. What will you do next fall?"
+
+"I may go to school."
+
+Harry Thorne whistled.
+
+"That will be a novelty," he said. "I haven't been to school since I was
+twelve years old."
+
+"Wouldn't you like to go now?"
+
+"No; I'm too old. Are you much of a scholar?"
+
+"I'm a pretty good Latin scholar, and know something of Greek."
+
+"I'll bet there isn't another acrobat in the country that can say that.
+What salary do you get, if you don't mind telling?"
+
+"Twenty-five dollars a week."
+
+"You're in luck. How came Barlow to give you so much?"
+
+"I think he took a liking to me. Perhaps he wanted to pay me for facing
+the lion at Smyrna."
+
+"Were you the boy who did that? I thought your face looked familiar.
+You've got pluck, Kit."
+
+"I hope so; but I'm not sure whether it is I or the snuff that is
+entitled to the most credit."
+
+"Anyhow it took some courage, even if you did have the snuff with you."
+
+"Do you know what is to be our route this season?"
+
+"I think we are going West as far as St. Louis, taking all the larger
+towns and cities on our way. We are to show a week in Chicago. But I
+don't care so much for the cities as the country towns--the one-night
+places."
+
+"Does Mr. Barlow go with us?"
+
+"Not steadily. He drops in on us here and there. There's one thing I
+can say for him--he won't have any man in his employ drink or gamble. We
+have to bind ourselves to total abstinence while we are in his
+employ--that is, till the end of the season. Gambling is the great vice
+of circus men; it is more prevalent even than drinking."
+
+"Don't the men do it on the sly?"
+
+"They run a risk if they do. At the first offense they are fined, at the
+second or third they are bounced."
+
+"That doesn't trouble me any. I neither drink nor gamble."
+
+"Good for you."
+
+"Say, when are you two fellows goin' to stop talkin'?" was heard from a
+neighboring berth. "You don't give a fellow a chance to sleep."
+
+Kit and his new friend took the hint and addressed themselves to
+slumber.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXI.
+
+KIT MEETS A SCHOOLMATE.
+
+
+Kit slept profoundly, being very tired. He was taken by surprise when,
+the next morning, he was shaken into a state of wakefulness, and opening
+his eyes met those of his neighbor Harry Thorne.
+
+"Is it morning?" he asked, in a sleepy tone.
+
+"I should say it was. It is a quarter after nine, and the parade starts
+at ten."
+
+"The parade?"
+
+"Yes; we give a morning parade in every place we visit. If you are not
+on hand to take part in it, you will be fined five dollars."
+
+"I'll be up in a jiffy," said Kit, springing out of his berth. "But
+there's time enough, isn't there?"
+
+"Yes; but not too much. You will want to get some breakfast. By the way,
+are you used to driving?"
+
+"Oh, yes. I have done a good deal of it," answered Kit.
+
+"I thought so, as you are a country boy. How would you like to drive a
+span of horses attached to one of the small chariots?"
+
+Kit was extremely fond of a horse, and he answered promptly, "I'll do
+it."
+
+"There are two. The other is driven by Charlie Davis, once a performer
+but now a ticket man. He is a little older than you."
+
+"All right! I don't see how I came to sleep so late."
+
+"You and Charlie are good matches. Once he went to bed Saturday night,
+and did not wake up till Monday morning."
+
+"That beats my record!"
+
+Kit was dressed in less than ten minutes.
+
+"Where shall I get breakfast?" he asked.
+
+"The regular breakfast is over, and you will have to buy some. There is
+a restaurant just opposite the lot. You might get in with one of the
+cooks, and get something in the cook tent."
+
+"No; I'll go to the restaurant. To-morrow I'll be on hand at the regular
+breakfast."
+
+The restaurant was a small one, with no pretensions to style, but Kit
+was hungry and not particular. At the same table there was a dark
+complexioned boy of about his own size, who had just begun to dispatch a
+beefsteak.
+
+He looked up as Kit seated himself.
+
+"You're the new acrobat, are you not?" asked the other.
+
+"Yes; are you Charlie Davis?"
+
+"Yes; how do you know me?"
+
+"Harry Thorne was speaking of you."
+
+"I see you're one of the late birds as well as I. I generally have to
+buy my breakfast outside. How do you like circus life?"
+
+"I haven't tried it well enough to tell. This is only my second day."
+
+"I went into it at fourteen. I've been an acrobat, too, but I have a
+weak ankle, and have gone into the ticket department."
+
+"Are you going to remain in the circus permanently?"
+
+"No, I'm trying to wean myself from it. A friend has promised to set me
+up in business whenever I get ready to retire. If I kept on, I would be
+no better off at forty than I am now."
+
+"Yet circus people make a good deal of money, I hear."
+
+"Right you are, my boy, but they don't keep it. They get spoiled for
+anything else, and soon or later they are left out in the cold. I've had
+a good deal of fun out of it, for I like traveling, but I'm going to
+give it up."
+
+"I took it up because I had nothing else to do, but I shan't stay in it
+long. I'll tell you about it some day. I hear you drive one of the pony
+chariots."
+
+"Yes."
+
+"I am to drive the other."
+
+"Good! Don't let them run away with you, my boy."
+
+"I'll try not to," said Kit, smiling. "Is there any danger?"
+
+"Not much. They're trained. Are you fond of horses?"
+
+"I like nothing better."
+
+"So it is with me. I'll wait till you are through breakfast, and then
+we'll go over together."
+
+Half an hour later Kit sat on the box of a chariot, drawn by two
+beautiful ponies. The circus line had been formed, and the parade began.
+Behind him was a circus wagon, or rather a cage on wheels, through the
+gratings of which could be seen a tiger, crafty and cruel looking. In
+front was an elephant, with two or three performers on his back. Kit was
+dressed in street costume, his circus dress not being required.
+
+In another part of the procession was Charlie Davis, driving a
+corresponding wagon.
+
+Kit felt a peculiar exhilaration as he drove his ponies, and reflected
+upon the strangeness of his position, as compared with his previous
+experiences. He had from time to time watched circus processions, but
+not in his wildest and most improbable dreams had it ever occurred to
+him to imagine that he would ever himself take part in one. As he looked
+down from his perch he saw the streets lined with the usual curious
+crowd of spectators, among whom boys were largely represented.
+
+"I suppose some of them are envying me," he thought to himself, with a
+smile. "Suppose there was some one who recognized me?"
+
+No sooner had the thought come into his mind, than he heard his own name
+called in a voice indicating amazement.
+
+"Kit Watson, by all that's wonderful!" were the words that fell on his
+ears.
+
+Looking to the right, his glance fell upon Jack Dormer, a schoolmate,
+who had been attending the same academy with him for a year past.
+
+Kit colored, feeling a little embarrassed.
+
+"How are you, Jack?" he said.
+
+"How came you in this circus procession, Kit?"
+
+"I can't tell you now. Come round to the lot, after the parade is over,
+and I'll tell you all about it."
+
+Jack availed himself of the invitation and presented himself at the
+circus grounds.
+
+"What does it all mean, Kit?" he asked. "Have you really and truly
+joined the circus?"
+
+"Come round this afternoon, and you'll see me perform. I am one of the
+Vincenti brothers, acrobats."
+
+"But what put it in your head? That's what I want to know?"
+
+"I thought I would like it better than being a blacksmith."
+
+"But who ever dreamed of your being a blacksmith?"
+
+"My uncle did. I'll tell you all about it."
+
+Kit told his story. Jack Dormer listened with sympathetic interest.
+
+"Do they pay you well?" he asked.
+
+"I get twenty-five dollars a week, and all expenses."
+
+"Can you get me a job?" asked Jack quite overcome by the magnificence of
+the salary.
+
+"As an acrobat, Jack?" asked Kit, laughing, for Jack had the reputation
+of being one of the clumsiest boys in school.
+
+"Well, no, I don't suppose I could do much in that way, but isn't there
+something I could do?"
+
+"Take my advice, Jack, and give it up. You've got a good home, and
+there is no need of your going into any such business even if you were
+qualified."
+
+"Don't you like it?"
+
+"I can't tell yet. Of course it is exciting, but those who have been in
+it a good while advise against it. I may not stay in it more than one
+season."
+
+"Shall I tell the fellows at school where you are?"
+
+"No, I would rather you wouldn't."
+
+"Does your cousin Ralph come back to school?"
+
+"Yes."
+
+"We could spare him a good deal better than you."
+
+"I am not fond of Ralph myself, but the world is wide enough for us
+both."
+
+Kit saw his schoolmate again after the afternoon performance, and
+received many compliments.
+
+"I couldn't believe it was you," he said. "You acted as if you were an
+old hand at the business."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXII.
+
+NEW ACQUAINTANCES.
+
+
+Sunday was of course a day of rest for the circus employees. Most of
+them observed it by lying in bed unusually late. Kit, however, rose in
+good season, and found himself first at breakfast. When the proper time
+arrived, he walked to the village, and selecting the first church he
+came to, entered. He had always been in the habit of attending church,
+and felt that there was no good reason why he should give up the
+practice now that he was away from home.
+
+He stood in the lobby, waiting for the sexton to appear, when a
+fine-looking man of middle age entered the church with a young girl of
+fourteen at his side.
+
+He glanced at Kit with interest, and after a moment's pause walked up to
+him.
+
+"Are you a stranger here?" he asked.
+
+"Yes, sir," answered Kit.
+
+"I shall be glad to have you accept a seat in my pew."
+
+"Thank you, sir," said Kit, politely; "I was waiting for the sexton,
+intending to ask him for a seat."
+
+"I have plenty of room in my pew, having only my daughter with me. Are
+you staying long in the town?"
+
+"Only as long as the circus does," answered Kit.
+
+The gentleman looked surprised.
+
+"Are you connected with the circus?" he asked, quickly.
+
+"Yes, sir."
+
+By this time the young girl was examining Kit with interest and
+attention.
+
+"Is it possible you are a performer?"
+
+"Yes, sir."
+
+"I wouldn't have dreamed it. You look like a young gentleman."
+
+"I hope I am, sir."
+
+"Pardon me, I meant no offense, but you don't at all answer my idea of a
+circus performer."
+
+"I have only been two days with the circus," said Kit; "and that may
+account for my not having a circus look."
+
+"It is time to take our seats. I will speak with you afterwards. First,
+however, let me introduce my daughter, Evelyn Grant."
+
+"I am glad to make your acquaintance, Miss Evelyn," said Kit, removing
+his hat. "My name is Christopher Watson."
+
+Evelyn offered her hand with a smile.
+
+"I had no idea circus young men were so polite," she said.
+
+There was no chance for any further conversation, as they had entered
+the church. Mr. Grant's pew was in a prominent position. He drew back to
+let the two young people enter. They seated themselves at the lower end
+of the pew and Mr. Grant took his seat at the head. Kit noticed that
+several persons in neighboring pews regarded him with apparent
+curiosity.
+
+Kit enjoyed the services, which were of an interesting character. He had
+expected to feel like a stranger, but thanks to the kindness of Mr.
+Grant, he felt quite as much at home as when he sat in his uncle's pew
+at Smyrna.
+
+When the services were over, they filed slowly out of church. A new
+surprise was in store for Kit.
+
+"If you have no engagement we shall be glad to have you dine with us,
+Master Watson," said Mr. Grant.
+
+"You will come, won't you?" said Evelyn, with a smile.
+
+"You are very kind," said Kit, in grateful surprise. "Nothing could be
+more agreeable to me."
+
+Just then a gentleman approached Mr. Grant, and said: "I am glad to see
+you looking so well, Mr. Mayor."
+
+"Is your father the mayor of the city?" asked Kit.
+
+"Yes; he was elected last December."
+
+"I am very fortunate to be invited to dinner by the mayor."
+
+"And by the mayor's daughter. Don't forget that."
+
+"You may be sure I appreciate that, too."
+
+"How funny it seems to me to be walking with a circus performer! What do
+you do? You don't stand upon a horse's back, and jump through hoops, do
+you?"
+
+"No, I can't do that."
+
+"But what do you do?"
+
+"I am an acrobat."
+
+Kit explained to her what he did.
+
+"It must be very hard."
+
+"Oh, no! I learned to do it in a gymnasium, before I ever dreamed of
+being connected with a circus."
+
+"Where was the gymnasium?"
+
+"Attached to Dr. Codman's academy."
+
+"Why, I had a cousin who attended there," said Evelyn, in surprise.
+
+"What was his name?"
+
+"Edward Moore."
+
+"I know him very well. He is a nice fellow."
+
+At this moment Kit, in looking around, was surprised to see the familiar
+face and figure of Mr. Barlow, the circus proprietor, who had evidently,
+like himself, been attending the service. Recognition was mutual.
+
+"I am glad to see you here, Watson," said Mr. Barlow, offering his hand.
+"I always attend church myself when I have an opportunity, but I am
+afraid few in my employ follow my example. I always feel more confidence
+in any young man who seems to enjoy a church service."
+
+Mr. Barlow was a man whose name was widely known, and Kit saw that Mr.
+Grant looked as if he would like to be introduced.
+
+"Mr. Barlow," he said, "allow me to introduce a new friend, Mr. Grant,
+the mayor of the town."
+
+"I am pleased to make your acquaintance, Mr. Mayor," said the showman,
+offering his hand.
+
+"The pleasure is mutual, sir," said the mayor. "I need not say that your
+name has long been familiar to me."
+
+"I am glad you have taken one of my young men under your wing. He is a
+recent acquisition, but I have reason to think well of him."
+
+"He is to dine with us to-day. I shall be glad to extend an invitation
+to you also, Mr. Barlow."
+
+"You are very kind, and but for a previous engagement I would accept
+with pleasure. I shall be glad to see you at my show to-morrow with
+complimentary tickets."
+
+"What a nice old gentleman Mr. Barlow is," said Evelyn, in a low voice.
+
+"I have found him an excellent friend. He won't allow any of us to drink
+or gamble while we are in his employ."
+
+"I hope you wouldn't want to do either, Mr. Watson."
+
+"I have no disposition to do so. But, Miss Evelyn, I want to ask you a
+favor."
+
+"What is it? If it isn't anything very great, I may grant it."
+
+"Don't call me Mr. Watson."
+
+"What shall I call you then?"
+
+"My friends call me Kit."
+
+"That's a nice name. Yes, I'll call you Kit."
+
+It will be seen that the two young people were getting on famously.
+
+"Do you live far away, Miss Evelyn?"
+
+"About a quarter of a mile from here."
+
+In turning the corner of a street, Kit met his friend Harry Thorne,
+walking with Charlie Davis. Both regarded Kit with surprise.
+
+"Kit seems to be getting on," said Charlie. "Do you know who he is
+walking with?"
+
+"No; do you?"
+
+"With the daughter of the mayor."
+
+"How do you know?"
+
+"The gentleman in front was pointed out to me as the mayor. I shouldn't
+wonder if he were going to dine there."
+
+When Kit returned to the circus tents about four o'clock in the
+afternoon, he met with some good-natured raillery which he took in good
+part. He felt that he had passed the day in a much more satisfactory
+manner than if, like the great majority of his companions, he had risen
+late and lounged about the circus grounds, beguiling the time with
+smoking and story telling.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIII.
+
+KIT'S DARING ACT.
+
+
+Kit's acts thus far had been confined to the ring, but now a new one was
+expected from him. Early in the performance a series of flying leaps
+from a springboard, in which all the acrobats took part, was introduced.
+From a point thirty feet back the performer ran swiftly till he reached
+the springboard, from which a leap was made accompanied by a somersault,
+carrying him over a considerable space in advance.
+
+It was the custom to place first one elephant, then a second, and
+finally a third, in front of the springboard. There was only one man who
+could leap over three elephants. The two Vincenti brothers took part
+regularly, but Kit, being a new hand, had thus far been excused. But one
+of the regular performers being temporarily unwell, it was considered
+desirable that his place should be supplied.
+
+"Do you think you can do it?" asked Alonzo Vincenti, somewhat
+doubtfully.
+
+"Yes," answered Kit, confidently.
+
+"It will be sufficient if you jump over one elephant," continued his
+associate. "Then you can drop out."
+
+"I can do better than that," said Kit.
+
+"I don't know about that. My brother can only jump over two."
+
+"You jump over three elephants."
+
+"Yes; but I am the only one who can do it. It takes a good spring to
+clear even two. It won't do to lose your head."
+
+"Can I have a chance to rehearse?"
+
+"Yes, I will speak about it."
+
+"Then I will appear this evening."
+
+"But if you fail you are likely to hurt yourself."
+
+"I know that. That is why I would rather make the first trial in the
+evening. The lights and the crowd will excite and help me."
+
+Kit was not foolhardy in his undertaking, for he had already had some
+practice in similar feats with his old teacher. Besides, he was
+ambitious. In school his ambition had shown itself in his attempt to
+eclipse his schoolfellows in scholarship. In the gymnasium he had ranked
+first, and now that he had joined the circus he didn't like to be
+assigned to a place in the rear.
+
+Let me take the opportunity here to advise my young readers not to
+imitate Kit in essaying dangerous parts. "Be bold, but not too bold!" is
+a very good motto.
+
+During the forenoon Kit found an opportunity to practice in the empty
+tent, in order to settle the question whether he had lost any of his
+old-time skill. The result was satisfactory, and renewed his confidence.
+
+"I can do better before a tent full of spectators than when practicing
+by myself," he decided.
+
+The evening came.
+
+Standing near the ticket seller half an hour before the show began, Kit
+heard his name called.
+
+Turning quickly he saw his friends of the previous day, Mayor Grant and
+his daughter Evelyn.
+
+"Good evening, my boy!" said the mayor cordially. "We have come to see
+what you can do."
+
+"Then I hope I shall do myself credit," said Kit, shaking hands with the
+mayor and his daughter. "Have you engaged seats?"
+
+"Not yet."
+
+"Then let me select them for you."
+
+"With pleasure. I am glad to have a friend at court."
+
+Kit selected seats as near as possible to the ring where he was to
+perform.
+
+"These are splendid seats," said Evelyn. "How soon do you appear?"
+
+"In a few minutes. I shall have to leave you now, but I will be back
+after my first act."
+
+"What a nice boy he is, papa!" said Evelyn.
+
+"Yes; it is a pity he is attached to a circus."
+
+"Why? Isn't it a respectable business?"
+
+"Yes; but there are many temptations connected with it, and most circus
+performers never rise any higher."
+
+Evelyn was not inclined to discuss the question, though there is no
+doubt that she took a more favorable view of the circus profession than
+her father. The procession had just begun to move round the inner ring
+of the circus, including the elephants, the riders, the clowns, and
+performers of all kinds. Kit appeared, as in the public procession,
+driving a span of ponies.
+
+This was the introduction. Then the various parts of the programme
+succeeded. Soon Kit performed his act in the ring. He had a new act
+to-night. Standing on the shoulders of one of the Vincenti brothers, he
+turned a somersault and landed on the shoulders of the other, standing
+six to eight feet away.
+
+"I don't see how he does it, papa," said Evelyn. "He must be very
+smart."
+
+"I see you are determined to make a hero of this young man, Evelyn."
+
+"Don't you admire him yourself, papa?"
+
+"Admire is rather a strong word, daughter. I will admit, however, that I
+like him, and hope he will soon change his business."
+
+After the act was over, Kit came round and received congratulations.
+Evelyn repeated what her father said.
+
+"I agree with you, sir," said Kit, "I haven't selected this as my life
+business, but shall keep my engagement till the end of the season."
+
+"How, on the whole, do you like your new associates? I don't need to be
+told that they are very different from those to whom you are
+accustomed."
+
+"They are very kind to me, and generous to each other when there is
+need. They will divide their last dollar with a friend."
+
+"They often come to their last dollar, don't they?"
+
+"Yes; they can't keep money. They are always in debt when the new season
+opens, no matter how much they brought home with them at the end of the
+last."
+
+"Are there no exceptions?"
+
+"Yes, a few. I have heard of one circus manager who commenced as a candy
+butcher, and now is proprietor of a very fair-sized show. Of course he
+had to save up money or he would never have succeeded so well."
+
+Kit had to cut short his visit, for the new act, already referred to,
+was near at hand.
+
+In the list of leapers Kit came last. First of all, there was a simple
+somersault from the springboard. This was easy. Just after Kit came the
+clown, who, though really a clever acrobat, stopped short when he came
+to the board and merely jumped up and down to the amusement of the young
+spectators.
+
+"He can't jump no more'n I can," said one small boy, contemptuously.
+
+"I shouldn't think they'd let him try," said another.
+
+Both boys were surprised when, in the next trial, where the task was to
+jump over an elephant, the despised clown made a good spring and landed
+fairly on his feet.
+
+"I guess he was afraid before," said the first boy.
+
+"No; he only pretended for fun. Do you see that boy? I wonder if he can
+jump over the elephant."
+
+The question was soon answered. Kit took his turn and sprang with
+apparent ease over the great beast.
+
+Next another elephant was driven in alongside of the first. Again the
+leapers advanced to try their skill. But two held back, not feeling
+competent for the task. The clown once more made a feint of jumping, but
+only jumped up and retired apparently filled with confusion.
+
+Evelyn gazed in intense excitement.
+
+"It must be awfully hard to jump like that, papa," she said.
+
+"I don't think I shall ever try it, Evelyn."
+
+Another elephant was driven alongside the other two, making three in
+all. The other contestants retired, for only Alonzo had succeeded
+hitherto in executing this difficult feat. He expected to be the only
+one now, but noticed with surprise that Kit seemed ready to follow him.
+
+"You don't mean to try it, Kit?" he said, in amazement.
+
+"Why not?"
+
+"You will fail, and if you do, you may hurt yourself seriously."
+
+"I shall not fail," said Kit, confidently.
+
+Alonzo looked anxious, but there was no time to expostulate. He ran
+swiftly to the board, made a vigorous spring, and landed handsomely on
+the bedding which had been provided beyond. He had scarcely stepped
+aside, when, to the astonishment of the other acrobats, Kit gathered
+himself up, ran to the springboard, and exerting himself to the utmost,
+made his leap, and landed a foot ahead of Alonzo.
+
+Then the tent rang with applause, and there were many exclamations of
+astonishment, not only among the spectators, but also among the circus
+performers.
+
+Kit's face flushed with pleasure, and bowing his acknowledgments, he
+withdrew.
+
+"He is certainly a wonderful boy," said the mayor.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIV.
+
+KIT RECEIVES A LETTER.
+
+
+Kit received compliments enough to spoil him, if he had not been
+strong-minded and level-headed boy. Among others Mr. Barlow, who had
+been present and witnessed his daring act, took the opportunity to
+congratulate him.
+
+"You seem to be born for a circus performer, my young friend," he said.
+"You have come to the front at once."
+
+"Thank you, sir," said Kit. "I am glad that I succeeded, but such
+success as that does not satisfy my ambition."
+
+"You mean, perhaps, that you want to jump over four, perhaps five
+elephants?" suggested the manager.
+
+Kit smiled.
+
+"No," he answered; "I don't think I shall venture beyond three. But I
+don't expect to remain in the circus more than this season."
+
+"That is almost a pity, when you are so well qualified to excel in it."
+
+"Mr. Barlow," said Kit, seriously, "if I were a great manager like you,
+I would not mind, but I don't care to go through life as a circus
+performer."
+
+"I don't know but you are right, my boy. In fact I know you are. I
+shouldn't care to be a performer myself."
+
+"I don't think you would excel in that line," said Kit, with a glance
+at the portly form of the well-known showman.
+
+"You wouldn't advise me to try jumping over elephants, I infer," said
+Mr. Barlow, with an amused smile.
+
+"No, sir."
+
+"I will take your advice, my boy. Though your share of worldly
+experience isn't great, you are certainly correct in that. I shall
+relieve the fears of Mrs. Barlow at once by telling her that I have
+decided not to enter the ring."
+
+Kit also received the congratulations of the mayor and Evelyn, but the
+former added: "Though your act was a daring one, I was almost sorry to
+see it."
+
+"Why, sir?"
+
+"I feared it would confirm you in your love of your present business."
+
+"No, sir, there is no danger," replied Kit. "I have a fair education
+already, and prefer to qualify myself for something different."
+
+"I am glad to hear you say so. You are undoubtedly right."
+
+"I must say good-by now," said Kit; "for we get off at midnight."
+
+"Shall you not return this way?"
+
+"No, sir; we are to go West, I hear."
+
+"I hope when the season is over, you will make us a visit. Come and stay
+a week," said the mayor, hospitably.
+
+"Do come," said Evelyn, earnestly.
+
+"How can I thank you for your kindness to a stranger?" said Kit,
+gratefully. "I shall certainly avail myself of your hospitality. There
+are not many who would take such notice of a circus boy."
+
+"You are something more than a circus boy," said the mayor, "or I might
+not have been so drawn to you. Good-by, then, and if you ever need a
+friend, don't forget that you are at liberty to call upon me."
+
+It was a source of regret to Kit that he was obliged to part with
+friends whom in so short a time he had come to value so highly. He
+resolved that he would accept the mayor's offer at the close of the
+season. He would need a friend and adviser, and he felt confident that
+Mayor Grant's counsel would be wise and judicious.
+
+Kit was already asleep in his bunk when the circus train started for the
+next place on the route. When he woke up he was in the town of
+Colebrook. Here a surprise was in store for him in the shape of a letter
+from his uncle. When he saw the familiar handwriting and the postmark
+"Smyrna," he broke the seal with a feeling of curiosity. He did not
+expect to derive either pleasure or satisfaction from the perusal.
+
+We will look over his shoulder while he is reading the letter.
+
+     NEPHEW CHRISTOPHER,--I cannot express to you my surprise and
+     disappointment when I rode over to Oakford to see you, and learned
+     from Mr. Bickford that you had run away from his house and joined
+     the circus. There must be something low and depraved in your
+     tastes, that you should thus abandon the prospect of earning a
+     respectable livelihood, and go tramping through the country with a
+     circus. What do you think your father would say if he could come to
+     life, and become aware of the course you have so rashly taken?
+
+     I should be justified in forcibly removing you from your present
+     associations, and returning you to your worthy employer, Mr. Aaron
+     Bickford, and perhaps it is my duty to do so. But I think it wiser
+     for you to realize for yourself the folly of your course. You have
+     deliberately deserted a good home and a kind guardian and become a
+     tramp, if I may so express myself. I cannot imagine my son Ralph
+     doing such a thing. He is, I hope, too dutiful and too sensible to
+     throw away the advantages which fortune has secured him, to become
+     a mountebank.
+
+     It is very embarrassing to me to answer questions about you. There
+     are some who will be unjust enough, I doubt not, to blame me for
+     your wild course, but I shall be sustained by the consciousness of
+     my entire innocence in the matter. At great expense I have
+     maintained you and paid the cost of your education, giving you
+     privileges and advantages equal to those I have given my own boy. I
+     have done so cheerfully, because you were my nephew, and I am sorry
+     you have made me so poor a return. But I shall look for my reward
+     to my own conscience, and hope you may yet see the folly and
+     wickedness of your course.
+
+     I have only to add that when that time comes you are welcome to
+     return to my roof and protection, and I will intercede with your
+     excellent employer, Mr. Bickford, to take you back and teach you
+     his trade, whereby you may be enabled to earn a more respectable
+     living than you are doing at present. Ralph joins with me in this
+     wish.
+
+                                       Your uncle,
+                                            STEPHEN WATSON.
+
+Kit's lip curled when he read this hypocritical letter, and was tempted
+to despise his uncle more now than ever. He lost no time in sending this
+reply:
+
+     UNCLE STEPHEN,--I have received your letter, and can only express
+     my surprise at the view you take of your treatment of me. Whether
+     my father really left me as destitute as you claim, I am not in a
+     position to say. If you have really gone to personal expense in
+     maintaining and educating me up to this point, I shall, when I am
+     able, reimburse you to the last cent. But I cannot forgive you for
+     your trying to force a boy, reared and educated as I have been, to
+     learn the trade of a blacksmith. You say that I have enjoyed
+     advantages similar to those of your son Ralph. I wish to ask
+     whether you would dream of apprenticing him to any such business.
+
+     You speak of my low associations, and call me a mountebank. In the
+     town I have just left I was the guest of the mayor, and have
+     promised to spend a week at his house on a visit when the circus
+     season is over. Though you have done your best to lower me
+     socially, I am confident that I shall be able to win a good place
+     by my own unaided exertions.
+
+     I have no intention in continuing as a circus performer, though I
+     am very liberally paid. It is too soon for me to decide upon my
+     future course, but you may tell Mr. Bickford he need not wait for
+     me to resume my place in his shop.
+
+     I do not know when I shall see you or Ralph again, but you need
+     have no fear that I shall appeal to your generosity.
+
+                                         Your nephew,
+                                              CHRISTOPHER WATSON.
+
+Stephen Watson read this letter with surprise and chagrin. He was sorry
+to hear that Kit was doing so well, and alarmed at his implied doubt
+whether he had really been left destitute by his father.
+
+"That boy is going to give me trouble," he muttered.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXV.
+
+THE ATTACK ON THE CIRCUS TENT.
+
+
+Four weeks passed, in which Kit continued to acquit himself to the
+satisfaction of the manager. His youth and pleasant face, added to his
+uncommon skill, made him a favorite with the public, and being a boy
+with a love of adventure he enjoyed thoroughly the constant variety of
+circus life and travel.
+
+All circus existence is not sunshine, however. There are communities
+which are always dreaded by circus managers, on account of the rough and
+lawless element which dominates them.
+
+Early one morning Barlow's circus arrived at the mining town of
+Coalville (as we will call it), in Pennsylvania. An afternoon
+performance was given, and passed off smoothly; but in the evening a
+gang of about twenty miners made their appearance, bent on mischief.
+
+Mr. Clark, the manager, sought Mr. Barlow.
+
+"I think we shall have trouble this evening, Mr. Barlow," he said.
+
+"Guard against it, then. What indications have you seen?"
+
+"A gang of twenty miners have just entered the lot. They look ugly."
+
+"Have the canvas men on guard, and summon the razorbacks, if necessary.
+Don't provoke a conflict, but be ready for one."
+
+Mr. Clark hastily made his arrangements as quietly as possible. Near the
+ticket seller lounged a body of men, strong and muscular.
+
+These were the canvas men. Some of them looked as reckless and dangerous
+as the miners, from whom a disturbance was feared.
+
+These canvas men, whose duty it is to set up and take down the tents,
+are, for the most part, a rough set. They are paid from fifteen to
+twenty dollars a month and board. Their accommodations are very poor,
+but as good perhaps as they are accustomed to. They are not averse to a
+scrimmage, and obeyed with alacrity the directions of Mr. Clark.
+
+The body of miners marched in procession to the ticket seller and then
+halted, one serving as spokesman.
+
+"Give us twenty tickets, boss," said the leader.
+
+"Where is your money?" asked the ticket seller, cautiously.
+
+"Never you mind! We're on the free list, ain't we, boys?"
+
+"Yes, we are!" was the chorus from his followers.
+
+"There are no deadheads admitted to the show," said the ticket agent,
+firmly.
+
+"You'll be a deadhead yourself if you ain't careful, young feller!" was
+the retort.
+
+"Keep back, men! There are others waiting for a chance to buy tickets."
+
+"Let 'em wait! Just hand over them tickets, or we'll run over you."
+
+The fellow looked so dangerous that the ticket seller saw there was no
+time to parley.
+
+He raised the well-known circus cry, which is called out in times of
+danger, like a summons to arms,
+
+"Hey, Rube!"
+
+Instantly the canvas men and razorbacks rushed to the rescue, and made
+an impetuous attack on the disorderly crowd of miners. They, too, were
+aching for a fight, and there was a wild scene of battle, in which, as
+in the ancient days, the opposing forces fought hand to hand.
+
+The canvas men were strong, but so were the miners. Their muscles were
+toughened by daily toil, and it looked as if the outsiders might win.
+
+Kit was not of course called upon to take part in the contest, but he
+was unwillingly involved.
+
+One of the miners detached himself from the main body, and creeping
+stealthily to the big tent, whipped out a large knife, and was on the
+point of cutting one of the ropes, his intention being to sever one
+after another till the big tent collapsed. Kit saw his design, and
+rushing forward seized his arm.
+
+"Hold on there!" he cried. "What are you about?"
+
+"Let me alone, and mind your own business!" returned the miner, in a
+hoarse, deep voice.
+
+But Kit saw that it was a critical moment, and that great mischief
+might be done. He looked about him for help, for he was far from able to
+cope with his brawny antagonist. Still he clung to the arm of the
+intruder, and succeeded in delaying his purpose.
+
+"Let go or I'll cut you!" said the miner, savagely.
+
+Then Kit in desperation raised the cry, "Hey, Rube!"
+
+But it hardly seemed likely to bring the needed assistance, for all the
+fighting men were engaged in the battle near the ticket seller.
+
+"That won't do no good, young bantam!" said the ruffian, as he aimed a
+blow at our hero.
+
+Kit's career would in all probability have been cut short, but for the
+timely arrival of Achilles Henderson. The giant had heard the boy's
+warning cry, and being near at hand, rushed to his aid. His arrival was
+most opportune. He seized the miner in his powerful grasp, and the
+ruffian, strong and muscular as he was, was like a child in his clutch.
+His knife fell from his hand, as he was shaken like a reed by the giant.
+
+"Secure the knife, Kit!" cried Achilles.
+
+Kit needed no second bidding. He stooped swiftly and took up the weapon.
+
+But Achilles was needed in another direction.
+
+The contest between the miners and the canvas men still raged fiercely
+near the ticket stand. It looked as if the intruders would conquer. From
+the ranks of the defenders rose a wild and desperate cry, "Hey, Rube!"
+
+Achilles heard it.
+
+"Come, Kit!" he said. "We are wanted."
+
+He hurled the miner in his grasp to the ground with such force that the
+man lay senseless; then he rushed with all the speed which his long
+limbs enabled him to attain to the scene of the conflict.
+
+Here again he was none too soon. The leader of the miners, who had been
+the first spokesman and aggressor, was armed with a powerful club with
+which he was preparing to deal the ticket seller a terrible and possibly
+fatal blow, when Achilles rushed into the _mêlée_ like a hurricane. He
+snatched the club from the hands of the ruffian, and dealt about
+unsparingly.
+
+The ringleader was the first to fall. Next Achilles attacked the rest of
+the brutal gang, till half a dozen men with broken heads lay upon the
+ground. The attacking force were completely demoralized, and in dismay
+fled from the field.
+
+The ticket seller breathed a sigh of relief.
+
+"I thought I was done for, Mr. Henderson," he said, when the giant
+returned flushed with his exertions. "You are equal to half a dozen
+men."
+
+"I haven't had so much exercise in a long time," said Achilles, panting.
+"Kit, where is the knife that scalawag was going to cut the rope with?"
+
+"Here it is, Mr. Henderson."
+
+"I will keep it in remembrance of this little adventure. Perhaps I had
+better go and look after the original owner."
+
+He met the ruffian limping like one disabled. His look was sullen and
+menacing.
+
+"Give me my knife," he growled.
+
+"I couldn't think of it, my man!" said Achilles blandly. "Evidently you
+are not old enough to be trusted with a knife."
+
+"I'd like to thrash you!" growled the miner again.
+
+"I've no doubt of it, my friend; your intentions are good, but can't be
+carried out. And now I have a word to say," he continued, sternly. "Just
+get out of the lot as fast as your legs can carry you, or I'll serve you
+worse than I did before."
+
+The ruffian looked toward the ticket stand. He saw several of his
+friends limping away like himself, looking like whipped curs, and he saw
+that there was no choice for him but to obey. With a muttered oath and a
+sullen scowl, he left the grounds.
+
+"Kit," said the giant, "it won't do for me to exercise like this every
+day. I shall need a second supper."
+
+"You are certainly entitled to one, Mr. Henderson," replied our hero.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVI.
+
+KIT IS MADE A PRISONER.
+
+
+It had been a day of exciting adventure, but so far as Kit was concerned
+the end was not yet. He performed as usual, but as his second act was
+over at quarter past nine, he thought, being fatigued, that he would not
+wait until the close, but go at once to the circus car in which he had a
+berth, and go to bed.
+
+He crossed the lot, and emerged into the street.
+
+It was moderately dark, there being no moon, and only the light of a few
+stars to relieve the gloom.
+
+Kit had not taken a dozen steps from the lot when two stout men
+approached him, both evidently miners.
+
+"That's the kid that prevented my cutting the rope," he heard one say.
+
+"Is he? I saw him with the giant."
+
+"I mean to settle his hash for him," said the first.
+
+Kit saw that he was in danger, and turned to run back to his friends.
+But it was too late! The first speaker laid a strong arm upon his
+shoulder, and his boyish strength was not able to overcome it.
+
+"Don't be in such a hurry, kid," said his captor.
+
+"Let me go," cried Kit.
+
+"You belong to the circus, don't you?"
+
+"Yes."
+
+"What do you do?"
+
+"I am an acrobat."
+
+"What's that?"
+
+"I leap and turn somersaults, and so on."
+
+"Yes, I know. Do you remember me?"
+
+"I might if it were lighter."
+
+The man lit a match and held it close to his face.
+
+"Do you know me now?"
+
+"Yes."
+
+"Who am I?"
+
+"You are the man who tried to cut the ropes of the tent."
+
+"Right you are. I would have succeeded but for you."
+
+"I suppose you would."
+
+"Did you call that giant to pitch into me?"
+
+"No; I didn't know he was near."
+
+"He treated me like a brute," said the man, wrathfully. "My limbs are
+aching now from the fall he gave me."
+
+Kit did not answer.
+
+"I'd like to give him a broken head, as he gave some of my friends.
+Where is he?"
+
+"I suppose he is somewhere in the lot. I'll go and call him, if you want
+me to."
+
+"That's too thin! Now I've got you I won't let you off so easy."
+
+"What do you intend to do?" asked Kit becoming alarmed.
+
+"To give you a lesson."
+
+Kit did not ask what kind of a lesson was meant, but he feared it
+included bodily injury. Then at least, if never before, he wished
+himself back at his uncle's house in Smyrna, uncongenial as it was
+otherwise.
+
+The first speaker spoke in a low voice to the second. Kit did not hear
+the words, but judged what they were from what followed.
+
+The two men placed him beside them, and he was sternly ordered to move
+on.
+
+They kept the road for perhaps half a mile, then turned off into a
+narrow lane which appeared to ascend a hill. Finally they stopped in
+front of a dark cabin, of one story, which seemed to be unoccupied. The
+outer door was fastened by a bolt.
+
+One of the men drew out a bolt, and threw open the door. A dark interior
+was revealed. One of the men lit a match, throwing a fitful light upon
+an empty room. At one end of the apartment was a ring, fixed in a beam,
+and in the corner was a stout rope.
+
+"That will do," said the first speaker.
+
+He took the rope, secured one end of it to the ring, and then tied Kit
+firmly with the balance. It was long enough to allow of his lying down.
+
+"Now," said the first man grimly, "I reckon the kid will be safe here
+till to-morrow."
+
+They prepared to leave the cabin.
+
+"Are you going to leave me here?" asked Kit, in dismay.
+
+"Yes."
+
+"What good will it do you?"
+
+"You'll see--to-morrow."
+
+Kit had ten dollars in his pocket, and he thought of offering it in
+return for his freedom, but it occurred to him fortunately that his
+captors would deprive him of it, as it was quite within their power to
+do, and not compensate him in any way. He understood by this time the
+character of the men into whose hands he had fallen, and he thought it
+prudent to remain silent.
+
+As the first captor stood with the door open, while just on the point of
+leaving, he said grimly, "How do you like it, kid?"
+
+"Not at all," answered Kit.
+
+"If you beg my pardon for what you did, I might let you go."
+
+Kit did not believe this, and he had no intention of humiliating himself
+for nothing.
+
+"I only did my duty," he said. "I have nothing to ask pardon for."
+
+"You may change your mind--to-morrow!"
+
+Another ominous reference to to-morrow. Evidently he was only deferring
+his vengeance, and intended to wreak it on his young prisoner the next
+day.
+
+It was not a comforting thought, nor was it calculated to sooth Kit,
+weary as he was, to sleep.
+
+The door was closed, and Kit heard the sliding of the bolt on the
+outside. He was a prisoner, securely enough, and with small chance of
+rescue.
+
+Now, though Kit is my hero, I do not mean to represent him as above
+human weakness, and I won't pretend that he didn't feel anxious and
+disturbed. His prospects seemed very dark. He could not hope for mercy
+from the brutal men who had captured him. As they could not get hold of
+the giant they would undoubtedly seek to make him expiate the offenses
+of Achilles Henderson as well as his own.
+
+"If only Mr. Henderson knew where I was," he said to himself, "I should
+soon be free."
+
+But there seemed little hope of this. He had not told any one that he
+intended to retire to the circus cars earlier than usual. The chances
+were that he would not be missed till the circus company had reached the
+next town on their route, ten miles away. Then there would be no clew to
+his whereabouts, and even if there were he might be killed before any
+help could come to him. So far as he had been able to observe, the
+miners were--a portion of them, at least--a lawless set of men, who were
+not likely to be influenced by considerations of pity or ordinary
+humanity.
+
+Kit had been very religiously brought up during his father's life, at
+least, and he had not lost his faith in an overruling Providence. So in
+this great peril it was natural for him to pray to God for deliverance
+from danger. When his prayer was concluded, he felt easier, and in spite
+of his disagreeable surroundings he managed to fall asleep.
+
+Meanwhile the circus performance terminated, and preparations were
+commenced for the journey to the next town. The canvas men swarmed
+around the tents and swiftly took them down and conveyed them to the
+freight cars, where they assisted the razorbacks to pack them in small
+compass.
+
+Harry Thorne, who had his berth next to Kit, turned in rather late. He
+looked into Kit's bed, and to his surprise found it unoccupied.
+
+"What can have become of the boy?" he asked himself.
+
+He went outside, and espying Achilles Henderson, he said: "Have you seen
+anything of Kit Watson?"
+
+"Isn't he in his berth?" asked Mr. Henderson, surprised.
+
+"No."
+
+Inquiry developed the fact that Kit had not been seen by any one since
+the conclusion of his act.
+
+"I am afraid the boy has come to harm," said Achilles. "This is a rough
+place, and there are plenty of tough characters about, as our experience
+this afternoon showed."
+
+"What shall we do? The cars will soon be starting, and we must leave him
+behind."
+
+"If he doesn't show up before that time, I will stay behind and hunt him
+up. He is too good a boy to be left to his fate."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVII.
+
+A MINER'S CABIN.
+
+
+Kit's principal captor was known as Dick Hayden. He was an Englishman,
+and a leader in every kind of mischief. If there was any disturbance
+between the miners and their employers, he was generally found to be at
+the bottom of it. A naturally quarrelsome disposition was intensified by
+intemperance. In the attack upon the circus tents he found himself in
+his element. His ignominious defeat made him ugly and revengeful.
+
+His wife was dead, but he had one child, Janet, a girl of thirteen, who
+cooked for him and took care of his cabin. The poor girl had a hard time
+of it, but she endeavored so far as possible to avoid trouble with her
+brutal parent.
+
+It was near ten o'clock when Hayden came home after locking Kit in the
+deserted cabin. He had gone away without supper, but late as it was,
+Janet had something hot ready for him on the stove.
+
+"Well, Janet, child, have you my supper ready?" he said, not
+unpleasantly, for his victory over Kit and the meditated revenge of the
+next day had put him in good humor.
+
+"Yes, father; it's on the stove and ready to dish up."
+
+"Lay the table, then, for I'm main tired and hungry."
+
+The little girl quickly spread the cloth, and Dick Hayden ate like a
+voracious animal.
+
+When supper was over he sat back in his chair and lit a pipe. A
+comfortable supper made him loquacious.
+
+"Well, Janet, you don't ask where I've been."
+
+"Was it to the circus, father?"
+
+"Yes."
+
+"How did you like the show?"
+
+"I didn't see it," he growled, a frown gathering upon his brow.
+
+"And why not, father?"
+
+"Because we had a fight to get in free, and got the worst of it."
+
+"They must be main strong, then, those circus men."
+
+"Strong!" repeated Hayden, scornfully. "Well, mayhap they are, but we'd
+have bested them but for the giant."
+
+"The giant! Is it the big man I saw in the parade?"
+
+"Yes; he's as strong as three men. He flung me down as easily as I'd
+throw a boy."
+
+"Then he must have been strong, for you're a powerful man, father."
+
+"There isn't a man as works in the mine'll compare with me, lass," said
+Hayden, proudly; "but all the same I'm no match for a monster."
+
+"Tell me about it, father," said Janet, with natural curiosity.
+
+Dick Hayden went on to describe the fight around the ticket stand, and
+how he had slipped away, intending to cut the ropes of the tent and let
+it down on the heads of the spectators gathered inside.
+
+"I'd have done it, too," he added, "but for a kid."
+
+"I thought just now you said it was the giant."
+
+"And I stick to it, lass; but this boy saw what I was doing, and brought
+the giant to the spot. I could do nothing after that. He threw me down,
+so that for a few minutes I was stunned."
+
+"And how did the fight come out at the ticket stand, father?"
+
+"Our men had almost overpowered the circus men, when the giant rushed
+into the midst, and, seizing a club from Bob Stubbs, laid about him,
+till half a dozen of our strongest men lay on the ground with broken
+heads."
+
+What puzzled Janet was, that her father should have come home in such
+good humor after so disastrous a defeat. It was contrary to her
+experience of him. She would naturally have expected that he would be
+surly and quarrelsome. The mystery was soon made clear.
+
+"But we've got even with them!" chuckled Hayden directly after.
+
+"How is that, father?"
+
+"We caught the kid."
+
+"You have?"
+
+"Yes; he was goin' to the circus cars to turn in when Stubbs and I
+caught him."
+
+"You--you didn't kill him, father?" asked Janet in alarm.
+
+"No, not yet."
+
+"Where is he?"
+
+"Do you mind the deserted cabin on Knob Hill?"
+
+"Yes, father."
+
+"He's locked up in that, tied hand and foot."
+
+"How long do you mean to keep him there?" asked Janet, anxiously.
+
+"Till to-morrow, and then----" Dick paused ominously.
+
+"Well, and then?"
+
+"He'll be lucky if he gets off with a whole skin," growled her father.
+"But for him I'd have brought down the tent about the ears of the people
+that sat inside, and we'd have had a fine revenge on the showmen."
+
+"You don't mean to kill the boy, do you, father?"
+
+"What is it to you, lass? You'd best mind your own business. You've got
+nothing to do with it."
+
+"How does the boy look? Was it the one that drove the first chariot,
+father?"
+
+"Like enough, lass! Did you see him?"
+
+"Yes; I saw the parade. Everybody was out in the streets then."
+
+"And you took partic'lar notice of the boy? That's like a lass,"
+chuckled Hayden.
+
+"But it was his duty, father, to stand by the show, seein' he belongs to
+it."
+
+"I don't trouble myself about that. He brought that monster on me, and
+I'm sore yet with the fall he gave me. I'll take it out of the kid."
+
+"But it seems to me, father, it would be better to lay for the giant."
+
+"What folly is that, lass? I'd be main glad to give the giant a dose of
+what he gave me, but he'll leave town to-night, and I ain't big enough
+to tackle him, even if I had the chance. So I'll revenge myself on his
+friend, the boy. The kid may be his son, for aught I know."
+
+"And what will you do for him, father?" asked Janet, pertinaciously.
+"You won't kill him?"
+
+"Well, I won't go so far as that, for I've no mind to put my neck in a
+noose, but I'll flog him within an inch of his life. I'll teach him to
+mind his own business for the future."
+
+Janet knew her father's strength and brutality, and she shuddered at the
+idea of the boy being exposed to it. She knew very well it would be of
+no use to make a protest. She would only get herself into trouble. Yet
+she couldn't reconcile herself to the thought of poor Kit being cruelly
+punished. She asked herself what she could do to prevent it.
+
+There was one thing in favor of a rescue. She knew where Kit was
+confined. If it were not so late she would steal out, and going to the
+cabin relieve him from captivity. But it was too late, and too dark for
+that. Besides, she could not leave her father's cabin without
+observation.
+
+"I will wait till to-morrow morning," she said to herself.
+
+It so chanced that on account of some slight repairs the mine in which
+her father was employed was shut down for a few days. This was
+favorable, for he would lie in bed till eight o'clock at least, and
+there would be a chance to get out without observation.
+
+The next morning, about five o'clock, Janet rose from her bed, hastily
+dressed herself, and crept to the door of her father's chamber. He was
+sound asleep, and breathing heavily. There was small chance of his
+awakening before seven o'clock.
+
+Janet took a little meat and bread in a tin pail, for she thought the
+captive might be in need of breakfast, and then, putting a sharp knife
+in her pocket to cut the ropes that bound him, she left the house and
+took her way over the hill to the deserted cabin which served as Kit's
+prison.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVIII.
+
+KIT RESCUED BY A GIRL.
+
+
+Kit had succeeded in getting a little sleep during the night, but his
+position was necessarily constrained and he was but very slightly
+refreshed. Moreover he was a prey to anxiety, for he did not know what
+fate awaited him on the succeeding day.
+
+At four o'clock in the morning a little light found its way into the
+cabin through a small window at the rear. The other windows were boarded
+up.
+
+Kit, appreciating the desirability of escaping before a visit should be
+made him by his captors, tried hard to work himself out of his bonds,
+but only succeeded in confining himself more closely than before.
+
+"What will they do to me?" he asked himself anxiously.
+
+He had heard from some of the circus men accounts of the roughness and
+brutality of the miners, or at least of a certain class of them, for
+some were quiet and peaceable men, and he knew that there was no extreme
+of which they were not capable. Life is sweet, and to a boy of sixteen,
+in good health and strength, it is especially dear. Suppose he should
+lose his life in this region? Probably none of his friends would ever
+learn what had become of him, and his uncle and cousin would not
+scruple to spread rumors to his discredit.
+
+It was certainly tantalizing that he should be tied hand and foot,
+utterly unable to help himself.
+
+More and more light crept in at the window, and there was every
+indication of its being a glorious day. But this prospect brought no
+pleasure to poor Kit.
+
+"Before this time the circus people must have found out my absence," he
+thought. "Will they take the trouble to look for me?"
+
+Kit was on good terms with his comrades, indeed he was popular with them
+all, as a bright boy is apt to be, and he did not like to think that no
+effort would be made to find him. Still, as he could not help owning to
+himself, they had no clew that was likely to lead to success. He had
+given no one notice where he was going, and his capture was not likely
+to have been observed by any one.
+
+While he was indulging in these sorrowful reflections, his attention was
+drawn to a noise at the window.
+
+"They can't have come back so early," he said to himself in surprise.
+
+He twisted himself round to catch a glimpse, if possible, of the early
+visitor, and to his delight, he caught a partial view of Janet's dress.
+Suppose she should prove a deliverer, he said to himself with beating
+heart.
+
+The visitor, whoever it was, was evidently trying to peer into the
+cabin. Kit was so placed in a corner as to be almost out of sight in the
+dark interior. He felt that he must attract attention.
+
+"Hallo, there!" he cried in a loud clear voice.
+
+"He's there!" thought Janet, "just as father said."
+
+"Let me out!" cried Kit, eagerly. "Draw out the bolt, and open the
+door!"
+
+"Will she do it, or will she be frightened away?" he asked himself, with
+his heart filled with suspense.
+
+He did not have long to wait for an answer, and a favorable one. He
+heard the bolt withdrawn, then the door was opened, and the girl's face
+appeared. Janet Hayden was small, not especially pretty, and rather
+old-fashioned in looks, but to poor Kit she seemed like an angel.
+
+"Are you the circus boy?" she asked timidly.
+
+"Yes; I am tied here. Have you got a knife to cut this rope?"
+
+"Yes; I brought one with me."
+
+"Then you knew I was here?" Kit asked in surprise.
+
+"Yes; it was my father that locked you up here--my father and another
+man."
+
+"Will you cut the rope and let me go, then?"
+
+"Yes; that is what I came for."
+
+The little maid went up to the captive, bent over, and with considerable
+sawing, for the knife she had with her was a dull case knife, succeeded
+in severing the rope, and Kit was able to rise and stand upon his feet.
+It was a perfect luxury to feel himself once more free and unshackled.
+
+"I'm very much obliged to you," he said, gratefully. "You can't imagine
+how stiff I am."
+
+"I should think you would be," said Janet, sympathetically.
+
+"When did your father tell you that I was here?"
+
+"After he got home last night. It was after he had eaten his supper."
+
+"And where is he now?"
+
+"At home and asleep."
+
+"Does he get up early?" asked Kit, in some anxiety.
+
+"Yes, when he is at work; but the mine is shut down for a few days, so
+he lies abed longer."
+
+"Did he say anything about coming here to-day?"
+
+"Yes, he meant to come--he and the other man--and I was afraid he would
+do you some harm."
+
+"He would have done so, I am sure," said Kit, shuddering. "I don't see
+how such a rough father should have so good a daughter."
+
+Janet blushed, and seemed pleased with the compliment.
+
+"I think I take after my mother," she said.
+
+"Is your mother alive?"
+
+"No, she died two years ago," answered Janet, sorrowfully. "She was
+Scotch, and that is why I am called by a Scotch name."
+
+"What is your name, if you don't mind telling me?"
+
+"Janet. I am Janet Hayden."
+
+"I shall always remember it, for you have done me a great service."
+
+"What is your name?" asked Janet, feeling less timid than at first.
+
+"Kit Watson."
+
+"That is a funny name--Kit, I mean."
+
+"My right name is Christopher, but my friends call me Kit. Can you
+direct me to the next town--Groveton, where the circus shows to-day."
+
+"Yes, if you will come outside, I will point out which way it is."
+
+Kit emerged from the cabin, nothing loath, and Janet pointed in a
+westerly direction.
+
+"You go over the hill," she said, "and you will come to a road. You will
+know it, for near the stile there is a red house."
+
+"Thank you. How far is it to the next town?"
+
+"Eight miles, I believe."
+
+"That would be a long walk. Do you think I could get any one to take me
+over in a wagon?"
+
+"I think the man who lives in the red house, Mr. Stover, would take you
+over, if you pay him."
+
+"I shall be glad to pay him, and----" Kit paused, for he felt rather
+delicate about offering any money to Janet, though he knew she had
+rendered him most valuable service. "Will you let me offer you a little
+present?"
+
+He took a five dollar bill from his pocket, and offered it to Janet.
+
+"What is that?" she asked.
+
+"It is a five dollar bill."
+
+"You must be rich," she said, for this seemed to her a great deal of
+money.
+
+"Oh, no! but will you take it?"
+
+"No," answered Janet, shrinking back, "I didn't come here for money."
+
+"I am sure you didn't, but I should like to give you something."
+
+"No, I would rather not. Besides, if father knew I had money, he would
+suspect something, and beat me."
+
+"Like the brute that he is," thought Kit.
+
+"But I must go at once, for he may wake up and miss me. Good-by!"
+
+"Good-by!" said Kit.
+
+He had no time to say more, for the child was already hurrying down the
+hill.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIX.
+
+JANET MEETS THE GIANT.
+
+
+Janet took her way homewards, hurrying with quick feet, lest her father
+should wake up before she arrived. But she had taken so early a start
+that she found him still sleeping soundly. She instantly began to make
+preparations for breakfast.
+
+By the time it was on the table her father woke up and yawned. With his
+waking there came the thought of his young circus captive, and the
+vengeance he intended to wreak upon him. This pleasant idea roused him
+completely, and he dressed himself briskly.
+
+"Is breakfast ready, Janet?" he asked.
+
+"Yes, father."
+
+"What time is it?"
+
+"Seven o'clock," answered Janet, looking at the clock over the mantel.
+
+"I am expecting Bob Stubbs here this morning. Have you got enough for
+him?"
+
+"I think so, father," replied Janet. She did not speak with alacrity,
+for Mr. Stubbs was no favorite of hers.
+
+At that moment a step was heard at the door, and the gentleman spoken of
+made his appearance.
+
+"You're late, Dick," said Stubbs, rubbing his bristling chin.
+
+"Yes, I got tired out yesterday. When the mine's shut down I like to
+take my time. Have you had breakfast, Bob?"
+
+"Ye-es," answered Stubbs hesitating, as he glanced at the neatly spread
+table, with the eggs and bacon on the center dish.
+
+"Never mind! You can eat some more. Put a chair for him, Janet."
+
+"This lass of yours is growing pretty," said Stubbs, with a glance of
+admiration.
+
+"There's a compliment for you, lass!" said the father.
+
+Janet, however, did not appear to appreciate it, and continued to look
+grave.
+
+"Wonder how the kid's getting along," said Bob Stubbs, with his mouth
+full of bacon.
+
+"I reckon he's hungry," said Dick Hayden, in a voice of satisfaction.
+
+"Have you left him without anything to eat, father?" asked Janet.
+
+"Yes."
+
+"The poor fellow will be starved."
+
+"And serves him right, too. There ain't no call to pity him."
+
+"Why won't you take him some breakfast if you're going round there? I
+will put some up in a tin pail."
+
+"What do you say to that, Bob, hey?" said Hayden.
+
+"It's natural for the gal to pity him. He's a nice lookin' chap enough."
+
+"He's nicer looking than he will be when we get through with him, eh,
+Bob?"
+
+"That's so, Dick."
+
+As Janet listened to this conversation, her heart revolted against the
+brutality conveyed by the words. She felt dissatisfied to think that her
+own father was such a man. She could not well feel an affection for
+him, remembering how ill he had treated her gentle mother, who, as she
+knew, would be living to-day had she been wedded to a better husband.
+
+The two men did not linger long at the table. They were accustomed to
+swallow their food rapidly, in order to get to the scene of their daily
+labor on time. So in twenty minutes they rose from the table, and
+putting on their hats left the cabin.
+
+As they departed Janet breathed a sigh of relief, and congratulated
+herself that she had released the poor boy, and so saved him from the
+brutal treatment he was likely to receive at the hands of the two
+miners.
+
+"He will have had plenty of time to get away before father and Mr.
+Stubbs reach the cabin," she said to herself.
+
+Janet washed the dishes, and then, having an errand at the store, put on
+her hat and left the cabin. She did not trouble herself to lock the
+door, for there was nothing in the place likely to excite the cupidity
+of any dishonest person.
+
+Janet had accomplished a part of the distance when she saw approaching
+her a figure that at once attracted her earnest attention.
+
+The reason will be readily understood when I say that it was Achilles
+Henderson, the circus giant.
+
+Mr. Henderson had been exploring the neighborhood in the hope of finding
+some trace of Kit, but thus far had been unsuccessful. He was very much
+perplexed, having absolutely no clew, and was thinking of starting for
+Groveton, where the circus was billed to appear that evening. He was
+walking in an undecided way, and never thought of noticing the little
+girl who stood staring at him. Indeed he was so used to being stared at
+that he took it as a matter of course, and did not think of giving the
+curious gazer a second glance.
+
+But his attention was called by a low, half frightened voice.
+
+"Mr. Giant!"
+
+"Well, little girl, what do you want?" he asked.
+
+"Are you looking for anybody?" asked Janet, first glancing carefully
+around, to make sure that she was not likely to be overheard.
+
+"Yes," answered Achilles, quickly. "I am looking for a boy."
+
+"A circus boy?"
+
+"Yes; do you know where he is?"
+
+"Come nearer! I don't want anybody to hear what I say."
+
+"All right, my little maid! Is the boy alive and well?"
+
+"Yes, he was two hours ago."
+
+"Where is he?"
+
+"I don't know where he is now."
+
+Achilles looked disappointed.
+
+"Tell me all you know," he said.
+
+"My father and Bob Stubbs took him last night, and shut him up in a
+lonely cabin on the hill."
+
+"Where is the cabin?"
+
+"He isn't there now. I let him out."
+
+"Good for you, little girl! You're a trump. You're a great deal better
+than your father. Do you know where the boy went?"
+
+"I will tell you where I told him to go."
+
+"Where is your father now? Is he at work?"
+
+"No; the mine is shut down."
+
+"How did you know that the boy was in the cabin?"
+
+"I heard father tell where he was last night, when he was at supper. So
+I got up very early, and stole out to release him, for I was afraid
+father might kill him. He said he meant to punish him for what you did.
+He said he would rather get at you."
+
+"He's quite welcome to, if he wants to," answered Achilles, grimly. "On
+the whole I wouldn't advise him to tackle me."
+
+"He thought you had gone on with the circus."
+
+"I should have done so if I hadn't missed Kit."
+
+"Yes; he told me his name was Kit."
+
+"Was he tied?"
+
+"Yes; I took a knife with me and cut the ropes."
+
+"The poor fellow must have passed an uncomfortable night."
+
+"Yes, he said so."
+
+"He must have been very glad to see you."
+
+"Yes, he was. I am only afraid of one thing."
+
+"What is that?"
+
+"Father and the other man left the house more than half an hour ago to
+go to the cabin. When they find him gone, they will be very angry."
+
+"Like as not."
+
+"And I think they will try to find him."
+
+"Very true; I wish I knew where he was. They wouldn't dare to attack him
+in my company."
+
+"No, Mr. Giant. You must be very strong."
+
+"I think I would be a match for them."
+
+Achilles questioned Janet minutely as to the advice she had given Kit.
+
+"I might follow the boy," he said to himself, "at a guess, but there's
+only half a chance of my hitting right. Where is the cabin?" he asked,
+suddenly.
+
+Janet pointed in the proper direction.
+
+"I know what I'll do," he said, with sudden decision. "I'll follow your
+father and the other man. All the danger to Kit is likely to come from
+them. If I can get track of them, I can make sure that no mischief will
+be done."
+
+Achilles Henderson then stepped over a fence which an ordinary man would
+have had to climb, and made his way to the deserted cabin.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXX.
+
+DICK HAYDEN FINDS THE BIRD FLOWN.
+
+
+Half an hour previously Dick Hayden and his congenial friend, Bob
+Stubbs, reached the cabin. They had much pleasant and jocose
+conversation on the way touching their young captive, and how he had
+probably passed the night. They had personal injuries to avenge, and
+though Achilles was responsible for them, they proposed to wreak
+vengeance on the boy whom a luckless fate had thrown into their hands.
+
+"My shoulders are sore yet," said Hayden, "over the fall that big brute
+gave me."
+
+"And my head hasn't got over the crack I got when he laid me flat with
+his club," responded Stubbs.
+
+"Well, we've got a friend of his, that's one comfort. I'm going to take
+it out of the kid's hide."
+
+"You don't mean to--do for him?" said Stubbs, cautiously.
+
+"I don't mean to kill him, if that's what you mean, Stubbs. I have too
+much regard for my neck, but I mean to give him a sound flogging. You
+ain't afraid, be you?"
+
+"Catch Bob Stubbs afraid of anything, except the hangman's rope! I don't
+mind telling you that I have reasons to be afraid of that."
+
+"Why? You've never been hung, have you?"
+
+"No; but an uncle of mine was strung up in England."
+
+"What for?"
+
+"He got into trouble with a fellow workman and stabbed him."
+
+"He was in bad luck. Why didn't he cut it, and come to America?"
+
+"He tried it, but the bobbies caught him in the steerage of an ocean
+steamer, and then it was all up with him."
+
+"Well, I hope his nephew will come to a better end. But here we are at
+the cabin."
+
+There was nothing in the outward appearance of the hut to indicate that
+the bird was flown. Janet bolted the door after releasing the prisoner,
+and no one could judge that it had been opened.
+
+"All is safe," said Bob Stubbs.
+
+"Of course it is! Why shouldn't it be?"
+
+"No reason; but some of his friends might have found him."
+
+"All his friends are at Groveton. Then they had no idea what we did with
+him."
+
+"They must have found out that he was gone."
+
+"They couldn't find him, so that would do him no good."
+
+Stubbs was about to draw the bolt, but Hayden stayed his hand.
+
+"Wait a minute, Bob," he said; "I'll look in at the window, and see what
+he is doing."
+
+Dick Hayden went around to the rear of the building, and flattened his
+face against the pane in the effort to see the corner where the captive
+had been tied. He could not see very distinctly, but what he did see
+startled him.
+
+He could perceive no one.
+
+"Could the boy have loosened the rope?" he asked himself hurriedly.
+
+Even in that case, as the window was nailed so that it could not be
+opened, and the door was bolted, there seemed no way of escape. His eyes
+eagerly explored other portions of the cabin, but he could not catch a
+glimpse of Kit.
+
+He rushed round to the front, and in an excitement which Stubbs could
+not understand, pulled the bolt back with a jerk.
+
+"What's the matter, Dick?" asked Stubbs, staring.
+
+Dick Hayden did not answer, but threw open the door.
+
+He strode in, and peeped here and there.
+
+"The boy's gone!" he said hoarsely, to Stubbs, who followed close
+behind.
+
+"Gone!" echoed Stubbs, in blank amazement. "How did he get away?"
+
+"That's the question," responded Dick, growling.
+
+"Well, I'm--flabbergasted! There's witchery here!"
+
+Dick Hayden bent over and picked up the pieces of rope which lay in the
+corner where the prisoner had been placed. He examined the ends, and
+said briefly, turning to Stubbs: "They've been cut!"
+
+"So they have, Dick. Who in natur' could have done it? Perhaps the kid
+did it himself. Might have had a knife in his pocket."
+
+"Don't be a fool, Stubbs! Supposin' he'd done it, how was he goin' to
+get out?"
+
+"That's what beats me!"
+
+"Somebody must have let him out."
+
+"Do you think it's his circus friends?"
+
+"No; they're all in Groveton. Somebody must have been passin' and heard
+the boy holler, and let him out."
+
+"What are you goin' to do about it, Dick?"
+
+"Goin' to sit down and take a smoke. It may give me an idea."
+
+It will be noticed that of these two, Dick Hayden, as the bolder and
+stronger spirit, was the leader, and Bob Stubbs the subservient
+follower. Stubbs was no less brutal, when occasion served, but he was
+not self reliant. He wanted some one to lead the way, and he was willing
+to follow.
+
+The two men sat down beside the cabin, and lit their pipes. Nothing was
+said for a time. Dick seemed disinclined to conversation, and Stubbs was
+always disposed to be silent when enjoying a smoke.
+
+The smoke continued for twenty minutes or more.
+
+Finally Dick withdrew the pipe from his mouth.
+
+"Well, Dick, what do you think about it? What shall we do?" inquired his
+friend.
+
+"I am going to foller the kid."
+
+"But you don't know where he's gone," replied Stubbs.
+
+"No; but I may strike his track. Are you with me?"
+
+"Of course I am."
+
+"Then listen to me. The one that let the boy out knows the neighborhood.
+The boy would naturally want to go to Groveton, and likely he would be
+directed to Stover. If the kid had any money, he would ask Stover to
+drive him over, or else he would foot it."
+
+"You're right, Dick. That's what he'd do," said Stubbs, admiring his
+companion's penetration.
+
+"Then we must go over to Stover's."
+
+"All right! I'm with you."
+
+"I'm a poor man, Bob, but I'd give a ten dollar bill to have that kid in
+my power once more."
+
+"I don't doubt it, Dick."
+
+"I hate to have it said that a kid like that got the advantage of Dick
+Hayden."
+
+"So would I, Bob."
+
+"If I get hold of him I'll give him a lesson that he won't soon forget."
+
+"And serve him right too."
+
+The two men rose, and took their way across the fields, following
+exactly the same path which our hero had traveled earlier in the
+morning.
+
+They walked with brisk steps, having a definite purpose in view. Dick
+Hayden was intensely anxious to recapture Kit, whose escape had balked
+him of his vengeance, and mortified him exceedingly. As he expressed it,
+he could not bear to think that a boy of sixteen had got the advantage
+of him.
+
+At length they reached the red house already referred to, and saw Ham
+Stover, the owner, in the yard.
+
+"You are up betimes, Dick," said Stover. "What's in the wind?"
+
+"Have you seen aught of a boy of sixteen passin' this way?" asked Dick,
+anxiously.
+
+"A likely lookin' lad, well dressed?"
+
+"Yes."
+
+"He was round here an hour ago, and took breakfast in the house."
+
+This was true; the slight refreshment Janet had brought him having
+proved insufficient to completely stay the cravings of Kit's appetite
+after his night in the cabin.
+
+"Where is he now?"
+
+"What do you want of him?"
+
+"Never you mind--I'll tell you bimeby. Where is he?"
+
+"He wanted me to harness up and take him to Groveton."
+
+Dick Hayden and Stubbs exchanged glances. It was evident that they had
+struck Kit's trail.
+
+"Well, did you do it?"
+
+"No; I couldn't spare the time. Besides I wanted the horse to go to the
+village. I'm going to harness up now."
+
+"What did the boy do?"
+
+"He walked."
+
+"How long since did he start?"
+
+"About half an hour or thereabouts."
+
+Dick Hayden made a rapid calculation.
+
+"We may overtake him if we walk fast," he said.
+
+Without stopping to enlighten the curiosity of Mr. Stover the two men
+set out rapidly on the Groveton road.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXI.
+
+IN THE ENEMY'S HANDS.
+
+
+Mr. Stover was considerably surprised when twenty minutes later, looking
+up from his work in the yard, he saw a man of colossal size crossing the
+street. He hadn't attended the circus, and had not therefore heard of
+the giant, who was one of its principal features.
+
+"Who in creation can that be?" Stover asked himself.
+
+Achilles Henderson turned into the yard, and accosted the farmer:
+
+"Good morning, friend," he said. "Can you tell me if a boy of about
+sixteen has passed here this morning?"
+
+"That boy again!" thought the bewildered farmer.
+
+"Yes," he answered.
+
+"Please describe him."
+
+Mr. Stover did so.
+
+"The very one!" said Achilles. "Now how long since was he here?"
+
+"He took breakfast with my family, and started off nigh on to an hour
+ago."
+
+"In what direction did he go?"
+
+This question was also answered.
+
+"Thank you, friend," said the giant; "you have done me a favor."
+
+"Then won't you do me one?" said Stover. "Who is this boy that so many
+people are askin' for?"
+
+"He is a young acrobat connected with Barlow's circus. But what do you
+mean by so many people asking about him?"
+
+"There was two men here twenty minutes ago, that seemed very anxious to
+find him."
+
+Achilles Henderson heard this with apprehension. He could guess who they
+were, and what he heard alarmed him for Kit's safety.
+
+"Who are they?" he inquired hastily.
+
+"Dick Hayden and Bob Stubbs."
+
+"Are they miners?"
+
+"Yes."
+
+"Did you tell them where the boy went?"
+
+"Sartin! Why not?"
+
+"Because they mean to do the boy a mischief; they may even kill him."
+
+"What in creation should they do that for?"
+
+"Mr. Stover, I must follow them at once. Have you a team?"
+
+"Yes; but I calculated to use it."
+
+"I must have it, and I want you to go with me. You may charge what you
+please. Remember a boy's life may depend on it."
+
+"Then you shall have it," said the farmer, "and I'll go with you. I took
+a likin' to the boy. He was a gentleman, if ever I saw one; and my women
+folks was mightily taken with him. Dick Hayden and Bob Stubbs are rough
+kind of men, and I wouldn't trust any one I set store by in their hands.
+But why----"
+
+"Harness your horse, and I'll answer your questions on the way, Mr.
+Stover."
+
+"How do you know my name?" asked Stover, with sudden thought.
+
+"I was told by some one as I came along."
+
+The farmer lost no time in harnessing his horse, Achilles Henderson
+lending a hand. The horse seemed rather alarmed, never having seen a
+giant before, but soon got over his fright. The two men then jumped into
+the wagon, and set out in search of Kit.
+
+Meanwhile our hero had taken his way leisurely along the road. He didn't
+anticipate being followed, at any rate so soon, and felt under no
+particular apprehension. He had walked about three miles when a broad
+branching elm tree tempted him to rest by its shade. He threw himself
+down on the grass, and indulged in self congratulations upon his escape
+from his captors. But his congratulation proved to be premature. After
+a while he raised his eyes and looked carelessly back in the direction
+from which he had come. What he saw startled him.
+
+The two miners, Hayden and Stubbs, had lost no time on the way. They
+were bent on capturing Kit, in order to revenge themselves upon him.
+
+Reaching a little eminence in the road Dick Hayden caught sight of his
+intended victim sitting under the tree.
+
+His eyes gleamed with a wicked light.
+
+"There's the kid, Stubbs!" he said. "Stir your stumps, old man, and
+we'll collar him!"
+
+The two miners started on a run, and when Kit caught sight of them they
+were already within a few rods. The young acrobat saw that his only
+safety, if indeed there was any chance at all, was in flight. He started
+to his feet, and being fleet of limb gave them a good chase. But in the
+end the superior strength and endurance of the men conquered. Flushed
+and panting, Kit was compelled to stop. Hayden grasped him by the collar
+with a look of wicked satisfaction.
+
+"So I've got you, my fine chap, have I?"
+
+"Yes, so it seems!" said Kit, his heart sinking.
+
+"Sit down! I've got a few questions to ask."
+
+There was a broad flat stone by the roadside. He seated Kit upon it with
+a forcible push, and the two men ranged themselves one on each side of
+him.
+
+"What time did you leave the cabin, boy?"
+
+"I don't know what time it was. It must have been two hours
+since--perhaps more."
+
+"Did any one let you out?"
+
+"Yes."
+
+"Who was it?"
+
+"I don't know the person's name."
+
+"Was it a man?"
+
+Kit began to feel that he must be cautious. He knew that she was the
+daughter of the man who was questioning him, and that she would be in
+danger of rough treatment if her father should find out that she had
+thwarted him.
+
+"I cannot tell you," he answered, though he well knew that the answer
+was likely to get him into trouble.
+
+"You can't tell? Why not? Don't you know whether it was a man or not?"
+
+"Yes, I know."
+
+"You mean that you won't tell me, then?" said Hayden, in a menacing
+tone.
+
+"I mean that I don't care to do it. I might get the person into
+trouble."
+
+"You would that, you may bet your life. I can tackle any man round here,
+and I'd get even with that man if I swung for it."
+
+"That is why I don't care to tell you," said Kit. "How can you tell that
+the man knew you put me there?"
+
+"Didn't you tell him?"
+
+"No."
+
+"It was a man, then!" said Hayden, turning to Stubbs. "Look here, young
+feller, if you tell me who it was, you may get off better yourself."
+
+"I would rather not!" answered Kit, pale but firm.
+
+"Suit yourself, kid, but you may as well know that you'll be half killed
+before we get through with you. Get up!"
+
+As he spoke, Hayden jerked Kit to his feet, and began to drag him toward
+the rail fence.
+
+"Take down the rails, Stubbs!" he said.
+
+"What's your game, Dick?"
+
+"I'm going to give the kid a drubbing that he won't be likely to forget,
+but I can't do it in the road, for some one may come along."
+
+"I'm with you, Dick."
+
+At the lower end of the field which they had now entered was a strip of
+woods, which promised seclusion and freedom from interruption. Poor Kit,
+as he was dragged forward by his relentless captor, found his spirits
+sinking to zero.
+
+"Will no one deliver me from this brutal man?" he exclaimed inwardly.
+
+He felt that his life was in peril.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXII.
+
+KIT'S DANGER.
+
+
+The men reached the edge of the woods and halted.
+
+"I'd like to hang him!" growled Dick Hayden with a malignant look.
+
+"It wouldn't do, Dick," said Stubbs. "We'd get into trouble."
+
+"If we were found out."
+
+"Murder will 'most always come out," said Stubbs, uneasily. He was a
+shade less brutal and far less daring than his companion.
+
+It can be imagined with what feelings Kit heard this colloquy. He had no
+confidence in the humanity of his captors, and considered them, Dick
+Hayden in particular, as capable of anything. He did not dare to
+remonstrate lest in a spirit of perversity the two men might proceed to
+extremities.
+
+Kit was not long in doubt as to the intentions of his captors.
+
+"Take off your coat, boy!" said Hayden, harshly.
+
+Kit looked into the face of his persecutor, and decided that it would be
+prudent to obey. Otherwise he would have forcibly resisted.
+
+He removed his coat and held it over his arm.
+
+"Lay down the coat and take off your vest," was the next order.
+
+This also Kit felt compelled to do.
+
+Dick Hayden produced from the capacious side pocket of his coat a cord,
+which he proceeded to test by pulling. It was evidently very strong.
+
+"Stubbs, tie him to yonder sapling!" said Dick.
+
+Stubbs proceeded, nothing loth, to obey the directions of his leader.
+Kit was tied with his back exposed. Dick Hayden watched the preparations
+with evident enjoyment.
+
+"This is the moment I have been longing for," he said.
+
+From his other pocket he drew a cowhide, which he passed through the
+fingers of his left hand, while with cruel eyes he surveyed the
+shrinking form of his victim.
+
+Meanwhile where was Achilles Henderson?
+
+He and Stover bowled as rapidly over the road as the speed of a fourteen
+year old horse would permit. He looked eagerly before him, in the hope
+of catching a glimpse either of Kit or of the miners. When they started
+they were far behind, but at last they reached a point on the road where
+they could see Kit and his two captors making their way across the
+fields.
+
+"There they are!" said Stover, who was the first to see them.
+
+"And they've got the boy with them!" ejaculated Achilles. "Where are
+they going, do you think?"
+
+"Over to them woods, it's likely," replied Stover.
+
+"What for?"
+
+"I'm afraid they mean to do the boy harm."
+
+"Not if I can prevent it," said Achilles, with a stern look about the
+mouth.
+
+"They're goin' to give him a floggin', I think."
+
+"They'll get the same dose in larger measure, I can tell them that. Mr.
+Stover, isn't there any way I can reach the woods by a short cut so that
+they won't see me?"
+
+"Yes, there is a path in that field there. There is a fringe of trees
+separatin' it from the field where they are walkin'."
+
+"Then stop your horse, and I'll jump out!"
+
+Mr. Stover did so with alacrity. He disliked both Dick Hayden and Bob
+Stubbs, whom he had reason to suspect of carrying off a dozen of his
+chickens the previous season. He had not dared to charge them with it,
+knowing the men's ugly disposition, and being certain that they would
+revenge themselves upon him.
+
+"Do you want me along, Mr. Giant?" he asked.
+
+"No; I'm more than a match for them both."
+
+"Shouldn't wonder if you were," chuckled Stover.
+
+He kept his place in the wagon and laughed quietly to himself.
+
+"I'd like to see the scrimmage," he said to himself.
+
+With this object in view he drove forward, so that from the wagon seat
+he could command a view of the scene of conflict.
+
+"They're tying the boy to a tree," he said. "I reckon the giant'll be in
+time, and I'm glad on't. That boy's a real gentleman. Wonder what he's
+done to rile Dick Hayden and Bob Stubbs. He'd have a mighty small show
+if the giant hadn't come up. Dick's a strong man, but he'll be like a
+child in the hands of an eight-footer."
+
+Meanwhile Achilles Henderson was getting over the ground at the rate of
+ten miles an hour or more. His long strides gave him a great advantage
+over an ordinary runner.
+
+"If they lay a hand on that boy I pity 'em!" he said to himself.
+
+It was fortunate for Kit that Dick Hayden, like a cat who plays with a
+mouse, paused to gloat over the evident alarm and uneasiness of his
+victim, even after all was ready for the punishment which he proposed to
+inflict.
+
+"Well, boy, what have you to say now?" he demanded, drawing the cowhide
+through his short stubby fingers.
+
+"I have nothing to say that will move you from your purpose, I am
+afraid," replied poor Kit.
+
+"I guess you're about right there, kid!" chuckled Hayden. "Are you ready
+to apologize to me for what you done over to the circus?"
+
+"I don't think there is anything to apologize for."
+
+"There isn't, isn't there? Didn't you bring that long-legged ruffian on
+to me?"
+
+"I was only doing my duty," said Kit, manfully.
+
+"Oho! so that's the way you look at it, do you?"
+
+"Yes, sir."
+
+"No doubt you'd like it if that tall brute were here now," said Hayden,
+tauntingly.
+
+"Yes," murmured Kit; "I wish my good friend Achilles were here."
+
+"So that's his name, is it? Well, I wouldn't mind if he were here.
+Stubbs, I think you and I could do for him, eh?"
+
+"I don't know," said Stubbs, dubiously.
+
+"Well I do. He's only one man, while we are two, and strong at that."
+
+"Oho!" thought Achilles, who was now within hearing. "So my friend, the
+miner, is getting valorous! Well, he will probably have a chance to test
+his strength."
+
+By this time Hayden had got through with his taunts, and was ready to
+enjoy his vengeance.
+
+"Your time has come, boy!" he said, fiercely. "Stand back, Stubbs!"
+
+Bob Stubbs stepped back, and Dick Hayden raised the cruel cowhide in his
+muscular grasp. It would have inflicted a terrible blow had it fallen on
+the young acrobat. But something unexpected happened. The instrument of
+torture was torn from his hands, and a deep voice, which he knew only
+too well, uttered these words: "For shame, you brute! Would you kill the
+boy?"
+
+Panic stricken the brutal miner turned and found himself confronting
+Achilles Henderson.
+
+A fierce cry of rage and disappointment burst from his lips.
+
+"Where did you come from?" he stammered.
+
+"From Heaven, I think!" murmured poor Kit, with devout gratitude to that
+overruling Providence which had sent him such a helper in his utmost
+need.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXIII.
+
+DICK HAYDEN MEETS WITH RETRIBUTION.
+
+
+Dick Hayden and Bob Stubbs, large and strong men as they were, looked
+puny, compared with the giant who towered beside them, his face
+kindling with righteous indignation.
+
+"What are you going to do to the boy?" he demanded, sternly.
+
+"I was going to flog him," answered Hayden in a surly tone.
+
+"And you were helping him?" went on Achilles, turning to Stubbs.
+
+"No, sir," answered Stubbs eagerly, for, big as he was, he was a coward.
+"I didn't want Dick to do it."
+
+"You coward!" exclaimed Hayden, contemptuously. "You're as deep in it as
+I am."
+
+"Is that true, Kit?" asked Achilles.
+
+"He isn't as bad as the other," said Kit. "That man Hayden thought of
+killing me, but his friend protested against it."
+
+"It shall be remembered to his credit. Why did you wish to flog the
+boy?" he asked of Hayden.
+
+"On account of what happened at the circus."
+
+"The boy didn't touch you."
+
+"He brought you on me."
+
+"Then I was the one to punish."
+
+"I couldn't get at you."
+
+"Here I am, at your service."
+
+Dick Harden measured the giant with a vindictive eye, but there was
+something in the sight of the mighty thews and sinews of the huge man
+that quelled his warlike ardor.
+
+"It wouldn't be a fair contest," he said sullenly.
+
+"There are two of you, as you said just before I came."
+
+"No, there are not," interposed Stubbs, hastily. "I hain't any grudge
+against you, Mr. Giant."
+
+"You are willing to help me?"
+
+"Yes."
+
+"Then untie that boy."
+
+Stubbs unloosed the cord that bound Kit to the tree, while Achilles
+Henderson watched Hayden narrowly, for he had no mind to let him go
+free.
+
+"Are you that man's slave?" asked Hayden.
+
+"I am willing to oblige him," said Stubbs, meekly.
+
+Kit straightened up on being released, and breathed a sigh of relief.
+
+"Come along, Stubbs," said Hayden, with an ugly look at Kit and his
+protector. "Our business is through."
+
+"Not quite," said Achilles, quietly, as he laid his broad hand with a
+detaining grasp on the shoulder of the ruffian. "I am not through with
+you."
+
+"What do you want?" asked Dick Hayden with assumed bravado, but with an
+uneasy look on his lowering face.
+
+"I am going to give you a lesson. I gave you one at the circus ground,
+but you need another."
+
+"Touch me if you dare!" said Hayden, defiantly.
+
+For answer, Achilles hurled him to the ground with less effort than
+Hayden would have needed to serve Kit in the same way. Then with the
+cowhide uplifted he struck the prostrate wretch three sharp blows that
+made him howl with rage and pain. Stubbs looked on with pale face,
+thinking that his turn might come next.
+
+"Hit him, Stubbs! Kill him!" screamed Dick Hayden. "Would you stand by
+and see me murdered?"
+
+"I can't help you," said Stubbs. "What can I do?"
+
+Having administered justice to the chief ruffian, Achilles turned to
+Stubbs.
+
+"Now," he said, "what have you to say for yourself? Why shouldn't I
+serve you in the same way?"
+
+"Spare me!" whined Stubbs, panic stricken. "I am the boy's friend. It
+was Hayden who wanted to hurt him."
+
+"My friend, I put very little confidence in what you say. Still I don't
+think you are as bad as this brute here. I will spare you on one
+condition."
+
+"What is it? Indeed, I will do anything you ask."
+
+"Then take this cowhide and give your companion a taste of its quality."
+
+Stubbs looked alarmed.
+
+"Don't ask me to do that," he said. "Me and Dick are pals."
+
+"Just as I supposed. In that case you require a dose of the same
+medicine," and Achilles made a threatening demonstration with the
+rawhide.
+
+"Don't do it," cried Stubbs, affrighted.
+
+"Then will you do as I say?"
+
+"Yes, yes."
+
+"Will you lay it on well?"
+
+"Yes," answered Stubbs, who, forced to choose between his own skin and
+Hayden's, was influenced by a regard for his own person.
+
+Dick Hayden listened to this conference with lowering brow. He did not
+think Stubbs would dare to hit him. But he was destined to find himself
+unpleasantly surprised.
+
+Stubbs took the hide from the hands of the giant, and anxious to
+conciliate his powerful antagonist laid it with emphasis on Hayden,
+already smarting from his former castigation.
+
+"I'll kill you for that, Bob Stubbs!" he yelled, almost frothing at the
+mouth with rage.
+
+"I had to do it, Dick!" said Stubbs, apologetically. "You heard what he
+said."
+
+"I don't care what he said. To spare your own miserable carcass, you
+struck your friend. But I am your friend no longer. I'll have it out of
+you!"
+
+"Come, Kit, you are revenged," said the giant. "Now let us hurry on to
+the circus. There's a team in the road below. I think I can make a
+bargain with Mr. Stover to carry us all the way."
+
+They found Mr. Stover waiting for them.
+
+"Well," he said, "how did you make out?"
+
+"Suppose you look back and see!"
+
+Stover did look, and to his amazement he saw Dick Hayden and Bob Stubbs
+rolling on the ground, each holding the other in a fierce embrace.
+Hayden had attacked Stubbs, and though the latter tried hard to avoid a
+combat he was forced into it. Then, finding himself pushed, he fought as
+well as he could. Fortune favored him, for Dick Hayden tripped, and in
+so doing sprained his ankle. He fell with a groan, and Stubbs, glad to
+escape, left him in haste, and made the best of his way home.
+
+It was not until several hours afterwards that Hayden was found by
+another party, and carried home, where he was confined for a fortnight.
+This was fortunate for Kit and the giant, for he had intended to make a
+formal complaint before a justice of the peace which might have resulted
+in the arrest and detention of one or both. But his sprained ankle gave
+him so much pain that it drove all other thoughts out of his head for
+the time being.
+
+Mr. Stover was induced by an unusually liberal offer to convey the two
+friends to the next town, where they found their circus friends
+wondering what had become of them. Kit was none the worse for his
+experience, though it had been far from pleasant, and performed that
+afternoon and evening with his usual spirit and success.
+
+He told Achilles how he had been rescued by Janet Hayden, and the latter
+said with emphasis: "The girl's a trump! She has probably saved your
+life! That brute, her father, wouldn't shrink from any violence, no
+matter how great. You ought to make her some acknowledgment, Kit."
+
+"I wouldn't dare to," answered the young acrobat. "If her father should
+find out what she did for me, I am afraid her life would not be safe."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXIV.
+
+SOME IMPORTANT INFORMATION.
+
+
+Two or three days later, the circus was billed to show at Glendale, a
+manufacturing village in Western Pennsylvania. The name attracted the
+attention of Kit, for this was the place where his uncle had lived for
+many years previous to the death of Kit's father. He naturally desired
+to learn something of his uncle's reputation among the villagers, who
+from his long residence among them must remember him well.
+
+The circus had arrived during the night. As a general thing Kit was not
+in a hurry to get up, but as he was to stay but a day in Glendale, he
+rose early, with the intention of improving his time.
+
+Breakfast in the circus tent was not ready till nine o'clock, for circus
+men of every description get up late, except the razorbacks, who are
+compelled to be about very early to unload the freight cars, and the
+canvas men, who put up the tents. So Kit went to the hotel, and
+registering his name called for breakfast.
+
+After he had eaten it, he strolled into the office, hoping to meet some
+one of whom he could make inquiries respecting his uncle. This was made
+unexpectedly easy. A man of about his uncle's age had been examining the
+list of arrivals. He looked at Kit inquisitively.
+
+"I beg your pardon, young man," he said, "but are you Christopher
+Watson?"
+
+"Yes, sir," answered Kit, politely.
+
+"Did you ever have any relatives living in this place?"
+
+"Yes, sir. My uncle, Stephen Watson, used to live here."
+
+"I thought so. I once saw your father. He came here to visit your uncle.
+You look like him."
+
+Kit was gratified, for he cherished a warm affection for his dead
+father, and was glad to have it said that he resembled him.
+
+"Are you going to stay here long?" asked the villager.
+
+"No, sir; I am here only for the day."
+
+"On business, I presume."
+
+"Yes, sir," answered Kit, smiling. "I am here with Barlow's circus."
+
+The other looked amazed.
+
+"You don't mean to say that you are connected with the circus?" he
+exclaimed.
+
+"Yes, sir."
+
+"In what capacity?"
+
+"I am an acrobat."
+
+"I don't understand it at all. Why should your father's son need to
+travel with a circus?"
+
+"Because I have my living to earn, and that pays me better than any
+other employment I can get."
+
+"But your father was a rich man, I always heard."
+
+"I supposed so myself, till a short time since my uncle informed me that
+I was penniless, and must learn a trade."
+
+"But where did the money go, then? How does your uncle make a living?"
+
+"He has my father's old place, and appears to have enough to support
+himself and Ralph."
+
+"Sit down here, young man! There is something strange about this. I want
+to ask you a few questions."
+
+"You are the man I want to see," said Kit. "I think myself there is some
+mystery, and I would like to ask some questions about my uncle Stephen
+from some one who knew him here. I suppose you knew him?"
+
+"No one knew him better. Many is the time he has come to me for a loan.
+He didn't always pay back the money, and I dare say he owes me still in
+the neighborhood of fifty dollars."
+
+"Was he poor then?"
+
+"He was in very limited circumstances. He pretended to be in the
+insurance business, and had a small office in the building near the
+hotel, but if he made four hundred dollars a year in that way it was
+more than any one supposed."
+
+"Then," said Kit, puzzled, "how could he have lent my father ten
+thousand dollars?"
+
+"He lend you father ten thousand dollars, or anybody else ten thousand
+dollars! Why, that is perfectly ridiculous. Who says he did?"
+
+"He says so himself."
+
+"To whom did he tell that fish story?"
+
+"He told me. That is the way he explained his taking possession of the
+property. That was only one loan. He said he lent father money at
+various times, and had to take the estate in payment."
+
+Kit's auditor gave a loud whistle.
+
+"The man's a deeper and shrewder rascal than I had any idea of," he
+said. "He is swindling you in the most barefaced manner."
+
+"I am not very much surprised to hear it," said Kit. "I was not
+satisfied that he was telling the truth. If you are correct, then, he
+has wrongfully appropriated my father's money."
+
+"There is not a doubt of it. Did he drive you from home?"
+
+"About the same. He attempted to apprentice me to a blacksmith, while
+his own son Ralph he means to send to college, and have him study law."
+
+"I remember Ralph well, though he was a small boy when he left this
+village. He was very unpopular among those of his own age. He was always
+up to some mean act of mischief. He got my boy into trouble once in
+school by charging him with something he had himself done."
+
+"He hasn't changed much, then," said Kit. "We both attended the same
+boarding school, but nobody liked Ralph."
+
+"Was he much of a scholar?"
+
+"No; he dragged along in the lower half of the class."
+
+"Were you two good friends?"
+
+"We didn't quarrel, but we kept apart."
+
+"So his father wants to make a lawyer of him?"
+
+"Yes; I have had a letter from Smyrna in which I hear that my uncle has
+just bought Ralph a bicycle valued at a hundred and twenty-five
+dollars."
+
+"Money seems to be more plenty with him now than it used to be in his
+Glendale days. By the way would you like to see the place where your
+uncle used to live?"
+
+"Yes, sir, if you don't mind showing me."
+
+"I will do so with pleasure. Put on your hat, and we will go at once."
+
+They walked about a third of a mile, till they reached the outskirts of
+the village.
+
+"This is the home of the foreign population," said Kit's guide. "And
+there is the house which was occupied for at least ten years by your
+uncle."
+
+Kit eyed the building with interest. It was a plain looking cottage,
+containing but four rooms, which stood badly in need of paint. There was
+about an acre of land, rocky and sterile, attached to it.
+
+"This is the residence of the man who lent your father ten thousand
+dollars," said his guide, in an ironical tone. "Not much of a palace, is
+it?"
+
+"It can't be worth over a thousand dollars."
+
+"Your uncle sold it for seven hundred and eighty dollars, but he didn't
+get that sum in money, for it was mortgaged for six hundred."
+
+"You said my father came here once?"
+
+"It was to visit your uncle. While he was here, he stood security at the
+tailor's for new suits for your uncle and cousin, and must have given
+your uncle some cash besides, for he appeared to be in funds for some
+time afterwards. So you see the loan, or rather gift, was on the other
+side."
+
+"I don't see how my uncle dared to misrepresent matters in that way."
+
+"Nor I; for he could easily be convicted of fraudulent statements."
+
+"I am very much obliged to you, Mr.----"
+
+"Pierce."
+
+"Mr. Pierce, for your information."
+
+"I hope you will make some use of it."
+
+"I certainly shall," said Kit, his good humored face showing unwonted
+resolution.
+
+"Whenever you do, my testimony will be at your service, and there are
+plenty others who will corroborate my statements of your uncle's
+financial condition when here. The fact is, my young friend, your uncle
+has engaged in a most shameless plot against you."
+
+Kit was deeply impressed by this conversation. He was resolved, when the
+time came, to assert his rights, and lay claim to his dead father's
+property.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXV.
+
+ON THE TRAPEZE.
+
+
+Kit was on pleasant relations with his fellow performers. Indeed, he was
+a general favorite, owing to his obliging disposition and pleasant
+manners. He took an interest in their acts as well as his own, and in
+particular had cultivated an intimacy with Louise Lefroy, the trapeze
+performer. He had practiced on the trapeze in the gymnasium, and had
+acquired additional skill under the tuition of Mlle. Lefroy.
+
+"Some time you will make an engagement as a trapeze performer,
+Christopher," said the lady to him one day.
+
+"No," answered Kit, shaking his head.
+
+"You wouldn't be afraid?"
+
+"No; I think I would make a very respectable performer; but I don't mean
+to travel with the circus after this season, unless I am obliged to."
+
+"Why should you be obliged to?"
+
+"Because I have my living to earn."
+
+"It is a pity," said Mlle. Lefroy. "You seem cut out for a circus
+performer."
+
+"Do you like it, Mlle. Lefroy?"
+
+The lady looked thoughtful.
+
+"I have to like it," she said. "Besides, there is an excitement about
+it, and I crave excitement."
+
+"But wouldn't you rather have a home of your own?"
+
+"Listen! I had a home of my own, but my husband was intemperate, and in
+fits of intoxication would illtreat me and my boy."
+
+"Then you have a boy?" said Kit, surprised.
+
+"Yes; and I support him at a boarding school out of my professional
+earnings, which are large."
+
+"I am going to ask you another question, but you may not like to answer
+it."
+
+"Speak plainly."
+
+"Your husband is living, is he not?"
+
+"Yes."
+
+"Does he know that you are a circus performer?"
+
+"No; and I would not have him know for worlds."
+
+"Would he feel sensitive about it?"
+
+Mlle. Lefroy laughed bitterly.
+
+"You don't know him, or you would not ask that question," she said. "He
+would want to appropriate my salary. That is why I do not care to have
+him know how I am earning the living which he ought to provide for me."
+
+"I sympathize with you," said Kit, gently.
+
+"Then you don't think any the worse of me because I am a trapeze
+performer."
+
+"Why should I? Am I not a circus performer also?"
+
+"Yes; but it is different with you, being a man. You would not like to
+think of your mother or sister in my position."
+
+"No; I would not, yet I can imagine circumstances that would justify
+it."
+
+From this time Kit was disposed to look with different eyes upon Mlle.
+Lefroy. He did not think of her as a daring actor, but rather as an
+injured wife and devoted mother, who every day risked her life for the
+sake of one who was dear to her.
+
+"Did you never fear that your husband might be present when you are
+performing?" asked Kit.
+
+"It is my constant dread," answered Mlle. Lefroy. "When I come out in my
+costume, and look over the sea of heads, I am always afraid I shall see
+_his_ face."
+
+"But you never have yet?"
+
+"Never yet. I do not think if I should see that man I could go through
+my part. It requires nerve, as you know, and my nerves would be so
+shaken that my life would be in peril. If you ever hear of my meeting
+with an accident, you may guess the probable cause."
+
+"Then, if ever you recognize your husband among the spectators, it would
+be prudent to omit your performance."
+
+"That is what I propose to do."
+
+Kit little imagined how soon the contingency which his friend feared
+would arrive.
+
+Two evenings later Harry Thorne brought him a little note. He opened it
+and read as follows:
+
+     Come and see me at once.              LOUISE LEFROY.
+
+Kit ascertained where Mlle. Lefroy was to be found, and obeyed the
+summons immediately.
+
+He found the lady in great agitation.
+
+"Are you not well?" he asked.
+
+"Well in health, but not in mind," she answered.
+
+"Has anything happened?"
+
+"Yes; what I dreaded has come to pass."
+
+"Have you seen your husband?" asked Kit quickly.
+
+"Yes; I was taking a walk, and saw him on the opposite side of the
+street."
+
+"Did he see you?"
+
+"No; but I ascertained that he is staying at the hotel. Now he is likely
+to follow the crowd, and attend the circus to-night."
+
+"That is probable. Then you will not appear."
+
+"I should not dare to. But it will be a great disappointment to the
+management. The trapeze act is always a popular one, especially in a
+country town like this. Now I am going to ask a favor of you."
+
+Kit's face flushed with excitement. He foresaw what it would be.
+
+"What is it?" he asked.
+
+"I want you to appear in my place this evening."
+
+"Do you think I am competent?"
+
+"You cannot do my act, but you can do enough to satisfy the public. But,
+my dear friend, I don't want to subject you to any risk. If you are at
+all nervous or afraid, don't attempt it."
+
+"I am not afraid," said Kit confidently. "I will appear!"
+
+In the evening the tent was full. Very few knew of the change in the
+programme. Mr. Barlow had consented to the substitution with some
+reluctance, for he feared that Kit might be undertaking something beyond
+his power to perform. Even the Vincenti brothers, Kit's associates, were
+surprised when the manager came forward and said:
+
+"Ladies and gentlemen, Mlle. Lefroy is indisposed, and will be unable
+to perform her act this evening. Unwilling to disappoint the public, we
+have substituted one of our youngest and most daring performers, who
+will appear in her place."
+
+When Kit came out, his young face glowing with excitement, and made his
+bow, the crowd of spectators greeted him with enthusiastic applause. His
+fellow actors joined in the ovation. They feared he had overrated his
+ability, but were ready to applaud his pluck.
+
+Now was the time, if any, for Kit to grow nervous, and show stage
+fright. But he felt none. The sight of the eager faces around him only
+stimulated him. He caught the rope which hung down from the trapeze, and
+quickly climbing up poised himself on his elevated perch.
+
+He did not allow himself to look down, but strove to shut out the sight
+of the hundreds of upturned faces, and proceeded to perform his act as
+coolly as if he were in a gymnasium, only six feet from the ground
+instead of thirty.
+
+It is not to be supposed that Kit, who was a comparative novice, could
+equal Mlle. Louise Lefroy, who had been cultivating her specialty for
+ten years. He went through several feats, however, hanging from the
+trapeze with his head down, then quickly recovering himself and swinging
+by his hands. The public was disposed to be pleased, and, when the act
+was finished, gave him a round of applause.
+
+Later in the evening a small man, with a very dark complexion, and keen,
+black eyes, approached him as he was standing near the lion's cage.
+
+"Is this Luigi Vincenti?" he asked.
+
+This was Kit's circus name. He passed for a brother, of Alonzo and
+Antonio Vincenti.
+
+"Yes, sir," answered Kit.
+
+"I saw your trapeze act this evening," he went on. "It was very good."
+
+"Thank you, sir. You know, perhaps, that I am not a trapeze performer. I
+only appeared in place of Mlle. Lefroy, who is indisposed."
+
+"So I understand; but you do very well for a boy. My name is Signor
+Oponto. I am at the head of a large circus in Havana. My visit to the
+United States is partly to secure additional talent. How long are you
+engaged to Mr. Barlow?"
+
+"For no definite time. I suppose I shall remain till the end of the
+season."
+
+"You have no engagements beyond?"
+
+"No, sir; this is my first season with any circus."
+
+"Then I will make you an offer. I don't want to take you from Mr.
+Barlow, but when the season is over I shall be ready to arrange for your
+appearance in Havana under my personal management."
+
+Though Kit was modest he was human. He did feel flattered to find
+himself rated so high. It even occurred to him that he might like to be
+considered a star in circus circles, to be the admiration of circus
+audiences, and to be regarded with wondering awe by boys of his own age
+throughout the country. But Kit was also a sensible boy. After all, this
+preëminence was only of a physical character. A great acrobat or trapeze
+artist has no recognized place in society, and his ambition is of a low
+character. While these reflections were presenting themselves to his
+mind, Signor Oponto stood by in silence, waiting for his answer. He
+thought that Kit's hesitation was due to pecuniary considerations.
+
+"What salary does Mr. Barlow pay you?" he asked, in a businesslike
+tone.
+
+"Twenty-five dollars a week."
+
+"I will give you fifty, and engage you for a year."
+
+He regarded Kit intently to see how this proposal struck him.
+
+"You are very liberal, Signor Oponto," Kit began, but the manager
+interrupted him.
+
+"I will also pay your board," he added; "and of course defray your
+expenses to Havana. Is that satisfactory?"
+
+"It would be very much so but for one thing."
+
+"What is that?"
+
+"I doubt whether I shall remain in the business after this season."
+
+"Why not? Don't you like it?"
+
+"Yes, very well; but I prefer to follow some profession of a literary
+character. I am nearly prepared for college, and I may decide to
+continue my studies."
+
+"But even your college students devote most of their time to base ball
+and rowing, I hear."
+
+"Not quite so bad as that," answered Kit, with a smile.
+
+"You don't refuse definitely, I hope."
+
+"No; it may be that I may feel obliged to remain in the business. In
+that case I will give you the preference."
+
+"That is all I can expect. Here is my card. Whenever you are ready,
+write to me, and your communication will receive instant attention."
+
+"Thank you, sir."
+
+The next day Mlle. Lefroy resumed her work, the danger of meeting her
+husband having passed. She expressed her gratitude to Kit for serving as
+her substitute, and wished to make him a present of ten dollars, but he
+refused to accept it.
+
+"I was glad of the chance to see what I could do on the trapeze," he
+said. "I never expect to follow it up, but I have already received an
+offer of an engagement in that line."
+
+"So I heard. And you don't care to accept it?"
+
+"No; I do not mean to be a circus performer permanently."
+
+"You are right. It leads to nothing, and before middle life you are
+liable to find yourself unfitted for it."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXVI.
+
+CLOSE OF THE CIRCUS.
+
+
+Days and weeks flew swiftly by. September gave place to October, and the
+circus season neared its close. Already the performers were casting
+about for employment during the long, dull winter that must elapse
+before the next season.
+
+"What are your plans, Kit?" asked Antonio Vincenti, who in private
+called his young associate by his real name.
+
+"I don't know yet, Antonio. I may go to school."
+
+"Have you saved money enough to keep you through the winter?"
+
+"Yes; I have four hundred dollars in the wagon."
+
+This is the expression made use of to indicate "in the hands of the
+treasurer."
+
+"You've done better than my brother or I. We must work during the
+winter."
+
+"Have you any chance yet?"
+
+"Yes; we can go to work in a dime museum in Philadelphia for a month,
+and afterwards we will go to Chicago, where we were last winter. I
+could get a chance for you, too."
+
+"Thank you, but I don't care to work in that way at present. If I went
+anywhere I would go to Havana, where I am offered a profitable
+engagement."
+
+"Has Mr. Barlow said anything to you about next season?"
+
+"Yes; but I shall make no engagement in advance. Something may happen
+which will keep me at home."
+
+"Oh, you'll be coming round in the spring. You'll have the circus fever
+like all the rest of us."
+
+Kit smiled and shook his head.
+
+"I haven't been in the business long enough to get so much attached to
+it as you are," he said. "But at any rate, I shall come round to see my
+old friends."
+
+The last circus performance was given in Albany, and the winter quarters
+were to be at a town twenty miles distant. Kit went through his acts
+with his usual success, and when he took off his circus costume, it was
+with a feeling that it might be the last time he would wear it.
+
+The breaking up was not to take place till the next day, and he was
+preparing to spend the night in some Albany hotel.
+
+He had taken off his tights, as has been said, and put on his street
+dress, when a tall man, with a frank, good humored expression, stepped
+up to him.
+
+"Are you Christopher Watson?" he asked.
+
+"Yes," answered Kit, in surprise, for he had no recollection of having
+met the stranger before.
+
+"Of course you don't know me, but I was a school-fellow and intimate
+friend of your father."
+
+"Then," said Kit, cordially, "I must take you by the hand. All my
+father's friends are my friends."
+
+The face of the stranger lighted up.
+
+"That's the way to talk," he said. "I see you are like your father.
+Shake hands again."
+
+"But how did you know I was with Barlow's circus?" asked Kit, puzzled.
+
+"Your uncle told me."
+
+"Have you seen him lately?" asked Kit, quickly.
+
+"No; I saw him about three months ago at Smyrna."
+
+"What did he tell you about me?"
+
+"He said you were a wayward lad, and preferred traveling with a circus
+to following an honest business."
+
+"I am afraid you have got a wrong idea of me, then."
+
+"Bless you, I knew your uncle before you were born. He is not at all
+like your father. One was as open as the day, the other was cunning,
+selfish, and foxy."
+
+"I see you understand my Uncle Stephen as well as I do."
+
+"I ought to."
+
+"Were you surprised to hear that I was traveling with a circus?"
+
+"Well, I was; but your uncle told me one thing that surprised me more.
+He said that your father left nothing."
+
+"That surprised me, too; but I have got some light on the subject and I
+feel in need of a friend and adviser."
+
+"Then if you'll take Henry Miller for want of a better, I don't believe
+you'll regret it."
+
+"I shall be glad to accept your kind offer, Mr. Miller. Now that you
+mention your name, I remember it very well. My father often spoke of
+you."
+
+"Did he so?" said the stranger, evidently much gratified. "I am glad to
+hear it. Of all my school companions, your father was the one I liked
+best. And now, before we go any further, I want to tell you two things.
+First, I should have hunted you up sooner, but business called me to
+California, where I have considerable property. Next, having learned
+that you were left destitute, I decided to do something for the son of
+my old friend. So I took a hundred shares of stock in a new mine, which
+had just been put on the market when I reached 'Frisco, and I said to
+myself: 'That is for Kit Watson.' Well, it was a lucky investment. The
+shares cost me five dollars apiece, and just before I left California I
+sold them for fifty dollars apiece. What do you say to that?"
+
+"Is it possible mining shares rise in value so fast?" asked Kit in
+amazement.
+
+"Well, sometimes they do, and sometimes they don't. Often it's the other
+way, and I don't advise you or anybody else that knows nothing about it
+to speculate in mining shares. It is a risky thing, and you are more apt
+to lose than to win. However, this turned out O. K., and you are worth
+five thousand dollars to-day, my boy."
+
+"I don't know how to thank you, Mr. Miller," said Kit. "I can't seem to
+realize it."
+
+"You needn't thank me at all. I did it for your father's sake, but now
+that I know you I am glad to do it for your own. When we get to New York
+I advise you to salt it down in government bonds, or in some other good
+reliable stock."
+
+"I shall be glad to follow your advice, Mr. Miller."
+
+"Then I'll invest all but five hundred dollars, for you may want to use
+that. What sort of a season have you had?"
+
+"I've saved up four hundred dollars," said Kit proudly.
+
+"You don't say so! You must have got pretty good pay."
+
+"Twenty-five dollars a week."
+
+"Your uncle said you probably got two or three dollars a week."
+
+"He probably thought so. He has no idea I have been so well paid. I
+chose to keep it from him."
+
+"You said you wanted to ask my advice about something."
+
+"Yes, sir."
+
+"Why not come round to the Delavan and take a room? I am staying there,
+and I will tell the clerk to pick you out a room next to mine."
+
+"I will do so. I intended to stay at some hotel to night. This is the
+last night of the circus. To-morrow we close up, and separate. I shall
+draw my money and bid good-by to my circus friends."
+
+"I am glad of that. We will keep together. I have neither chick nor
+child, Kit, and if you'll accept me as your guardian I'll do the best I
+can for you. But perhaps you prefer to go back to your uncle."
+
+Kit shook his head.
+
+"I should never do that," he said, "especially after what I have learned
+during my trip."
+
+"Let it keep till to-morrow, for we are both tired. Now get ready and
+we'll go to the Delavan."
+
+Kit was assigned a nice room next to Mr. Miller, where he passed a
+comfortable night.
+
+The next day he revealed to his new friend the discoveries he had made
+in his uncle's old home in Pennsylvania--his uncle's poverty up to the
+time of his brother's death, and the evident falseness of his claim to
+have lent him large sums of money, in payment of which he had coolly
+appropriated his entire estate.
+
+His late friend listened to this story in amazement.
+
+"I knew Stephen Watson to be unprincipled," he said, "but I didn't think
+him as bad as that. He has swindled you shamefully."
+
+"Just my idea, Mr. Miller."
+
+"While he has carefully feathered his own nest. This wrong must be
+righted."
+
+"It was my intention to find some good lawyer, and ask his advice."
+
+"We'll do it, Kit. But, first of all, I'll go with you to this town in
+Pennsylvania, and obtain the necessary testimony sworn to before a
+justice. Then we'll find a good lawyer, and move on the enemy's works."
+
+"I will be guided by your advice entirely, Mr. Miller."
+
+"It will be a satisfaction to me to get even with your uncle. To swindle
+his own nephew in this barefaced manner! We'll bring him up with a short
+turn, Kit!"
+
+The next day Kit and his new friend left Albany.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXVII.
+
+KIT COMES HOME.
+
+
+One morning James Schuyler Kit's old acquaintance at Smyrna, received a
+letter from Kit, in which he said: "Our circus season is ended, but I am
+detained a few days by important business. I will tell you about it when
+we meet. If you see my uncle tell him that I expect to reach Smyrna
+somewhere about the twenty-fifth of October."
+
+"I wonder what Kit's important business can be," thought James. "I hope
+it is something of advantage to him."
+
+James happened to meet Stephen Watson an hour later.
+
+"Mr. Watson," he said, "I had a letter from Kit this morning."
+
+"Indeed!"
+
+"He says that his circus season is over."
+
+"And he is out of employment," said Watson, his lip curling.
+
+"I suppose so; he expects to reach Smyrna somewhere about the
+twenty-fifth of the month."
+
+Stephen Watson smiled, but said nothing.
+
+"No doubt he will find it very convenient to stay at home through the
+winter," he reflected. "Well, he must think I am a fool to take back a
+boy who has defied my authority."
+
+It was Saturday, and Ralph was home from boarding-school.
+
+"Ralph," said his father, "I bring you good news."
+
+"What is it, pa?"
+
+"Your cousin will be home from the circus towards the last of next
+week."
+
+"Who told you? Did he write you?"
+
+"He wrote to James Schuyler, who told me."
+
+"I suppose he expects you will give him a home through the winter."
+
+"You may rest easy, Ralph. He won't have his own way with me, I can
+assure you."
+
+"What shall you do, pa?"
+
+"I shall see Bickford about taking him back. I have occasion to go over
+there on Monday to have the horse shod, and I can speak to him about
+it."
+
+Ralph laughed.
+
+"That will bring down his pride," he said. "I suppose he will beg off."
+
+"He will find me firm as a rock. What I decide upon I generally carry
+through."
+
+"Good for you, pa! I was afraid you would weaken."
+
+"You don't know me, my son. I have been patient and bided my time. Your
+cousin presumed to set up his will against mine. He has got along thus
+far because he has made a living by traveling with a circus. Now the
+circus season is at an end, and he is glad enough to come back to me."
+
+On Monday Stephen Watson rode over to Oakford, and made it in his way to
+call on Aaron Bickford.
+
+"Have you got a boy, Mr. Bickford?" he asked.
+
+"I had one, but he left me last Saturday. He didn't suit me."
+
+This was the blacksmith's interpretation of it. The truth was the boy
+became disgusted with the treatment he received and the fare provided at
+his employer's table, and left him without ceremony.
+
+"How would you like to take back my nephew?"
+
+"Has he come back?" asked the blacksmith, pricking up his ears.
+
+"Not yet; but I expect him back toward the end of next week."
+
+"Has he left the circus?"
+
+"The circus has left him. That is, it has closed for the season. He has
+sent word to a boy in Smyrna that he will be back in a few days."
+
+"He gave me a great deal of trouble, Mr. Watson."
+
+"Just so, and I thought you might like to get even with him," said
+Stephen Watson, looking significantly at the blacksmith.
+
+"It would do me good to give him a flogging," said Aaron Bickford.
+
+"I shan't interfere," replied Watson. "The boy has acted badly and he
+deserves punishment."
+
+"Yes, I'll take him back," said the blacksmith. "I guess he'll stay this
+time," he added grimly.
+
+"I think he will have to. There won't be any circus to give him
+employment."
+
+"He is a good strong boy, and he can make a good blacksmith, if he has a
+mind to."
+
+"You must make him have a mind to," said Stephen Watson.
+
+When the horse was shod he got into the carriage and drove away.
+
+After this interview Mr. Bickford seemed in unusually good spirits, so
+much so that his wife inquired: "Have you had any good luck, Aaron?"
+
+"What makes you ask?"
+
+"Because you look unusually chipper. I was hopin' somebody had died and
+left you a fortune."
+
+"Well, not exactly, wife; but I've heard something that makes me feel
+good."
+
+"What's that?"
+
+"Stephen Watson, of Smyrna, was over here this morning."
+
+"Well?"
+
+"He says that boy Kit is coming home in a few days."
+
+"What if he is?"
+
+"He's goin' to bring him over here, and apprentice him to me again."
+
+"I should think once would be enough, considerin' how he treated you."
+
+"He ain't goin' to serve me so again, you may bet on that. I'm goin' to
+have my way this time."
+
+"Ain't you afraid he'll run away again?"
+
+"Not much. The circus has shut up, and he'll have to stay with me, or
+starve. His uncle tells me I can punish him when I think he deserves
+it."
+
+"I hope you won't be disappointed, Mr. Bickford, but that boy's rather
+hard to handle."
+
+"I know it, but I'm the one that can handle him."
+
+"You thought so before, the evening we went to the show."
+
+"I know so this time."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXVIII.
+
+CONCLUSION.
+
+
+Several days passed. On Thursday afternoon Kit arrived in Smyrna,
+accompanied by his generous California friend Henry Miller. They put up
+at the hotel, and after dinner Kit walked over to the house occupied by
+his uncle.
+
+Mr. Watson saw him from the window, and hastening to the door opened it
+himself.
+
+"Good afternoon, Uncle Stephen," said Kit.
+
+"So you're back!" said his uncle curtly.
+
+"Yes; did you expect me?"
+
+"James Schuyler told me you were coming."
+
+"Yes, I wrote him that he might inform you."
+
+"That was a good thought of yours. I have made arrangements for you."
+
+"What arrangements?"
+
+"I shall take you over to Oakford on Saturday, and place you with Aaron
+Bickford to learn the blacksmith's trade. This time I'd advise you not
+to run away."
+
+Kit didn't exhibit any dismay when his uncle informed him of the plan he
+had arranged for him.
+
+"I will talk this over with you, Uncle Stephen," he said. "With your
+permission I will go into the house."
+
+"You can stay here till Saturday. Then you will go with me to Oakford."
+
+Kit followed his uncle into the house. "I have something important to
+say to you, Uncle Stephen," he went on. "Sit down, and I will tell you
+what I have discovered within the last few months."
+
+Stephen Watson anxiously awaited Kit's communication.
+
+"Can he have found out?" he asked himself. "But no! it is impossible."
+
+"I will give you five minutes to tell me your astonishing discovery," he
+said, with an attempt at his usual sneer.
+
+"I may need a longer time, but I will be as quick as I can. Among the
+places where our circus exhibited was Glendale, Pennsylvania.
+Remembering that you once lived there, I made inquiries about you in the
+village. I saw the house where you lived for many years. Judge of my
+surprise when I learned that you were always in extreme poverty. Then I
+recalled your story of having lent my father ten thousand dollars, in
+payment of which you took the bulk of his property. I mentioned it, and
+found that it was pronounced preposterous. I discovered that on the
+other hand, you were frequently the recipient of money gifts from my
+poor father. In return for this you have attempted to rob his son. The
+note which you presented against the estate was undoubtedly a forgery.
+But even had it been genuine, the property of which you took possession
+must have amounted to at least twenty thousand dollars."
+
+Stephen Watson had not interrupted Kit by a word. He was panic stricken,
+and absolutely did not know what to say. He finally succeeded in
+answering hoarsely: "This is an outrageous falsehood, Christopher
+Watson. It is an ingenious scheme to rob me of what rightfully belongs
+to me. You must be a fool to think I am going to be frightened by a
+boy's wild fiction. Leave my house! I would have allowed you to stay
+till Saturday, but this is too much. If you come here again, I will
+horsewhip you!"
+
+But even when he was making this threat his face was pallid, and his
+glance uneasy.
+
+At this moment the bell rang.
+
+Kit himself answered the call, and returned with his friend, Henry
+Miller.
+
+"Why, it is Mr. Miller!" said Stephen Watson, who had not forgotten that
+Miller was very wealthy. "When did you return from California?"
+
+"Kit, have you told your uncle?" asked Henry Miller, ignoring this
+greeting.
+
+"Yes, and he orders me to leave the house."
+
+"Hark you, Stephen Watson!" said Henry Miller sternly. "You are in a bad
+box. For over a week Kit and I have been looking up matters, and we are
+prepared to prove that you have outrageously defrauded him out of his
+father's estate. We have enlisted a first class lawyer in the case, and
+now we come to you to know whether you will surrender or fight."
+
+"Mr. Miller, this is very strange. Are you in the plot too?"
+
+"Don't talk of any plots, Stephen Watson. Your fraud is so transparent
+that I wonder you dare to hope it would succeed. You probably presumed
+upon Kit's being a boy of an unsuspicious nature. But he has found a
+friend, who was his father's friend before him, and who is determined
+that he shall be righted."
+
+"I defy you!" exclaimed Stephen Watson recklessly, for he saw that
+submission would be ruin, and leave him penniless.
+
+"Wait a minute! I'll give you another chance. Do you know what we are
+prepared to prove? Well, I will tell you. We can prove that you are not
+only a swindler but a forger, and our success will consign you to a
+prison cell. You deserve it, no doubt, but you shall have a chance."
+
+"What terms do you offer?" asked Stephen Watson, overwhelmed by the
+conviction that what Miller said was true.
+
+"Surrender unconditionally, restore to Kit his own property, and----"
+
+"But it will leave me penniless!" groaned Stephen Watson.
+
+"Just as I supposed. In Kit's behalf, I will promise that you shall not
+starve. You once kept a small grocery store, and understand the trade.
+We will set you up in that business wherever you choose, and will give
+you besides a small income, say three hundred dollars a year, so that
+you may be able to live modestly."
+
+"But Ralph, my poor boy, what will become of him?"
+
+"I will pay the expenses of his education," said Kit, "and when he
+leaves school, I will make him an allowance so that he can enter a store
+and qualify himself to earn his own living. He won't be able to live as
+he has lived, but he shall not suffer."
+
+"It is more than either of you deserve," said Henry Miller. "I was not
+in favor of treating you so generously, but Kit, whom you have
+defrauded, insisted upon it. You ought to thank him on your knees."
+
+Stephen Watson did not speak. He looked the picture of misery.
+
+"Do you agree to this?" asked Mr. Miller.
+
+"I must!" replied Watson, sullenly.
+
+It made a great sensation in Smyrna when Kit took his proper place as
+the true master of his dead father's estate. Stephen Watson left town
+suddenly, and Ralph followed him. No sorrow was felt for his reverse of
+fortune, for he had made no friends in the town. He and Ralph settled
+down in a small Western city, and started a grocery store. From time to
+time Kit receives abject letters, pleading for more money, and sometimes
+he sends it, but always against the advice of Henry Miller, who says
+rightly that Stephen Watson already fares better than he deserves.
+
+Ralph is turning out badly. His pride received a severe shock when his
+cousin was raised above him, and he has formed bad habits which in time
+will wreck him physically, unless he turns over a new leaf.
+
+It is hardly necessary to say that Kit decided not to learn the
+blacksmith's trade. His old employer, Aaron Bickford, has tried hard to
+get into his good graces and secure his trade, but Kit employs another
+man for whom he has a greater respect.
+
+Kit has made more than one visit to the worthy Mayor Grant from whom he
+received so much kindness when a young acrobat, and a marked partiality
+for Evelyn, the mayor's pretty daughter, may some day lead to a nearer
+connection between the families.
+
+Good, like bad fortune, seldom comes singly, and besides recovering his
+own property, Kit finds himself the favorite and presumed heir of Henry
+Miller, the wealthy Californian, who has taken up his home with our
+hero. Last summer they took a trip to California, and Kit was charmed
+with the wonderful Yosemite Valley and the Geysers. He has decided to
+become a lawyer, though he will be in a position to live without
+employment of any kind.
+
+A few months after his return, Kit read in the paper of the killing of
+Dick Hayden, the miner, in a drunken brawl at Coalville.
+
+He at once took steps to seek out the daughter, Janet, who had rendered
+him such signal service when he was captured by the ruffians, and
+brought her to Smyrna, where he provided a happy home for her in a
+family of his acquaintance.
+
+Nor has Kit forgotten his circus friends. Last year when Barlow's circus
+returned from its wanderings he invited those whom he knew best, the
+giant, his two brother acrobats, and Mlle. Lefroy, to pass a week as his
+guests. For the sake of old times and experiences he is always ready to
+help poor professionals, and has been a friend in need to many. He knows
+that with all their weaknesses, they are generous to a fault, and ready
+to divide their last dollar with a needy comrade. There are some who
+think Kit shows a strange taste in keeping up acquaintance with his old
+associates, but like his friend, Charlie Davis, who has also retired
+from the circus, he will always have a kindly feeling for those with
+whom he traveled when a YOUNG ACROBAT.
+
+THE END.
+
+
+
+
+
+End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of The Young Acrobat of the Great North
+American Circus, by Horatio Alger Jr.
+
+*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK YOUNG ACROBAT ***
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+    <meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html;charset=iso-8859-1" />
+    <title>
+      The Project Gutenberg eBook of The Young Acrobat of the Great North American Circus, by Horatio Alger, Jr.
+    </title>
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+<pre>
+
+The Project Gutenberg EBook of The Young Acrobat of the Great North
+American Circus, by Horatio Alger Jr.
+
+This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with
+almost no restrictions whatsoever.  You may copy it, give it away or
+re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included
+with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org
+
+
+Title: The Young Acrobat of the Great North American Circus
+
+Author: Horatio Alger Jr.
+
+Release Date: September 5, 2007 [EBook #22521]
+
+Language: English
+
+Character set encoding: ISO-8859-1
+
+*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK YOUNG ACROBAT ***
+
+
+
+
+Produced by David Edwards, Constanze Hofmann and the Online
+Distributed Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net (This
+file was produced from scans of public domain material
+produced by Microsoft for their Live Search Books site.)
+
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+
+
+
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+</pre>
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+<div class="center">
+   <img src="images/cover.jpg" width="600" height="907"
+      alt="Cover" />
+</div>
+
+<h1>
+THE YOUNG ACROBAT<br />
+OF THE<br />
+Great North American Circus</h1>
+
+<p class="titlepage">BY<br />
+HORATIO ALGER, <span class="smcap">Jr.</span><br />
+AUTHOR OF "THE ERIE TRAIN BOY," "RAGGED DICK,"<br />
+"TATTERED TOM," ETC.</p>
+
+<p class="titlepage">NEW YORK<br />
+HURST AND COMPANY<br />
+PUBLISHERS</p>
+
+
+
+
+
+<h1>THE YOUNG ACROBAT</h1>
+
+
+
+
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_I" id="CHAPTER_I"></a>CHAPTER I.<br />
+KIT WATSON.</h2>
+
+<p>There was great excitement in Smyrna, especially among the boys.
+Barlow's Great American Circus in its triumphal progress from State to
+State was close at hand, and immense yellow posters announcing its
+arrival were liberally displayed on fences and barns, while smaller
+bills were put up in the post office, the hotel, and the principal
+stores, and distributed from house to house.</p>
+
+<p>It was the largest circus that had ever visited Smyrna. At least a dozen
+elephants marched with ponderous steps in its preliminary procession,
+while clowns, acrobats, giants, dwarfs, fat women, cannibals, and hairy
+savages from Thibet and Madagascar, were among the strange wonders which
+were to be seen at each performance for the small sum of fifty cents,
+children half price.</p>
+
+<p>For weeks the young people had been looking forward to the advent of
+this marvelous aggregation of curiosities, and the country papers from
+farther east had given glowing accounts of the great show, which was
+emphatically pronounced greater and more gor<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_4" id="Page_4">[Pg 4]</a></span>geous than in any previous
+year. But it may be as well to reproduce, in part, the description given
+in the posters:</p>
+
+<p class="center">BARLOW'S GREAT NORTH AMERICAN CIRCUS.<br />
+Now in its triumphal march across the continent, will<br />
+give two grand performances,<br />
+<span class="smcap">AT SMYRNA</span><br />
+On the afternoon and evening of May 18th.<br />
+Never in all its history has this<br />
+Unparalleled show embraced a greater variety of attractions,<br />
+or included a larger number of world famous<br />
+Acrobats, Clowns, Bare back Riders, Rope walkers, Trapeze<br />
+Artists, and Star Performers,<br />
+In addition to a colossal menagerie, comprising<br />
+Elephants, Tigers, Lions, Leopards,<br />
+and other wild animals in great variety.<br />
+All this and far more, including a hundred<br />
+<span class="smcap">DARING ACTS</span>,<br />
+Can be seen for the trifling sum of Fifty cents;<br />
+Children half price.<br />
+<span class="smcap">Come One!&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Come All!</span></p>
+
+<p>Two boys paused to read this notice, pasted with illustrative pictures
+of elephants and circus performers on the high board fence near
+Stoddard's grocery store. They were Dan Clark and Christopher Watson,
+called Kit for short.</p>
+
+<p>"Shall you go to the circus, Dan?" asked Kit.</p>
+
+<p>"I would like to, but you know, Kit, I have no money to spare."</p>
+
+<p>"Don't let that interfere," said Kit, kindly. "Here is half a dollar.
+That will take you in."</p>
+
+<p>"You're a tip-top fellow, Kit. But I don't think I ought to take it. I
+don't know when I shall be able to return it."</p>
+
+<p>"Who asked you to return it? I meant it as a gift."</p>
+
+<p>"You're a true friend, Kit," said Dan, earnestly.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_5" id="Page_5">[Pg 5]</a></span> "I don't know as I
+ought to take it, but I will anyhow. You know I only get my board and a
+dollar a week from Farmer Clifford, and that I give to my mother."</p>
+
+<p>"I wish you had a better place, Dan."</p>
+
+<p>"So do I; but perhaps it is as well as I can do at my age. All boys are
+not born to good luck as you are."</p>
+
+<p>"Am I born to good luck? I don't know."</p>
+
+<p>"Isn't your uncle Stephen the richest man in Smyrna?"</p>
+
+<p>"I suppose he is; but that doesn't make me rich."</p>
+
+<p>"Isn't he your guardian?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes; but it doesn't follow because there is a guardian there is a
+fortune."</p>
+
+<p>"I hope there is."</p>
+
+<p>"I am going to tell you something in confidence, Dan. Uncle Stephen has
+lately been dropping a good many hints about the necessity of being
+economical, and that I may have my own way to make in the world. What do
+you think it means?"</p>
+
+<p>"Have you been extravagant?"</p>
+
+<p>"Not that I am aware of. I have been at an expensive boarding school
+with my cousin Ralph, and I have dressed well, and had a fair amount of
+spending money."</p>
+
+<p>"Have you spent any more than Ralph?"</p>
+
+<p>"No; not so much, for I will tell you in confidence that he has been
+playing pool and cards for money, of course without the knowledge of the
+principal. I know also that this last term, besides spending his pocket
+money he ran up bills, which his father had to pay, to the amount of
+fifty dollars or more."</p>
+
+<p>"How did your uncle like it?"</p>
+
+<p>"I don't know. Ralph and his father had a pri<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_6" id="Page_6">[Pg 6]</a></span>vate interview, but he got
+the money. I believe his mother took his part."</p>
+
+<p>"Why don't you ask your uncle just how you stand?"</p>
+
+<p>"I have thought of it. If I am to inherit a fortune I should like to
+know it. If I have my own way to make I want to know that also, so that
+I can begin to prepare for it."</p>
+
+<p>"Would you feel bad if you found out that you were a poor boy&mdash;like me,
+for instance?"</p>
+
+<p>"I suppose I should just at first, but I should try to make the best of
+it in the end."</p>
+
+<p>"Well, I hope you won't have occasion to buckle down to hard work. When
+do you go back to school?"</p>
+
+<p>"The next term begins next Monday."</p>
+
+<p>"And it is now Wednesday. You will be able to see the circus at any
+rate. It is to arrive to-night."</p>
+
+<p>"Suppose we go round to the lot to-morrow morning. We can see them
+putting up the tents."</p>
+
+<p>"All right! I'll meet you at nine o'clock."</p>
+
+<p>They were about to separate when another boy, of about the same age and
+size, came up.</p>
+
+<p>"It's time for dinner, Kit," he said; "mother'll be angry if you are
+late."</p>
+
+<p>"Very well! I'll go home with you. Good morning, Dan."</p>
+
+<p>"Good morning, Kit. Good morning, Ralph."</p>
+
+<p>Ralph mumbled out "Morning," but did not deign to look at Dan.</p>
+
+<p>"I wonder you associate with that boy, Kit," he said.</p>
+
+<p>"Why?" inquired Kit, rather defiantly.</p>
+
+<p>"Because he's only a farm laborer."</p>
+
+<p>"Does that hurt him?"<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_7" id="Page_7">[Pg 7]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"I don't care to associate with such a low class."</p>
+
+<p>"Daniel Webster worked on a farm when he was a boy."</p>
+
+<p>"Dan Clark isn't a Webster."</p>
+
+<p>"We don't know what he will turn out to be."</p>
+
+<p>"I don't consider him fit for me to associate with," said Ralph. "It may
+be different in your case."</p>
+
+<p>"Why should it be different in my case?" asked Kit, suspiciously.</p>
+
+<p>"Oh, no offense at all, but your circumstances and social position are
+likely to be different from mine."</p>
+
+<p>"Are they? That's just what I should like to find out."</p>
+
+<p>"My father says so, and as you are under his guardianship he ought to
+know."</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, he ought to know, but he has never told me."</p>
+
+<p>"He has told me, but I am not at liberty to say anything," said Ralph,
+looking mysterious.</p>
+
+<p>"I think I ought to be the first to be told," said Kit, not
+unreasonably.</p>
+
+<p>"You will be told soon. There is one thing I can tell you, however. You
+are not to go back to boarding school on Monday."</p>
+
+<p>Kit paused in the street, and gazed at his companion in surprise.</p>
+
+<p>"Are you going back?" he asked.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes; I'm going to keep on till I am ready for college."</p>
+
+<p>"And what is to be done with me?"</p>
+
+<p>Ralph shrugged his shoulders.</p>
+
+<p>"I am not at liberty to tell you," he answered.</p>
+
+<p>"I shall ask my uncle this very day."</p>
+
+<p>"Just as you please."<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_8" id="Page_8">[Pg 8]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>Kit walked on in silence. His mind was busy with thoughts of the change
+in his prospects. He did not know what was coming, but he was anxious.
+It was likely to be a turning point in his life, and he was apprehensive
+that the information soon to be imparted to him would not be of an
+agreeable nature.</p>
+
+
+
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_II" id="CHAPTER_II"></a>CHAPTER II.<br />
+INTRODUCES THREE CURIOSITIES.</h2>
+
+<p>Stephen Watson, uncle of Kit and father of Ralph, was a man of middle
+age. It was difficult to trace any resemblance between him and his
+nephew. The latter had an open face, with a bright, attractive
+expression. Mr. Watson was dark and sallow, of spare habit, and there
+was a cunning look in his eyes, beneath which a Roman nose jutted out
+like a promontory. He looked like the incarnation of cold selfishness,
+and his real character did not belie his looks.</p>
+
+<p>Five years before Kit Watson's father had died. He resembled Kit in
+appearance, and was very popular in Smyrna. His brother wound up the
+estate, and had since been living in luxury, but whether the property
+was his or his nephew's Kit was unable to tell. He had asked the
+question occasionally, but his uncle showed a distaste for the subject,
+and gave evasive replies.</p>
+
+<p>What Kit had just heard made him anxious, and he resolved to attack his
+uncle once more. After dinner, therefore, he began:</p>
+
+<p>"Uncle Stephen, Ralph tells me I am not going back to school on
+Monday."<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_9" id="Page_9">[Pg 9]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"Ralph speaks correctly," Mr. Watson replied in a measured voice.</p>
+
+<p>"But why am I not to go?"</p>
+
+<p>"I will explain before the time comes."</p>
+
+<p>"Can you not tell me now? I am anxious to know."</p>
+
+<p>"You must curb your curiosity. You will know in good time."</p>
+
+<p>Kit regarded his uncle in silence. He wished to know what had caused
+this remarkable change, but it seemed useless to ask any more questions.</p>
+
+<p>The next morning he and Dan Clark, according to agreement, met in front
+of Stoddard's store.</p>
+
+<p>"I had hard work to get away," said Dan. "Let us go right over to the
+circus grounds."</p>
+
+<p>These were located about a third of a mile from the hotel, in a large
+twenty-acre pasture. The lot, as it was called, was a scene of activity.
+A band of canvas men were busily engaged in putting up the big tent.
+Several elephants were standing round, and the cages of animals had
+already been put in place inside the rising tent.</p>
+
+<p>On a bench outside sat a curious group, comprising Achilles Henderson,
+the great Scotch giant, who was set down on the bills as eight feet
+three inches in height, and was really about seven feet and a half;
+Major Conrad, the dwarf, who was about the size of an average child of
+three years, and Madame Celestina Morella, the queen of fat women, who
+was credited on the bills with a weight of five hundred and eighty seven
+pounds. She was certainly massive, but probably fell short a hundred and
+fifty pounds of these elephantine proportions.</p>
+
+<p>Kit and Dan paused to look at this singular trio.</p>
+
+<p>"I wonder how much pay they get?" said Dan, turning to Kit.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_10" id="Page_10">[Pg 10]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"I saw in some paper that the fat woman gets fifty dollars a week."</p>
+
+<p>"That's pretty good pay for being fat, Kit."</p>
+
+<p>"Would you be willing to be as fat for that money?"</p>
+
+<p>"I think not," said Dan, "though it's a good deal more than I get now."</p>
+
+<p>They were standing near the bench on which the three were seated.
+Achilles, who looked good-natured, as most big men are, addressed the
+boys.</p>
+
+<p>"Well, boys, are you coming to see the show?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes," answered both.</p>
+
+<p>"I used to like to myself when I was a boy. I didn't expect then I
+should ever travel with one."</p>
+
+<p>"Were you very large as a boy?" asked Dan, with curiosity.</p>
+
+<p>"When I was twelve years old I was six feet high, and people generally
+thought then that I was eighteen. I thought perhaps I shouldn't grow any
+more, but I kept on. When I was sixteen I was seven feet tall, and by
+twenty I had reached my present height."</p>
+
+<p>"Are you eight feet three inches tall, Mr. Henderson?"</p>
+
+<p>"Is that what the bills say?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes."</p>
+
+<p>"Then it must be so," he said with a smile.</p>
+
+<p>"How long have you been traveling with the circus?"</p>
+
+<p>"Five years."</p>
+
+<p>"How do you like it?"</p>
+
+<p>"It's a good deal easier than working on a farm, especially in Vermont,
+where I was born and bred."</p>
+
+<p>"But they call you the Scotch giant."</p>
+
+<p>"It sounds well, doesn't it? My father was born<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_11" id="Page_11">[Pg 11]</a></span> in Scotland, but my
+mother was a Vermont Yankee. You know Americans are more willing to pay
+for a foreign curiosity than for one home born. That's why my <i>great</i>
+friend here"&mdash;emphasizing the word great&mdash;"calls herself Madame
+Celestina Morella."</p>
+
+<p>The fat lady smiled.</p>
+
+<p>"People think I am French or Italian," she said, "but I never was out of
+the United States in my life."</p>
+
+<p>"Where were you born, Madame Morella?"</p>
+
+<p>"In the western part of New York State. I know what you are going to ask
+me. Was I always fat? No, when I was sixteen I only weighed one hundred
+and twenty. Then I had a fit of sickness and nearly died. After
+recovering, I began to gain flesh, till I became a monster, as you see."</p>
+
+<p>As she said this, she laughed, and her fat sides shook with merriment.
+Evidently she did not let her size weigh upon her mind.</p>
+
+<p>"I suppose your real name isn't Celestina Morella?" said Kit.</p>
+
+<p>"My real name is Betsey Hatch. That is what they called me in my
+girlhood, but I should hardly know who was meant if I was called so
+now."</p>
+
+<p>"Have you been long in the show business?"</p>
+
+<p>"About seven years."</p>
+
+<p>"Do you like it?"</p>
+
+<p>"I didn't at first, but now I've got used to moving about. Now when the
+spring opens I have the regular circus fever. But I have my troubles."</p>
+
+<p>"What are they?" asked Kit, seeing that the fat woman liked to talk.</p>
+
+<p>"Well, I find it very difficult to secure at the hotels a bed large
+enough and strong enough to hold me. I suppose you won't be surprised to
+hear that."<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_12" id="Page_12">[Pg 12]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"Not much."</p>
+
+<p>"At Akron, Ohio, where the hotel was full, I was put in a cot bed,
+though I protested against it. As soon as I got in, the whole thing
+collapsed, and I was landed on the floor."</p>
+
+<p>She laughed heartily at the remembrance.</p>
+
+<p>"I remember that very well," said the giant, "for I slept in the room
+below. Half an hour after getting into bed, I heard a fearful noise in
+the room above, and thought at first the hotel had been struck by
+lightning, and a piercing shriek that echoed through the house led me to
+fear that my esteemed Italian friend was a victim. But my mind was soon
+relieved when I learned the truth."</p>
+
+<p>"I suppose, major, you never broke down a bed," said the giant, turning
+to the dwarf.</p>
+
+<p>"No," answered the major, in a shrill piping voice, "I never lie awake
+thinking of that."</p>
+
+<p>"I believe you served in the civil war, major?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, I was in the infantry."</p>
+
+<p>It was a stale joke, but all four laughed at it.</p>
+
+<p>"How much do you weigh, major?" Kit ventured to ask.</p>
+
+<p>"Twenty-one pounds and a half," answered the dwarf. "I have with me some
+of my photographs, if you would like to buy," and the little man
+produced half a dozen cards from his tiny pocket.</p>
+
+<p>"How much are they?"</p>
+
+<p>"Ten cents."</p>
+
+<p>"I'll take one," said Kit, and he produced the necessary coin.</p>
+
+<p>"If you go into the tent you can see some of the performers rehearsing,"
+suggested Achilles.</p>
+
+<p>"Let us go in, Dan."</p>
+
+<p>The two boys reached the portals and went into the big tent.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_13" id="Page_13">[Pg 13]</a></span></p>
+
+
+
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_III" id="CHAPTER_III"></a>CHAPTER III.<br />
+KIT ASTONISHES TWO ACROBATS.</h2>
+
+<p>The circus tent was nearly ready for the regular performance. Kit and
+Dan regarded the sawdust arena with the interest which it always
+inspires in boys of sixteen. Already it was invested with fascination
+for them. Two acrobats who performed what is called the "brothers' act"
+were rehearsing. They were placarded as the Vincenti brothers, though
+one was a French Canadian and the other an Irishman, and there was no
+relationship between them. At the time the boys entered, one had climbed
+upon the other's shoulders, and was standing erect with folded arms.
+This was, of course, easy, but the next act was more difficult. By a
+quick movement he lowered his head, and grasping the uplifted hands of
+the lower acrobat, raised his feet and poised himself aloft, with his
+feet up in the air, sustained by the muscular arms of his associate.</p>
+
+<p>"That must take strength, Kit," said Dan.</p>
+
+<p>"So it does."</p>
+
+<p>"No one but a circus man could do it, I suppose?"</p>
+
+<p>"I can do it," said Kit quietly.</p>
+
+<p>Dan regarded him with undisguised astonishment.</p>
+
+<p>"You are joking," he said.</p>
+
+<p>"No, I am not."</p>
+
+<p>"Where did you learn to do such a thing?" asked Dan, incredulous, though
+he knew Kit to be a boy of truth.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_14" id="Page_14">[Pg 14]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"I will tell you. In the town where I attended boarding school there is
+a large gymnasium, under the superintendence of a man who traveled for
+years with a circus. He used to give lessons to the boys, but most
+contented themselves with a few common exercises. I suppose I should
+also, but there was an English boy in the school, very supple and
+muscular, who was proud of his strength, and ambitious to make himself a
+thorough gymnast. He persuaded me to take lessons in the most difficult
+acrobatic feats with him, as two had to work together."</p>
+
+<p>"Did you pay the professor extra to instruct you?" asked Dan.</p>
+
+<p>"He charged nothing. He was only too glad to teach us all he knew. It
+seems he was at one time connected with Barnum's circus, and prepared
+performers for the arena. He told us it made him think of his old circus
+days to teach us. At the close of last term we gave him five dollars
+apiece as an acknowledgment of his services. He assured us then that we
+were competent to perform in any circus."</p>
+
+<p>"Could you really do what the Vincenti brothers are doing?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes; and more."</p>
+
+<p>"I wish I could see you do it."</p>
+
+<p>The boys were seated near the sawdust arena, and the last part of their
+conversation had been heard by the acrobats. It was taken as an
+illustration of boyish braggadocio, and as circus men are always ready
+for practical jokes, particularly at the expense of greenhorns, they
+resolved that there was a good chance for a little fun.</p>
+
+<p>One tipped the wink to the other, and turning to Kit, said: "What's that
+you're saying, kid?"</p>
+
+<p>"How does he know your name?" said Dan, mis<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_15" id="Page_15">[Pg 15]</a></span>taking kid, the circus name
+for boy, for his friend's nickname.</p>
+
+<p>"He said kid, not Kit," answered our hero.</p>
+
+<p>"Do you think you can do our act?" continued the acrobat.</p>
+
+<p>"I think I can," replied Kit.</p>
+
+<p>This elicited a broad grin from the acrobat.</p>
+
+<p>"Look here, kid," he said, "do you know how long it took me to learn the
+business?"</p>
+
+<p>"I don't know, but I should like to know."</p>
+
+<p>"Three years."</p>
+
+<p>"No doubt you can do a great deal more than I."</p>
+
+<p>"Oh, no, certainly not!" said the acrobat, ironically.</p>
+
+<p>"I see you don't believe me," said Kit.</p>
+
+<p>"I'll tell you what you remind me of, kid. There was a fellow came to
+our circus last summer, and wanted to get an engagement as rider. He
+said he'd been a cowboy out in New Mexico, and had been employed to
+break horses. So we gave the fellow a trial. We brought out a wild
+mustang, and told him to show what he could do. The mustang let him get
+on, as was his custom, but after he was fairly on, he gave a jump, and
+Mr. Cowboy measured his length on the sawdust."</p>
+
+<p>Kit and Dan both smiled at this story.</p>
+
+<p>"I am not a cowboy, and don't profess to ride bucking mustangs," he
+said, "though my friend Dan may."</p>
+
+<p>"I'd rather be excused," put in Dan.</p>
+
+<p>"I'll tell you what, kid, if you'll go through the performance you've
+just seen I'll give you five dollars."</p>
+
+<p>The fellow expected Kit would make some hasty excuse, but he was
+mistaken. Our hero rose from his<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_16" id="Page_16">[Pg 16]</a></span> seat, removed his coat and vest, and
+bounded into the arena.</p>
+
+<p>"I am ready," he said, "but I am not strong enough to be the under man.
+I'll do the other."</p>
+
+<p>"All right! Go ahead!"</p>
+
+<p>The speaker put himself in position. Kit gave a spring, and in an
+instant was upon his shoulders.</p>
+
+<p>There was an exclamation of surprise from the second acrobat.</p>
+
+<p>"Christopher!" he exclaimed. "The boy's got something in him, after
+all."</p>
+
+<p>"Now what shall I do?" asked Kit, as with folded arms he stood on the
+acrobat's shoulders.</p>
+
+<p>"Keep your place while I walk round the arena."</p>
+
+<p>Kit maintained his position while the acrobat ran round the circle,
+increasing his pace on purpose to dislodge his young associate. But Kit
+was too well used to this act to be embarrassed. He held himself erect,
+and never swerved for an instant.</p>
+
+<p>"Pretty good, kid!" said the acrobat. "Now reverse yourself and stand on
+my hands with your feet in the air."</p>
+
+<p>Kit made the change skillfully, and to the equal surprise of Dan and the
+other acrobat, both of whom applauded without stint.</p>
+
+<p>"Can you do anything else?" asked Alonzo Vincenti.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes."</p>
+
+<p>Kit went through a variety of other feats, and then descending from his
+elevated perch, was about to resume his coat and vest, when the circus
+performer asked him, "Can you tumble?"</p>
+
+<p>Kit's answer was to roll over the arena in a succession of somersaults
+and hand springs.</p>
+
+<p>"Well, I'm beat!" said the acrobat. "You're the<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_17" id="Page_17">[Pg 17]</a></span> smartest kid I ever met
+in my travels. Are you sure you're not a professional?"</p>
+
+<p>"Quite sure," answered Kit, smiling.</p>
+
+<p>"You never traveled with a show, then?"</p>
+
+<p>Kit shook his head.</p>
+
+<p>"Where on earth did you pick up all these acts?"</p>
+
+<p>"I took lessons of Professor Donaldson."</p>
+
+<p>"You did! Well, that explains it. I say, kid, you ought to join a
+circus. You'd command a fine salary."</p>
+
+<p>"Would I? How much could I get?" asked Kit, with interest.</p>
+
+<p>"Ten or twelve dollars a week and all expenses paid. That's pretty good
+pay for a kid, isn't it?"</p>
+
+<p>"It's more than I ever earned yet," answered Kit, with a smile.</p>
+
+<p>"I shouldn't wonder if Mr. Barlow would give you that now. If you ever
+make up your mind to join a show, come round and see him."</p>
+
+<p>"Thank you," said Kit.</p>
+
+<p>Soon after the boys left the circus lot and went home.</p>
+
+<p>"Would you really join a circus, Kit?" asked Dan.</p>
+
+<p>"It isn't the life I would choose," answered Kit, seriously, "but I may
+have to find some way of earning a living, and that very soon."</p>
+
+<p>"I thought your father left you a fortune."</p>
+
+<p>"So did I; but I hear that I am to be taken from boarding school, and
+possibly set to work. Ralph has given me a hint of it. I shall soon
+know, as my uncle intimates that he has a communication to make me."</p>
+
+<p>"I hope it isn't as bad as you think, Kit."</p>
+
+<p>"I hope so too, but I can tell you better to-morrow. We will meet
+to-night at the show."<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_18" id="Page_18">[Pg 18]</a></span></p>
+
+
+
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_IV" id="CHAPTER_IV"></a>CHAPTER IV.<br />
+A SCENE NOT DOWN ON THE BILLS.</h2>
+
+
+<p>Just before supper Kit was asked to an interview with his uncle.</p>
+
+<p>"You wish to speak to me, Uncle Stephen?" he said.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes; I have decided not to postpone the explanation for which you asked
+yesterday."</p>
+
+<p>"I shall be glad to hear it, sir."</p>
+
+<p>"Ever since your father's death I have supported you, not because I was
+morally or legally bound to do so, but because you were my nephew."</p>
+
+<p>"But didn't my father leave any property?" asked Kit in amazement.</p>
+
+<p>"He was supposed to have done so."</p>
+
+<p>"This house and grounds are surely worth a good deal of money!"</p>
+
+<p>"So they are," answered Stephen Watson, dryly, "but unfortunately they
+did not belong to your father."</p>
+
+<p>"This is certainly a mistake," exclaimed Kit, indignantly.</p>
+
+<p>"Wait till I have finished. These stood in your father's name, but there
+was a mortgage of two thousand dollars held by the Smyrna Savings Bank."</p>
+
+<p>"Surely the place is worth far more than two thousand dollars!"</p>
+
+<p>"Curb your impatience, and you will soon understand me. The place <i>is</i>
+worth far more than two thousand dollars. I consider it worth ten
+thousand."<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_19" id="Page_19">[Pg 19]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"Then I don't see&mdash;&mdash;"</p>
+
+<p>"Your father left large debts, which of course had to be paid. I was
+therefore obliged to sell the estate, in order to realize the necessary
+funds."</p>
+
+<p>"For how much did you sell the place?"</p>
+
+<p>"For nine thousand dollars. I regarded that as a good price, considering
+that it was paid in cash or the equivalent."</p>
+
+<p>"To whom did you sell?"</p>
+
+<p>"I bought it in myself; I was not willing that the place which my
+brother had loved so well, should pass into the hands of strangers."</p>
+
+<p>"May I ask who was my father's principal creditor?" asked Kit.</p>
+
+<p>"Ahem! I was," answered Stephen Watson, in a tone of slight
+embarrassment.</p>
+
+<p>"You!" exclaimed Kit, in fresh surprise.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes; your father owed me twelve thousand dollars borrowed at various
+times."</p>
+
+<p>"How could he have been obliged to borrow so much?" asked Kit. "He
+always seemed comfortably situated. I never once heard him complain of
+being pressed for money."</p>
+
+<p>"Very likely; he was very reticent about his affairs. I would explain,
+but the matter is rather a delicate one."</p>
+
+<p>"I think I am entitled to know all about it, Uncle Stephen," said Kit,
+firmly.</p>
+
+<p>"Be it so! Perhaps you are right. Let me tell you in the briefest terms,
+then, that in his later years your father speculated in Wall Street&mdash;not
+heavily, for he had not the means, but heavily for one of his property.
+Of course he lost. Almost every one does, who ventures into the
+'street.' His first losses, instead of deterring him from further
+speculation,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_20" id="Page_20">[Pg 20]</a></span> led him on to rasher ventures. It was then that he came to
+me for money."</p>
+
+<p>"Didn't you urge him to give up speculating?" asked Kit.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, but my words availed little. Perhaps you will think I ought to
+have refused him loans, but he assured me in the strongest terms that
+unless he obtained money from some source he would be ruined, and I
+yielded. I might have been weak&mdash;it was weak, for I stood a chance of
+losing all, having merely his notes of hand to show for the money I
+lent. But it is hard to refuse a brother. I think I should do the same
+again."</p>
+
+<p>Kit was silent. His uncle's words were warm, and indicated strong
+sympathy for Kit's father, but his tone was cold, and there seemed a
+lack of earnestness. Kit could not repress a feeling of incredulity.
+There was another obstacle to his accepting with full credence the tale
+which his uncle told him. He had always understood from his father that
+his uncle was a poor and struggling man. How could he have in his
+possession the sum of twelve thousand dollars to lend his brother? This
+question was certainly difficult to answer. He paused, then refraining
+from discussing the subject, said:</p>
+
+<p>"Why have you not told me this before, Uncle Stephen?"</p>
+
+<p>"Would it have made you any happier?" returned Stephen Watson.</p>
+
+<p>"No."</p>
+
+<p>"Till you had acquired a fair education, I thought it better to keep the
+unpleasant truth from you. It would only have annoyed you to feel that
+you owed everything to my generosity, and were in fact a child of
+charity."<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_21" id="Page_21">[Pg 21]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>Kit's face flushed deeply as he heard this expression from his uncle's
+lips.</p>
+
+<p>"Do you mean that my father left absolutely nothing?" he asked.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, absolutely nothing. Well, no, not quite that. I think there was a
+balance of a little over a hundred dollars left after paying all debts.
+That is hardly worth counting."</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, that is hardly worth counting," said Kit in a dull, mechanical
+tone.</p>
+
+<p>"Still, I determined to educate you, and give you equal advantages with
+my own son. I have done so up to the present moment. I wish I could
+continue to do so, but Ralph is getting more expensive as he grows older
+(and you also), and I cannot afford to keep you both at school. You will
+therefore stop studying, and I shall secure you some work."</p>
+
+<p>"If things are as you say, I cannot complain of this," Kit said in a
+dull, spiritless tone, "but it comes upon me like a thunderbolt."</p>
+
+<p>"No doubt, no doubt. I knew it would be a shock, and I have postponed
+telling you as long as possible."</p>
+
+<p>"I suppose I ought to thank you. Have you anything more to say to me
+now?"</p>
+
+<p>"No."</p>
+
+<p>"Then, sir, I will leave you. I will ask further particulars some other
+day."</p>
+
+<p>"He takes it hard," muttered Stephen Watson, eyeing the retreating form
+of his nephew thoughtfully. "I wonder if he will suspect that there is
+anything wrong. Even if he does, he is only a boy, and can prove
+nothing."</p>
+
+<p class="tb">"What makes you so glum, Kit?" asked Dan<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_22" id="Page_22">[Pg 22]</a></span> Clark, when they met at seven
+o'clock, as agreed, to go together to the show.</p>
+
+<p>"Not much, Dan, only I have learned that I am a pauper."</p>
+
+<p>"But the estate&mdash;the house and the grounds?" said Dan, bewildered.</p>
+
+<p>"Belong to my uncle."</p>
+
+<p>"Who says so?"</p>
+
+<p>"He says so. But I don't want to say any more about it now. Let us start
+for the circus, and I will try to forget my pauper position, for one
+evening at least."</p>
+
+<p>Before they reached the lot, they heard the circus band discoursing
+lively music. They were in a crowd, for all Smyrna, men, women and
+children, were bound for the show. It was a grand gala night. In the
+city, where there are many amusements, the circus draws well, but in the
+country everybody goes.</p>
+
+<p>Outside the great tent were the side shows. In one of them Kit found his
+friends of the morning, the giant, the dwarf, and the fat lady, with
+other curiosities hereafter to be mentioned. Just inside the tent, in
+what might be called the ante chamber, was the collection of animals.
+The elephants were accorded more freedom than the rest, but the lion,
+tiger, and leopard were shut up in cages. The lion seemed particularly
+restless. He was pacing his narrow quarters, lashing his tail, and from
+time to time emitting deep growls, betokening irritation and anger.</p>
+
+<p>"How would you like to go into the cage?" asked Dan.</p>
+
+<p>"I don't care for an interview with his majesty," responded Kit.</p>
+
+<p>A stranger was standing near the cage.</p>
+
+<p>"Don't go too near, boys!" he said. "That lion<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_23" id="Page_23">[Pg 23]</a></span> is particularly fierce.
+He nearly killed a man last season in Pennsylvania."</p>
+
+<p>"How was that?"</p>
+
+<p>"The man ventured too near the cage. The lion stretched out his claws,
+and fastened them in the man's shoulder, lacerating it fearfully before
+he could be released. He came near dying of blood poisoning."</p>
+
+<p>Kit and Dan sheered off. The lion looked wicked enough to kill a dozen
+men.</p>
+
+<p>At eight o'clock the performance commenced. First there was a procession
+of elephants and horses, the latter carrying the bareback riders and
+other members of the circus, with the curiosities and freaks. Then came
+two bareback riders, who jumped through hoops, and over banners, and
+performed somersaults, to the wondering delight of the boys. Then came
+tumblers, and in preparation for another scene a gaudily dressed clown
+entered the ring. Suddenly there was heard a deep baying sound, which
+struck terror into every heart. It was the lion; but seemed close at
+hand. In an instant a dark, cat-like form, rushing down the aisle,
+sprang into the ring.</p>
+
+<p>The great Numidian lion had broken from his cage, and the life of every
+one in the audience was in peril. Ladies shrieked, strong men grew pale,
+and all wildly looked about for some way of escape.</p>
+
+<p>Striking down the clown, and standing with one foot on the prostrate
+form, the lion's cruel eyes wandered slowly over the vast assemblage.</p>
+
+<p>Only ten feet from him, in front seats, sat Kit and Dan.</p>
+
+<p>Kit rose in his seat pale and excited, but with a resolute fire in his
+eyes. He had thought of a way to vanquish the lion.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_24" id="Page_24">[Pg 24]</a></span></p>
+
+
+
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_V" id="CHAPTER_V"></a>CHAPTER V.<br />
+HOW KIT VANQUISHED THE LION.</h2>
+
+<p>The danger was imminent. Under the canvas there were at least two
+thousand spectators. Smyrna had less than five thousand inhabitants, but
+from towns around there were numerous excursion parties, which helped to
+swell the number present. Had these people foreseen the terrible scene
+not down on the bills, they would have remained at home and locked the
+doors of their houses. But danger is seldom anticipated and peril
+generally finds us unprepared.</p>
+
+<p>Dan Clark saw Kit about to leave his seat.</p>
+
+<p>"Where are you going?" he cried.</p>
+
+<p>"I am going into the arena."</p>
+
+<p>"What? Are you out of your head?" asked Dan, and he took hold of Kit to
+detain him. But the boy tore himself from the grasp of his friend, and
+with blanched brow, for he knew full well the risk he ran, he sprang
+over the parapet, and in an instant he stood in the sawdust circle
+facing the angry monarch of the wilds, whose presence had struck terror
+into the hearts of two thousand members of a superior race.</p>
+
+<p>The sudden movement of Kit created a sensation only less than the
+appearance of the lion.</p>
+
+<p>The residents of Smyrna all knew him, but they could not understand the
+cause of his apparent fool-hardiness.</p>
+
+<p>"Come back! Come away, for your life!" exclaimed dozens of Kit's friends
+and acquaintances.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_25" id="Page_25">[Pg 25]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"Who is that boy? Is he one of the circus men?" asked strangers who were
+present.</p>
+
+<p>"You will be killed, Kit! Come back!" implored Dan Clark, appalled at
+the danger of his friend.</p>
+
+<p>Kit heard, but did not heed, the various calls. He knew what he was
+about, and he did not mean to be killed. But there seemed the greatest
+danger of it. He was six feet from the angry beast, who lashed his tail
+with renewed wrath, when he saw his new and puny foe. Kit knew, however,
+that the lion's method of attack is to spring upon his victims, and that
+he needs a space of from twelve to fifteen feet to do it. He himself,
+being but six feet distant, was within the necessary space. The lion
+must increase the distance between them in order to accomplish its
+purpose.</p>
+
+<p>Now it happened that Mr. Watson had in his kitchen an elderly woman, who
+had for years been addicted to the obnoxious habit of snuff taking&mdash;a
+habit, I am glad to be able to say, which is far less prevalent now than
+in former days. Just before Kit had started for the circus, Ellen, who
+was a Scotch woman, said: "Master Kit, if you are going near the store,
+will you buy me a quarter of a pound of snuff?"</p>
+
+<p>"Certainly, Ellen," answered Kit, who was always obliging.</p>
+
+<p>The snuff he had in his pocket at the time of the lion's appearance in
+the ring, and it was the thought of this unusual but formidable weapon
+that gave him courage. If he had merely had a pistol or revolver in his
+pocket, he would not have ventured, for he knew that a wound would only
+make the lion fiercer and more dangerous.</p>
+
+<p>The lion stood stock still for a moment. Apparently he was amazed at the
+daring of the boy who had<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_26" id="Page_26">[Pg 26]</a></span> rushed into his presence. His fierce eyes
+began to roll wickedly and he uttered one of those deep, hoarse growls,
+such as are wont to strike fear alike into animals and men. He glared at
+Kit very much as a cat surveys a puny mouse whom she purposes to make
+her victim.</p>
+
+<p>It was a few brief seconds, but to the audience, who were spellbound,
+and scarcely dared to breathe, it seemed as many minutes that the boy
+and lion stood confronting each other without moving. Indeed, Kit stood
+as if fascinated before the mighty beast, and a thrill passed through
+his frame as he realized the terrible danger into which he had
+impulsively rushed. But he knew full well that his peril was each
+instant growing greater. He could not retreat now, for the furious beast
+would improve the chance to spring upon him and rend him to pieces.</p>
+
+<p>With curious deliberation he drew from his pocket a paper parcel, while
+the lion, as if stirred by curiosity, eyed him attentively. He opened it
+carefully, and then, without an instant's delay, he flung a handful of
+the snuff which it contained full in the eyes of the terrible animal.</p>
+
+<p>No sooner had he done so than he gave a spring, and in a flash was over
+the parapet and back in his seat.</p>
+
+<p>It was not a moment too soon!</p>
+
+<p>The lion was blinded by the snuff, which caused him intense pain. He
+released the terrified clown, who lost no time in escaping from the
+arena, while the vanquished beast rolled around on the sawdust in his
+agony, sending forth meanwhile the most terrible roars.</p>
+
+<p>By this time the circus management had recovered from its momentary
+panic. The trainer and half a<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_27" id="Page_27">[Pg 27]</a></span> dozen animal men (those whose duty it was
+to take care of the animals) rushed into the circle, and soon obtained
+the mastery of the lion, whose pain had subdued his fury, and who was
+now moaning piteously.</p>
+
+<p>Then through the crowded tent there ran a thrill of admiration for the
+boy who had delivered them all from a terrible danger.</p>
+
+<p>One man, an enthusiastic Western visitor, sprang to his feet, and,
+waving his hat, exclaimed: "Three cheers for the brave boy, who has
+shown more courage than all the rest of us put together! Hip, hip,
+hurrah!"</p>
+
+<p>The call was responded to with enthusiasm. Men and even women rose in
+their seats, and joined in the cheering. But some of the friends of Kit
+amended the suggestion by crying, "Hurrah for Kit Watson!"</p>
+
+<p>"Hurrah for Kit Watson!" cried the Western man. "He's the pluckiest kid
+I ever saw yet."</p>
+
+<p>Kit had not been frightened before, but he felt undeniably nervous when
+he saw the eyes of two thousand people fixed upon him. He blushed and
+seemed disposed to screen himself from observation. But at this moment a
+tall, portly man advanced from the front of the tent, and came up to
+where Kit was sitting.</p>
+
+<p>"My boy," he said, "do me the favor to follow me. I am Mr. Barlow."</p>
+
+<p>It was indeed the proprietor of the circus. He had come in person to
+greet the boy who had averted such a tragedy.</p>
+
+<p>Mechanically Kit followed Mr. Barlow, who led him again into the arena.
+Then the manager cleared his throat, and said:</p>
+
+<p>"Ladies and gentlemen, I have nothing to show you here to-night that is
+better worth your attention<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_28" id="Page_28">[Pg 28]</a></span> than the young man whose heroic act you
+have just witnessed and profited by. I introduce to you the boy hero,
+Kit Watson!"</p>
+
+<p>"Speech! speech!" exclaimed the spectators, after a liberal meed of
+applause.</p>
+
+<p>Kit stood erect, and spoke modestly.</p>
+
+<p>"I don't pretend to be a hero," he said. "I was as much frightened as
+anybody, but I thought of the snuff in my pocket, and I recalled to mind
+a story of a man who subdued a lunatic by means of it. So, on the
+impulse of the moment, I jumped into the ring. I am very much obliged to
+you for your cheers, and I wish I was as brave as you seem to think. I
+won't take up any more of your time, for I know you want the show to go
+on."</p>
+
+<p>Kit retired amid a burst of applause, and resumed his seat.</p>
+
+<p>The entertainment of the evening now proceeded, greatly to the
+satisfaction of the crowded ranks of spectators. But from time to time
+glances were cast towards the seat which Kit occupied.</p>
+
+<p>"Kit," whispered Dan, "I am proud of you! I didn't think you had it in
+you."</p>
+
+<p>"Don't say any more, Dan, or I shall become so vain you can't endure me.
+Look! there are our friends, the acrobats."</p>
+
+
+
+
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_VI" id="CHAPTER_VI"></a>CHAPTER VI.<br />
+KIT'S POOR PROSPECTS.</h2>
+
+<p>There was one of the spectators who did not admire Kit's heroic conduct,
+nor join in the applause which was so liberally showered upon him. This
+was Ralph Watson, who sat on the opposite side of the<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_29" id="Page_29">[Pg 29]</a></span> tent, with his
+chum, James Schuyler, a boy who had recently come to Smyrna from the
+city of New York. Ralph had been very pale when the lion first made his
+appearance in the arena, and trembled with fear, and no one had felt
+greater relief when the danger was past. But, being naturally of a
+jealous disposition, he was very much annoyed by the sudden popularity
+won by Kit.</p>
+
+<p>"Isn't that your cousin?" asked James Schuyler.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes," answered Ralph shortly.</p>
+
+<p>"What a brave boy he is!"</p>
+
+<p>Ralph shrugged his shoulders.</p>
+
+<p>"I don't see much bravery about it," he said. "It isn't as if the lion
+was a wild one in his native forest. This one was tame."</p>
+
+<p>"He didn't look very tame to me," rejoined James, who, though rather
+snobbish, was willing to admit the danger they had all incurred. "The
+people didn't think so either. Hear them cheer your cousin."</p>
+
+<p>"It will make him terribly conceited. He will actually think he's a
+hero."</p>
+
+<p>"I wouldn't have given much for any of our lives if he hadn't jumped
+into the ring, and blinded the lion."</p>
+
+<p>Meanwhile Kit was enjoying the performance, and thinking very little of
+how his action would be regarded by Ralph, for whom he had no very
+cordial feeling, though they had been, from the necessity of the case,
+close companions for many years.</p>
+
+<p>On their return home, Kit and Ralph reached the gate together.</p>
+
+<p>"It seems you're a great hero all at once," said Ralph, with a sneer.</p>
+
+<p>Kit understood the sneer, but did not choose to notice it.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_30" id="Page_30">[Pg 30]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"Thank you for the compliment," he responded quietly.</p>
+
+<p>"O, I didn't mean to flatter you! You are puffed up enough."</p>
+
+<p>"Are you sorry I jumped into the ring, Ralph?" asked Kit good-naturedly.</p>
+
+<p>"I don't believe there was any real danger."</p>
+
+<p>"Then I must congratulate you upon your courage. All the rest of us were
+frightened, and even Mr. Barlow admitted that there was danger."</p>
+
+<p>"The lion was half tame. It isn't as if he were wild."</p>
+
+<p>"He looked wild enough to me when I faced him in the ring. I confess
+that my knees began to tremble, and I wished myself at home."</p>
+
+<p>"You'd better set up as a lion tamer," said Ralph.</p>
+
+<p>"Thank you; I think I should prefer some other business, where my life
+would be safer."</p>
+
+<p>"You are likely to have your wish, then."</p>
+
+<p>"What do you mean?" asked Kit quickly, detecting a significance in
+Ralph's tone.</p>
+
+<p>"I mean that father intends to have you learn a trade."</p>
+
+<p>"Has he told you so?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes."</p>
+
+<p>"Doesn't he propose to consult me?"</p>
+
+<p>"Why should he? You are only a boy, and can't judge what is best for
+yourself."</p>
+
+<p>"Still I am likely to be more interested than any one else in the way I
+am to earn my living. What trade are <i>you</i> going to learn?"</p>
+
+<p>"What trade am I going to learn?" repeated Ralph, with the assumption of
+insulted dignity. "None at all. I shall be a merchant or a professional
+man."<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_31" id="Page_31">[Pg 31]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"And why should not I be the same?" asked Kit.</p>
+
+<p>"Because you're a poor boy. Didn't my father tell you this afternoon
+that you had no money coming to you?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes; but that needn't prevent me from becoming a merchant, or studying
+a profession."</p>
+
+<p>"So <i>you</i> think. You can't expect my father to pay for sending you to
+college, or support you while you are qualifying yourself to be a
+merchant."</p>
+
+<p>"I don't know yet what I am entitled to expect."</p>
+
+<p>"You will soon know."</p>
+
+<p>"How soon?"</p>
+
+<p>"To-morrow. There's a blacksmith in the next town, Aaron Bickford, who
+has agreed to take you as an apprentice."</p>
+
+<p>"So it's all settled, is it?" Kit asked, full of indignation.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, if Mr. Bickford likes your appearance. He's coming to Smyrna on
+business to-morrow, and will call here. You're to live at his house."</p>
+
+<p>"Indeed! I am very much obliged for the information."</p>
+
+<p>"Oh, you needn't get grouty about it. I've no doubt you'll have enough
+to eat."</p>
+
+<p>"So I am to be a blacksmith, and you a merchant or&mdash;&mdash;"</p>
+
+<p>"Lawyer. I think I shall decide to be a lawyer," said Ralph,
+complacently.</p>
+
+<p>"That will make quite a difference in our social positions."</p>
+
+<p>"Of course; but I will help you all I can. If you have a shop of your
+own, I will have my horses shod at your place."</p>
+
+<p>"Does your father think I am particularly well fitted to be a
+blacksmith?"<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_32" id="Page_32">[Pg 32]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"He thinks you will get along very well in the business, if you are
+industrious. A poor boy can't choose. He must take the best he can get."</p>
+
+<p>Kit did not sleep very much that night. He was full of anger and
+indignation with his uncle. Why should his future be so different from
+his cousin's? At school he had distinguished himself more in his
+studies, and he did not see why he was not as well fitted to become a
+merchant or a lawyer as Ralph.</p>
+
+<p>"They can't make me a blacksmith without my consent," was his final
+thought, as he closed his eyes and went to sleep.</p>
+
+<p>Kit was up early the next morning. As breakfast was not ready, he
+strolled over to the hotel, which was only five minutes' walk from his
+uncle's house.</p>
+
+<p>The circus tent had vanished. Late at night, after the evening
+performance was over, the canvas men had busied themselves in taking
+them down, and packing them for transportation to a town ten miles
+distant on the railroad, where they were to give two exhibitions the
+next day. The showy chariots, the lions, tigers, elephants and camels,
+with all the performers, were gone. But Mr. Barlow, the owner of the
+circus, had remained at the Smyrna Hotel all night, preferring to
+journey comfortably the next morning.</p>
+
+<p>He was sitting on the piazza when Kit passed. Though he had never seen
+Kit but once, his business made him observant of faces, and he
+recognized him immediately.</p>
+
+<p>"Aha!" he said, "this is the young hero of last evening, is it not?"</p>
+
+<p>Kit smiled.</p>
+
+<p>"I am the boy who jumped into the ring," he said.</p>
+
+<p>"So I thought. I hope you slept well after the excitement."<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_33" id="Page_33">[Pg 33]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>A sudden thought came to Kit. Mr. Barlow looked like a kind hearted man,
+and he had already shown that he was well disposed toward him.</p>
+
+<p>"I slept very poorly," he said.</p>
+
+<p>"Was it the thought of the danger you had been in?"</p>
+
+<p>"No, sir; I learned that my uncle, without consulting me, had arranged
+to apprentice me to a blacksmith."</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Barlow looked surprised.</p>
+
+<p>"But you look like a boy of independent means," he said, puzzled.</p>
+
+<p>"I have always supposed that this was the case," said Kit, "but my uncle
+told me yesterday, to my surprise, that I was dependent upon him, and
+had no expectations."</p>
+
+<p>"You don't want to be a blacksmith?"</p>
+
+<p>"No, sir; I consider any kind of work honorable, but that would not suit
+me."</p>
+
+<p>"You would succeed well in my business," said the showman, "but I am
+very careful how I recommend it to boys. It isn't a good school for
+them. They are exposed to many temptations in it. But if a boy has a
+strong will, and good principles, he may avoid all the evils connected
+with it."</p>
+
+<p>Kit had not thought of it before, but now the question suggested itself:
+"Why should I not join the circus. I should like it better than being a
+blacksmith."</p>
+
+<p>"How much do you pay acrobats?" he asked.</p>
+
+<p>"Are you an acrobat?" asked Mr. Barlow.</p>
+
+<p>Kit told the story of his practicing with the Vincenti Brothers.</p>
+
+<p>"Good!" said Mr. Barlow. "If they indorse you, it is sufficient. If you
+decide to join my company, I<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_34" id="Page_34">[Pg 34]</a></span> will give you, to begin with, ten dollars
+a week and your expenses."</p>
+
+<p>"Thank you, sir," said Kit, dazzled by the offer, "Where will you be on
+Saturday?"</p>
+
+<p>"At Grafton on Saturday, and Milltown on Monday."</p>
+
+<p>"If I decide to join you, I will do so at one or the other of those
+places."</p>
+
+<p>Here the railroad omnibus came up, and Mr. Barlow entered it, for he was
+to leave by the next train.</p>
+
+
+
+
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_VII" id="CHAPTER_VII"></a>CHAPTER VII.<br />
+AARON BICKFORD, THE BLACKSMITH.</h2>
+
+<p>Kit returned to breakfast in good spirits. He saw a way out of his
+difficulties. Though he had no false pride, he felt that a blacksmith's
+life would be distasteful to him. He was fond of study, and had looked
+forward to a college course. Now this was out of the question. It seemed
+that he was as poor as his friend, Dan Clark, with his own way to make
+in the world. When he left school, at the beginning of the vacation, he
+supposed that he would inherit a competence. It was certainly a great
+change in his prospects, but now he did not feel dispirited. He thought,
+upon the whole, he would enjoy traveling with the circus. His duties
+would be light, and the pay liberal.</p>
+
+<p>Before he returned to breakfast, Ralph had come down-stairs, and had a
+few words with his father.</p>
+
+<p>"I think you are going to have trouble with Kit, father," he commenced.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_35" id="Page_35">[Pg 35]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"What makes you think so, and what about?" asked Mr. Watson.</p>
+
+<p>"I told him last evening about your plan of apprenticing him to Mr.
+Bickford."</p>
+
+<p>"You did wrong. I did not propose to mention the matter to him till Mr.
+Bickford's arrival. What did he say?"</p>
+
+<p>"He turned up his nose at the idea. He thinks he ought to become a
+merchant or a professional man like me. He is too proud to be a
+blacksmith."</p>
+
+<p>"Then he must put his pride in his pocket. It will be all I can do to
+pay the expenses of your education. I can't provide for two boys."</p>
+
+<p>"When Kit is off your hands won't you increase my allowance, father?"
+asked Ralph, insinuatingly.</p>
+
+<p>"Suppose we postpone that matter," replied Mr. Watson, in a tone of
+voice that was not encouraging. "I have lost some money lately, and I
+can't do anything more for you just at present."</p>
+
+<p>Ralph looked disappointed, but did not venture to press the subject.</p>
+
+<p>"Where have you been, Kit?" he asked, as he saw his cousin entering the
+gate, and coming up the path to the front door.</p>
+
+<p>"I have been taking a walk," answered Kit, cheerfully.</p>
+
+<p>"It's a good idea to rise early."</p>
+
+<p>"Why?"</p>
+
+<p>"Because you will probably be required to do so in your new place."</p>
+
+<p>"What new place?"</p>
+
+<p>"At the blacksmith's."</p>
+
+<p>Kit smiled. To Ralph's surprise he did not appear to be annoyed.</p>
+
+<p>"I see you are getting reconciled to the idea. Last evening you seemed
+to dislike it."<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_36" id="Page_36">[Pg 36]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"Your father has not said anything about it to me."</p>
+
+<p>"He will very soon."</p>
+
+<p>"Won't you come round and see me occasionally, Ralph?" asked Kit, with a
+curious smile.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes; I may call on Saturday. I should like to see how you look."</p>
+
+<p>Kit smiled again. He thought it extremely doubtful whether Ralph would
+see him at the blacksmith's forge.</p>
+
+<p>Half an hour after breakfast, while Ralph and Kit were in the stable,
+the sound of wheels was heard, and a stout, broad-shouldered man, with a
+bronzed complexion, drove up in a farm wagon. Throwing his reins over
+the horse's neck, he descended from the wagon, and turned in at the
+gate. Mr. Watson, who had been sitting at the front window, opened the
+door for him.</p>
+
+<p>"Glad to see you, Mr. Bickford," he said.</p>
+
+<p>"Is the boy ready?" asked the blacksmith. "I can take him right over
+with me this morning."</p>
+
+<p>"Come into the house, I will send for him."</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Bickford noticed the handsome appearance of the hall, and the front
+room, the door of which was partly open, and said: "If the boy's been
+used to livin' here, he must be kind of high strung. I can't give him no
+such home as this."</p>
+
+<p>"Of course not, Mr. Bickford. He can't expect it. He's a poor boy, and
+will have to make his own way in the world. Beggars can't be choosers,
+you know."</p>
+
+<p>A servant was sent to the stable to summon Kit. Ralph, who thought he
+should enjoy the scene, accompanied him.</p>
+
+<p>Kit regarded the blacksmith with some curiosity.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_37" id="Page_37">[Pg 37]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"This is Mr. Aaron Bickford, of Oakford, Kit," began his uncle.</p>
+
+<p>"I hope you are well, Mr. Bickford," said Kit, politely.</p>
+
+<p>The blacksmith gazed at Kit with earnest scrutiny.</p>
+
+<p>"Humph!" said he; "are you strong and muscular?"</p>
+
+<p>"Pretty fair," answered Kit, with a smile.</p>
+
+<p>"Kit," said his uncle, clearing his throat, "in your circumstances I
+have thought it desirable that you should learn a trade, and have spoken
+to Mr. Bickford about taking you as an apprentice."</p>
+
+<p>"In what business?" asked Kit.</p>
+
+<p>"I'm a blacksmith," said Mr. Bickford, taking it upon himself to reply,
+"and it's a good, healthy business as any you'd want to follow."</p>
+
+<p>"I have no doubt of it," said Kit, quietly, "but I don't think I should
+like it all the same. Uncle Stephen, how does it happen that you have
+selected such a business for me?"</p>
+
+<p>"I heard that Mr. Bickford needed an apprentice, and I have arranged
+matters with him to take you, and teach you his trade."</p>
+
+<p>"Yes," put in Mr. Bickford, "I've agreed to give you your board and a
+dollar a week the first year. That's more than I got when I was
+'prentice. My old master only paid me fifty cents a week."</p>
+
+<p>Kit turned to his uncle.</p>
+
+<p>"Do you think my education has fitted me for a blacksmith's trade?" he
+asked.</p>
+
+<p>"It won't interfere," replied Mr. Watson, a little uneasily.</p>
+
+<p>"Wouldn't it have been well to consult me in the matter? It seems to me
+I am rather interested."<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_38" id="Page_38">[Pg 38]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"Oh, I supposed you would object, as you had been looking forward to
+being a gentleman, but I can't afford to keep you in idleness any
+longer, and so have arranged matters with Mr. Bickford."</p>
+
+<p>"Suppose I object to going with him?" said Kit, calmly.</p>
+
+<p>"Then I shall overrule your objections, and compel you to do what I
+think is for your good."</p>
+
+<p>Kit's eye flashed with transient anger, but as he had no idea of
+acceding to his uncle's order, he did not allow himself to become unduly
+excited. Indeed he had a plan, which made temporary submission a matter
+of policy.</p>
+
+<p>"What's the boy's name?" asked Aaron Bickford.</p>
+
+<p>"I am generally called Kit. My right name is Christopher."</p>
+
+<p>"Then, Kit, you'd better be getting your traps together, for I can't
+stop long away from the shop."</p>
+
+<p>"I have arranged to have you go back with Mr. Bickford to-day," said
+Stephen Watson.</p>
+
+<p>"That's rather short notice, isn't it?" Kit rejoined.</p>
+
+<p>"The sooner the matter is arranged, the better!" answered his uncle.</p>
+
+<p>"Very well," said Kit, with unexpected submission. "I'll go and pack up
+my clothes."</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Watson looked relieved. He had expected to have more trouble with
+his nephew.</p>
+
+<p>In twenty minutes Kit reappeared with his school valise. He had packed
+up a supply of shirts, socks, handkerchiefs, and underclothing.</p>
+
+<p>"I am all ready," he said.</p>
+
+<p>"Then we'll be going," said the blacksmith, rising with alacrity.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_39" id="Page_39">[Pg 39]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>Kit took his place on the seat beside Mr. Bickford.</p>
+
+<p>"Good-by, uncle!" he said; "it may be some time before we meet again."</p>
+
+<p>"What does the boy mean?" asked Stephen Watson, turning to Ralph with a
+puzzled look.</p>
+
+<p>"I don't know. He's been acting queer all the morning."</p>
+
+<p>So Kit rode away with Aaron Bickford, but he had not the slightest
+intention of becoming blacksmith. Instead of blacksmith's forges,
+visions of a circus ring and acrobatic feats were dancing before his
+mind.</p>
+
+
+
+
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_VIII" id="CHAPTER_VIII"></a>CHAPTER VIII.<br />
+KIT'S RIDE TO OAKFORD.</h2>
+
+<p>Oakford was six miles away. The blacksmith's horse was seventeen years
+old, and did not make very good speed. Kit was unusually busy thinking.
+He had taken a decisive step; he had, in fact, made up his mind to enter
+upon a new life. He had not objected to going away with the blacksmith,
+because it gave him an excuse for packing up his clothes, and leaving
+the house quietly.</p>
+
+<p>It may be objected that he had deceived Mr. Bickford. This was true, and
+the thought of it troubled him, but he hardly knew how to explain
+matters.</p>
+
+<p>Not much conversation took place till they were within a mile of
+Oakford. Aaron Bickford had filled his pipe at the beginning of the
+journey, and he had smoked steadily ever since. At last he removed his
+pipe from his mouth, and put it in his pocket.</p>
+
+<p>"Were you ever in Oakford?" he asked.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_40" id="Page_40">[Pg 40]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"Yes," answered Kit. "I know the place very well."</p>
+
+<p>"How do you think you'll like livin' there?"</p>
+
+<p>"I don't think I shall like it."</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Bickford looked surprised.</p>
+
+<p>"I'll keep you at work so stiddy you won't mind where you are," he
+remarked dryly.</p>
+
+<p>"Not if I know it," Kit said to himself.</p>
+
+<p>He knew Mr. Bickford by reputation. He was a close-fisted, miserly man,
+who was not likely to be a very desirable employer, for he expected
+every one who worked for him to labor as hard as himself. Moreover, he
+and his wife lived in a very stingy manner, and few of the luxuries of
+the season appeared on their table. The fact that complaints upon this
+score had been made by some of Kit's predecessors in his employ, led Mr.
+Bickford to make inquiries with a view to ascertaining whether Kit was
+particular about his food.</p>
+
+<p>"Are you partic'lar about your vittles?" he asked abruptly.</p>
+
+<p>"I have been accustomed to good food," answered Kit.</p>
+
+<p>"You can't expect to live as you have at your uncle's," continued the
+blacksmith. "Me and my wife have enough to eat, but we think it best to
+eat plain food. Some of my help have had stuck up notions, and expected
+first class hotel fare, but they didn't get it at my house."</p>
+
+<p>"I believe you," said Kit.</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Bickford eyed him sharply, not being sure but this might be a
+sarcastic observation, but Kit's face was straight, and betrayed
+nothing.</p>
+
+<p>"You'll live as well as I do myself," he proceeded, after a pause. "I
+don't pamper my appetite by no means."<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_41" id="Page_41">[Pg 41]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>Kit was quite ready to believe this also, but did not say so.</p>
+
+<p>"What time did you get up at your uncle's?" asked the blacksmith.</p>
+
+<p>"We have breakfast a little before eight. I get up in time for
+breakfast."</p>
+
+<p>"You do, hey?" ejaculated the blacksmith, scornfully. "Wa'al, I declare!
+You must be tuckered out gettin' up so airly."</p>
+
+<p>"O no, I stand it very well, Mr. Bickford," said Kit, amused.</p>
+
+<p>"Do you know what time I get up?" asked Mr. Bickford, with a touch of
+indignation in his tone.</p>
+
+<p>"I would like to know," answered Kit meekly.</p>
+
+<p>"Wa'al, I get up at five o'clock. What do you say to that, hey?"</p>
+
+<p>"I think it is very early."</p>
+
+<p>"I suppose you couldn't get up so early as that?"</p>
+
+<p>"I might, if there was any need of it."</p>
+
+<p>"I reckon there will be need of it if you're goin' to work for me."</p>
+
+<p>Kit cleared his throat. He felt that the time had come for an
+explanation.</p>
+
+<p>"Mr. Bickford," he said, "I owe you an apology."</p>
+
+<p>"What?" said Bickford, regarding his young companion in surprise.</p>
+
+<p>"I have deceived you."</p>
+
+<p>"I don't know what you're talkin' about."</p>
+
+<p>"I don't think I did right to come with you to day."</p>
+
+<p>"I can't make out what you're talkin' about. Your uncle has engaged to
+let you work for me."</p>
+
+<p>"But I haven't engaged to work for you, Mr. Bickford."</p>
+
+<p>"Hey?" and the blacksmith eyed our hero in undisguised amazement.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_42" id="Page_42">[Pg 42]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"I may as well say that I don't intend to work for you."</p>
+
+<p>"You don't mean to work for me?" repeated Bickford slowly.</p>
+
+<p>"Just so. I have no intention of becoming a blacksmith."</p>
+
+<p>"Is the boy crazy?" ejaculated Aaron Bickford.</p>
+
+<p>"No, Mr. Bickford; I have full command of my senses. You will have to
+look out for another apprentice."</p>
+
+<p>"Then why did you agree to come with me?"</p>
+
+<p>"That is what I have to apologize for. I wanted to get away from my
+uncle's house quietly, and I thought it the best way to pretend to agree
+to his plan."</p>
+
+<p>Aaron Bickford was not a sweet tempered man. He had a pretty strong will
+of his own, and was called, not without reason, obstinate. He began to
+feel angry.</p>
+
+<p>"Well, boy, have you got through with what you had to say?" he asked.</p>
+
+<p>"I believe so&mdash;for the present."</p>
+
+<p>"Then I guess it's about time for me to say something."</p>
+
+<p>"Very well, sir."</p>
+
+<p>"You'll find me a tough customer to deal with, young man."</p>
+
+<p>"Then perhaps it is just as well that I do not propose to work for you."</p>
+
+<p>"But you are goin' to work for me!" said the blacksmith, nodding his
+head.</p>
+
+<p>"Whether I want to or not?" interrogated Kit, placidly.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, whether you want to or not, willy nilly, as the lawyers say."<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_43" id="Page_43">[Pg 43]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"I think, Mr. Bickford, you will find that it takes two to make a
+bargain."</p>
+
+<p>"So it does, and there's two that's made this bargain, your uncle and
+me."</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Bickford was not always strictly grammatical in his language, as the
+reader will observe.</p>
+
+<p>"I don't admit my uncle's right to make arrangements for me without my
+consent."</p>
+
+<p>"You know more'n he does, I reckon?"</p>
+
+<p>"No, but this matter concerns me more than it does him."</p>
+
+<p>"Maybe you expect to live without workin'!"</p>
+
+<p>"No; if it is true, as my uncle says, that I have no money, I shall have
+to make my living, but I prefer to choose my own way of doing it."</p>
+
+<p>"You're a queer boy. Bein' a blacksmith is too much work for you, I
+reckon."</p>
+
+<p>"At any rate it isn't the kind of work I care to undertake."</p>
+
+<p>"What's all this rigmarole comin' to? Here we are 'most at my house. If
+you ain't goin' to work for me, what are you goin' to do?"</p>
+
+<p>"I should like to pass the night at your house, Mr. Bickford. After
+breakfast I will pay you for your accommodations, and go&mdash;&mdash;"</p>
+
+<p>"Where?"</p>
+
+<p>"You must excuse my telling you that. I have formed some plans, but I do
+not care to have my uncle know them."</p>
+
+<p>"Are you going to work for anybody?" asked the blacksmith, whose
+curiosity was aroused.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, I have a place secured."</p>
+
+<p>"Is it on a farm?"</p>
+
+<p>"No."</p>
+
+<p>"You're mighty mysterious, it seems to me. Now you've had your say, I've
+got something to tell you."<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_44" id="Page_44">[Pg 44]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"Very well, Mr. Bickford."</p>
+
+<p>"You say you're not goin' to work for me?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, sir."</p>
+
+<p>"Then I say you <i>are</i> goin' to work for me. I've got your uncle's
+authority to set you to work, and I'm goin' to do it."</p>
+
+<p>Kit heard this calmly.</p>
+
+<p>"Suppose we postpone the discussion of the matter," he said. "Is that
+your house?"</p>
+
+<p>Aaron Bickford's answer was to drive into the yard of a cottage. On the
+side opposite was a blacksmith's forge.</p>
+
+<p>"That's where you're goin' to work!" he said, grimly, pointing to the
+forge.</p>
+
+
+
+
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_IX" id="CHAPTER_IX"></a>CHAPTER IX.<br />
+KIT MAKES A NEW ACQUAINTANCE.</h2>
+
+<p>Grafton, where Barlow's circus was billed to appear on Saturday, was
+only six miles farther on. Oakford was about half way, so that in
+accompanying the blacksmith to his home, Kit had accomplished about half
+the necessary journey. Now that he had undeceived the blacksmith as to
+his intention of staying he felt at ease in his mind. It was his plan to
+remain over night in the house and pursue his journey early the next
+day.</p>
+
+<p>"Are these all the clo'es you brought with you?" asked Bickford,
+surveying Kit's neat and rather expensive suit with disapproval.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes. Am I not well enough dressed for a blacksmith?" asked Kit, with a
+smile.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_45" id="Page_45">[Pg 45]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"You're a plaguy sight too well dressed," returned Bickford. "You want a
+good rough suit, for the forge is a dirty place."</p>
+
+<p>"I thought I told you I did not intend to work for you, Mr. Bickford."</p>
+
+<p>"That's what you said, but I don't take no stock in it. Your uncle has
+bound you out to me, and that settles it."</p>
+
+<p>"If he has bound me out, where are the papers, Mr. Bickford?" asked Kit,
+keenly.</p>
+
+<p>This question was a poser. The blacksmith supposed that Kit might be
+ignorant that papers were required, but he found himself mistaken.</p>
+
+<p>"There ain't no papers, but that don't make no difference," he said. "He
+says you're to work for me, and I'm goin' to hold you to it."</p>
+
+<p>Kit did not reply, for he saw no advantage in discussion.</p>
+
+<p>"You'll get a dollar a week and your board, and you can't do better. I
+reckon dinner is about ready now."</p>
+
+<p>Kit felt ready for the dinner, for the morning's ride had sharpened his
+appetite. So when, five minutes later, he was summoned to the table, he
+willingly accepted the invitation.</p>
+
+<p>"This is my new 'prentice, Mrs. Bickford," said the blacksmith, by way
+of introduction, to a spare, red headed woman, who was bustling about
+the kitchen, where the table was spread.</p>
+
+<p>Mrs. Bickford eyed Kit critically.</p>
+
+<p>"He's one of the kid glove kind, by his looks," she said. "You don't
+expect to get much work out of him, do you?"</p>
+
+<p>"I reckon I will, or know the reason why," responded Bickford,
+significantly.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_46" id="Page_46">[Pg 46]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"Set right down and I'll dish up the victuals," said Mrs. Bickford. "We
+don't stand on no ceremony here. What's your name, young man?"</p>
+
+<p>"People call me Kit."</p>
+
+<p>"Sounds like a young cat. It's rediculous to give a boy such a name.
+First thing you know I'll be calling you Kitty."</p>
+
+<p>"I hope I don't look like a cat," said Kit laughing.</p>
+
+<p>"You ain't got no fur on your cheeks yet," said the blacksmith, laughing
+heartily at his own witticism. "What have you got for dinner, mother?"</p>
+
+<p>"It's a sort of picked-up dinner," answered Mrs. Bickford. "There's some
+pork and beans warmed up, some slapjacks from breakfast, and some fried
+sassidges."</p>
+
+<p>"Why, that's a dinner for a king," said the blacksmith, rubbing his
+hands.</p>
+
+<p>He took his seat, and put on a plate for Kit specimens of the delicacies
+mentioned above. In spite of his appetite Kit partook sparingly,
+supplementing his meal with bread, which, being from the baker's shop,
+was of good quality. He congratulated himself that he was not to board
+permanently at Mr. Bickford's table.</p>
+
+<p>When dinner was over, the blacksmith in a genial mood said to Kit: "You
+needn't begin to work till to-morrow. You can tramp round the village if
+you want to."</p>
+
+<p>Kit was glad of the delay, as early the next morning he expected to bid
+farewell to Oakford, and thus would avoid a conflict.</p>
+
+<p>He had been in Oakford before, and knew his way about. He went out of
+the yard and walked about in a leisurely way. It was early in June, and
+the<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_47" id="Page_47">[Pg 47]</a></span> country was at its best. The birds were singing, the fields were
+green with verdure, and Kit's spirits rose. He felt that it would be
+delightful to travel about the country, as he would do if he joined
+Barlow's Circus.</p>
+
+<p>He overtook a boy somewhat larger than himself, a stout, strong country
+boy, attired in a rough, coarse working suit. He was about to pass him,
+when the country boy called out, "Hallo, you!"</p>
+
+<p>"Were you speaking to me?" asked Kit, turning and looking back.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes. Didn't I see you riding into town with Aaron Bickford?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes."</p>
+
+<p>"Are you going to work for him?"</p>
+
+<p>"That is what he expects," answered Kit diplomatically. He hesitated
+about confiding his plans to a stranger.</p>
+
+<p>"Then I pity you."</p>
+
+<p>"Why?"</p>
+
+<p>"I used to work for him."</p>
+
+<p>"Did you?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, I stood it as long as I could."</p>
+
+<p>"Then you didn't like it?"</p>
+
+<p>"I guess not."</p>
+
+<p>"What was the trouble?"</p>
+
+<p>"Everything. He's a stingy old hunks, to begin with. I went to work for
+a dollar a week and board. If the board had been decent, it would have
+been something, but I'd as soon board at the poorhouse."</p>
+
+<p>"I have taken dinner there," said Kit, smiling.</p>
+
+<p>"Did you like it?"</p>
+
+<p>"I have dined better. In fact I have seldom dined worse."</p>
+
+<p>"What did the old woman give you?"<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_48" id="Page_48">[Pg 48]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>Kit enumerated the articles composing the bill of fare.</p>
+
+<p>"That's better than usual," said the new acquaintance.</p>
+
+<p>"I suppose the dollar a week is all right," said Kit.</p>
+
+<p>"Good enough if you can get it. It's about as easy to get blood out of a
+stone, as money out of old Bickford. Generally I had to wait ten days
+after the time before I could get the money."</p>
+
+<p>"How is the work?"</p>
+
+<p>"Hard, and plenty of it. It's work early and work late, and if there
+isn't work at the forge, you've got to help the old woman, by drawing
+water and doing chores. You don't live in Oakford, do you?"</p>
+
+<p>"No; I came from Smyrna."</p>
+
+<p>"I thought not. Bickford can't get a boy to work for him here. What made
+you come? Couldn't you get a place at home?"</p>
+
+<p>"I didn't try."</p>
+
+<p>"Well, you haven't done much in coming here."</p>
+
+<p>"I begin to think so," Kit responded, with a smile.</p>
+
+<p>"Hasn't the circus been in your town?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes."</p>
+
+<p>"I wanted to go, but I guess I'll manage to see it in Grafton. It shows
+there to-morrow."</p>
+
+<p>"Are you going?" asked Kit with interest.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes; I shall walk. I'll start early and spend the day there."</p>
+
+<p>"We may meet there."</p>
+
+<p>"You don't expect to go, do you? Bickford won't let you off."</p>
+
+<p>Kit smiled.</p>
+
+<p>"I don't think Mr. Bickford will have much to say about it," he said.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_49" id="Page_49">[Pg 49]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"Are you going to hook jack?" asked his new acquaintance.</p>
+
+<p>"I didn't mean to tell you, but I will. I have made up my mind not to
+work for Mr. Bickford at all."</p>
+
+<p>"Then why did you come here?"</p>
+
+<p>"Because my uncle saw fit to arrange with him."</p>
+
+<p>"What are you going to do, then?"</p>
+
+<p>"I am offered work with the circus."</p>
+
+<p>"You are!" exclaimed the country boy, opening wide his eyes in
+astonishment. "What are you going to do?"</p>
+
+<p>"I'm going to be an acrobat."</p>
+
+<p>"What's that?"</p>
+
+<p>Kit explained as well as he could.</p>
+
+<p>"What are they going to pay you?"</p>
+
+<p>"Ten dollars a week and my expenses," answered Kit, proudly.</p>
+
+<p>"Jehu!" ejaculated the other boy. "Why, that's good wages for a man. Do
+you think they'd hire me, too?"</p>
+
+<p>"If you think you can do what they require, you can ask them."</p>
+
+<p>"Why can't I do it as well as you?"</p>
+
+<p>"Because I have been practicing for a long time at a gymnasium. What is
+your name?"</p>
+
+<p>"Bill Morris."</p>
+
+<p>"Then, Bill, don't say a word to any one about my plans. Suppose we go
+to Grafton together?"</p>
+
+<p>"All right!"</p>
+
+<p>Before the boys parted they made an agreement to meet at five o'clock
+the next morning, to set out on their walk to Grafton.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_50" id="Page_50">[Pg 50]</a></span></p>
+
+
+
+
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_X" id="CHAPTER_X"></a>CHAPTER X.<br />
+KIT'S FIRST NIGHT AT THE BLACKSMITH'S.</h2>
+
+<p>At nine o'clock the blacksmith, giving a deep yawn, said: "You'd better
+be getting to bed, young feller. You'll have to be up bright and airly
+in the morning."</p>
+
+<p>Kit was already feeling sleepy, and made no objection. Though it was yet
+early, he had found it hard work to get through the evening, as he could
+find nothing to read except a weekly paper, three months old, and a copy
+of "Pilgrim's Progress." In truth, neither Mr. Bickford nor his wife
+were of a literary turn, and did not even manage to keep up with the
+news of the day.</p>
+
+<p>"I am ready," said Kit.</p>
+
+<p>"Mother, show him to his room," added the blacksmith. "To-morrow I'll
+give him a lesson at the forge."</p>
+
+<p>"Perhaps you will," said Kit to himself, "but I think it doubtful."</p>
+
+<p>Kit's room was a small back one on the second floor. The front apartment
+was occupied by Mr. and Mrs. Bickford, and there was one of the same
+size which was used as a spare chamber.</p>
+
+<p>Kit's room was supplied with a cot bed, and was furnished in the
+plainest manner. One thing he missed. He saw no washstand.</p>
+
+<p>"Where am I to wash in the morning?" he asked.</p>
+
+<p>"You can wash in the tin basin in the kitchen,"<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_51" id="Page_51">[Pg 51]</a></span> answered Mrs. Bickford.
+"There's a bar of soap down there and a roller towel, so I guess you
+won't have to go dirty."</p>
+
+<p>Kit shuddered at the suggestion. He had seen bars of yellow soap in the
+grocery at home, and didn't think he should enjoy its use. Nor did he
+fancy using the same towel with the blacksmith and his wife. He had seen
+the roller towel hanging beside the sink, and judged from its appearance
+that it had already been used nearly a week.</p>
+
+<p>"I have been accustomed to wash in my own room," he ventured to say.</p>
+
+<p>"You've been used to a great many things that you won't find here,"
+replied Mrs. Bickford, grimly.</p>
+
+<p>Kit thought it extremely likely.</p>
+
+<p>"If you can't do as the rest of us do, you can get along without
+washing," continued the lady.</p>
+
+<p>"I will try and manage," answered Kit, bearing in mind that he expected
+to leave the Bickford mansion forever the next morning.</p>
+
+<p>"That new boy of yours is kind of uppish," remarked Mrs. Bickford, when
+she returned to the sitting room.</p>
+
+<p>"What's the matter now?"</p>
+
+<p>"He wants to wash in his own room. He's too fine a gentleman to wash in
+the kitchen."</p>
+
+<p>"What did you tell him?"</p>
+
+<p>Mrs. Bickford repeated her remark.</p>
+
+<p>"Good for you, mother! We'll take down his pride a little."</p>
+
+<p>"Is he goin' to work in them fine clo'es he brought with him?"</p>
+
+<p>"He didn't bring any others."</p>
+
+<p>"He'll spile 'em, and not have anything to wear to meetin'."<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_52" id="Page_52">[Pg 52]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"Haven't we got a pair of overalls in the house&mdash;one that the last boy
+used?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes; I'll get 'em right away."</p>
+
+<p>"They'll be good for him to wear."</p>
+
+<p>Before Kit got into bed, the door of his chamber was unceremoniously
+opened, and Mrs. Bickford walked in, carrying a faded pair of overalls.</p>
+
+<p>"You can put these on in the mornin'," she said. "They'll keep your
+clo'es clean. They may be a mite long for you, but you can turn up the
+legs at the bottom."</p>
+
+<p>She left the room without waiting for an answer.</p>
+
+<p>Kit surveyed the overalls with amusement.</p>
+
+<p>"I wonder how I should look in them," he said to himself.</p>
+
+<p>He drew them over his trousers, and regarded his figure as well as he
+could in the little seven by nine glass that hung on the wall.</p>
+
+<p>"There is Kit, the young blacksmith!" he said with a smile. "On the
+whole, I don't think it improves my appearance. I'll take them off, and
+leave them for the next boy."</p>
+
+<p>"What did the boy say, mother?" asked Mr. Bickford, upon his wife's
+return.</p>
+
+<p>"He just took 'em; he didn't say anything."</p>
+
+<p>"I s'pose he's never worn overalls before," said the blacksmith. "What
+do you think he told me on the way over?"</p>
+
+<p>"I don't know."</p>
+
+<p>"He said he wasn't goin' to work for me at all. He didn't like the
+blacksmith's trade."</p>
+
+<p>"Well, of all things!"</p>
+
+<p>"I just told him he hadn't no choice in the matter, that me and his
+uncle had arranged matters, and that I should hold him to the
+contract."<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_53" id="Page_53">[Pg 53]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"I'm afraid he'll be dainty about his vittles. He didn't eat much
+dinner."</p>
+
+<p>"Wait till he gets to work, mother. I guess he'll have appetite enough.
+I mean he shall earn his board, at any rate."</p>
+
+<p>"I hope we won't have no trouble with him, Aaron."</p>
+
+<p>"You needn't be afraid, mother."</p>
+
+<p>"Somehow, Aaron, you never did manage to keep boys very long," said Mrs.
+Bickford, dubiously.</p>
+
+<p>"Because their folks were weak, and allowed 'em to have their own way.
+It'll be different with this boy."</p>
+
+<p>"What makes you think so?"</p>
+
+<p>"Because his uncle is anxious to get rid of him. He told me the boy,
+till lately, had imagined he was goin' to have property. He's supported
+him out of charity, dressin' him like a gentleman, sendin' him to
+school, and spendin' a pile of money on him. Now he thinks it about time
+to quit, and have the boy learn a trade. Of course the boy'll complain,
+and try to beg off, but it won't be no use. Stephen Watson won't make no
+account of what he says. He keeps a horse himself, and has promised to
+have him shod at my shop."</p>
+
+<p>"Well, it may be for the best; I hope so."</p>
+
+<p>Aaron Bickford felt a good deal of confidence in himself. He understood
+very well that Kit was averse to working in his shop, but he meant to
+make him do it.</p>
+
+<p>"I'd like to see the boy I can't master," he said to himself,
+complacently. "Years hence, when the boy has a forge of his own, he'll
+thank me for perseverin' with him. There's money to be made in the
+business. Why, when I began I wasn't worth a hundred<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_54" id="Page_54">[Pg 54]</a></span> dollars, and I
+owed for my anvil. Now I own this house and shop, and I've got a tidy
+sum in the bank."</p>
+
+<p>This was true. But it must be added that the result was largely due to
+the pinching economy which both he and his wife had practiced.</p>
+
+<p>When Mr. Bickford woke up the next morning it was half-past five
+o'clock.</p>
+
+<p>"Strange how I came to oversleep," he said. "I guess I must have been
+more tuckered out than I supposed. Well, the boy's had a longer nap than
+I meant he should. However, it's only for one mornin'."</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Bickford did not linger over his toilet. Five minutes was rather an
+overstatement of the time.</p>
+
+<p>He went to Kit's chamber, and, opening the door, went in as
+unceremoniously as his wife had done the night before.</p>
+
+<p>A surprise awaited him.</p>
+
+<p>There was no one in the bed.</p>
+
+<p>"What! has the boy got up a'ready?" he asked himself, in a bewildered
+way. "He's better at gettin' up than I expected."</p>
+
+<p>Looking about him, he discovered on a chair by the bedside the overalls,
+and upon them a note and a silver dollar.</p>
+
+<p>"What's all that mean?" he asked himself.</p>
+
+<p>Looking closer he saw that the note was directed to him. Beginning to
+suspect that something was wrong, he opened it.</p>
+
+<p>This was what the note contained:</p>
+
+<div class="blockquot"><p><span class="smcap">Mr. Bickford</span>&mdash;I leave you a dollar to pay for my food and lodging.
+I do not care to become a blacksmith. Good by.</p>
+
+<p class="right">
+<span class="smcap">Kit Watson.</span><br />
+</p>
+</div>
+
+<p>"I'll have him back!" exclaimed Aaron Bickford, an angry look appearing
+on his face. "He ain't goin' to get the best of me."<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_55" id="Page_55">[Pg 55]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>Mr. Bickford harnessed up his horse, and started after the fugitive. But
+in what direction should he drive? He was not long at fault. He met a
+milkman who had seen two boys starting out on the Grafton road, and so
+informed him.</p>
+
+<p>"I guess they're bound for the circus," he said.</p>
+
+<p>"Like as not," returned the blacksmith.</p>
+
+<p>But he had a long chase of it. It was not until he was within half a
+mile of the circus tents that he descried the two boys, trudging along,
+Kit with his valise in his hand. Hearing the sound of wheels, the boys
+looked back, and in some dismay recognized their pursuer.</p>
+
+<p>The blacksmith stood up in his wagon, and pointing his long whip at Kit,
+cried out, "Stop where you are, Kit Watson, or I'll give you the worst
+thrashing you ever had!"</p>
+
+
+
+
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XI" id="CHAPTER_XI"></a>CHAPTER XI.<br />
+KIT FALLS INTO THE HANDS OF THE ENEMY.</h2>
+
+<p>If Aaron Bickford expected to frighten Kit by his threat, he was
+destined to find himself badly mistaken.</p>
+
+<p>Kit was startled at first, not having anticipated that the blacksmith
+would get upon his track so soon. But he was a boy of spirit, and had no
+thought of surrender. Mr. Bickford halted his horse, and Kit faced him.</p>
+
+<p>"Didn't you find my note?" he asked.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, I did."</p>
+
+<p>"Then you know that I don't care to work for you."<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_56" id="Page_56">[Pg 56]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"What's that got to do with it? Your uncle and me have settled that you
+shall."</p>
+
+<p>"Then you'll have to unsettle it. I have a right to choose my own
+occupation, and I don't intend to become a blacksmith. Even if I did, I
+should choose some one else as my teacher."</p>
+
+<p>"None of your impudence, young man! You'll have a long account to settle
+with me, I warn you of that."</p>
+
+<p>"I had but one account to settle&mdash;for my board and lodging&mdash;and I've
+attended to that. Good morning, Mr. Bickford."</p>
+
+<p>Kit turned and began to continue his journey.</p>
+
+<p>"Hallo! Stop, I tell you!" shouted the blacksmith.</p>
+
+<p>"Have you got any more to say? If so, I'll listen."</p>
+
+<p>"What more I have to say, I shall say with a horsewhip!" retorted
+Bickford, grimly, preparing to descend from his wagon.</p>
+
+<p>"Come, William, we must run for it," said Kit. "Are you good at
+running?"</p>
+
+<p>"Try me!" was the laconic reply.</p>
+
+<p>By the time Aaron Bickford was out of his wagon, the boys had increased
+the distance between them by several rods.</p>
+
+<p>"Oho, so that's your game, is it?" said the blacksmith. "If I don't
+overhaul them, my name isn't Aaron Bickford."</p>
+
+<p>Kit was a good runner&mdash;quite as good as his pursuer&mdash;but he had one
+serious disadvantage. His valise was heavy, and materially affected his
+speed. He had carried it several miles, and though he had shifted it
+from one hand to the other, both arms were now tired.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_57" id="Page_57">[Pg 57]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"Let me take it, Kit," said his companion, who was now on intimate terms
+with him.</p>
+
+<p>"It'll be just as heavy for you as for me."</p>
+
+<p>"Never mind! He isn't after me."</p>
+
+<p>"Well, if you don't mind carrying it a little while."</p>
+
+<p>The advantage of the change was soon apparent. Kit increased his speed,
+and William, whose arms were not tired, was not materially retarded by
+his burden.</p>
+
+<p>"If I had no valise I would climb a tree," said Kit, while running. "I
+don't believe Mr. Bickford is good at climbing."</p>
+
+<p>"We haven't got far to go to reach the circus tents," returned William.</p>
+
+<p>But though the boys held out well, Aaron Bickford gradually gained upon
+them. Many years at the anvil had given him plenty of wind and
+endurance. Besides, he was entirely fresh, not having taken a long walk
+already, as the boys had done.</p>
+
+<p>"You'd better give up!" he cried out, in the tone of one who was sure of
+victory. "It takes more than a boy like you to get the best of Aaron
+Bickford."</p>
+
+<p>It did indeed seem as if the boys must surrender. Within a few rods
+Bickford would be even with them.</p>
+
+<p>Kit came to a sudden determination.</p>
+
+<p>"Jump over the fence!" he cried.</p>
+
+<p>There was a rail fence skirting one side of the road.</p>
+
+<p>No sooner said than done. Both boys clambered over the fence, and with
+that barrier between them faced the angry blacksmith.</p>
+
+<p>"Well, I've got you!" he cried, panting.</p>
+
+<p>"Have you? I don't see it," answered Kit.</p>
+
+<p>"You might as well give up fust as last."</p>
+
+<p>"Suppose we discuss matters a little, Mr. Bick<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_58" id="Page_58">[Pg 58]</a></span>ford," said Kit, calmly.
+"What right have you to pursue me?"</p>
+
+<p>"What right? Your uncle's given me the charge of you."</p>
+
+<p>"That is something he had no right to do."</p>
+
+<p>"Why not? Ain't he your guardian?"</p>
+
+<p>"No."</p>
+
+<p>"Who is, then?"</p>
+
+<p>"I have no guardian but myself."</p>
+
+<p>"That's a likely story. I can't listen to no such foolish talk."</p>
+
+<p>Aaron Bickford felt that it was time to move upon the enemy's
+entrenchments, and, putting one leg on the lower rail, he proceeded to
+climb over the fence.</p>
+
+<p>But the boys had anticipated this move, and were prepared for it. By the
+time the blacksmith was inside the field, the boys, who were
+considerably lighter and more active, had crossed to the reverse side.</p>
+
+<p>"Here we are again, Mr. Bickford," said William Morris.</p>
+
+<p>The blacksmith frowned.</p>
+
+<p>"Don't you be impudent, Bill Morris," he said. "I haven't anything to do
+with you, but I sha'n't let you sass me."</p>
+
+<p>"What have I said that's out of the way?" asked William.</p>
+
+<p>"Oh, you're mighty innocent, you are! You're aidin' and abettin' Kit
+Watson to escape from me, his lawful master."</p>
+
+<p>"I have no master, Mr. Bickford," said Kit, proudly.</p>
+
+<p>"Well, that's what they used to call 'em when I was a boy. Boys weren't
+so pert and impudent in them days."</p>
+
+<p>Meanwhile the blacksmith was recrossing the fence.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_59" id="Page_59">[Pg 59]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>Kit and William took the opportunity to run, and by the time Mr.
+Bickford was again on the roadside they were several rods away.</p>
+
+<p>This naturally exasperated the blacksmith, who felt mortified at his
+failure to overtake the youngsters. A new idea occurred to him.</p>
+
+<p>"You, Bill, do you want to earn a dime?" he asked.</p>
+
+<p>"How?" inquired William.</p>
+
+<p>"Just help me catch that boy Kit, and I'll give you ten cents."</p>
+
+<p>"I don't care to earn money that way, Mr. Bickford," responded William,
+scornfully.</p>
+
+<p>"Good for you, William!" exclaimed Kit.</p>
+
+<p>"You won't earn ten cents any easier," persisted Bickford.</p>
+
+<p>"I wouldn't do such a mean thing for a dollar, nor five dollars,"
+replied William. "Kit's a friend of mine, and I'm going to stand by
+him."</p>
+
+<p>The blacksmith was made angry by this persistent refusal. Then again he
+was faint and uncomfortable from having missed his breakfast, which
+seemed likely to be indefinitely postponed.</p>
+
+<p>"I'll lick you, Bill Morris, as well as Kit, when I catch you," he said.</p>
+
+<p>"Probably you will&mdash;when you catch me!" retorted William, in an
+aggravating tone. "Run faster, Kit."</p>
+
+<p>The boys ran, but again they were impeded by the heavy valise, and
+slowly but surely the blacksmith was gaining upon them.</p>
+
+<p>Kit, who was again carrying the burden, began to show signs of distress,
+and dropped behind his companion.</p>
+
+<p>"I can't hold out much longer, Bill," he said, puffing laboriously.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_60" id="Page_60">[Pg 60]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>Aaron Bickford heard these words, and they impelled him to extra
+exertion. At last he caught up and grasped Kit by the collar.</p>
+
+<p>"I've got ye at last!" he cried, triumphantly.</p>
+
+
+
+
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XII" id="CHAPTER_XII"></a>CHAPTER XII.<br />
+MR. BICKFORD'S DEFEAT.</h2>
+
+<p>Aaron Bickford was a strong man. By his work at the forge he had
+strengthened his muscles till they were like iron. So was Kit a strong
+boy, but it would be absurd to represent him as a match for the sturdy
+blacksmith.</p>
+
+<p>"I've got ye at last!" repeated Bickford tightening his grasp of Kit's
+coat collar.</p>
+
+<p>"Let go my collar!" cried Kit, not struggling, for he knew that it would
+be useless.</p>
+
+<p>"I'll let go your collar when I've got ye in the wagon," answered the
+blacksmith, "and not till then. You, Bill, bring along his valise. I'll
+take ye home in the wagon, though it would be only right if I let ye
+walk."</p>
+
+<p>"Mr. Bickford," said Kit, "you have no right to touch me. You have no
+authority over me."</p>
+
+<p>"I ain't, hey? Well, we'll argy that matter when we get home."</p>
+
+<p>And he commenced dragging Kit in the direction of the wagon.</p>
+
+<p>It certainly seemed as if Kit's plans were destined, if not for defeat,
+to postponement. Unconditional surrender was his only choice against the
+superior strength of Aaron Bickford. It was certainly very vexatious.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_61" id="Page_61">[Pg 61]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>But help was nearer than he anticipated.</p>
+
+<p>They were now within sight of the circus tents, and Kit, to his joy,
+descried the giant, Achilles Henderson, taking a morning walk, and
+already within hearing distance.</p>
+
+<p>"Mr. Henderson!" he called out, eagerly.</p>
+
+<p>"Who is that you're calling?" asked the blacksmith sharply.</p>
+
+<p>Achilles heard, and instantly recognized the boy who had talked with him
+at Smyrna.</p>
+
+<p>It took but a few strides to bring him to the spot where Kit was held in
+captivity.</p>
+
+<p>"What does this mean?" he asked.</p>
+
+<p>"This man is dragging me away without authority," answered Kit.</p>
+
+<p>"Who is he?" asked the giant.</p>
+
+<p>"He is a blacksmith, and claims me as an apprentice, but I never agreed
+to work for him."</p>
+
+<p>"That's a lie," said the blacksmith, "he's my runaway apprentice."</p>
+
+<p>"I would believe the boy sooner than you," said Achilles, not favorably
+impressed by the blacksmith's bull dog look.</p>
+
+<p>"It doesn't make any difference what you believe," said Bickford,
+rudely; and he began to pull Kit in the direction of the wagon.</p>
+
+<p>"Let go that boy's collar," cried Achilles, sternly.</p>
+
+<p>"I won't!" retorted the blacksmith. "I advise you to mind your own
+business."</p>
+
+<p>Achilles Henderson, like most big men, was good natured, but he was
+roused by the other's insolence. He carried war into the enemy's camp by
+seizing the blacksmith and shaking him till he was compelled to release
+his grasp.</p>
+
+<p>"What do you mean by this outrage?" demanded Bickford, furiously.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_62" id="Page_62">[Pg 62]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"It's only a gentle hint," said Achilles, smiling. "Now, my friend, I've
+got a piece of advice to give you. If that is your wagon back there
+you'd better get into it as soon as convenient&mdash;the sooner the
+better&mdash;and get out of my way or I'll give you a stronger hint."</p>
+
+<p>The blacksmith was too indignant to be prudent. What! Confess himself
+vanquished, and go home without the boy! The idea was intolerable to
+him.</p>
+
+<p>"I'm goin' to take the boy," he said, angrily, and darting forward he
+essayed to seize Kit by the collar again.</p>
+
+<p>"Oho! You need a stronger hint," said Achilles. With this he grasped the
+blacksmith about the middle, and tossed him over the fence into the
+adjoining field as easily as if he were a cat.</p>
+
+<p>Aaron Bickford did not know what had happened to him. He lay motionless
+for a few seconds, and then picked himself up with some difficulty, and
+confronted the giant with mingled fear and anger.</p>
+
+<p>"I'll have the law of ye for this," he shouted.</p>
+
+<p>Achilles laughed.</p>
+
+<p>"It's as you like," he said. "I've got my witnesses here," pointing to
+the two boys.</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Bickford got over the fence, and sullenly turned in the direction of
+his deserted wagon.</p>
+
+<p>"You'll hear from me again, all of you!" he shouted, shaking his fist.</p>
+
+<p>"Don't trouble yourself to write," said the giant, jocosely. "We can
+worry along without a letter."</p>
+
+<p>The blacksmith was too full of wrath for utterance. He kept on his way,
+muttering to himself, and shaking his fist at intervals.</p>
+
+<p>"Now what's all this about?" asked Achilles. "What's the matter with our
+amiable friend?"<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_63" id="Page_63">[Pg 63]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>Kit explained.</p>
+
+<p>"So you don't want to be a blacksmith? Where are you going, if I may
+inquire?"</p>
+
+<p>"I'm going to join the circus," answered Kit.</p>
+
+<p>"In what capacity&mdash;as a lion tamer?"</p>
+
+<p>"No; I shouldn't fancy that business. I am to be an acrobat."</p>
+
+<p>"An acrobat! But are you qualified?" asked Achilles, somewhat surprised.</p>
+
+<p>He had not heard of Kit's practice with the Vincenti brothers on the day
+of his first visit to the circus.</p>
+
+<p>"I am pretty well qualified already," answered Kit, "I saw Mr. Barlow
+yesterday morning, and he promised me an engagement at ten dollars a
+week."</p>
+
+<p>"Good!" said Achilles, heartily. "I am pleased to hear it. I took a
+liking to you the other day, and I'm glad you're going to join us. But
+do you think it wise to choose such a life?"</p>
+
+<p>"You have chosen it," said Kit.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes; but what could I do&mdash;a man of my size? I must earn more than a
+common man. My board and clothes both cost more. What do you think I
+paid for this suit I have on?"</p>
+
+<p>"I couldn't tell, sir."</p>
+
+<p>"Sixty dollars. The tailor only charges thirty dollars to a man of
+ordinary size, but I am so absurdly large that I have to pay double
+price."</p>
+
+<p>"Why don't you buy your suits ready made?" asked Kit, smiling.</p>
+
+<p>Achilles laughed heartily at the idea.</p>
+
+<p>"Show me a place where I can get ready made clothes to fit me," he
+answered, "and I will gladly accept your suggestion."</p>
+
+<p>"That may be a little difficult, I admit."<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_64" id="Page_64">[Pg 64]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"Why, you have no idea how inconvenient I find it to be so large. I
+can't find a bed to suit me in any hotel. If I go to the theater I can't
+crowd myself into an ordinary seat. I have to have all kinds of
+clothing, inside and outside, made to order. My hats and shoes must also
+be made expressly for me."</p>
+
+<p>"I suppose you get very well paid," suggested Kit.</p>
+
+<p>"Seventy-five dollars a week sounds pretty large, and would be if my
+expenses were not so great. You wouldn't be a giant for that money,
+would you?"</p>
+
+<p>"I am not so ambitious," replied Kit, smiling. "But there was a moment
+when I wished myself of your size."</p>
+
+<p>"When was that?"</p>
+
+<p>"When the blacksmith grasped me by the collar."</p>
+
+<p>"You don't have to work very hard," said William Morris.</p>
+
+<p>"My boy, it is pretty hard work to be stared at by a crowd of people. I
+get tired of it often, but I see no other way of making a living."</p>
+
+<p>"You would make a pretty good blacksmith."</p>
+
+<p>"I couldn't earn more than a man of average strength, and that wouldn't
+be enough, as I have explained."</p>
+
+<p>"Were your parents very tall?" asked Kit.</p>
+
+<p>"My father was six feet in height, but my mother was a small woman. I
+don't know what put it into me to grow so big. But here we are at the
+lot. Will you come in?"</p>
+
+<p>"When can I see Mr. Barlow?" asked Kit, anxiously.</p>
+
+<p>"He is at the hotel. He won't be round till half-past nine. Have you two
+boys had breakfast?"</p>
+
+<p>"No," answered Kit; "I'm nearly famished."</p>
+
+<p>"Come round to the circus tent. You are to be<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_65" id="Page_65">[Pg 65]</a></span> one of us, and will board
+there. I guess we can provide for your friend, too."</p>
+
+<p>Never was invitation more gladly accepted. Both Kit and William felt as
+if they had not broken their fast for a week.</p>
+
+
+
+
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XIII" id="CHAPTER_XIII"></a>CHAPTER XIII.<br />
+BREAKFAST IN THE CIRCUS TENT.</h2>
+
+<p>Achilles entered the circus inclosure&mdash;the "lot," as it is generally
+called,&mdash;and made his way to a small tent situated not far from the one
+devoted to the performances. An attendant was carrying in a plate of hot
+steak and potatoes from the cook tent near by.</p>
+
+<p>"Is breakfast ready?" asked Achilles.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes; any time you want it."</p>
+
+<p>"Is anybody inside?"</p>
+
+<p>"Only Mademoiselle Louise."</p>
+
+<p>"Well, I want three breakfasts&mdash;for myself and my two young friends
+here."</p>
+
+<p>"I didn't know you had sons," said Mike, the attendant, regarding Kit
+and William with some curiosity.</p>
+
+<p>"I haven't. One of these young men is an acrobat, who will be one of us.
+The other is his friend. Bring along the grub as quick as possible&mdash;we
+are all hungry."</p>
+
+<p>"All right, sir."</p>
+
+<p>Running the length of the tent, which was about twenty feet by ten, was
+a long table surrounded by benches.</p>
+
+<p>The giant took his seat and placed the boys one on<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_66" id="Page_66">[Pg 66]</a></span> each side of him.
+Just opposite sat a woman of twenty-five or thereabouts, who was already
+eating breakfast.</p>
+
+<p>"Good morning, Mlle. Louise," said the giant.</p>
+
+<p>"Good morning, Mr. Henderson," responded the lady. "Who are your young
+companions?"</p>
+
+<p>"I don't know their names, but this one," placing his hand on Kit's
+shoulder, "has been engaged by Mr. Barlow as an acrobat."</p>
+
+<p>"Indeed! He looks young."</p>
+
+<p>"I am sixteen," volunteered Kit.</p>
+
+<p>"What circus have you traveled with before this season?" asked Mlle.
+Louise.</p>
+
+<p>"I have never traveled with any, madam."</p>
+
+<p>"But you are an acrobat?"</p>
+
+<p>"I have had my practice in a gymnasium."</p>
+
+<p>"How came Mr. Barlow to engage you?"</p>
+
+<p>"At Smyrna I practiced a little with the Vincenti brothers."</p>
+
+<p>"At Smyrna? Why, that's where the lion dashed into the arena!"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes."</p>
+
+<p>"Do you know the boy who had the courage to face him?"</p>
+
+<p>Kit blushed.</p>
+
+<p>"I am the boy," he said.</p>
+
+<p>"You don't mean it!" exclaimed the lady, vivaciously. "Why, you're a
+hero. I must shake hands with you," and she reached across the table and
+gave Kit a hearty grasp of the hand.</p>
+
+<p>"Is that so?" interposed Achilles. "Why, I didn't know you were the boy.
+I was not present at the time, and only heard of it afterwards. Mlle.
+Louise is right. You are a brave fellow."</p>
+
+<p>"I am much obliged to you both for your favor<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_67" id="Page_67">[Pg 67]</a></span>able opinion," said Kit
+modestly, "but I didn't realize my danger till afterwards."</p>
+
+<p>"Oh, heavens! I can see him now&mdash;that wicked beast!" exclaimed the lady.
+"I was nearly scared out of my senses. As for poor Dupont, he was nearer
+death than I ever want to be till my time comes."</p>
+
+<p>"Was Dupont the clown?" asked Kit.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes. The lion held him down, with his foot upon the poor clown's back,
+and but for your brave act he would have torn the poor fellow to pieces.
+Mr. Henderson, you missed the most thrilling act of the evening."</p>
+
+<p>"So I begin to think. By the way, boys, I ought to have introduced this
+lady. She is the famous aerial artist, whom you saw the other evening in
+her wonderful feats upon the trapeze."</p>
+
+<p>"Yes," said Mlle. Louise, complacently, "I think I have a pretty good
+act. I get plenty of applause, eh, Mr. Henderson?"</p>
+
+<p>"That's true. I think I should leave the circus if I had to appear in
+your act. I never could summon up courage."</p>
+
+<p>The lady laughed.</p>
+
+<p>"Monsieur Achilles," she said, "I wouldn't advise you to emulate me. I
+don't believe you could find a rope strong enough to support you, and if
+you should fall, I pity the audience."</p>
+
+<p>"You have convinced me. I shall give up all thoughts of it," said the
+giant, with mock gravity. "It would suit better our young friend here,
+who is an acrobat."</p>
+
+<p>"Did you ever practice on a trapeze?" asked Mlle. Louise, turning to
+Kit.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, often," answered Kit, "but never at a great height."<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_68" id="Page_68">[Pg 68]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"Would it frighten you to find yourself so high up in the air?"</p>
+
+<p>"I don't think so; I have a cool head."</p>
+
+<p>"You must practice. I will give you a few hints myself. If you are cool
+and courageous, as I judge you will soon learn. By the way, what is your
+name?"</p>
+
+<p>"Kit Watson."</p>
+
+<p>"It'll be something else when you begin work."</p>
+
+<p>"Do all performers have assumed names?"</p>
+
+<p>"Generally. Here I am Mademoiselle Louise Lefroy, but it isn't a bit
+like my real name."</p>
+
+<p>Before this the boys had been served with breakfast. The steak was
+rather tough, and the coffee not of the best quality, but Kit and
+William thoroughly enjoyed it, and thought it about the best breakfast
+they had ever eaten. Mlle. Louise continued to converse with them, and
+was very gracious.</p>
+
+<p>"Are you too an acrobat?" she asked William.</p>
+
+<p>William became so confused that he swallowed some coffee the wrong way,
+and came near choking.</p>
+
+<p>"No, ma'am," he answered bashfully, "but I'd like to go round with the
+show."</p>
+
+<p>"You'll be better off at home if you've got one," said the giant. "You
+are not a performer; you are too small for a property man, and not
+strong enough for a razorback."</p>
+
+<p>"What's a razorback?" asked William, in amazement.</p>
+
+<p>Achilles smiled.</p>
+
+<p>"It's a boy or man who helps load and unload the circus cars," he
+answered. "It is heavy work, and you would be thrown among a low lot of
+people&mdash;canvasmen, and such. Our young friend here, on the other hand,
+will have a good sleeping berth, eat at the first table, and be well
+provided for generally."<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_69" id="Page_69">[Pg 69]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>William looked disappointed. He had never thought particularly about
+traveling with a circus till now, but his meeting with Kit had given him
+a circus fever.</p>
+
+<p>At ten o'clock Mr. Barlow came to the grounds, and Achilles volunteered
+to go with Kit to speak with him about his engagement.</p>
+
+
+
+
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XIV" id="CHAPTER_XIV"></a>CHAPTER XIV.<br />
+SOME CIRCUS PEOPLE.</h2>
+
+<p>Mr. Barlow recognized Kit instantly.</p>
+
+<p>"So you have kept your promise, my young friend," he said. "Well, have
+you come to join us?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, sir, if your offer holds good."</p>
+
+<p>"My offers always hold good; I never go back on my word."</p>
+
+<p>Kit was glad to hear this, for he would have been placed in an
+embarrassing position if, like some men, Mr. Barlow had forgotten an
+offer made on the impulse of the moment.</p>
+
+<p>"Have you any directions to give, sir?"</p>
+
+<p>"You may report to my manager, Mr. Bryant. First, however, it may be
+well for you to see the Vincenti brothers, and arrange for a joint act."</p>
+
+<p>"When do you wish me to appear, sir?"</p>
+
+<p>"Whenever you are ready. You may take a week to rehearse, if necessary.
+Your pay will commence at once."</p>
+
+<p>"Thank you, Mr. Barlow; you are very kind and considerate."</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Barlow smiled, and, waving his hand, passed on.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_70" id="Page_70">[Pg 70]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>He was very popular with all who were in his employ, and had a high
+reputation for kindness and strict integrity.</p>
+
+<p>"I'd like to work for him," said William Morris, who had listened to the
+conversation between Kit and the circus proprietor.</p>
+
+<p>"I should like to have you along with me," replied Kit, "but from what
+Mr. Henderson says there is no good opening."</p>
+
+<p>It was not till eleven o'clock that Kit met his future partners, the
+Vincenti brothers.</p>
+
+<p>"Good!" said Alonzo, in a tone of satisfaction. "We must get up a joint
+act. I suppose you haven't got a suit of tights?"</p>
+
+<p>"No. I never expected to need one."</p>
+
+<p>"I have an extra one which I think will fit you. Though I am ten years
+older than you we are about the same size."</p>
+
+<p>Kit had occasion to remark that circus performers are short as a rule.
+Many of them do not exceed five feet four inches in height, but
+generally they are compactly built, with well developed muscles, and
+possess unusual strength and agility.</p>
+
+<p>The circus suit was brought out. It proved to be an excellent fit.</p>
+
+<p>William Morris eyed Kit with admiration.</p>
+
+<p>"You look like a regular circus chap, Kit!" he exclaimed. "I wish I was
+in your shoes."</p>
+
+<p>"Wait till you see whether I am a success, William," replied Kit.</p>
+
+<p>"Now, if you are ready, we will have a little practice," said Alonzo
+Vincenti.</p>
+
+<p>"May I look on?" asked William.</p>
+
+<p>"Oh, yes; we don't generally admit spectators, but you are a friend of
+the boy."<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_71" id="Page_71">[Pg 71]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>They all entered the tent, and for an hour Kit was kept hard at work.</p>
+
+<p>In the act devised by the Vincenti brothers, he stood on the shoulders
+of the second, who in his turn stood on the shoulders of the first.
+Various changes were gone through, in all of which Kit proved himself an
+adept, and won high compliments from his new associates.</p>
+
+<p>"Can you tumble?" asked Antonio.</p>
+
+<p>Kit smiled.</p>
+
+<p>"I was afraid I should when I first got on your shoulders," he answered.</p>
+
+<p>"That was what I meant,&mdash;something like this," and he whirled across the
+arena, rolling over and over on hands and feet in the manner of a cart
+wheel.</p>
+
+<p>Kit imitated Antonio rather slowly and awkwardly at first, but rapidly
+showed improvement.</p>
+
+<p>"You'll soon learn," said Antonio. "Now let me show you something else."</p>
+
+<p>This something else was a succession of somersaults, made in the most
+rapid manner.</p>
+
+<p>Kit tried this also, slowly at first, as before, but proving a rapid
+learner.</p>
+
+<p>"In the course of three or four days you will be able to do it in
+public," said Alonzo.</p>
+
+<p>"When do you advise me to make my first appearance?" asked Kit.</p>
+
+<p>"To-night, in our first act."</p>
+
+<p>"But shall I be ready?"</p>
+
+<p>"You'll do. We may as well make a beginning."</p>
+
+<p>"I wish I could see you, Kit," said William.</p>
+
+<p>"Can't you?"</p>
+
+<p>"I was going to the afternoon performance. It would make me too late
+home if I stayed in the evening."<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_72" id="Page_72">[Pg 72]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"Won't there be some people over from Oakford that you can ride back
+with?"</p>
+
+<p>"I didn't think of that. Yes, John Woods told me that his father was
+coming, and would bring him along. I could ride home with them."</p>
+
+<p>"Good! then you'd better stay."</p>
+
+<p>"Perhaps I'd better go over and buy a ticket."</p>
+
+<p>But to William's satisfaction he was given free admission as a friend of
+Kit. Not only that, but he was invited to take dinner and supper at the
+circus table. In fact, he was treated with distinguished consideration.</p>
+
+<p>"Kit," he said, "I was in luck to meet you."</p>
+
+<p>"And it was lucky for me that I met you. I shouldn't like to have met
+Aaron Bickford single handed."</p>
+
+<p>"I wish old Bickford would come to the circus to-night. Wouldn't he be
+surprised to see you performing in tights?"</p>
+
+<p>"I think it would rather take him by surprise," said Kit, smiling.</p>
+
+<p>Kit and William occupied seats at the afternoon performance as
+spectators, it having been arranged that Kit's <i>d&eacute;but</i> should be made in
+the evening. Our hero regarded the different acts with unusual interest,
+and his heart beat a little quicker when he heard the applause elicited
+by the performances of the Vincenti brothers, for he had already begun
+to consider himself one of them.</p>
+
+<p>When the performance was over, and the audience was dispersing, Kit felt
+a hand laid upon his shoulder.</p>
+
+<p>He turned and his glance rested upon a man of about forty, with a grave,
+serious expression. He was puzzled, for it was not a face that he
+remembered to have ever seen before.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_73" id="Page_73">[Pg 73]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"You don't know me?" said the stranger.</p>
+
+<p>"No, sir."</p>
+
+<p>"And yet you have done me a very great service."</p>
+
+<p>"I didn't know it, sir."</p>
+
+<p>"The greatest service that any one person can do to another&mdash;you have
+saved my life."</p>
+
+<p>Then a light dawned upon Kit's mind, and he remembered what Achilles
+Henderson had said to him in the morning.</p>
+
+<p>"Is your name Dupont?" he asked.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes; I am Joe Dupont, the clown, whom you saved from a horrible death.
+I tell you, when Nero stood there in the ring with his paw on my breast
+I gave myself up for lost. I expected to be torn to pieces. It was an
+awful moment!" and the clown shuddered at the picture which his
+imagination conjured up. "Yes, sir; I wouldn't see such another moment
+for all the money Barlow is worth. I wonder my hair didn't turn white."</p>
+
+<p>"Excuse me, Mr. Dupont, but I find it hard to think you are Joe Dupont,
+the clown," said Kit.</p>
+
+<p>"Why?"</p>
+
+<p>"Because you look so grave and sedate."</p>
+
+<p>Joe Dupont smiled.</p>
+
+<p>"I only make a fool of myself in the ring," he said. "Outside you might
+take me for a merchant or minister. Indeed, I am a minister's son."</p>
+
+<p>"You a minister's son!" ejaculated Kit.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes; you wouldn't think it, would you? I was rather a wild lad, as
+minister's sons often are. My poor father tried hard to give me an
+education, but my mind wasn't on books or school exercises, and at
+sixteen I cut and run."</p>
+
+<p>"Did you join a circus then?"</p>
+
+<p>"Not at once. I tried hard to earn my living in<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_74" id="Page_74">[Pg 74]</a></span> different ways. Finally
+I struck a circus, and got an engagement as a razorback. When I got
+older I began to notice and imitate the clowns, and finally I made up my
+mind to become one myself."</p>
+
+<p>"Do you like the business?"</p>
+
+<p>"I have to like it. No; I am disgusted with myself often and often. You
+can judge from one thing. I have a little daughter, Katy, now eight
+years of age. She has never seen me in the ring and never will. I could
+never hold up my head in her presence if she had once seen me playing
+the fool before an audience."</p>
+
+<p>All this surprised Kit. He had been disposed to think that what clowns
+were before the public they were in private life also. Now he saw his
+mistake.</p>
+
+<p>"You contribute to the public amusement, Mr. Dupont," said Kit.</p>
+
+<p>"True; but what sort of a life record is it? Suppose in after years Katy
+is asked, 'Who was your father?' and is obliged to answer, 'Joe Dupont,
+the clown.' But I ought not to grumble. But for you I should have died a
+terrible death, and Katy would be fatherless, so I have much to be
+thankful for after all."</p>
+
+<p>Kit listened to the clown not without surprise. He could hardly realize
+that this was the comical man whose grotesque actions and sayings had
+convulsed the spectators only an hour before. When he came to think of
+it, he felt that he would rather be an acrobat than a clown.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_75" id="Page_75">[Pg 75]</a></span></p>
+
+
+
+
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XV" id="CHAPTER_XV"></a>CHAPTER XV.<br />
+MR. BICKFORD GOES TO THE CIRCUS.</h2>
+
+<p>When Aaron Bickford, balked of his prey, was compelled to get into his
+wagon and start for home, he felt uncommonly cross. To begin with, he
+was half famished, having harnessed up and set out on what turned out to
+be a wild goose chase without breaking his fast. Yet he could have borne
+this with comparative equanimity if he had effected the purpose which he
+had in view&mdash;the capture of his expected apprentice.</p>
+
+<p>But he had been signally defeated. Indeed he had been humiliated in
+presence of Kit and William Morris, by being unceremoniously picked up
+and tossed over the fence. As William was an Oakford boy, he foresaw
+that his discomfiture would soon be known to all his fellow townsmen,
+and that public ridicule would be his portion. There seemed no way to
+avoid this, unless by begging William to keep silent, and this he could
+not bring himself to do, even if the request was likely to be granted.</p>
+
+<p>"Where's the boy?" asked his wife, as, after unharnessing his horse, he
+went into the house.</p>
+
+<p>"I don't know where he is," answered Bickford, in a surly tone.</p>
+
+<p>"Didn't you find him?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, I found him."</p>
+
+<p>"Wouldn't he come back?"</p>
+
+<p>"He didn't."<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_76" id="Page_76">[Pg 76]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"I'd have made him if I were you."</p>
+
+<p>"Perhaps you would, and then perhaps you wouldn't. Perhaps you
+couldn't."</p>
+
+<p>"You don't mean to say, Aaron Bickford, that you let a whippersnapper
+like that defy you?"</p>
+
+<p>"What could I do against a man eight feet high?"</p>
+
+<p>"Goodness, Mr. Bickford, have you been drinking?" ejaculated his wife.</p>
+
+<p>"No, I haven't been drinking."</p>
+
+<p>"Do you mean to tell me that boy is eight feet high?"</p>
+
+<p>"No, I don't mean to tell you the boy is eight feet high. But I won't
+answer any more foolish questions till you give me something to eat. I
+am fairly faint with hunger."</p>
+
+<p>"Sit down, then, and I hope after you've gratified your appetite you'll
+be a little less mysterious."</p>
+
+<p>Mrs. Bickford was privately of opinion that her husband had stopped at
+some drinking place&mdash;otherwise why should he prate of men eight feet
+tall?</p>
+
+<p>Aaron Bickford ate almost ravenously, though the food set before him was
+not calculated to gratify the taste of an epicure. But all things are
+acceptable to an empty stomach.</p>
+
+<p>When he seemed to be satisfied, his wife began anew.</p>
+
+<p>"Who is it that is eight feet high?" she asked.</p>
+
+<p>"The giant at the circus."</p>
+
+<p>"What did you have to do with him?"</p>
+
+<p>"Not much, but he had something to do with me," answered Bickford,
+grimly.</p>
+
+<p>"How is that?"</p>
+
+<p>"I overhauled the boy, and was dragging him back to the wagon, when this
+fellow hove in sight. It seems he knew the young rascal, and took his<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_77" id="Page_77">[Pg 77]</a></span>
+part. He seized me as easily as you would take up a cat, and flung me
+over the fence."</p>
+
+<p>"I wish I'd been there!" exclaimed Mrs. Bickford, angrily.</p>
+
+<p>"What could you have done. You would have been flung over too," said her
+husband, contemptuously.</p>
+
+<p>"I would have got a good grip of his hair, and I guess that would have
+made him let go."</p>
+
+<p>"You'd have to stand on a ladder, then."</p>
+
+<p>"So the boy got away?"</p>
+
+<p>"Of course he did."</p>
+
+<p>"And where did he go?"</p>
+
+<p>"I expect he went to the circus along with William Morris."</p>
+
+<p>"Was that boy with him?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes."</p>
+
+<p>"They were pretty well matched. What can they do at the circus?"</p>
+
+<p>"I don't know. Perhaps their long-legged friend will give them a ticket
+to the show."</p>
+
+<p>"Aaron, suppose we go to the circus?"</p>
+
+<p>"What for?"</p>
+
+<p>"You may get hold of the boy, and bring him back. The giant won't be
+with him all the time."</p>
+
+<p>"I'd like to get the boy back," said Bickford, in a wavering tone. "I'd
+give him a lesson."</p>
+
+<p>"And so would I. I guess between us we could subdue him. But of course
+he must be got back first."</p>
+
+<p>"I'll think of it, Sarah."</p>
+
+<p>Later in the day Mr. Bickford told his wife he would go to the circus,
+but he tried to evade taking her in order to save the expense of another
+ticket. To this, however, she would not agree. The upshot<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_78" id="Page_78">[Pg 78]</a></span> was, that
+after supper the old horse was harnessed up, and the amiable pair, bent
+on vengeance, started for Grafton.</p>
+
+
+
+
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XVI" id="CHAPTER_XVI"></a>CHAPTER XVI.<br />
+MR. BICKFORD AT THE CIRCUS.</h2>
+
+<p>Mr. Bickford's chief object in going to the circus was to regain
+possession of Kit, his runaway apprentice, as he chose to consider him.
+But, besides this, he really had a curiosity to see the show, and
+thought this would afford him a good excuse for doing so. The same
+remark will apply to Mrs. Bickford, whose curiosity had been excited the
+year previous by seeing a circus procession. The blacksmith and his wife
+were not prejudiced against amusements, like many others, but were too
+frugal to attend them. Now that they could combine business with
+pleasure, they threw to the winds all hesitation.</p>
+
+<p>"Do you think you'll get the boy, father?" asked Mrs. Bickford, as they
+jolted over the road to Grafton.</p>
+
+<p>"I'll make a try for it, Sarah. He's a good strong boy, and he'll make a
+capital blacksmith. Did you notice his broad shoulders?"</p>
+
+<p>"He looks like he'd have a hearty appetite," said the careful spouse.</p>
+
+<p>"We won't pamper him, Sarah," replied Bickford, smiling grimly. "He
+won't get no such victuals as he did at home. Plain food and plenty of
+it, that's the way to bring up boys."</p>
+
+<p>"Perhaps he won't be at the circus," suggested Mrs. Bickford.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_79" id="Page_79">[Pg 79]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"I'd be surprised if he wasn't. Boys have a natural hankering for the
+circus. I had when I was a boy."</p>
+
+<p>"Did you ever go, Aaron?"</p>
+
+<p>"No; I didn't have the money."</p>
+
+<p>"Do you know how much they charge?"</p>
+
+<p>"Fifty cents, I believe."</p>
+
+<p>"It's an awful sight of money to pay for amusement. If it lasts two
+hours, that makes twenty-five cents an hour."</p>
+
+<p>"So it does, Sarah. That's as much as I can earn by hard work in that
+time."</p>
+
+<p>"I don't know as it's right to fling away so much money."</p>
+
+<p>"I wouldn't do it if it wasn't for gettin' the boy back. He'll be worth
+a good deal to me if I do. He's a good deal stronger than Bill Morris."</p>
+
+<p>"Of course that makes a difference. I don't care so much for the circus,
+though I should like to see the man stand up on a horse and jump through
+hoops. I wonder if the horse jumps through too."</p>
+
+<p>"I don't know, but we'll soon know all that is to be known. The boy
+won't expect to see us, I reckon," concluded the blacksmith, with a
+chuckle.</p>
+
+<p>At length they reached the circus grounds. All was bustle and excitement
+in the neighborhood of the lot.</p>
+
+<p>"I declare, Aaron, it looks like Fourth of July," said Mrs. Bickford.</p>
+
+<p>"So it does. It beats all&mdash;what a crowd there is."</p>
+
+<p>They bought tickets and entered the inclosure.</p>
+
+<p>In a small tent near the entrance were the curiosities. They were about
+to walk in when a young man curtly asked for tickets.</p>
+
+<p>"We bought tickets at the gate. Here they are."<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_80" id="Page_80">[Pg 80]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"All right; but you need separate tickets here."</p>
+
+<p>"I declare that's a swindle," said Mrs. Bickford. "I thought we could
+see the whole show on these."</p>
+
+<p>"We only charge ten cents extra for this."</p>
+
+<p>"It's a shame. Shall we go in, Aaron?"</p>
+
+<p>"I guess we will. I want to see that 'ere fat woman."</p>
+
+<p>"I'd like to see the dwarf and the woman with hair five feet long. A
+circus is dreadful expensive, but bein' as we're here we might as well
+see the whole thing."</p>
+
+<p>Twenty cents was paid at the door, and the economical pair, grown
+suddenly so extravagant, walked in.</p>
+
+<p>The first object on which the blacksmith's eyes rested kindled him with
+indignation, and recalled mortifying memories. It was Achilles
+Henderson, the giant, who, on his side recognized Aaron Bickford.</p>
+
+<p>"Good evening, my friend," he said, with a smile. "I believe we have met
+before."</p>
+
+<p>"Do you know him?" asked Mrs. Bickford, in surprise.</p>
+
+<p>Aaron's brow contracted as he answered:</p>
+
+<p>"It's the ruffian that threw me over the fence this morning."</p>
+
+<p>"I see you remember me," said Achilles, good-naturedly.</p>
+
+<p>"I ought to remember you," retorted the blacksmith.</p>
+
+<p>"Come, don't bear malice. It was only a little joke."</p>
+
+<p>"I don't like such jokes."</p>
+
+<p>"Well, well; I'll give you satisfaction. I'll let you throw me over the
+fence any time you want to, and I won't make a particle of resistance."<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_81" id="Page_81">[Pg 81]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>Somehow this proposal did not strike the blacksmith as satisfactory. He
+asked abruptly: "Where's the boy?"</p>
+
+<p>"There were two boys."</p>
+
+<p>"I mean the stout, broad-shouldered boy."</p>
+
+<p>"I don't know just where he is at present."</p>
+
+<p>"Do you know why I've come here this evening?"</p>
+
+<p>"To see the show, I expect."</p>
+
+<p>"I've come to get that boy. I've no doubt he's somewhere about here."</p>
+
+<p>"Oho!" thought the giant; "I must put my young friend on his guard."</p>
+
+<p>"If you'll help me I'll do as much for you some time."</p>
+
+<p>"So you are going to carry him back with you?" went on Achilles,
+desirous of learning the extent of Kit's danger.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, I am."</p>
+
+<p>"You say he is your apprentice?"</p>
+
+<p>"Of course he is."</p>
+
+<p>"And you've got the papers to show for it?"</p>
+
+<p>"I don't need no papers. I've got his uncle's consent."</p>
+
+<p>"I think, my friend, you're not familiar with the law," thought
+Achilles. "Kit won't go with you to-night."</p>
+
+<p>But it was nearly time for the performance. Mr. and Mrs. Bickford left
+the smaller tent, and entering the big one took their seats. They
+watched the performance with great wonder and enjoyment till the
+entrance of Kit and the Vincenti brothers. They did not immediately
+discover him, but when he stood on the shoulders of Alonzo Vincenti,
+who, in turn, stood on the shoulders of Antonio, and the three-storied
+acrobat walked round the ring, Mrs. Bickford recognized<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_82" id="Page_82">[Pg 82]</a></span> Kit, and,
+pointing with her parasol to the young acrobat, as she half raised
+herself from her seat, she exclaimed in a shrill voice: "Look, Aaron,
+there's your boy, all rigged out in circus clothes!"</p>
+
+<p>"Well, that beats all!" ejaculated the blacksmith, gazing with wide open
+mouth at Kit.</p>
+
+<p>Just then, Kit, reversing his attitude, raised his feet in the air and
+was borne round the ring, amid the plaudits of the spectators.</p>
+
+<p>"How do you think he does it?" asked Mrs. Bickford in astonishment.</p>
+
+<p>"I give it up," said the blacksmith.</p>
+
+<p>"He's a smart critter. Do you think they pay him?"</p>
+
+<p>"I reckon he gets two or three dollars a week, but he hain't no business
+to hire out to the circus folks. He's going back with us to-night, and
+I'll turn him out a blacksmith in two years."</p>
+
+<p>When Kit had finished his act, he went to the dressing room and changed
+his clothes.</p>
+
+<p>"I wonder whether the old fellow is after me!" he thought. "What could
+have put it into his head that I was here?"</p>
+
+<p>As he emerged from the dressing room he met Mr. Barlow, the proprietor
+of the circus, who advanced towards him, and shook his hand cordially.</p>
+
+<p>"Bravo, my young friend!" he said. "You did yourself great credit. Are
+you sure you have never performed in a circus before?"</p>
+
+<p>"Quite sure, sir."</p>
+
+<p>"You went through your act like an old professional. You did as well as
+either of the other two."</p>
+
+<p>"Thank you, sir. I am glad you are satisfied."</p>
+
+<p>"I ought to be. I regard you as a decided acquisition to my show. Keep
+on doing your best, and I<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_83" id="Page_83">[Pg 83]</a></span> can assure you that your efforts will be
+appreciated. How much did I agree to pay you?"</p>
+
+<p>"Ten dollars a week, sir."</p>
+
+<p>"That isn't enough. I raise your salary at once to twenty-five."</p>
+
+<p>Kit was dazzled by his good fortune. What! Twenty-five dollars a week
+and traveling expenses for a boy of sixteen! It seemed marvelous.</p>
+
+<p>"I am afraid I am dreaming, Mr. Barlow," he said. "I can't believe that
+I am really to receive so handsome a salary."</p>
+
+<p>"You will realize it to-night when you collect your first week's pay."</p>
+
+<p>"But this won't be a full week, sir."</p>
+
+<p>"Never mind! You shall receive full pay. Do you think I forget your
+heroic act at Smyrna?"</p>
+
+<p>"Thank you, sir. I hope nothing will prevent my continuing in your
+employ."</p>
+
+<p>"What should prevent?" asked Mr. Barlow, quickly. "Have you had an offer
+from another show?"</p>
+
+<p>"No, sir; I am not well known enough for that; but I saw a man in the
+audience who would probably like to get me away."</p>
+
+<p>"Who is it?"</p>
+
+<p>"A blacksmith from Oakford."</p>
+
+<p>"I don't understand. What have you to do with a blacksmith?"</p>
+
+<p>Kit explained briefly.</p>
+
+<p>"When do you think he will try to recover possession of you?" asked the
+circus proprietor.</p>
+
+<p>"Just after the show is over."</p>
+
+<p>"Has he any papers?"</p>
+
+<p>"Not one."<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_84" id="Page_84">[Pg 84]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"Then he has no claim on you. If he makes any trouble let me know."</p>
+
+<p>"I will, Mr. Barlow."</p>
+
+
+
+
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XVII" id="CHAPTER_XVII"></a>CHAPTER XVII.<br />
+KIT'S STRATAGEM.</h2>
+
+<p>Kit, when dressed, sought the part of the house where he knew that
+William Morris was seated.</p>
+
+<p>"How did I do, Will?" he asked.</p>
+
+<p>"Splendidly!" answered the boy enthusiastically. "I felt proud of you."</p>
+
+<p>"I think I have a right to be satisfied myself. I have had my pay
+raised."</p>
+
+<p>"You don't mean to say you are to get more than ten dollars?" said his
+friend, opening his eyes in amazement.</p>
+
+<p>"I am raised to twenty-five."</p>
+
+<p>"You don't mean to say you are to get twenty-five dollars a week, Kit?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, I do."</p>
+
+<p>"And your board?"</p>
+
+<p>"And my board and traveling expenses," added Kit, with a smile.</p>
+
+<p>"I wish I were in your shoes, Kit," said William. "Think of me with only
+one dollar a week."</p>
+
+<p>"Would you be willing to go through my acts for the money I am going to
+receive?"</p>
+
+<p>William shook his head.</p>
+
+<p>"I couldn't do it, Kit," he replied. "It always makes me dizzy when I
+have my head down. I don't believe I could ever do anything in a
+circus."<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_85" id="Page_85">[Pg 85]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"Well, William, I won't forget you. If I save money, as I am sure to do,
+I'll see if I can't do something for you by and by. By the way, did you
+see Mr. and Mrs. Bickford?"</p>
+
+<p>"No, you don't mean to say they are here?"</p>
+
+<p>"Look over there!"</p>
+
+<p>William followed the direction of Kit's finger, and he easily discovered
+the blacksmith and his wife.</p>
+
+<p>"By gracious! You're right!" he said. "It's the first money I've known
+old Bickford to pay for any amusement for years."</p>
+
+<p>"They came after me, William."</p>
+
+<p>"You won't go back with them?"</p>
+
+<p>"Not much. I don't care to give up twenty-five dollars a week for the
+privilege of learning the trade of a blacksmith."</p>
+
+<p>"Suppose they try to carry you off?"</p>
+
+<p>"That gives me an idea. With your help I'll try to play a trick on them.
+It'll be capital fun."</p>
+
+<p>"Go ahead and tell me what it is, Kit. I'm with you!"</p>
+
+<p>"My plan is that you should ride home with Mr. Bickford," said Kit.</p>
+
+<p>"I don't understand," said William, looking puzzled.</p>
+
+<p>"I'll tell you my idea. Bickford has come here with the intention of
+taking me back with him to Oakford."</p>
+
+<p>"But you don't mean to go?"</p>
+
+<p>"Of course not, but when the show is over I shall put myself in his way,
+and after a little objection agree to go. I will ask for five minutes to
+get ready. In that time I will change hats with you, and as it is dark
+you can easily pass yourself off for me."<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_86" id="Page_86">[Pg 86]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"Capital!" exclaimed William, laughing. "Won't the old man look foolish
+when he finds out who is with him?"</p>
+
+<p>"Don't let him know till you arrive, or he would force you to leave the
+carriage, and walk home alone, and a six mile walk is no joke."</p>
+
+<p>"All right Kit! I understand, and I think I can carry out your idea. I
+haven't much love for the old man or his wife either, and I am glad of a
+chance to get even with them."</p>
+
+<p>The performance continued till ten o'clock. The blacksmith and his wife
+enjoyed it beyond their anticipations. Amusements of any kind were new
+to them, and their pleasure was like that of children.</p>
+
+<p>"I begin to think, Sarah, we shall get our money's worth," said Aaron
+cautiously, as the entertainment neared its end; "this is a great show."</p>
+
+<p>"So it is, Aaron. I don't begrudge the money myself, though fifty cents
+is a pretty high price to pay. Then, besides, you'll have a chance to
+carry the boy home."</p>
+
+<p>"That's so, Sarah. Just as soon as the show is over, foller me, and
+we'll try to find him."</p>
+
+<p>At length the last act was ended, and the crowd of spectators began
+pouring from the tent.</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Bickford hurriedly emerged from the audience, and began to look
+around for Kit. He had but little trouble in finding him, for the boy
+purposely put himself in his way. Aaron Bickford strode up to him.</p>
+
+<p>"Well, I've caught you at last!" he said, putting his hand on the boy's
+shoulder.</p>
+
+<p>"What do you want of me, Mr. Bickford?" said Kit.</p>
+
+<p>"What do I want of you? Well, I want you to go home with me, of
+course."<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_87" id="Page_87">[Pg 87]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"Won't you let me stay with the circus a week?" asked Kit, in a subdued
+tone.</p>
+
+<p>"No, I won't. I've got the wagon here, and I'm goin' to take you back
+with me to-night."</p>
+
+<p>"If you really think my uncle wishes it, perhaps I had better go," said
+Kit, in what appeared to be a wavering tone.</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Bickford was quite elated. He feared he should have trouble in
+persuading Kit to accompany him. He would not have been surprised if the
+boy had disappeared, and given him trouble to find him, and his
+unexpected submissiveness was an agreeable surprise.</p>
+
+<p>"Well, boy, it's time to be goin'. Oakford's six miles off, and we won't
+get home before midnight unless we start right off."</p>
+
+<p>"I'll go and get my things, Mr. Bickford. Where is your horse and
+wagon?"</p>
+
+<p>"Out by the entrance. It's hitched to a tree."</p>
+
+<p>"All right! You go and unhitch the horse, and I'll be right along."</p>
+
+<p>"But suppose you give me the slip? You'd better go along now."</p>
+
+<p>"I'll bring him with me, Mr. Bickford," said the giant. "I'm sorry he
+isn't going to stay with us, and I'll see him off."</p>
+
+<p>Achilles Henderson spoke in so straightforward a manner that Mr.
+Bickford was deceived.</p>
+
+<p>"Very well," he said. "I'll go along with Mrs. Bickford. Don't keep me
+waitin', for it's gettin' late."</p>
+
+<p>The blacksmith and his wife took up their march to the place where their
+team had been hitched. They found it safe, and untied the horse.</p>
+
+<p>"We're goin' to have a dark ride home, mother," he said.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_88" id="Page_88">[Pg 88]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"Yes, Aaron, but you've done a good evening's work."</p>
+
+<p>"That's so, Sarah. I expected I'd have more trouble with the boy."</p>
+
+<p>"There's nothing like being firm, Aaron. When he saw you were in
+earnest, he gave up."</p>
+
+<p>"I mean to keep a tight rein on him, Sarah. He's a boy that likes to
+have his own way, if I ain't greatly mistaken. We must break his will."</p>
+
+<p>The horse was unhitched, and still Kit had not arrived. Mr. Bickford
+began to fear that he had been tricked after all, when two figures,
+contrasting strongly with each other, appeared. One was the giant, in
+his ample height, and the other was a boy.</p>
+
+<p>"There they are, Aaron!" said Mrs. Bickford, who was the first to descry
+the oddly assorted pair.</p>
+
+<p>"Where is the boy to sit?" asked Achilles.</p>
+
+<p>"In the back seat. Mother and I will sit in front."</p>
+
+<p>"All right! There you are!" said Mr. Henderson, lifting the boy in his
+arms, as easily as if he were a kitten, and putting him on the rear
+seat.</p>
+
+<p>"Good-by, Kit!" he said. "I'm sorry you're going to leave us. Perhaps
+Mr. Bickford will let you off if we show anywhere near here."</p>
+
+<p>"The boy will be at work, and can't be let off," said the blacksmith,
+stiffly. "But it is time we were off."</p>
+
+<p>"Good-by, then, Kit!"</p>
+
+<p>"Good-by!" said the supposed Kit, in a low tone, for he feared that the
+difference in his voice would be recognized. But Mr. Bickford had no
+suspicions. He was anxious to get started, for he and his wife were
+always in bed by this time ordinarily.</p>
+
+<p>So the team started, and Achilles Henderson, sup<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_89" id="Page_89">[Pg 89]</a></span>pressing a laugh,
+strode away to the circus cars, which were already being prepared for a
+midnight journey to the next place. It may be explained here that the
+circus of to-day generally owns its own cars, which are used for the
+conveyance of all connected with it, their luggage, the tents, the
+animals, and all the paraphernalia of the show. As soon as the show is
+ended, the canvas men set to work to take down and fold up the tents.
+All the freight is conveyed to the cars, and the razorbacks, already
+referred to, set about loading them. The performers, ticketmen, and
+candy butchers seek their berths in the sleeping cars and are often in
+the land of dreams before the train starts.</p>
+
+<p>While Mr. Bickford was driving in the darkness to Oakford with the
+supposed Kit on the back seat, the real Kit was in his berth in the
+circus cars, preparing for a refreshing night's rest.</p>
+
+
+
+
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XVIII" id="CHAPTER_XVIII"></a>CHAPTER XVIII.<br />
+MR. BICKFORD'S MORTIFYING DISCOVERY.</h2>
+
+<p>Mr. Bickford was in excellent spirits. He had enjoyed the evening, and
+although he had been compelled to disburse a dollar for two circus
+tickets, a sum which to him seemed large, he was disposed to acknowledge
+that he had received his money's worth. Besides, and this seemed to him
+the greatest triumph of all, he had recovered his runaway apprentice, or
+thought he had. He inwardly resolved that Kit should smart for his past
+insubordination, though he had not yet decided in what way he would get<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_90" id="Page_90">[Pg 90]</a></span>
+even with him. The unexpected submissiveness shown by Kit elated him,
+and confirmed him in the idea he had long entertained that he could
+manage boys a good deal better than the average of men.</p>
+
+<p>"Talk about hard cases," he said one day to his wife. "I'd like to see
+the boy that can get the start of Aaron Bickford. He'll have to get up
+unusually airly in the mornin'."</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Bickford felt a little like crowing over his captive, and turned his
+head partly round to survey the boy on the back seat. Fortunately for
+William the darkness was so great that there was small chance of his
+detecting the imposture.</p>
+
+<p>"I reckon you didn't expect to be ridin' back to Oakford along of me
+this evenin'," he observed.</p>
+
+<p>"No, sir," muttered William in a voice scarcely audible.</p>
+
+<p>"Ho, ho, you feel kind of grouty, eh?" said the blacksmith. "Well, I
+ain't much surprised. You thought you could have your own way with Aaron
+Bickford, but you're beginnin' to see your mistake, I reckon?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, sir," replied the supposed Kit, in a meek voice.</p>
+
+<p>"Ho, ho! That's the way boys ginerally come out when they try to buck
+agin' their elders. Not but you might have succeeded with some men, but
+you didn't know the man you had to deal with this time."</p>
+
+<p>There was a sort of gurgle, for William was trying hard not to laugh, as
+he was picturing to himself the rage and mortification of Mr. Bickford
+when he discovered the deceit that had been practiced upon him. But the
+blacksmith misunderstood the sound, and thought Kit was sobbing.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_91" id="Page_91">[Pg 91]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"You needn't take on!" he said, magnanimously. "It ain't so bad as it
+might be. You'll be a good deal better off learnin' a good trade than
+trampin' round the country with the circus. I hope this'll be a lesson
+to you. You'd better not try to run away ag'in, for it won't be no use.
+You won't always have that long-legged giant to help you. If I'd done
+right, I should have had him took up for 'sault and battery. He needn't
+think because he's eight feet high, more or less, that he can defy the
+laws of the land. I reckon he got a little skeered of what he done, or
+he wouldn't have acted so different this evening."</p>
+
+<p>William did not reply to this. He was rather in hopes Mr. Bickford would
+stop addressing him, for he did not like to run the risk of answering,
+as it might open the eyes of the blacksmith to the fact that he had the
+wrong boy in the wagon.</p>
+
+<p>The distance to Oakford steadily diminished, though Mr. Bickford's horse
+was a slow one. At length it had dwindled to half a mile.</p>
+
+<p>"Now I don't care if he does find out who I am," thought William. "It
+ain't but a little way home now, and I shouldn't mind walking." Still
+his own house was rather beyond Mr. Bickford's, and it was just as well
+to ride the whole way, if he could escape detection so long.</p>
+
+<p>"Where did you learn them circus performances, Christopher?" suddenly
+asked the blacksmith, turning once more in his seat.</p>
+
+<p>By this time they were within a few rods of the blacksmith's yard, and
+William became bold, now that he had nothing to lose by it.</p>
+
+<p>"My name isn't Christopher," he answered in his usual tone.</p>
+
+<p>"Your name isn't Christopher? That's what your uncle told me."<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_92" id="Page_92">[Pg 92]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"I think you are mistaken," said William quietly.</p>
+
+<p>"What's got into the boy? Is he goin' to deny his own name? What is your
+name, then?"</p>
+
+<p>"My name is William Morris," was the distinct response.</p>
+
+<p>"What!" exclaimed the blacksmith in amazement.</p>
+
+<p>"I think you ought to know me, Mr. Bickford. I worked for you some time,
+you know."</p>
+
+<p>"Take off your hat, and let me look at your face!" said Aaron Bickford,
+sternly.</p>
+
+<p>William laughed as he complied with the request. It was now rather
+lighter, and the blacksmith, peering into his face, saw that it was
+indeed true&mdash;that the boy on the back seat was not Kit Watson at all,
+but his ex-apprentice, William Morris.</p>
+
+<p>"It's Bill Morris, by the living jingo!" he exclaimed. "What do you say
+to that, Sarah?"</p>
+
+<p>"You're a master hand at managing boys, Aaron," said his wife
+sarcastically.</p>
+
+<p>"How came you in the wagon, Bill Morris?" demanded Bickford, not caring
+to answer his wife.</p>
+
+<p>"The giant put me in," answered William.</p>
+
+<p>"Where is that boy, Christopher Watson?"</p>
+
+<p>"I expect he is travelin' with the show, Mr. Bickford."</p>
+
+<p>"Who put you up to this mean trick?" demanded the blacksmith,
+wrathfully.</p>
+
+<p>"Kit Watson."</p>
+
+<p>"I've got an account to settle with you, William Morris. I s'pose you
+think you've done something pretty smart."</p>
+
+<p>"I think he has, Aaron," said Mrs. Bickford, who seemed to take a
+malicious pleasure in opening her husband's wounds afresh.</p>
+
+<p>"Mrs. Bickford, it isn't very creditable in you to<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_93" id="Page_93">[Pg 93]</a></span> triumph over your
+husband, just after he's been spendin' fifty cents for your amusement."</p>
+
+<p>"Goodness knows, Mr. Bickford, you don't often take me to shows. I guess
+what you spend that way won't ruin you."</p>
+
+<p>While the married pair were indulging in their little recriminations,
+William had managed to slip out of the wagon in the rear, and he was now
+a rod away.</p>
+
+<p>"Good night, Mr. Bickford!" he shouted. "I'm much obliged to you for
+bringing me home. It's saved me a long walk."</p>
+
+<p>The blacksmith's reply was one that I do not care to record. He was
+thoroughly angry and disgusted. If it hadn't been so late he would have
+got out and tried to inflict punishment on William with his whip, but
+the boy was too far away by this time to make this possible.</p>
+
+
+
+
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XIX" id="CHAPTER_XIX"></a>CHAPTER XIX.<br />
+STEPHEN WATSON VISITS OAKFORD.</h2>
+
+<p>On Monday as Mr. Bickford was about his work a carriage drove into the
+yard, containing Stephen Watson and Ralph.</p>
+
+<p>"Good morning, Mr. Bickford," said Stephen Watson. "I've called over to
+inquire about Kit. I hope he is doing his duty by you."</p>
+
+<p>The blacksmith looked at Mr. Watson with embarrassment, and did not
+immediately reply.</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Watson repeated his question.</p>
+
+<p>"Kit isn't with me," answered Bickford, at length.</p>
+
+<p>"Isn't with you!" repeated Stephen Watson, in surprise. "Where is he?"<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_94" id="Page_94">[Pg 94]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"He's run away."</p>
+
+<p>"Run away!" ejaculated Kit's uncle. "What is the meaning of that?"</p>
+
+<p>"He said he didn't want to be a blacksmith, and that you had no
+authority to make him."</p>
+
+<p>"But where has he gone? Have you any idea?"</p>
+
+<p>"He has gone off with Barlow's circus."</p>
+
+<p>"But what object can he have in going off with a circus?" asked Mr.
+Watson, no less bewildered.</p>
+
+<p>"They've hired him to perform."</p>
+
+<p>"Are you sure of this?"</p>
+
+<p>"I ought to be," answered the blacksmith, grimly. "My wife and I saw him
+jumpin' round last evenin' in the circus tent over at Grafton."</p>
+
+<p>"But I don't see what he&mdash;a green hand&mdash;can do. Ralph, can you throw any
+light on this mystery?"</p>
+
+<p>Ralph explained that Kit had practiced acrobatic feats extensively at
+the gymnasium connected with the school.</p>
+
+<p>"Did he ever talk of going off with a circus?" asked Mr. Watson.</p>
+
+<p>"Never, though he enjoyed the exercise."</p>
+
+<p>"I went after him and tried to get him back," said Mr. Bickford, "but he
+gave me the slip."</p>
+
+<p>"He's done a very foolish and crazy thing. He can't get more than three
+or four dollars a week from the circus, and in the fall he'll be out of
+a job."</p>
+
+<p>"Just as you say, sir. He'd have a good payin' trade if he stayed with
+me. What do you think it is best to do about it, Mr. Watson?"</p>
+
+<p>"I shall do nothing. If the boy chooses to make a fool of himself, he
+may try it. Next fall, and possibly before, he'll be coming back in
+rags, and beg me to take him back."</p>
+
+<p>"I hope you won't take him back," said Ralph, who was jealous of Kit.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_95" id="Page_95">[Pg 95]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"I shall not consider myself bound to do so, but if he consents to obey
+me, and learn a trade of Mr. Bickford, I will fit him, up and enable him
+to do so&mdash;out of charity, and because he is my nephew."</p>
+
+<p>"Then you don't mean to do anything about it, sir?" asked Aaron
+Bickford, considerably disappointed, for he longed to get Kit into his
+power once more.</p>
+
+<p>"No, I will leave the boy to himself. Ralph, as our business seems to be
+over, we will turn about and go home."</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Watson drove out of the blacksmith's yard.</p>
+
+<p>"Well, Ralph," he said, as they were on their way home, "I am very much
+annoyed at what your cousin has done, but I don't see that I am to
+blame."</p>
+
+<p>"Of course you're not, pa," returned Ralph, promptly.</p>
+
+<p>"Still the public may misjudge me. It will be very awkward to answer
+questions about Kit. I really don't know what to say."</p>
+
+<p>"Say he's run away and joined the circus. We might as well tell the
+truth."</p>
+
+<p>"I don't know but it will be best. I will add that, though it grieves
+me, I think it advisable, as he is so old, not to interfere with him,
+but let him see the error of his way for himself. I will say also that
+when he chooses to come back, I will make suitable arrangements for
+him."</p>
+
+<p>"I guess that will do. I will say the same."</p>
+
+<p>"I don't mind saying to you that I shall feel it quite a relief to be
+rid of the expense of maintaining him, for he has cost me a great deal
+of money. You are my son, and of course I expect to take care of you,
+and bring you up as a gentleman, but he has no claim upon me except that
+of relationship. I won't say that to others, however."<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_96" id="Page_96">[Pg 96]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"You are quite right, pa. As he is poor, and has his own living to make,
+it isn't best to send him to a high-priced school, and give him too much
+money to spend."</p>
+
+<p>It will be seen that there was a striking resemblance between the views
+of father and son, both of whom were intensely selfish, mean and
+unscrupulous.</p>
+
+<p>Stephen Watson foresaw that there would be a difficulty in making
+outside friends of the family understand why Kit had left home. He
+deliberately resolved to misrepresent him, and the opportunity came
+sooner than he anticipated.</p>
+
+<p>On the afternoon of the day of his call upon the blacksmith, there was a
+ring at the bell, and a middle-aged stranger was ushered into the
+parlor.</p>
+
+<p>"I suppose you don't remember me," he said to Stephen Watson.</p>
+
+<p>"I can't say I do," replied Stephen, eying him.</p>
+
+<p>"I knew your brother better than I did you. I am Harry Miller, who used
+to go to school with you both in the old red schoolhouse on the hill."</p>
+
+<p>"I remember your name, but I should not have remembered you."</p>
+
+<p>"I don't wonder. Time changes us all. I am sorry to hear that your poor
+brother is dead."</p>
+
+<p>"Yes," answered Stephen, heaving a sigh proper to the occasion, which
+was intended to signify his grief at the loss. "He was cut down like the
+grass of the field. It is the common lot."</p>
+
+<p>"His wife died earlier, did she not?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes."</p>
+
+<p>"But there was a son?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes."</p>
+
+<p>"How old is the boy?"</p>
+
+<p>"Just turned sixteen."<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_97" id="Page_97">[Pg 97]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"May I see him? I should like to see the son of my old deskmate."</p>
+
+<p>"Ah!" sighed Stephen. "I wish he were here to meet you."</p>
+
+<p>"But surely he is not dead?"</p>
+
+<p>"No; he is not dead, but he is a source of anxiety to me."</p>
+
+<p>"And why?" asked the visitor, with concern. "Has he turned out badly?"</p>
+
+<p>"Why, I don't know that I can exactly say that he has turned out badly."</p>
+
+<p>"What is the matter with him, then?"</p>
+
+<p>"He is wayward, and instead of being willing to devote himself to his
+school studies like my son Ralph, he has formed an extraordinary taste
+for the circus."</p>
+
+<p>"Indeed! but where is he?"</p>
+
+<p>"He is traveling with Barlow's circus."</p>
+
+<p>"In what capacity?"</p>
+
+<p>"As an acrobat."</p>
+
+<p>Henry Miller laughed.</p>
+
+<p>"I remember," he said, "that his father was fond of athletic sports. You
+never were."</p>
+
+<p>"No, I was a quiet boy."</p>
+
+<p>"That you were, and uncommonly sly!" thought Miller, but he did not
+consider it polite to say so. "Is the boy&mdash;by the way, what is his
+name?"</p>
+
+<p>"Christopher. He is generally called Kit."</p>
+
+<p>"Well, is Kit a good gymnast?"</p>
+
+<p>"I believe he is."</p>
+
+<p>"When did he join the circus?"</p>
+
+<p>"Only yesterday. In fact it is painful for me to say so, he ran away
+from a good home to associate with mountebanks."</p>
+
+<p>"And what are you going to do about it?"<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_98" id="Page_98">[Pg 98]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"He is so headstrong that I have thought it best to give him his own
+way, and let him see for himself how foolish he has been. Of course he
+has a home to return to whenever he sees fit."</p>
+
+<p>"That may be the best way. I should like to see the young rascal. I
+would follow up the circus and do so, only I am unfortunately called to
+California on business. I am part owner of a gold mine out there."</p>
+
+<p>"I trust you have been prospered in your worldly affairs."</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, I have every reason to be thankful. I suppose I am worth two
+hundred thousand dollars."</p>
+
+<p>Stephen Watson, whose god was money, almost turned green with jealousy.
+At the same time he asked himself how he could take advantage of his old
+schoolmate's good luck.</p>
+
+<p>"I wish he would take a fancy to my Ralph," he thought.</p>
+
+<p>So he called in Ralph, and introduced him to the rich stranger.</p>
+
+<p>"He's a good boy, my Ralph," he said; "sober and correct in all his
+habits, and fond of study."</p>
+
+<p>Ralph was rather surprised to hear this panegyric, but presently his
+father explained to him in private the object he had in view. Then Ralph
+made himself as agreeable as he could, but he failed to please Mr.
+Miller.</p>
+
+<p>"He is too much like his father," he said to himself.</p>
+
+<p>When he terminated his call, he received a very cordial invitation to
+come again on his return from California.</p>
+
+<p>"If Kit has returned I certainly will come," he replied, an answer which
+pleased neither Ralph nor his father.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_99" id="Page_99">[Pg 99]</a></span></p>
+
+
+
+
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XX" id="CHAPTER_XX"></a>CHAPTER XX.<br />
+A CHAT WITH A CANDY BUTCHER.</h2>
+
+<p>Kit had a berth assigned him in one of the circus cars. His nearest
+neighbor was Harry Thorne, a young man of twenty-four, who filled the
+position of candy butcher. As this term may sound strange to my readers,
+I will explain that it is applied to the venders of candy, lemonade,
+peanuts, and other articles such as are patronized by those who come to
+see the show. It is really a very profitable business, as will be
+explained in the course of the story.</p>
+
+<p>Harry Thorne was social and ready to give Kit any information about the
+circus.</p>
+
+<p>"How long is it since you joined a circus?" asked Kit, after getting
+acquainted.</p>
+
+<p>"I was younger than you," answered Thorne.</p>
+
+<p>"Why did you join? What gave you the idea?"</p>
+
+<p>"A spirit of adventure, I think. Besides, there was a large family of
+us&mdash;I am the oldest&mdash;and it was necessary for me to do something."</p>
+
+<p>"That's a queer name&mdash;candy butcher."</p>
+
+<p>"It seems so to you, but I am used to it."</p>
+
+<p>"Did you become a candy butcher at once?"</p>
+
+<p>"Not till I was eighteen. Before that I ran errands and made myself
+generally useful. I thought of being an acrobat, like you, but I was too
+stout and not active enough."</p>
+
+<p>"I shouldn't think there would be much money made in your business,"
+said Kit.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_100" id="Page_100">[Pg 100]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"That shows you don't know much about circus matters. Last fall I ran in
+with seven hundred dollars saved, besides paying all my expenses during
+the six months I was out."</p>
+
+<p>"You ought to be pretty well off now, if you have been a candy butcher
+for five or six years."</p>
+
+<p>"I haven't a cent, and am owing two hundred dollars in Philadelphia."</p>
+
+<p>"How is that?"</p>
+
+<p>"You don't often find a circus man that saves money. It's easy come,
+easy go. But I send money home every season&mdash;three or four hundred
+dollars at least, if I do well."</p>
+
+<p>"That's a good thing any way. But if I were in your place I would put
+away some money every season."</p>
+
+<p>"I could do it, but it's hard to make up my mind."</p>
+
+<p>"I can't see how you can make such sums. It puzzles me."</p>
+
+<p>"We are paid a fixed salary, say twenty-five dollars a month, and
+commission on sales. I was always pretty lucky in selling, and my income
+has sometimes been very large. But I don't make much in large places. It
+is in the smaller towns that the money is made. When a country beau
+brings his girl to the circus, he don't mind expense. He makes up his
+mind to spend several dollars in having a good time&mdash;so he buys
+lemonade, peanuts, apples, and everything that he or his girl fancies.
+In the city, where there are plenty of places where such things can be
+bought, we don't sell much. In New York or Philadelphia I make very
+little more than my salary."</p>
+
+<p>"What is there most profit on?" asked Kit.</p>
+
+<p>"Well, I should say lemonade. You've heard of circus lemonade?"</p>
+
+<p>"Is there anything peculiar about it?"<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_101" id="Page_101">[Pg 101]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"Yes, something peculiarly weak. A good-sized lemon will make half a
+dozen glasses, and perhaps more. But there is something cheaper still,
+and that is citric acid. I remember one hot day in an Ohio town. The
+thermometer stood at 99 degrees and there wasn't a drop of spring or
+well water to be had, for we had cornered it. All who were thirsty had
+to drink lemonade, and it took a good many glasses to quench thirst. I
+made a harvest that day, and so did the other candy butchers. If we
+could have a whole summer of such days, I could retire on a small
+fortune in October."</p>
+
+<p>"Do you like the circus business?"</p>
+
+<p>"Sometimes I get tired of it, but when the spring opens I generally have
+the circus fever."</p>
+
+<p>"What do you do in the winter?"</p>
+
+<p>"It is seldom I get anything to do. I am an expense, and that is why I
+find myself in debt when the new season opens. Last winter I was more
+lucky. A young fellow&mdash;an old circus acquaintance of mine&mdash;has a store
+in the country, and he offered to supply me with a stock of goods to
+sell on commission in country villages near by. In that way I filled up
+about three months, making my expenses, but doing nothing more. However,
+that was a great thing for me, and I start this season only two hundred
+dollars in debt, as I think I told you a few minutes ago."</p>
+
+<p>"Is it the same way with performers?"</p>
+
+<p>"No; they have a better chance. Next winter, if you try, you can
+probably make an engagement to perform at some dime museum or variety
+hall, in New York or elsewhere. I once got the position of ticket seller
+for a part of the winter."</p>
+
+<p>"I don't think I should like to perform in a dime museum," said Kit.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_102" id="Page_102">[Pg 102]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"What's the odds, if you are well paid for it?"</p>
+
+<p>"I don't intend to make my present business a permanent one."</p>
+
+<p>"That's different. What will you do next fall?"</p>
+
+<p>"I may go to school."</p>
+
+<p>Harry Thorne whistled.</p>
+
+<p>"That will be a novelty," he said. "I haven't been to school since I was
+twelve years old."</p>
+
+<p>"Wouldn't you like to go now?"</p>
+
+<p>"No; I'm too old. Are you much of a scholar?"</p>
+
+<p>"I'm a pretty good Latin scholar, and know something of Greek."</p>
+
+<p>"I'll bet there isn't another acrobat in the country that can say that.
+What salary do you get, if you don't mind telling?"</p>
+
+<p>"Twenty-five dollars a week."</p>
+
+<p>"You're in luck. How came Barlow to give you so much?"</p>
+
+<p>"I think he took a liking to me. Perhaps he wanted to pay me for facing
+the lion at Smyrna."</p>
+
+<p>"Were you the boy who did that? I thought your face looked familiar.
+You've got pluck, Kit."</p>
+
+<p>"I hope so; but I'm not sure whether it is I or the snuff that is
+entitled to the most credit."</p>
+
+<p>"Anyhow it took some courage, even if you did have the snuff with you."</p>
+
+<p>"Do you know what is to be our route this season?"</p>
+
+<p>"I think we are going West as far as St. Louis, taking all the larger
+towns and cities on our way. We are to show a week in Chicago. But I
+don't care so much for the cities as the country towns&mdash;the one-night
+places."</p>
+
+<p>"Does Mr. Barlow go with us?"</p>
+
+<p>"Not steadily. He drops in on us here and there.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_103" id="Page_103">[Pg 103]</a></span> There's one thing I
+can say for him&mdash;he won't have any man in his employ drink or gamble. We
+have to bind ourselves to total abstinence while we are in his
+employ&mdash;that is, till the end of the season. Gambling is the great vice
+of circus men; it is more prevalent even than drinking."</p>
+
+<p>"Don't the men do it on the sly?"</p>
+
+<p>"They run a risk if they do. At the first offense they are fined, at the
+second or third they are bounced."</p>
+
+<p>"That doesn't trouble me any. I neither drink nor gamble."</p>
+
+<p>"Good for you."</p>
+
+<p>"Say, when are you two fellows goin' to stop talkin'?" was heard from a
+neighboring berth. "You don't give a fellow a chance to sleep."</p>
+
+<p>Kit and his new friend took the hint and addressed themselves to
+slumber.</p>
+
+
+
+
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXI" id="CHAPTER_XXI"></a>CHAPTER XXI.<br />
+KIT MEETS A SCHOOLMATE.</h2>
+
+<p>Kit slept profoundly, being very tired. He was taken by surprise when,
+the next morning, he was shaken into a state of wakefulness, and opening
+his eyes met those of his neighbor Harry Thorne.</p>
+
+<p>"Is it morning?" he asked, in a sleepy tone.</p>
+
+<p>"I should say it was. It is a quarter after nine, and the parade starts
+at ten."</p>
+
+<p>"The parade?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes; we give a morning parade in every place we visit. If you are not
+on hand to take part in it, you will be fined five dollars."<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_104" id="Page_104">[Pg 104]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"I'll be up in a jiffy," said Kit, springing out of his berth. "But
+there's time enough, isn't there?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes; but not too much. You will want to get some breakfast. By the way,
+are you used to driving?"</p>
+
+<p>"Oh, yes. I have done a good deal of it," answered Kit.</p>
+
+<p>"I thought so, as you are a country boy. How would you like to drive a
+span of horses attached to one of the small chariots?"</p>
+
+<p>Kit was extremely fond of a horse, and he answered promptly, "I'll do
+it."</p>
+
+<p>"There are two. The other is driven by Charlie Davis, once a performer
+but now a ticket man. He is a little older than you."</p>
+
+<p>"All right! I don't see how I came to sleep so late."</p>
+
+<p>"You and Charlie are good matches. Once he went to bed Saturday night,
+and did not wake up till Monday morning."</p>
+
+<p>"That beats my record!"</p>
+
+<p>Kit was dressed in less than ten minutes.</p>
+
+<p>"Where shall I get breakfast?" he asked.</p>
+
+<p>"The regular breakfast is over, and you will have to buy some. There is
+a restaurant just opposite the lot. You might get in with one of the
+cooks, and get something in the cook tent."</p>
+
+<p>"No; I'll go to the restaurant. To-morrow I'll be on hand at the regular
+breakfast."</p>
+
+<p>The restaurant was a small one, with no pretensions to style, but Kit
+was hungry and not particular. At the same table there was a dark
+complexioned boy of about his own size, who had just begun to dispatch a
+beefsteak.</p>
+
+<p>He looked up as Kit seated himself.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_105" id="Page_105">[Pg 105]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"You're the new acrobat, are you not?" asked the other.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes; are you Charlie Davis?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes; how do you know me?"</p>
+
+<p>"Harry Thorne was speaking of you."</p>
+
+<p>"I see you're one of the late birds as well as I. I generally have to
+buy my breakfast outside. How do you like circus life?"</p>
+
+<p>"I haven't tried it well enough to tell. This is only my second day."</p>
+
+<p>"I went into it at fourteen. I've been an acrobat, too, but I have a
+weak ankle, and have gone into the ticket department."</p>
+
+<p>"Are you going to remain in the circus permanently?"</p>
+
+<p>"No, I'm trying to wean myself from it. A friend has promised to set me
+up in business whenever I get ready to retire. If I kept on, I would be
+no better off at forty than I am now."</p>
+
+<p>"Yet circus people make a good deal of money, I hear."</p>
+
+<p>"Right you are, my boy, but they don't keep it. They get spoiled for
+anything else, and soon or later they are left out in the cold. I've had
+a good deal of fun out of it, for I like traveling, but I'm going to
+give it up."</p>
+
+<p>"I took it up because I had nothing else to do, but I shan't stay in it
+long. I'll tell you about it some day. I hear you drive one of the pony
+chariots."</p>
+
+<p>"Yes."</p>
+
+<p>"I am to drive the other."</p>
+
+<p>"Good! Don't let them run away with you, my boy."</p>
+
+<p>"I'll try not to," said Kit, smiling. "Is there any danger?"<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_106" id="Page_106">[Pg 106]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"Not much. They're trained. Are you fond of horses?"</p>
+
+<p>"I like nothing better."</p>
+
+<p>"So it is with me. I'll wait till you are through breakfast, and then
+we'll go over together."</p>
+
+<p>Half an hour later Kit sat on the box of a chariot, drawn by two
+beautiful ponies. The circus line had been formed, and the parade began.
+Behind him was a circus wagon, or rather a cage on wheels, through the
+gratings of which could be seen a tiger, crafty and cruel looking. In
+front was an elephant, with two or three performers on his back. Kit was
+dressed in street costume, his circus dress not being required.</p>
+
+<p>In another part of the procession was Charlie Davis, driving a
+corresponding wagon.</p>
+
+<p>Kit felt a peculiar exhilaration as he drove his ponies, and reflected
+upon the strangeness of his position, as compared with his previous
+experiences. He had from time to time watched circus processions, but
+not in his wildest and most improbable dreams had it ever occurred to
+him to imagine that he would ever himself take part in one. As he looked
+down from his perch he saw the streets lined with the usual curious
+crowd of spectators, among whom boys were largely represented.</p>
+
+<p>"I suppose some of them are envying me," he thought to himself, with a
+smile. "Suppose there was some one who recognized me?"</p>
+
+<p>No sooner had the thought come into his mind, than he heard his own name
+called in a voice indicating amazement.</p>
+
+<p>"Kit Watson, by all that's wonderful!" were the words that fell on his
+ears.</p>
+
+<p>Looking to the right, his glance fell upon Jack<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_107" id="Page_107">[Pg 107]</a></span> Dormer, a schoolmate,
+who had been attending the same academy with him for a year past.</p>
+
+<p>Kit colored, feeling a little embarrassed.</p>
+
+<p>"How are you, Jack?" he said.</p>
+
+<p>"How came you in this circus procession, Kit?"</p>
+
+<p>"I can't tell you now. Come round to the lot, after the parade is over,
+and I'll tell you all about it."</p>
+
+<p>Jack availed himself of the invitation and presented himself at the
+circus grounds.</p>
+
+<p>"What does it all mean, Kit?" he asked. "Have you really and truly
+joined the circus?"</p>
+
+<p>"Come round this afternoon, and you'll see me perform. I am one of the
+Vincenti brothers, acrobats."</p>
+
+<p>"But what put it in your head? That's what I want to know?"</p>
+
+<p>"I thought I would like it better than being a blacksmith."</p>
+
+<p>"But who ever dreamed of your being a blacksmith?"</p>
+
+<p>"My uncle did. I'll tell you all about it."</p>
+
+<p>Kit told his story. Jack Dormer listened with sympathetic interest.</p>
+
+<p>"Do they pay you well?" he asked.</p>
+
+<p>"I get twenty-five dollars a week, and all expenses."</p>
+
+<p>"Can you get me a job?" asked Jack quite overcome by the magnificence of
+the salary.</p>
+
+<p>"As an acrobat, Jack?" asked Kit, laughing, for Jack had the reputation
+of being one of the clumsiest boys in school.</p>
+
+<p>"Well, no, I don't suppose I could do much in that way, but isn't there
+something I could do?"</p>
+
+<p>"Take my advice, Jack, and give it up. You've<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_108" id="Page_108">[Pg 108]</a></span> got a good home, and
+there is no need of your going into any such business even if you were
+qualified."</p>
+
+<p>"Don't you like it?"</p>
+
+<p>"I can't tell yet. Of course it is exciting, but those who have been in
+it a good while advise against it. I may not stay in it more than one
+season."</p>
+
+<p>"Shall I tell the fellows at school where you are?"</p>
+
+<p>"No, I would rather you wouldn't."</p>
+
+<p>"Does your cousin Ralph come back to school?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes."</p>
+
+<p>"We could spare him a good deal better than you."</p>
+
+<p>"I am not fond of Ralph myself, but the world is wide enough for us
+both."</p>
+
+<p>Kit saw his schoolmate again after the afternoon performance, and
+received many compliments.</p>
+
+<p>"I couldn't believe it was you," he said. "You acted as if you were an
+old hand at the business."</p>
+
+
+
+
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXII" id="CHAPTER_XXII"></a>CHAPTER XXII.<br />
+NEW ACQUAINTANCES.</h2>
+
+<p>Sunday was of course a day of rest for the circus employees. Most of
+them observed it by lying in bed unusually late. Kit, however, rose in
+good season, and found himself first at breakfast. When the proper time
+arrived, he walked to the village, and selecting the first church he
+came to, entered. He had always been in the habit of attending church,
+and felt that there was no good reason why he should give up the
+practice now that he was away from home.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_109" id="Page_109">[Pg 109]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>He stood in the lobby, waiting for the sexton to appear, when a
+fine-looking man of middle age entered the church with a young girl of
+fourteen at his side.</p>
+
+<p>He glanced at Kit with interest, and after a moment's pause walked up to
+him.</p>
+
+<p>"Are you a stranger here?" he asked.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, sir," answered Kit.</p>
+
+<p>"I shall be glad to have you accept a seat in my pew."</p>
+
+<p>"Thank you, sir," said Kit, politely; "I was waiting for the sexton,
+intending to ask him for a seat."</p>
+
+<p>"I have plenty of room in my pew, having only my daughter with me. Are
+you staying long in the town?"</p>
+
+<p>"Only as long as the circus does," answered Kit.</p>
+
+<p>The gentleman looked surprised.</p>
+
+<p>"Are you connected with the circus?" he asked, quickly.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, sir."</p>
+
+<p>By this time the young girl was examining Kit with interest and
+attention.</p>
+
+<p>"Is it possible you are a performer?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, sir."</p>
+
+<p>"I wouldn't have dreamed it. You look like a young gentleman."</p>
+
+<p>"I hope I am, sir."</p>
+
+<p>"Pardon me, I meant no offense, but you don't at all answer my idea of a
+circus performer."</p>
+
+<p>"I have only been two days with the circus," said Kit; "and that may
+account for my not having a circus look."</p>
+
+<p>"It is time to take our seats. I will speak with you afterwards. First,
+however, let me introduce my daughter, Evelyn Grant."<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_110" id="Page_110">[Pg 110]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"I am glad to make your acquaintance, Miss Evelyn," said Kit, removing
+his hat. "My name is Christopher Watson."</p>
+
+<p>Evelyn offered her hand with a smile.</p>
+
+<p>"I had no idea circus young men were so polite," she said.</p>
+
+<p>There was no chance for any further conversation, as they had entered
+the church. Mr. Grant's pew was in a prominent position. He drew back to
+let the two young people enter. They seated themselves at the lower end
+of the pew and Mr. Grant took his seat at the head. Kit noticed that
+several persons in neighboring pews regarded him with apparent
+curiosity.</p>
+
+<p>Kit enjoyed the services, which were of an interesting character. He had
+expected to feel like a stranger, but thanks to the kindness of Mr.
+Grant, he felt quite as much at home as when he sat in his uncle's pew
+at Smyrna.</p>
+
+<p>When the services were over, they filed slowly out of church. A new
+surprise was in store for Kit.</p>
+
+<p>"If you have no engagement we shall be glad to have you dine with us,
+Master Watson," said Mr. Grant.</p>
+
+<p>"You will come, won't you?" said Evelyn, with a smile.</p>
+
+<p>"You are very kind," said Kit, in grateful surprise. "Nothing could be
+more agreeable to me."</p>
+
+<p>Just then a gentleman approached Mr. Grant, and said: "I am glad to see
+you looking so well, Mr. Mayor."</p>
+
+<p>"Is your father the mayor of the city?" asked Kit.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes; he was elected last December."</p>
+
+<p>"I am very fortunate to be invited to dinner by the mayor."<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_111" id="Page_111">[Pg 111]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"And by the mayor's daughter. Don't forget that."</p>
+
+<p>"You may be sure I appreciate that, too."</p>
+
+<p>"How funny it seems to me to be walking with a circus performer! What do
+you do? You don't stand upon a horse's back, and jump through hoops, do
+you?"</p>
+
+<p>"No, I can't do that."</p>
+
+<p>"But what do you do?"</p>
+
+<p>"I am an acrobat."</p>
+
+<p>Kit explained to her what he did.</p>
+
+<p>"It must be very hard."</p>
+
+<p>"Oh, no! I learned to do it in a gymnasium, before I ever dreamed of
+being connected with a circus."</p>
+
+<p>"Where was the gymnasium?"</p>
+
+<p>"Attached to Dr. Codman's academy."</p>
+
+<p>"Why, I had a cousin who attended there," said Evelyn, in surprise.</p>
+
+<p>"What was his name?"</p>
+
+<p>"Edward Moore."</p>
+
+<p>"I know him very well. He is a nice fellow."</p>
+
+<p>At this moment Kit, in looking around, was surprised to see the familiar
+face and figure of Mr. Barlow, the circus proprietor, who had evidently,
+like himself, been attending the service. Recognition was mutual.</p>
+
+<p>"I am glad to see you here, Watson," said Mr. Barlow, offering his hand.
+"I always attend church myself when I have an opportunity, but I am
+afraid few in my employ follow my example. I always feel more confidence
+in any young man who seems to enjoy a church service."</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Barlow was a man whose name was widely known, and Kit saw that Mr.
+Grant looked as if he would like to be introduced.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_112" id="Page_112">[Pg 112]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"Mr. Barlow," he said, "allow me to introduce a new friend, Mr. Grant,
+the mayor of the town."</p>
+
+<p>"I am pleased to make your acquaintance, Mr. Mayor," said the showman,
+offering his hand.</p>
+
+<p>"The pleasure is mutual, sir," said the mayor. "I need not say that your
+name has long been familiar to me."</p>
+
+<p>"I am glad you have taken one of my young men under your wing. He is a
+recent acquisition, but I have reason to think well of him."</p>
+
+<p>"He is to dine with us to-day. I shall be glad to extend an invitation
+to you also, Mr. Barlow."</p>
+
+<p>"You are very kind, and but for a previous engagement I would accept
+with pleasure. I shall be glad to see you at my show to-morrow with
+complimentary tickets."</p>
+
+<p>"What a nice old gentleman Mr. Barlow is," said Evelyn, in a low voice.</p>
+
+<p>"I have found him an excellent friend. He won't allow any of us to drink
+or gamble while we are in his employ."</p>
+
+<p>"I hope you wouldn't want to do either, Mr. Watson."</p>
+
+<p>"I have no disposition to do so. But, Miss Evelyn, I want to ask you a
+favor."</p>
+
+<p>"What is it? If it isn't anything very great, I may grant it."</p>
+
+<p>"Don't call me Mr. Watson."</p>
+
+<p>"What shall I call you then?"</p>
+
+<p>"My friends call me Kit."</p>
+
+<p>"That's a nice name. Yes, I'll call you Kit."</p>
+
+<p>It will be seen that the two young people were getting on famously.</p>
+
+<p>"Do you live far away, Miss Evelyn?"</p>
+
+<p>"About a quarter of a mile from here."<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_113" id="Page_113">[Pg 113]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>In turning the corner of a street, Kit met his friend Harry Thorne,
+walking with Charlie Davis. Both regarded Kit with surprise.</p>
+
+<p>"Kit seems to be getting on," said Charlie. "Do you know who he is
+walking with?"</p>
+
+<p>"No; do you?"</p>
+
+<p>"With the daughter of the mayor."</p>
+
+<p>"How do you know?"</p>
+
+<p>"The gentleman in front was pointed out to me as the mayor. I shouldn't
+wonder if he were going to dine there."</p>
+
+<p>When Kit returned to the circus tents about four o'clock in the
+afternoon, he met with some good-natured raillery which he took in good
+part. He felt that he had passed the day in a much more satisfactory
+manner than if, like the great majority of his companions, he had risen
+late and lounged about the circus grounds, beguiling the time with
+smoking and story telling.</p>
+
+
+
+
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXIII" id="CHAPTER_XXIII"></a>CHAPTER XXIII.<br />
+KIT'S DARING ACT.</h2>
+
+<p>Kit's acts thus far had been confined to the ring, but now a new one was
+expected from him. Early in the performance a series of flying leaps
+from a springboard, in which all the acrobats took part, was introduced.
+From a point thirty feet back the performer ran swiftly till he reached
+the springboard, from which a leap was made accompanied by a somersault,
+carrying him over a considerable space in advance.</p>
+
+<p>It was the custom to place first one elephant, then<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_114" id="Page_114">[Pg 114]</a></span> a second, and
+finally a third, in front of the springboard. There was only one man who
+could leap over three elephants. The two Vincenti brothers took part
+regularly, but Kit, being a new hand, had thus far been excused. But one
+of the regular performers being temporarily unwell, it was considered
+desirable that his place should be supplied.</p>
+
+<p>"Do you think you can do it?" asked Alonzo Vincenti, somewhat
+doubtfully.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes," answered Kit, confidently.</p>
+
+<p>"It will be sufficient if you jump over one elephant," continued his
+associate. "Then you can drop out."</p>
+
+<p>"I can do better than that," said Kit.</p>
+
+<p>"I don't know about that. My brother can only jump over two."</p>
+
+<p>"You jump over three elephants."</p>
+
+<p>"Yes; but I am the only one who can do it. It takes a good spring to
+clear even two. It won't do to lose your head."</p>
+
+<p>"Can I have a chance to rehearse?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, I will speak about it."</p>
+
+<p>"Then I will appear this evening."</p>
+
+<p>"But if you fail you are likely to hurt yourself."</p>
+
+<p>"I know that. That is why I would rather make the first trial in the
+evening. The lights and the crowd will excite and help me."</p>
+
+<p>Kit was not foolhardy in his undertaking, for he had already had some
+practice in similar feats with his old teacher. Besides, he was
+ambitious. In school his ambition had shown itself in his attempt to
+eclipse his schoolfellows in scholarship. In the gymnasium he had ranked
+first, and now that he had joined the circus he didn't like to be
+assigned to a place in the rear.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_115" id="Page_115">[Pg 115]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>Let me take the opportunity here to advise my young readers not to
+imitate Kit in essaying dangerous parts. "Be bold, but not too bold!" is
+a very good motto.</p>
+
+<p>During the forenoon Kit found an opportunity to practice in the empty
+tent, in order to settle the question whether he had lost any of his
+old-time skill. The result was satisfactory, and renewed his confidence.</p>
+
+<p>"I can do better before a tent full of spectators than when practicing
+by myself," he decided.</p>
+
+<p>The evening came.</p>
+
+<p>Standing near the ticket seller half an hour before the show began, Kit
+heard his name called.</p>
+
+<p>Turning quickly he saw his friends of the previous day, Mayor Grant and
+his daughter Evelyn.</p>
+
+<p>"Good evening, my boy!" said the mayor cordially. "We have come to see
+what you can do."</p>
+
+<p>"Then I hope I shall do myself credit," said Kit, shaking hands with the
+mayor and his daughter. "Have you engaged seats?"</p>
+
+<p>"Not yet."</p>
+
+<p>"Then let me select them for you."</p>
+
+<p>"With pleasure. I am glad to have a friend at court."</p>
+
+<p>Kit selected seats as near as possible to the ring where he was to
+perform.</p>
+
+<p>"These are splendid seats," said Evelyn. "How soon do you appear?"</p>
+
+<p>"In a few minutes. I shall have to leave you now, but I will be back
+after my first act."</p>
+
+<p>"What a nice boy he is, papa!" said Evelyn.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes; it is a pity he is attached to a circus."</p>
+
+<p>"Why? Isn't it a respectable business?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes; but there are many temptations connected<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_116" id="Page_116">[Pg 116]</a></span> with it, and most circus
+performers never rise any higher."</p>
+
+<p>Evelyn was not inclined to discuss the question, though there is no
+doubt that she took a more favorable view of the circus profession than
+her father. The procession had just begun to move round the inner ring
+of the circus, including the elephants, the riders, the clowns, and
+performers of all kinds. Kit appeared, as in the public procession,
+driving a span of ponies.</p>
+
+<p>This was the introduction. Then the various parts of the programme
+succeeded. Soon Kit performed his act in the ring. He had a new act
+to-night. Standing on the shoulders of one of the Vincenti brothers, he
+turned a somersault and landed on the shoulders of the other, standing
+six to eight feet away.</p>
+
+<p>"I don't see how he does it, papa," said Evelyn. "He must be very
+smart."</p>
+
+<p>"I see you are determined to make a hero of this young man, Evelyn."</p>
+
+<p>"Don't you admire him yourself, papa?"</p>
+
+<p>"Admire is rather a strong word, daughter. I will admit, however, that I
+like him, and hope he will soon change his business."</p>
+
+<p>After the act was over, Kit came round and received congratulations.
+Evelyn repeated what her father said.</p>
+
+<p>"I agree with you, sir," said Kit, "I haven't selected this as my life
+business, but shall keep my engagement till the end of the season."</p>
+
+<p>"How, on the whole, do you like your new associates? I don't need to be
+told that they are very different from those to whom you are
+accustomed."</p>
+
+<p>"They are very kind to me, and generous to each other when there is
+need. They will divide their last dollar with a friend."<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_117" id="Page_117">[Pg 117]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"They often come to their last dollar, don't they?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes; they can't keep money. They are always in debt when the new season
+opens, no matter how much they brought home with them at the end of the
+last."</p>
+
+<p>"Are there no exceptions?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, a few. I have heard of one circus manager who commenced as a candy
+butcher, and now is proprietor of a very fair-sized show. Of course he
+had to save up money or he would never have succeeded so well."</p>
+
+<p>Kit had to cut short his visit, for the new act, already referred to,
+was near at hand.</p>
+
+<p>In the list of leapers Kit came last. First of all, there was a simple
+somersault from the springboard. This was easy. Just after Kit came the
+clown, who, though really a clever acrobat, stopped short when he came
+to the board and merely jumped up and down to the amusement of the young
+spectators.</p>
+
+<p>"He can't jump no more'n I can," said one small boy, contemptuously.</p>
+
+<p>"I shouldn't think they'd let him try," said another.</p>
+
+<p>Both boys were surprised when, in the next trial, where the task was to
+jump over an elephant, the despised clown made a good spring and landed
+fairly on his feet.</p>
+
+<p>"I guess he was afraid before," said the first boy.</p>
+
+<p>"No; he only pretended for fun. Do you see that boy? I wonder if he can
+jump over the elephant."</p>
+
+<p>The question was soon answered. Kit took his turn and sprang with
+apparent ease over the great beast.</p>
+
+<p>Next another elephant was driven in alongside of the first. Again the
+leapers advanced to try their<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_118" id="Page_118">[Pg 118]</a></span> skill. But two held back, not feeling
+competent for the task. The clown once more made a feint of jumping, but
+only jumped up and retired apparently filled with confusion.</p>
+
+<p>Evelyn gazed in intense excitement.</p>
+
+<p>"It must be awfully hard to jump like that, papa," she said.</p>
+
+<p>"I don't think I shall ever try it, Evelyn."</p>
+
+<p>Another elephant was driven alongside the other two, making three in
+all. The other contestants retired, for only Alonzo had succeeded
+hitherto in executing this difficult feat. He expected to be the only
+one now, but noticed with surprise that Kit seemed ready to follow him.</p>
+
+<p>"You don't mean to try it, Kit?" he said, in amazement.</p>
+
+<p>"Why not?"</p>
+
+<p>"You will fail, and if you do, you may hurt yourself seriously."</p>
+
+<p>"I shall not fail," said Kit, confidently.</p>
+
+<p>Alonzo looked anxious, but there was no time to expostulate. He ran
+swiftly to the board, made a vigorous spring, and landed handsomely on
+the bedding which had been provided beyond. He had scarcely stepped
+aside, when, to the astonishment of the other acrobats, Kit gathered
+himself up, ran to the springboard, and exerting himself to the utmost,
+made his leap, and landed a foot ahead of Alonzo.</p>
+
+<p>Then the tent rang with applause, and there were many exclamations of
+astonishment, not only among the spectators, but also among the circus
+performers.</p>
+
+<p>Kit's face flushed with pleasure, and bowing his acknowledgments, he
+withdrew.</p>
+
+<p>"He is certainly a wonderful boy," said the mayor.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_119" id="Page_119">[Pg 119]</a></span></p>
+
+
+
+
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXIV" id="CHAPTER_XXIV"></a>CHAPTER XXIV.<br />
+KIT RECEIVES A LETTER.</h2>
+
+<p>Kit received compliments enough to spoil him, if he had not been
+strong-minded and level-headed boy. Among others Mr. Barlow, who had
+been present and witnessed his daring act, took the opportunity to
+congratulate him.</p>
+
+<p>"You seem to be born for a circus performer, my young friend," he said.
+"You have come to the front at once."</p>
+
+<p>"Thank you, sir," said Kit. "I am glad that I succeeded, but such
+success as that does not satisfy my ambition."</p>
+
+<p>"You mean, perhaps, that you want to jump over four, perhaps five
+elephants?" suggested the manager.</p>
+
+<p>Kit smiled.</p>
+
+<p>"No," he answered; "I don't think I shall venture beyond three. But I
+don't expect to remain in the circus more than this season."</p>
+
+<p>"That is almost a pity, when you are so well qualified to excel in it."</p>
+
+<p>"Mr. Barlow," said Kit, seriously, "if I were a great manager like you,
+I would not mind, but I don't care to go through life as a circus
+performer."</p>
+
+<p>"I don't know but you are right, my boy. In fact I know you are. I
+shouldn't care to be a performer myself."</p>
+
+<p>"I don't think you would excel in that line," said<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_120" id="Page_120">[Pg 120]</a></span> Kit, with a glance
+at the portly form of the well-known showman.</p>
+
+<p>"You wouldn't advise me to try jumping over elephants, I infer," said
+Mr. Barlow, with an amused smile.</p>
+
+<p>"No, sir."</p>
+
+<p>"I will take your advice, my boy. Though your share of worldly
+experience isn't great, you are certainly correct in that. I shall
+relieve the fears of Mrs. Barlow at once by telling her that I have
+decided not to enter the ring."</p>
+
+<p>Kit also received the congratulations of the mayor and Evelyn, but the
+former added: "Though your act was a daring one, I was almost sorry to
+see it."</p>
+
+<p>"Why, sir?"</p>
+
+<p>"I feared it would confirm you in your love of your present business."</p>
+
+<p>"No, sir, there is no danger," replied Kit. "I have a fair education
+already, and prefer to qualify myself for something different."</p>
+
+<p>"I am glad to hear you say so. You are undoubtedly right."</p>
+
+<p>"I must say good-by now," said Kit; "for we get off at midnight."</p>
+
+<p>"Shall you not return this way?"</p>
+
+<p>"No, sir; we are to go West, I hear."</p>
+
+<p>"I hope when the season is over, you will make us a visit. Come and stay
+a week," said the mayor, hospitably.</p>
+
+<p>"Do come," said Evelyn, earnestly.</p>
+
+<p>"How can I thank you for your kindness to a stranger?" said Kit,
+gratefully. "I shall certainly avail myself of your hospitality. There
+are not many who would take such notice of a circus boy."</p>
+
+<p>"You are something more than a circus boy," said<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_121" id="Page_121">[Pg 121]</a></span> the mayor, "or I might
+not have been so drawn to you. Good-by, then, and if you ever need a
+friend, don't forget that you are at liberty to call upon me."</p>
+
+<p>It was a source of regret to Kit that he was obliged to part with
+friends whom in so short a time he had come to value so highly. He
+resolved that he would accept the mayor's offer at the close of the
+season. He would need a friend and adviser, and he felt confident that
+Mayor Grant's counsel would be wise and judicious.</p>
+
+<p>Kit was already asleep in his bunk when the circus train started for the
+next place on the route. When he woke up he was in the town of
+Colebrook. Here a surprise was in store for him in the shape of a letter
+from his uncle. When he saw the familiar handwriting and the postmark
+"Smyrna," he broke the seal with a feeling of curiosity. He did not
+expect to derive either pleasure or satisfaction from the perusal.</p>
+
+<p>We will look over his shoulder while he is reading the letter.</p>
+
+<div class="blockquot"><p><span class="smcap">Nephew Christopher</span>,&mdash;I cannot express to you my surprise and
+disappointment when I rode over to Oakford to see you, and learned
+from Mr. Bickford that you had run away from his house and joined
+the circus. There must be something low and depraved in your
+tastes, that you should thus abandon the prospect of earning a
+respectable livelihood, and go tramping through the country with a
+circus. What do you think your father would say if he could come to
+life, and become aware of the course you have so rashly taken?</p>
+
+<p>I should be justified in forcibly removing you from your present
+associations, and returning you to your worthy employer, Mr. Aaron
+Bickford, and perhaps it is my duty to do so. But I think it wiser
+for you to realize for yourself the folly of your course. You have
+deliberately deserted a good home and a kind guardian and become a
+tramp, if I may so express myself. I cannot imagine my son Ralph
+doing such a thing. He is, I hope, too duti<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_122" id="Page_122">[Pg 122]</a></span>ful and too sensible to
+throw away the advantages which fortune has secured him, to become
+a mountebank.</p>
+
+<p>It is very embarrassing to me to answer questions about you. There
+are some who will be unjust enough, I doubt not, to blame me for
+your wild course, but I shall be sustained by the consciousness of
+my entire innocence in the matter. At great expense I have
+maintained you and paid the cost of your education, giving you
+privileges and advantages equal to those I have given my own boy. I
+have done so cheerfully, because you were my nephew, and I am sorry
+you have made me so poor a return. But I shall look for my reward
+to my own conscience, and hope you may yet see the folly and
+wickedness of your course.</p>
+
+<p>I have only to add that when that time comes you are welcome to
+return to my roof and protection, and I will intercede with your
+excellent employer, Mr. Bickford, to take you back and teach you
+his trade, whereby you may be enabled to earn a more respectable
+living than you are doing at present. Ralph joins with me in this
+wish.</p>
+
+<p class="right">
+<span class="dedent">Your uncle,</span><br />
+<span class="smcap">Stephen Watson</span>.<br />
+</p>
+</div>
+
+<p>Kit's lip curled when he read this hypocritical letter, and was tempted
+to despise his uncle more now than ever. He lost no time in sending this
+reply:</p>
+
+<div class="blockquot"><p><span class="smcap">Uncle Stephen</span>,&mdash;I have received your letter, and can only express
+my surprise at the view you take of your treatment of me. Whether
+my father really left me as destitute as you claim, I am not in a
+position to say. If you have really gone to personal expense in
+maintaining and educating me up to this point, I shall, when I am
+able, reimburse you to the last cent. But I cannot forgive you for
+your trying to force a boy, reared and educated as I have been, to
+learn the trade of a blacksmith. You say that I have enjoyed
+advantages similar to those of your son Ralph. I wish to ask
+whether you would dream of apprenticing him to any such business.</p>
+
+<p>You speak of my low associations, and call me a mountebank. In the
+town I have just left I was the guest of the mayor, and have
+promised to spend a week at his house on a visit when the circus
+season is over. Though you have done your best to lower me
+socially, I am confident that<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_123" id="Page_123">[Pg 123]</a></span> I shall be able to win a good place
+by my own unaided exertions.</p>
+
+<p>I have no intention in continuing as a circus performer, though I
+am very liberally paid. It is too soon for me to decide upon my
+future course, but you may tell Mr. Bickford he need not wait for
+me to resume my place in his shop.</p>
+
+<p>I do not know when I shall see you or Ralph again, but you need
+have no fear that I shall appeal to your generosity.</p>
+
+<p class="right">
+<span class="dedent">Your nephew,</span><br />
+<span class="smcap">Christopher Watson</span>.<br />
+</p>
+</div>
+
+<p>Stephen Watson read this letter with surprise and chagrin. He was sorry
+to hear that Kit was doing so well, and alarmed at his implied doubt
+whether he had really been left destitute by his father.</p>
+
+<p>"That boy is going to give me trouble," he muttered.</p>
+
+
+
+
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXV" id="CHAPTER_XXV"></a>CHAPTER XXV.<br />
+THE ATTACK ON THE CIRCUS TENT.</h2>
+
+<p>Four weeks passed, in which Kit continued to acquit himself to the
+satisfaction of the manager. His youth and pleasant face, added to his
+uncommon skill, made him a favorite with the public, and being a boy
+with a love of adventure he enjoyed thoroughly the constant variety of
+circus life and travel.</p>
+
+<p>All circus existence is not sunshine, however. There are communities
+which are always dreaded by circus managers, on account of the rough and
+lawless element which dominates them.</p>
+
+<p>Early one morning Barlow's circus arrived at the mining town of
+Coalville (as we will call it), in Pennsylvania. An afternoon
+performance was given,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_124" id="Page_124">[Pg 124]</a></span> and passed off smoothly; but in the evening a
+gang of about twenty miners made their appearance, bent on mischief.</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Clark, the manager, sought Mr. Barlow.</p>
+
+<p>"I think we shall have trouble this evening, Mr. Barlow," he said.</p>
+
+<p>"Guard against it, then. What indications have you seen?"</p>
+
+<p>"A gang of twenty miners have just entered the lot. They look ugly."</p>
+
+<p>"Have the canvas men on guard, and summon the razorbacks, if necessary.
+Don't provoke a conflict, but be ready for one."</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Clark hastily made his arrangements as quietly as possible. Near the
+ticket seller lounged a body of men, strong and muscular.</p>
+
+<p>These were the canvas men. Some of them looked as reckless and dangerous
+as the miners, from whom a disturbance was feared.</p>
+
+<p>These canvas men, whose duty it is to set up and take down the tents,
+are, for the most part, a rough set. They are paid from fifteen to
+twenty dollars a month and board. Their accommodations are very poor,
+but as good perhaps as they are accustomed to. They are not averse to a
+scrimmage, and obeyed with alacrity the directions of Mr. Clark.</p>
+
+<p>The body of miners marched in procession to the ticket seller and then
+halted, one serving as spokesman.</p>
+
+<p>"Give us twenty tickets, boss," said the leader.</p>
+
+<p>"Where is your money?" asked the ticket seller, cautiously.</p>
+
+<p>"Never you mind! We're on the free list, ain't we, boys?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, we are!" was the chorus from his followers.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_125" id="Page_125">[Pg 125]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"There are no deadheads admitted to the show," said the ticket agent,
+firmly.</p>
+
+<p>"You'll be a deadhead yourself if you ain't careful, young feller!" was
+the retort.</p>
+
+<p>"Keep back, men! There are others waiting for a chance to buy tickets."</p>
+
+<p>"Let 'em wait! Just hand over them tickets, or we'll run over you."</p>
+
+<p>The fellow looked so dangerous that the ticket seller saw there was no
+time to parley.</p>
+
+<p>He raised the well-known circus cry, which is called out in times of
+danger, like a summons to arms,</p>
+
+<p>"Hey, Rube!"</p>
+
+<p>Instantly the canvas men and razorbacks rushed to the rescue, and made
+an impetuous attack on the disorderly crowd of miners. They, too, were
+aching for a fight, and there was a wild scene of battle, in which, as
+in the ancient days, the opposing forces fought hand to hand.</p>
+
+<p>The canvas men were strong, but so were the miners. Their muscles were
+toughened by daily toil, and it looked as if the outsiders might win.</p>
+
+<p>Kit was not of course called upon to take part in the contest, but he
+was unwillingly involved.</p>
+
+<p>One of the miners detached himself from the main body, and creeping
+stealthily to the big tent, whipped out a large knife, and was on the
+point of cutting one of the ropes, his intention being to sever one
+after another till the big tent collapsed. Kit saw his design, and
+rushing forward seized his arm.</p>
+
+<p>"Hold on there!" he cried. "What are you about?"</p>
+
+<p>"Let me alone, and mind your own business!" returned the miner, in a
+hoarse, deep voice.</p>
+
+<p>But Kit saw that it was a critical moment, and that<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_126" id="Page_126">[Pg 126]</a></span> great mischief
+might be done. He looked about him for help, for he was far from able to
+cope with his brawny antagonist. Still he clung to the arm of the
+intruder, and succeeded in delaying his purpose.</p>
+
+<p>"Let go or I'll cut you!" said the miner, savagely.</p>
+
+<p>Then Kit in desperation raised the cry, "Hey, Rube!"</p>
+
+<p>But it hardly seemed likely to bring the needed assistance, for all the
+fighting men were engaged in the battle near the ticket seller.</p>
+
+<p>"That won't do no good, young bantam!" said the ruffian, as he aimed a
+blow at our hero.</p>
+
+<p>Kit's career would in all probability have been cut short, but for the
+timely arrival of Achilles Henderson. The giant had heard the boy's
+warning cry, and being near at hand, rushed to his aid. His arrival was
+most opportune. He seized the miner in his powerful grasp, and the
+ruffian, strong and muscular as he was, was like a child in his clutch.
+His knife fell from his hand, as he was shaken like a reed by the giant.</p>
+
+<p>"Secure the knife, Kit!" cried Achilles.</p>
+
+<p>Kit needed no second bidding. He stooped swiftly and took up the weapon.</p>
+
+<p>But Achilles was needed in another direction.</p>
+
+<p>The contest between the miners and the canvas men still raged fiercely
+near the ticket stand. It looked as if the intruders would conquer. From
+the ranks of the defenders rose a wild and desperate cry, "Hey, Rube!"</p>
+
+<p>Achilles heard it.</p>
+
+<p>"Come, Kit!" he said. "We are wanted."</p>
+
+<p>He hurled the miner in his grasp to the ground with such force that the
+man lay senseless; then he rushed with all the speed which his long
+limbs enabled him to attain to the scene of the conflict.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_127" id="Page_127">[Pg 127]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>Here again he was none too soon. The leader of the miners, who had been
+the first spokesman and aggressor, was armed with a powerful club with
+which he was preparing to deal the ticket seller a terrible and possibly
+fatal blow, when Achilles rushed into the <i>m&ecirc;l&eacute;e</i> like a hurricane. He
+snatched the club from the hands of the ruffian, and dealt about
+unsparingly.</p>
+
+<p>The ringleader was the first to fall. Next Achilles attacked the rest of
+the brutal gang, till half a dozen men with broken heads lay upon the
+ground. The attacking force were completely demoralized, and in dismay
+fled from the field.</p>
+
+<p>The ticket seller breathed a sigh of relief.</p>
+
+<p>"I thought I was done for, Mr. Henderson," he said, when the giant
+returned flushed with his exertions. "You are equal to half a dozen
+men."</p>
+
+<p>"I haven't had so much exercise in a long time," said Achilles, panting.
+"Kit, where is the knife that scalawag was going to cut the rope with?"</p>
+
+<p>"Here it is, Mr. Henderson."</p>
+
+<p>"I will keep it in remembrance of this little adventure. Perhaps I had
+better go and look after the original owner."</p>
+
+<p>He met the ruffian limping like one disabled. His look was sullen and
+menacing.</p>
+
+<p>"Give me my knife," he growled.</p>
+
+<p>"I couldn't think of it, my man!" said Achilles blandly. "Evidently you
+are not old enough to be trusted with a knife."</p>
+
+<p>"I'd like to thrash you!" growled the miner again.</p>
+
+<p>"I've no doubt of it, my friend; your intentions are good, but can't be
+carried out. And now I have a word to say," he continued, sternly. "Just
+get out of the lot as fast as your legs can carry you, or I'll serve you
+worse than I did before."<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_128" id="Page_128">[Pg 128]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>The ruffian looked toward the ticket stand. He saw several of his
+friends limping away like himself, looking like whipped curs, and he saw
+that there was no choice for him but to obey. With a muttered oath and a
+sullen scowl, he left the grounds.</p>
+
+<p>"Kit," said the giant, "it won't do for me to exercise like this every
+day. I shall need a second supper."</p>
+
+<p>"You are certainly entitled to one, Mr. Henderson," replied our hero.</p>
+
+
+
+
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXVI" id="CHAPTER_XXVI"></a>CHAPTER XXVI.<br />
+KIT IS MADE A PRISONER.</h2>
+
+<p>It had been a day of exciting adventure, but so far as Kit was concerned
+the end was not yet. He performed as usual, but as his second act was
+over at quarter past nine, he thought, being fatigued, that he would not
+wait until the close, but go at once to the circus car in which he had a
+berth, and go to bed.</p>
+
+<p>He crossed the lot, and emerged into the street.</p>
+
+<p>It was moderately dark, there being no moon, and only the light of a few
+stars to relieve the gloom.</p>
+
+<p>Kit had not taken a dozen steps from the lot when two stout men
+approached him, both evidently miners.</p>
+
+<p>"That's the kid that prevented my cutting the rope," he heard one say.</p>
+
+<p>"Is he? I saw him with the giant."</p>
+
+<p>"I mean to settle his hash for him," said the first.</p>
+
+<p>Kit saw that he was in danger, and turned to run back to his friends.
+But it was too late! The first<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_129" id="Page_129">[Pg 129]</a></span> speaker laid a strong arm upon his
+shoulder, and his boyish strength was not able to overcome it.</p>
+
+<p>"Don't be in such a hurry, kid," said his captor.</p>
+
+<p>"Let me go," cried Kit.</p>
+
+<p>"You belong to the circus, don't you?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes."</p>
+
+<p>"What do you do?"</p>
+
+<p>"I am an acrobat."</p>
+
+<p>"What's that?"</p>
+
+<p>"I leap and turn somersaults, and so on."</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, I know. Do you remember me?"</p>
+
+<p>"I might if it were lighter."</p>
+
+<p>The man lit a match and held it close to his face.</p>
+
+<p>"Do you know me now?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes."</p>
+
+<p>"Who am I?"</p>
+
+<p>"You are the man who tried to cut the ropes of the tent."</p>
+
+<p>"Right you are. I would have succeeded but for you."</p>
+
+<p>"I suppose you would."</p>
+
+<p>"Did you call that giant to pitch into me?"</p>
+
+<p>"No; I didn't know he was near."</p>
+
+<p>"He treated me like a brute," said the man, wrathfully. "My limbs are
+aching now from the fall he gave me."</p>
+
+<p>Kit did not answer.</p>
+
+<p>"I'd like to give him a broken head, as he gave some of my friends.
+Where is he?"</p>
+
+<p>"I suppose he is somewhere in the lot. I'll go and call him, if you want
+me to."</p>
+
+<p>"That's too thin! Now I've got you I won't let you off so easy."</p>
+
+<p>"What do you intend to do?" asked Kit becoming alarmed.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_130" id="Page_130">[Pg 130]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"To give you a lesson."</p>
+
+<p>Kit did not ask what kind of a lesson was meant, but he feared it
+included bodily injury. Then at least, if never before, he wished
+himself back at his uncle's house in Smyrna, uncongenial as it was
+otherwise.</p>
+
+<p>The first speaker spoke in a low voice to the second. Kit did not hear
+the words, but judged what they were from what followed.</p>
+
+<p>The two men placed him beside them, and he was sternly ordered to move
+on.</p>
+
+<p>They kept the road for perhaps half a mile, then turned off into a
+narrow lane which appeared to ascend a hill. Finally they stopped in
+front of a dark cabin, of one story, which seemed to be unoccupied. The
+outer door was fastened by a bolt.</p>
+
+<p>One of the men drew out a bolt, and threw open the door. A dark interior
+was revealed. One of the men lit a match, throwing a fitful light upon
+an empty room. At one end of the apartment was a ring, fixed in a beam,
+and in the corner was a stout rope.</p>
+
+<p>"That will do," said the first speaker.</p>
+
+<p>He took the rope, secured one end of it to the ring, and then tied Kit
+firmly with the balance. It was long enough to allow of his lying down.</p>
+
+<p>"Now," said the first man grimly, "I reckon the kid will be safe here
+till to-morrow."</p>
+
+<p>They prepared to leave the cabin.</p>
+
+<p>"Are you going to leave me here?" asked Kit, in dismay.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes."</p>
+
+<p>"What good will it do you?"</p>
+
+<p>"You'll see&mdash;to-morrow."</p>
+
+<p>Kit had ten dollars in his pocket, and he thought of<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_131" id="Page_131">[Pg 131]</a></span> offering it in
+return for his freedom, but it occurred to him fortunately that his
+captors would deprive him of it, as it was quite within their power to
+do, and not compensate him in any way. He understood by this time the
+character of the men into whose hands he had fallen, and he thought it
+prudent to remain silent.</p>
+
+<p>As the first captor stood with the door open, while just on the point of
+leaving, he said grimly, "How do you like it, kid?"</p>
+
+<p>"Not at all," answered Kit.</p>
+
+<p>"If you beg my pardon for what you did, I might let you go."</p>
+
+<p>Kit did not believe this, and he had no intention of humiliating himself
+for nothing.</p>
+
+<p>"I only did my duty," he said. "I have nothing to ask pardon for."</p>
+
+<p>"You may change your mind&mdash;to-morrow!"</p>
+
+<p>Another ominous reference to to-morrow. Evidently he was only deferring
+his vengeance, and intended to wreak it on his young prisoner the next
+day.</p>
+
+<p>It was not a comforting thought, nor was it calculated to sooth Kit,
+weary as he was, to sleep.</p>
+
+<p>The door was closed, and Kit heard the sliding of the bolt on the
+outside. He was a prisoner, securely enough, and with small chance of
+rescue.</p>
+
+<p>Now, though Kit is my hero, I do not mean to represent him as above
+human weakness, and I won't pretend that he didn't feel anxious and
+disturbed. His prospects seemed very dark. He could not hope for mercy
+from the brutal men who had captured him. As they could not get hold of
+the giant they would undoubtedly seek to make him expiate the offenses
+of Achilles Henderson as well as his own.</p>
+
+<p>"If only Mr. Henderson knew where I was," he said to himself, "I should
+soon be free."<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_132" id="Page_132">[Pg 132]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>But there seemed little hope of this. He had not told any one that he
+intended to retire to the circus cars earlier than usual. The chances
+were that he would not be missed till the circus company had reached the
+next town on their route, ten miles away. Then there would be no clew to
+his whereabouts, and even if there were he might be killed before any
+help could come to him. So far as he had been able to observe, the
+miners were&mdash;a portion of them, at least&mdash;a lawless set of men, who were
+not likely to be influenced by considerations of pity or ordinary
+humanity.</p>
+
+<p>Kit had been very religiously brought up during his father's life, at
+least, and he had not lost his faith in an overruling Providence. So in
+this great peril it was natural for him to pray to God for deliverance
+from danger. When his prayer was concluded, he felt easier, and in spite
+of his disagreeable surroundings he managed to fall asleep.</p>
+
+<p>Meanwhile the circus performance terminated, and preparations were
+commenced for the journey to the next town. The canvas men swarmed
+around the tents and swiftly took them down and conveyed them to the
+freight cars, where they assisted the razorbacks to pack them in small
+compass.</p>
+
+<p>Harry Thorne, who had his berth next to Kit, turned in rather late. He
+looked into Kit's bed, and to his surprise found it unoccupied.</p>
+
+<p>"What can have become of the boy?" he asked himself.</p>
+
+<p>He went outside, and espying Achilles Henderson, he said: "Have you seen
+anything of Kit Watson?"</p>
+
+<p>"Isn't he in his berth?" asked Mr. Henderson, surprised.</p>
+
+<p>"No."<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_133" id="Page_133">[Pg 133]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>Inquiry developed the fact that Kit had not been seen by any one since
+the conclusion of his act.</p>
+
+<p>"I am afraid the boy has come to harm," said Achilles. "This is a rough
+place, and there are plenty of tough characters about, as our experience
+this afternoon showed."</p>
+
+<p>"What shall we do? The cars will soon be starting, and we must leave him
+behind."</p>
+
+<p>"If he doesn't show up before that time, I will stay behind and hunt him
+up. He is too good a boy to be left to his fate."</p>
+
+
+
+
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXVII" id="CHAPTER_XXVII"></a>CHAPTER XXVII.<br />
+A MINER'S CABIN.</h2>
+
+<p>Kit's principal captor was known as Dick Hayden. He was an Englishman,
+and a leader in every kind of mischief. If there was any disturbance
+between the miners and their employers, he was generally found to be at
+the bottom of it. A naturally quarrelsome disposition was intensified by
+intemperance. In the attack upon the circus tents he found himself in
+his element. His ignominious defeat made him ugly and revengeful.</p>
+
+<p>His wife was dead, but he had one child, Janet, a girl of thirteen, who
+cooked for him and took care of his cabin. The poor girl had a hard time
+of it, but she endeavored so far as possible to avoid trouble with her
+brutal parent.</p>
+
+<p>It was near ten o'clock when Hayden came home after locking Kit in the
+deserted cabin. He had gone away without supper, but late as it was,
+Janet had something hot ready for him on the stove.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_134" id="Page_134">[Pg 134]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"Well, Janet, child, have you my supper ready?" he said, not
+unpleasantly, for his victory over Kit and the meditated revenge of the
+next day had put him in good humor.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, father; it's on the stove and ready to dish up."</p>
+
+<p>"Lay the table, then, for I'm main tired and hungry."</p>
+
+<p>The little girl quickly spread the cloth, and Dick Hayden ate like a
+voracious animal.</p>
+
+<p>When supper was over he sat back in his chair and lit a pipe. A
+comfortable supper made him loquacious.</p>
+
+<p>"Well, Janet, you don't ask where I've been."</p>
+
+<p>"Was it to the circus, father?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes."</p>
+
+<p>"How did you like the show?"</p>
+
+<p>"I didn't see it," he growled, a frown gathering upon his brow.</p>
+
+<p>"And why not, father?"</p>
+
+<p>"Because we had a fight to get in free, and got the worst of it."</p>
+
+<p>"They must be main strong, then, those circus men."</p>
+
+<p>"Strong!" repeated Hayden, scornfully. "Well, mayhap they are, but we'd
+have bested them but for the giant."</p>
+
+<p>"The giant! Is it the big man I saw in the parade?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes; he's as strong as three men. He flung me down as easily as I'd
+throw a boy."</p>
+
+<p>"Then he must have been strong, for you're a powerful man, father."</p>
+
+<p>"There isn't a man as works in the mine'll compare with me, lass," said
+Hayden, proudly; "but all the same I'm no match for a monster."<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_135" id="Page_135">[Pg 135]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"Tell me about it, father," said Janet, with natural curiosity.</p>
+
+<p>Dick Hayden went on to describe the fight around the ticket stand, and
+how he had slipped away, intending to cut the ropes of the tent and let
+it down on the heads of the spectators gathered inside.</p>
+
+<p>"I'd have done it, too," he added, "but for a kid."</p>
+
+<p>"I thought just now you said it was the giant."</p>
+
+<p>"And I stick to it, lass; but this boy saw what I was doing, and brought
+the giant to the spot. I could do nothing after that. He threw me down,
+so that for a few minutes I was stunned."</p>
+
+<p>"And how did the fight come out at the ticket stand, father?"</p>
+
+<p>"Our men had almost overpowered the circus men, when the giant rushed
+into the midst, and, seizing a club from Bob Stubbs, laid about him,
+till half a dozen of our strongest men lay on the ground with broken
+heads."</p>
+
+<p>What puzzled Janet was, that her father should have come home in such
+good humor after so disastrous a defeat. It was contrary to her
+experience of him. She would naturally have expected that he would be
+surly and quarrelsome. The mystery was soon made clear.</p>
+
+<p>"But we've got even with them!" chuckled Hayden directly after.</p>
+
+<p>"How is that, father?"</p>
+
+<p>"We caught the kid."</p>
+
+<p>"You have?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes; he was goin' to the circus cars to turn in when Stubbs and I
+caught him."</p>
+
+<p>"You&mdash;you didn't kill him, father?" asked Janet in alarm.</p>
+
+<p>"No, not yet."<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_136" id="Page_136">[Pg 136]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"Where is he?"</p>
+
+<p>"Do you mind the deserted cabin on Knob Hill?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, father."</p>
+
+<p>"He's locked up in that, tied hand and foot."</p>
+
+<p>"How long do you mean to keep him there?" asked Janet, anxiously.</p>
+
+<p>"Till to-morrow, and then&mdash;&mdash;" Dick paused ominously.</p>
+
+<p>"Well, and then?"</p>
+
+<p>"He'll be lucky if he gets off with a whole skin," growled her father.
+"But for him I'd have brought down the tent about the ears of the people
+that sat inside, and we'd have had a fine revenge on the showmen."</p>
+
+<p>"You don't mean to kill the boy, do you, father?"</p>
+
+<p>"What is it to you, lass? You'd best mind your own business. You've got
+nothing to do with it."</p>
+
+<p>"How does the boy look? Was it the one that drove the first chariot,
+father?"</p>
+
+<p>"Like enough, lass! Did you see him?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes; I saw the parade. Everybody was out in the streets then."</p>
+
+<p>"And you took partic'lar notice of the boy? That's like a lass,"
+chuckled Hayden.</p>
+
+<p>"But it was his duty, father, to stand by the show, seein' he belongs to
+it."</p>
+
+<p>"I don't trouble myself about that. He brought that monster on me, and
+I'm sore yet with the fall he gave me. I'll take it out of the kid."</p>
+
+<p>"But it seems to me, father, it would be better to lay for the giant."</p>
+
+<p>"What folly is that, lass? I'd be main glad to give the giant a dose of
+what he gave me, but he'll leave town to-night, and I ain't big enough
+to tackle him, even if I had the chance. So I'll revenge my<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_137" id="Page_137">[Pg 137]</a></span>self on his
+friend, the boy. The kid may be his son, for aught I know."</p>
+
+<p>"And what will you do for him, father?" asked Janet, pertinaciously.
+"You won't kill him?"</p>
+
+<p>"Well, I won't go so far as that, for I've no mind to put my neck in a
+noose, but I'll flog him within an inch of his life. I'll teach him to
+mind his own business for the future."</p>
+
+<p>Janet knew her father's strength and brutality, and she shuddered at the
+idea of the boy being exposed to it. She knew very well it would be of
+no use to make a protest. She would only get herself into trouble. Yet
+she couldn't reconcile herself to the thought of poor Kit being cruelly
+punished. She asked herself what she could do to prevent it.</p>
+
+<p>There was one thing in favor of a rescue. She knew where Kit was
+confined. If it were not so late she would steal out, and going to the
+cabin relieve him from captivity. But it was too late, and too dark for
+that. Besides, she could not leave her father's cabin without
+observation.</p>
+
+<p>"I will wait till to-morrow morning," she said to herself.</p>
+
+<p>It so chanced that on account of some slight repairs the mine in which
+her father was employed was shut down for a few days. This was
+favorable, for he would lie in bed till eight o'clock at least, and
+there would be a chance to get out without observation.</p>
+
+<p>The next morning, about five o'clock, Janet rose from her bed, hastily
+dressed herself, and crept to the door of her father's chamber. He was
+sound asleep, and breathing heavily. There was small chance of his
+awakening before seven o'clock.</p>
+
+<p>Janet took a little meat and bread in a tin pail, for<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_138" id="Page_138">[Pg 138]</a></span> she thought the
+captive might be in need of breakfast, and then, putting a sharp knife
+in her pocket to cut the ropes that bound him, she left the house and
+took her way over the hill to the deserted cabin which served as Kit's
+prison.</p>
+
+
+
+
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXVIII" id="CHAPTER_XXVIII"></a>CHAPTER XXVIII.<br />
+KIT RESCUED BY A GIRL.</h2>
+
+<p>Kit had succeeded in getting a little sleep during the night, but his
+position was necessarily constrained and he was but very slightly
+refreshed. Moreover he was a prey to anxiety, for he did not know what
+fate awaited him on the succeeding day.</p>
+
+<p>At four o'clock in the morning a little light found its way into the
+cabin through a small window at the rear. The other windows were boarded
+up.</p>
+
+<p>Kit, appreciating the desirability of escaping before a visit should be
+made him by his captors, tried hard to work himself out of his bonds,
+but only succeeded in confining himself more closely than before.</p>
+
+<p>"What will they do to me?" he asked himself anxiously.</p>
+
+<p>He had heard from some of the circus men accounts of the roughness and
+brutality of the miners, or at least of a certain class of them, for
+some were quiet and peaceable men, and he knew that there was no extreme
+of which they were not capable. Life is sweet, and to a boy of sixteen,
+in good health and strength, it is especially dear. Suppose he should
+lose his life in this region? Probably none of his friends would ever
+learn what had become of him,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_139" id="Page_139">[Pg 139]</a></span> and his uncle and cousin would not
+scruple to spread rumors to his discredit.</p>
+
+<p>It was certainly tantalizing that he should be tied hand and foot,
+utterly unable to help himself.</p>
+
+<p>More and more light crept in at the window, and there was every
+indication of its being a glorious day. But this prospect brought no
+pleasure to poor Kit.</p>
+
+<p>"Before this time the circus people must have found out my absence," he
+thought. "Will they take the trouble to look for me?"</p>
+
+<p>Kit was on good terms with his comrades, indeed he was popular with them
+all, as a bright boy is apt to be, and he did not like to think that no
+effort would be made to find him. Still, as he could not help owning to
+himself, they had no clew that was likely to lead to success. He had
+given no one notice where he was going, and his capture was not likely
+to have been observed by any one.</p>
+
+<p>While he was indulging in these sorrowful reflections, his attention was
+drawn to a noise at the window.</p>
+
+<p>"They can't have come back so early," he said to himself in surprise.</p>
+
+<p>He twisted himself round to catch a glimpse, if possible, of the early
+visitor, and to his delight, he caught a partial view of Janet's dress.
+Suppose she should prove a deliverer, he said to himself with beating
+heart.</p>
+
+<p>The visitor, whoever it was, was evidently trying to peer into the
+cabin. Kit was so placed in a corner as to be almost out of sight in the
+dark interior. He felt that he must attract attention.</p>
+
+<p>"Hallo, there!" he cried in a loud clear voice.</p>
+
+<p>"He's there!" thought Janet, "just as father said."<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_140" id="Page_140">[Pg 140]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"Let me out!" cried Kit, eagerly. "Draw out the bolt, and open the
+door!"</p>
+
+<p>"Will she do it, or will she be frightened away?" he asked himself, with
+his heart filled with suspense.</p>
+
+<p>He did not have long to wait for an answer, and a favorable one. He
+heard the bolt withdrawn, then the door was opened, and the girl's face
+appeared. Janet Hayden was small, not especially pretty, and rather
+old-fashioned in looks, but to poor Kit she seemed like an angel.</p>
+
+<p>"Are you the circus boy?" she asked timidly.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes; I am tied here. Have you got a knife to cut this rope?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes; I brought one with me."</p>
+
+<p>"Then you knew I was here?" Kit asked in surprise.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes; it was my father that locked you up here&mdash;my father and another
+man."</p>
+
+<p>"Will you cut the rope and let me go, then?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes; that is what I came for."</p>
+
+<p>The little maid went up to the captive, bent over, and with considerable
+sawing, for the knife she had with her was a dull case knife, succeeded
+in severing the rope, and Kit was able to rise and stand upon his feet.
+It was a perfect luxury to feel himself once more free and unshackled.</p>
+
+<p>"I'm very much obliged to you," he said, gratefully. "You can't imagine
+how stiff I am."</p>
+
+<p>"I should think you would be," said Janet, sympathetically.</p>
+
+<p>"When did your father tell you that I was here?"</p>
+
+<p>"After he got home last night. It was after he had eaten his supper."</p>
+
+<p>"And where is he now?"</p>
+
+<p>"At home and asleep."<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_141" id="Page_141">[Pg 141]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"Does he get up early?" asked Kit, in some anxiety.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, when he is at work; but the mine is shut down for a few days, so
+he lies abed longer."</p>
+
+<p>"Did he say anything about coming here to-day?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, he meant to come&mdash;he and the other man&mdash;and I was afraid he would
+do you some harm."</p>
+
+<p>"He would have done so, I am sure," said Kit, shuddering. "I don't see
+how such a rough father should have so good a daughter."</p>
+
+<p>Janet blushed, and seemed pleased with the compliment.</p>
+
+<p>"I think I take after my mother," she said.</p>
+
+<p>"Is your mother alive?"</p>
+
+<p>"No, she died two years ago," answered Janet, sorrowfully. "She was
+Scotch, and that is why I am called by a Scotch name."</p>
+
+<p>"What is your name, if you don't mind telling me?"</p>
+
+<p>"Janet. I am Janet Hayden."</p>
+
+<p>"I shall always remember it, for you have done me a great service."</p>
+
+<p>"What is your name?" asked Janet, feeling less timid than at first.</p>
+
+<p>"Kit Watson."</p>
+
+<p>"That is a funny name&mdash;Kit, I mean."</p>
+
+<p>"My right name is Christopher, but my friends call me Kit. Can you
+direct me to the next town&mdash;Groveton, where the circus shows to-day."</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, if you will come outside, I will point out which way it is."</p>
+
+<p>Kit emerged from the cabin, nothing loath, and Janet pointed in a
+westerly direction.</p>
+
+<p>"You go over the hill," she said, "and you will come to a road. You will
+know it, for near the stile there is a red house."<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_142" id="Page_142">[Pg 142]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"Thank you. How far is it to the next town?"</p>
+
+<p>"Eight miles, I believe."</p>
+
+<p>"That would be a long walk. Do you think I could get any one to take me
+over in a wagon?"</p>
+
+<p>"I think the man who lives in the red house, Mr. Stover, would take you
+over, if you pay him."</p>
+
+<p>"I shall be glad to pay him, and&mdash;&mdash;" Kit paused, for he felt rather
+delicate about offering any money to Janet, though he knew she had
+rendered him most valuable service. "Will you let me offer you a little
+present?"</p>
+
+<p>He took a five dollar bill from his pocket, and offered it to Janet.</p>
+
+<p>"What is that?" she asked.</p>
+
+<p>"It is a five dollar bill."</p>
+
+<p>"You must be rich," she said, for this seemed to her a great deal of
+money.</p>
+
+<p>"Oh, no! but will you take it?"</p>
+
+<p>"No," answered Janet, shrinking back, "I didn't come here for money."</p>
+
+<p>"I am sure you didn't, but I should like to give you something."</p>
+
+<p>"No, I would rather not. Besides, if father knew I had money, he would
+suspect something, and beat me."</p>
+
+<p>"Like the brute that he is," thought Kit.</p>
+
+<p>"But I must go at once, for he may wake up and miss me. Good-by!"</p>
+
+<p>"Good-by!" said Kit.</p>
+
+<p>He had no time to say more, for the child was already hurrying down the
+hill.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_143" id="Page_143">[Pg 143]</a></span></p>
+
+
+
+
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXIX" id="CHAPTER_XXIX"></a>CHAPTER XXIX.<br />
+JANET MEETS THE GIANT.</h2>
+
+<p>Janet took her way homewards, hurrying with quick feet, lest her father
+should wake up before she arrived. But she had taken so early a start
+that she found him still sleeping soundly. She instantly began to make
+preparations for breakfast.</p>
+
+<p>By the time it was on the table her father woke up and yawned. With his
+waking there came the thought of his young circus captive, and the
+vengeance he intended to wreak upon him. This pleasant idea roused him
+completely, and he dressed himself briskly.</p>
+
+<p>"Is breakfast ready, Janet?" he asked.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, father."</p>
+
+<p>"What time is it?"</p>
+
+<p>"Seven o'clock," answered Janet, looking at the clock over the mantel.</p>
+
+<p>"I am expecting Bob Stubbs here this morning. Have you got enough for
+him?"</p>
+
+<p>"I think so, father," replied Janet. She did not speak with alacrity,
+for Mr. Stubbs was no favorite of hers.</p>
+
+<p>At that moment a step was heard at the door, and the gentleman spoken of
+made his appearance.</p>
+
+<p>"You're late, Dick," said Stubbs, rubbing his bristling chin.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, I got tired out yesterday. When the mine's shut down I like to
+take my time. Have you had breakfast, Bob?"<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_144" id="Page_144">[Pg 144]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"Ye-es," answered Stubbs hesitating, as he glanced at the neatly spread
+table, with the eggs and bacon on the center dish.</p>
+
+<p>"Never mind! You can eat some more. Put a chair for him, Janet."</p>
+
+<p>"This lass of yours is growing pretty," said Stubbs, with a glance of
+admiration.</p>
+
+<p>"There's a compliment for you, lass!" said the father.</p>
+
+<p>Janet, however, did not appear to appreciate it, and continued to look
+grave.</p>
+
+<p>"Wonder how the kid's getting along," said Bob Stubbs, with his mouth
+full of bacon.</p>
+
+<p>"I reckon he's hungry," said Dick Hayden, in a voice of satisfaction.</p>
+
+<p>"Have you left him without anything to eat, father?" asked Janet.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes."</p>
+
+<p>"The poor fellow will be starved."</p>
+
+<p>"And serves him right, too. There ain't no call to pity him."</p>
+
+<p>"Why won't you take him some breakfast if you're going round there? I
+will put some up in a tin pail."</p>
+
+<p>"What do you say to that, Bob, hey?" said Hayden.</p>
+
+<p>"It's natural for the gal to pity him. He's a nice lookin' chap enough."</p>
+
+<p>"He's nicer looking than he will be when we get through with him, eh,
+Bob?"</p>
+
+<p>"That's so, Dick."</p>
+
+<p>As Janet listened to this conversation, her heart revolted against the
+brutality conveyed by the words. She felt dissatisfied to think that her
+own father was such a man. She could not well feel an affection for<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_145" id="Page_145">[Pg 145]</a></span>
+him, remembering how ill he had treated her gentle mother, who, as she
+knew, would be living to-day had she been wedded to a better husband.</p>
+
+<p>The two men did not linger long at the table. They were accustomed to
+swallow their food rapidly, in order to get to the scene of their daily
+labor on time. So in twenty minutes they rose from the table, and
+putting on their hats left the cabin.</p>
+
+<p>As they departed Janet breathed a sigh of relief, and congratulated
+herself that she had released the poor boy, and so saved him from the
+brutal treatment he was likely to receive at the hands of the two
+miners.</p>
+
+<p>"He will have had plenty of time to get away before father and Mr.
+Stubbs reach the cabin," she said to herself.</p>
+
+<p>Janet washed the dishes, and then, having an errand at the store, put on
+her hat and left the cabin. She did not trouble herself to lock the
+door, for there was nothing in the place likely to excite the cupidity
+of any dishonest person.</p>
+
+<p>Janet had accomplished a part of the distance when she saw approaching
+her a figure that at once attracted her earnest attention.</p>
+
+<p>The reason will be readily understood when I say that it was Achilles
+Henderson, the circus giant.</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Henderson had been exploring the neighborhood in the hope of finding
+some trace of Kit, but thus far had been unsuccessful. He was very much
+perplexed, having absolutely no clew, and was thinking of starting for
+Groveton, where the circus was billed to appear that evening. He was
+walking in an undecided way, and never thought of noticing the little
+girl who stood staring at him. Indeed he was so used to being stared at
+that he took it as a mat<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_146" id="Page_146">[Pg 146]</a></span>ter of course, and did not think of giving the
+curious gazer a second glance.</p>
+
+<p>But his attention was called by a low, half frightened voice.</p>
+
+<p>"Mr. Giant!"</p>
+
+<p>"Well, little girl, what do you want?" he asked.</p>
+
+<p>"Are you looking for anybody?" asked Janet, first glancing carefully
+around, to make sure that she was not likely to be overheard.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes," answered Achilles, quickly. "I am looking for a boy."</p>
+
+<p>"A circus boy?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes; do you know where he is?"</p>
+
+<p>"Come nearer! I don't want anybody to hear what I say."</p>
+
+<p>"All right, my little maid! Is the boy alive and well?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, he was two hours ago."</p>
+
+<p>"Where is he?"</p>
+
+<p>"I don't know where he is now."</p>
+
+<p>Achilles looked disappointed.</p>
+
+<p>"Tell me all you know," he said.</p>
+
+<p>"My father and Bob Stubbs took him last night, and shut him up in a
+lonely cabin on the hill."</p>
+
+<p>"Where is the cabin?"</p>
+
+<p>"He isn't there now. I let him out."</p>
+
+<p>"Good for you, little girl! You're a trump. You're a great deal better
+than your father. Do you know where the boy went?"</p>
+
+<p>"I will tell you where I told him to go."</p>
+
+<p>"Where is your father now? Is he at work?"</p>
+
+<p>"No; the mine is shut down."</p>
+
+<p>"How did you know that the boy was in the cabin?"</p>
+
+<p>"I heard father tell where he was last night, when<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_147" id="Page_147">[Pg 147]</a></span> he was at supper. So
+I got up very early, and stole out to release him, for I was afraid
+father might kill him. He said he meant to punish him for what you did.
+He said he would rather get at you."</p>
+
+<p>"He's quite welcome to, if he wants to," answered Achilles, grimly. "On
+the whole I wouldn't advise him to tackle me."</p>
+
+<p>"He thought you had gone on with the circus."</p>
+
+<p>"I should have done so if I hadn't missed Kit."</p>
+
+<p>"Yes; he told me his name was Kit."</p>
+
+<p>"Was he tied?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes; I took a knife with me and cut the ropes."</p>
+
+<p>"The poor fellow must have passed an uncomfortable night."</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, he said so."</p>
+
+<p>"He must have been very glad to see you."</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, he was. I am only afraid of one thing."</p>
+
+<p>"What is that?"</p>
+
+<p>"Father and the other man left the house more than half an hour ago to
+go to the cabin. When they find him gone, they will be very angry."</p>
+
+<p>"Like as not."</p>
+
+<p>"And I think they will try to find him."</p>
+
+<p>"Very true; I wish I knew where he was. They wouldn't dare to attack him
+in my company."</p>
+
+<p>"No, Mr. Giant. You must be very strong."</p>
+
+<p>"I think I would be a match for them."</p>
+
+<p>Achilles questioned Janet minutely as to the advice she had given Kit.</p>
+
+<p>"I might follow the boy," he said to himself, "at a guess, but there's
+only half a chance of my hitting right. Where is the cabin?" he asked,
+suddenly.</p>
+
+<p>Janet pointed in the proper direction.</p>
+
+<p>"I know what I'll do," he said, with sudden decision. "I'll follow your
+father and the other man.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_148" id="Page_148">[Pg 148]</a></span> All the danger to Kit is likely to come from
+them. If I can get track of them, I can make sure that no mischief will
+be done."</p>
+
+<p>Achilles Henderson then stepped over a fence which an ordinary man would
+have had to climb, and made his way to the deserted cabin.</p>
+
+
+
+
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXX" id="CHAPTER_XXX"></a>CHAPTER XXX.<br />
+DICK HAYDEN FINDS THE BIRD FLOWN.</h2>
+
+<p>Half an hour previously Dick Hayden and his congenial friend, Bob
+Stubbs, reached the cabin. They had much pleasant and jocose
+conversation on the way touching their young captive, and how he had
+probably passed the night. They had personal injuries to avenge, and
+though Achilles was responsible for them, they proposed to wreak
+vengeance on the boy whom a luckless fate had thrown into their hands.</p>
+
+<p>"My shoulders are sore yet," said Hayden, "over the fall that big brute
+gave me."</p>
+
+<p>"And my head hasn't got over the crack I got when he laid me flat with
+his club," responded Stubbs.</p>
+
+<p>"Well, we've got a friend of his, that's one comfort. I'm going to take
+it out of the kid's hide."</p>
+
+<p>"You don't mean to&mdash;do for him?" said Stubbs, cautiously.</p>
+
+<p>"I don't mean to kill him, if that's what you mean, Stubbs. I have too
+much regard for my neck, but I mean to give him a sound flogging. You
+ain't afraid, be you?"<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_149" id="Page_149">[Pg 149]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"Catch Bob Stubbs afraid of anything, except the hangman's rope! I don't
+mind telling you that I have reasons to be afraid of that."</p>
+
+<p>"Why? You've never been hung, have you?"</p>
+
+<p>"No; but an uncle of mine was strung up in England."</p>
+
+<p>"What for?"</p>
+
+<p>"He got into trouble with a fellow workman and stabbed him."</p>
+
+<p>"He was in bad luck. Why didn't he cut it, and come to America?"</p>
+
+<p>"He tried it, but the bobbies caught him in the steerage of an ocean
+steamer, and then it was all up with him."</p>
+
+<p>"Well, I hope his nephew will come to a better end. But here we are at
+the cabin."</p>
+
+<p>There was nothing in the outward appearance of the hut to indicate that
+the bird was flown. Janet bolted the door after releasing the prisoner,
+and no one could judge that it had been opened.</p>
+
+<p>"All is safe," said Bob Stubbs.</p>
+
+<p>"Of course it is! Why shouldn't it be?"</p>
+
+<p>"No reason; but some of his friends might have found him."</p>
+
+<p>"All his friends are at Groveton. Then they had no idea what we did with
+him."</p>
+
+<p>"They must have found out that he was gone."</p>
+
+<p>"They couldn't find him, so that would do him no good."</p>
+
+<p>Stubbs was about to draw the bolt, but Hayden stayed his hand.</p>
+
+<p>"Wait a minute, Bob," he said; "I'll look in at the window, and see what
+he is doing."</p>
+
+<p>Dick Hayden went around to the rear of the building, and flattened his
+face against the pane in the<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_150" id="Page_150">[Pg 150]</a></span> effort to see the corner where the captive
+had been tied. He could not see very distinctly, but what he did see
+startled him.</p>
+
+<p>He could perceive no one.</p>
+
+<p>"Could the boy have loosened the rope?" he asked himself hurriedly.</p>
+
+<p>Even in that case, as the window was nailed so that it could not be
+opened, and the door was bolted, there seemed no way of escape. His eyes
+eagerly explored other portions of the cabin, but he could not catch a
+glimpse of Kit.</p>
+
+<p>He rushed round to the front, and in an excitement which Stubbs could
+not understand, pulled the bolt back with a jerk.</p>
+
+<p>"What's the matter, Dick?" asked Stubbs, staring.</p>
+
+<p>Dick Hayden did not answer, but threw open the door.</p>
+
+<p>He strode in, and peeped here and there.</p>
+
+<p>"The boy's gone!" he said hoarsely, to Stubbs, who followed close
+behind.</p>
+
+<p>"Gone!" echoed Stubbs, in blank amazement. "How did he get away?"</p>
+
+<p>"That's the question," responded Dick, growling.</p>
+
+<p>"Well, I'm&mdash;flabbergasted! There's witchery here!"</p>
+
+<p>Dick Hayden bent over and picked up the pieces of rope which lay in the
+corner where the prisoner had been placed. He examined the ends, and
+said briefly, turning to Stubbs: "They've been cut!"</p>
+
+<p>"So they have, Dick. Who in natur' could have done it? Perhaps the kid
+did it himself. Might have had a knife in his pocket."</p>
+
+<p>"Don't be a fool, Stubbs! Supposin' he'd done it, how was he goin' to
+get out?"<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_151" id="Page_151">[Pg 151]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"That's what beats me!"</p>
+
+<p>"Somebody must have let him out."</p>
+
+<p>"Do you think it's his circus friends?"</p>
+
+<p>"No; they're all in Groveton. Somebody must have been passin' and heard
+the boy holler, and let him out."</p>
+
+<p>"What are you goin' to do about it, Dick?"</p>
+
+<p>"Goin' to sit down and take a smoke. It may give me an idea."</p>
+
+<p>It will be noticed that of these two, Dick Hayden, as the bolder and
+stronger spirit, was the leader, and Bob Stubbs the subservient
+follower. Stubbs was no less brutal, when occasion served, but he was
+not self reliant. He wanted some one to lead the way, and he was willing
+to follow.</p>
+
+<p>The two men sat down beside the cabin, and lit their pipes. Nothing was
+said for a time. Dick seemed disinclined to conversation, and Stubbs was
+always disposed to be silent when enjoying a smoke.</p>
+
+<p>The smoke continued for twenty minutes or more.</p>
+
+<p>Finally Dick withdrew the pipe from his mouth.</p>
+
+<p>"Well, Dick, what do you think about it? What shall we do?" inquired his
+friend.</p>
+
+<p>"I am going to foller the kid."</p>
+
+<p>"But you don't know where he's gone," replied Stubbs.</p>
+
+<p>"No; but I may strike his track. Are you with me?"</p>
+
+<p>"Of course I am."</p>
+
+<p>"Then listen to me. The one that let the boy out knows the neighborhood.
+The boy would naturally want to go to Groveton, and likely he would be
+directed to Stover. If the kid had any money, he would ask Stover to
+drive him over, or else he would foot it."<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_152" id="Page_152">[Pg 152]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"You're right, Dick. That's what he'd do," said Stubbs, admiring his
+companion's penetration.</p>
+
+<p>"Then we must go over to Stover's."</p>
+
+<p>"All right! I'm with you."</p>
+
+<p>"I'm a poor man, Bob, but I'd give a ten dollar bill to have that kid in
+my power once more."</p>
+
+<p>"I don't doubt it, Dick."</p>
+
+<p>"I hate to have it said that a kid like that got the advantage of Dick
+Hayden."</p>
+
+<p>"So would I, Bob."</p>
+
+<p>"If I get hold of him I'll give him a lesson that he won't soon forget."</p>
+
+<p>"And serve him right too."</p>
+
+<p>The two men rose, and took their way across the fields, following
+exactly the same path which our hero had traveled earlier in the
+morning.</p>
+
+<p>They walked with brisk steps, having a definite purpose in view. Dick
+Hayden was intensely anxious to recapture Kit, whose escape had balked
+him of his vengeance, and mortified him exceedingly. As he expressed it,
+he could not bear to think that a boy of sixteen had got the advantage
+of him.</p>
+
+<p>At length they reached the red house already referred to, and saw Ham
+Stover, the owner, in the yard.</p>
+
+<p>"You are up betimes, Dick," said Stover. "What's in the wind?"</p>
+
+<p>"Have you seen aught of a boy of sixteen passin' this way?" asked Dick,
+anxiously.</p>
+
+<p>"A likely lookin' lad, well dressed?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes."</p>
+
+<p>"He was round here an hour ago, and took breakfast in the house."</p>
+
+<p>This was true; the slight refreshment Janet had brought him having
+proved insufficient to completely<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_153" id="Page_153">[Pg 153]</a></span> stay the cravings of Kit's appetite
+after his night in the cabin.</p>
+
+<p>"Where is he now?"</p>
+
+<p>"What do you want of him?"</p>
+
+<p>"Never you mind&mdash;I'll tell you bimeby. Where is he?"</p>
+
+<p>"He wanted me to harness up and take him to Groveton."</p>
+
+<p>Dick Hayden and Stubbs exchanged glances. It was evident that they had
+struck Kit's trail.</p>
+
+<p>"Well, did you do it?"</p>
+
+<p>"No; I couldn't spare the time. Besides I wanted the horse to go to the
+village. I'm going to harness up now."</p>
+
+<p>"What did the boy do?"</p>
+
+<p>"He walked."</p>
+
+<p>"How long since did he start?"</p>
+
+<p>"About half an hour or thereabouts."</p>
+
+<p>Dick Hayden made a rapid calculation.</p>
+
+<p>"We may overtake him if we walk fast," he said.</p>
+
+<p>Without stopping to enlighten the curiosity of Mr. Stover the two men
+set out rapidly on the Groveton road.</p>
+
+
+
+
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXXI" id="CHAPTER_XXXI"></a>CHAPTER XXXI.<br />
+IN THE ENEMY'S HANDS.</h2>
+
+<p>Mr. Stover was considerably surprised when twenty minutes later, looking
+up from his work in the yard, he saw a man of colossal size crossing the
+street. He hadn't attended the circus, and had not therefore heard of
+the giant, who was one of its principal features.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_154" id="Page_154">[Pg 154]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"Who in creation can that be?" Stover asked himself.</p>
+
+<p>Achilles Henderson turned into the yard, and accosted the farmer:</p>
+
+<p>"Good morning, friend," he said. "Can you tell me if a boy of about
+sixteen has passed here this morning?"</p>
+
+<p>"That boy again!" thought the bewildered farmer.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes," he answered.</p>
+
+<p>"Please describe him."</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Stover did so.</p>
+
+<p>"The very one!" said Achilles. "Now how long since was he here?"</p>
+
+<p>"He took breakfast with my family, and started off nigh on to an hour
+ago."</p>
+
+<p>"In what direction did he go?"</p>
+
+<p>This question was also answered.</p>
+
+<p>"Thank you, friend," said the giant; "you have done me a favor."</p>
+
+<p>"Then won't you do me one?" said Stover. "Who is this boy that so many
+people are askin' for?"</p>
+
+<p>"He is a young acrobat connected with Barlow's circus. But what do you
+mean by so many people asking about him?"</p>
+
+<p>"There was two men here twenty minutes ago, that seemed very anxious to
+find him."</p>
+
+<p>Achilles Henderson heard this with apprehension. He could guess who they
+were, and what he heard alarmed him for Kit's safety.</p>
+
+<p>"Who are they?" he inquired hastily.</p>
+
+<p>"Dick Hayden and Bob Stubbs."</p>
+
+<p>"Are they miners?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes."</p>
+
+<p>"Did you tell them where the boy went?"</p>
+
+<p>"Sartin! Why not?"<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_155" id="Page_155">[Pg 155]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"Because they mean to do the boy a mischief; they may even kill him."</p>
+
+<p>"What in creation should they do that for?"</p>
+
+<p>"Mr. Stover, I must follow them at once. Have you a team?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes; but I calculated to use it."</p>
+
+<p>"I must have it, and I want you to go with me. You may charge what you
+please. Remember a boy's life may depend on it."</p>
+
+<p>"Then you shall have it," said the farmer, "and I'll go with you. I took
+a likin' to the boy. He was a gentleman, if ever I saw one; and my women
+folks was mightily taken with him. Dick Hayden and Bob Stubbs are rough
+kind of men, and I wouldn't trust any one I set store by in their hands.
+But why&mdash;&mdash;"</p>
+
+<p>"Harness your horse, and I'll answer your questions on the way, Mr.
+Stover."</p>
+
+<p>"How do you know my name?" asked Stover, with sudden thought.</p>
+
+<p>"I was told by some one as I came along."</p>
+
+<p>The farmer lost no time in harnessing his horse, Achilles Henderson
+lending a hand. The horse seemed rather alarmed, never having seen a
+giant before, but soon got over his fright. The two men then jumped into
+the wagon, and set out in search of Kit.</p>
+
+<p>Meanwhile our hero had taken his way leisurely along the road. He didn't
+anticipate being followed, at any rate so soon, and felt under no
+particular apprehension. He had walked about three miles when a broad
+branching elm tree tempted him to rest by its shade. He threw himself
+down on the grass, and indulged in self congratulations upon his escape
+from his captors. But his congratulation<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_156" id="Page_156">[Pg 156]</a></span> proved to be premature. After
+a while he raised his eyes and looked carelessly back in the direction
+from which he had come. What he saw startled him.</p>
+
+<p>The two miners, Hayden and Stubbs, had lost no time on the way. They
+were bent on capturing Kit, in order to revenge themselves upon him.</p>
+
+<p>Reaching a little eminence in the road Dick Hayden caught sight of his
+intended victim sitting under the tree.</p>
+
+<p>His eyes gleamed with a wicked light.</p>
+
+<p>"There's the kid, Stubbs!" he said. "Stir your stumps, old man, and
+we'll collar him!"</p>
+
+<p>The two miners started on a run, and when Kit caught sight of them they
+were already within a few rods. The young acrobat saw that his only
+safety, if indeed there was any chance at all, was in flight. He started
+to his feet, and being fleet of limb gave them a good chase. But in the
+end the superior strength and endurance of the men conquered. Flushed
+and panting, Kit was compelled to stop. Hayden grasped him by the collar
+with a look of wicked satisfaction.</p>
+
+<p>"So I've got you, my fine chap, have I?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, so it seems!" said Kit, his heart sinking.</p>
+
+<p>"Sit down! I've got a few questions to ask."</p>
+
+<p>There was a broad flat stone by the roadside. He seated Kit upon it with
+a forcible push, and the two men ranged themselves one on each side of
+him.</p>
+
+<p>"What time did you leave the cabin, boy?"</p>
+
+<p>"I don't know what time it was. It must have been two hours
+since&mdash;perhaps more."</p>
+
+<p>"Did any one let you out?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes."</p>
+
+<p>"Who was it?"</p>
+
+<p>"I don't know the person's name."<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_157" id="Page_157">[Pg 157]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"Was it a man?"</p>
+
+<p>Kit began to feel that he must be cautious. He knew that she was the
+daughter of the man who was questioning him, and that she would be in
+danger of rough treatment if her father should find out that she had
+thwarted him.</p>
+
+<p>"I cannot tell you," he answered, though he well knew that the answer
+was likely to get him into trouble.</p>
+
+<p>"You can't tell? Why not? Don't you know whether it was a man or not?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, I know."</p>
+
+<p>"You mean that you won't tell me, then?" said Hayden, in a menacing
+tone.</p>
+
+<p>"I mean that I don't care to do it. I might get the person into
+trouble."</p>
+
+<p>"You would that, you may bet your life. I can tackle any man round here,
+and I'd get even with that man if I swung for it."</p>
+
+<p>"That is why I don't care to tell you," said Kit. "How can you tell that
+the man knew you put me there?"</p>
+
+<p>"Didn't you tell him?"</p>
+
+<p>"No."</p>
+
+<p>"It was a man, then!" said Hayden, turning to Stubbs. "Look here, young
+feller, if you tell me who it was, you may get off better yourself."</p>
+
+<p>"I would rather not!" answered Kit, pale but firm.</p>
+
+<p>"Suit yourself, kid, but you may as well know that you'll be half killed
+before we get through with you. Get up!"</p>
+
+<p>As he spoke, Hayden jerked Kit to his feet, and began to drag him toward
+the rail fence.</p>
+
+<p>"Take down the rails, Stubbs!" he said.</p>
+
+<p>"What's your game, Dick?"<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_158" id="Page_158">[Pg 158]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"I'm going to give the kid a drubbing that he won't be likely to forget,
+but I can't do it in the road, for some one may come along."</p>
+
+<p>"I'm with you, Dick."</p>
+
+<p>At the lower end of the field which they had now entered was a strip of
+woods, which promised seclusion and freedom from interruption. Poor Kit,
+as he was dragged forward by his relentless captor, found his spirits
+sinking to zero.</p>
+
+<p>"Will no one deliver me from this brutal man?" he exclaimed inwardly.</p>
+
+<p>He felt that his life was in peril.</p>
+
+
+
+
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXXII" id="CHAPTER_XXXII"></a>CHAPTER XXXII.<br />
+KIT'S DANGER.</h2>
+
+<p>The men reached the edge of the woods and halted.</p>
+
+<p>"I'd like to hang him!" growled Dick Hayden with a malignant look.</p>
+
+<p>"It wouldn't do, Dick," said Stubbs. "We'd get into trouble."</p>
+
+<p>"If we were found out."</p>
+
+<p>"Murder will 'most always come out," said Stubbs, uneasily. He was a
+shade less brutal and far less daring than his companion.</p>
+
+<p>It can be imagined with what feelings Kit heard this colloquy. He had no
+confidence in the humanity of his captors, and considered them, Dick
+Hayden in particular, as capable of anything. He did not dare to
+remonstrate lest in a spirit of perversity the two men might proceed to
+extremities.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_159" id="Page_159">[Pg 159]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>Kit was not long in doubt as to the intentions of his captors.</p>
+
+<p>"Take off your coat, boy!" said Hayden, harshly.</p>
+
+<p>Kit looked into the face of his persecutor, and decided that it would be
+prudent to obey. Otherwise he would have forcibly resisted.</p>
+
+<p>He removed his coat and held it over his arm.</p>
+
+<p>"Lay down the coat and take off your vest," was the next order.</p>
+
+<p>This also Kit felt compelled to do.</p>
+
+<p>Dick Hayden produced from the capacious side pocket of his coat a cord,
+which he proceeded to test by pulling. It was evidently very strong.</p>
+
+<p>"Stubbs, tie him to yonder sapling!" said Dick.</p>
+
+<p>Stubbs proceeded, nothing loth, to obey the directions of his leader.
+Kit was tied with his back exposed. Dick Hayden watched the preparations
+with evident enjoyment.</p>
+
+<p>"This is the moment I have been longing for," he said.</p>
+
+<p>From his other pocket he drew a cowhide, which he passed through the
+fingers of his left hand, while with cruel eyes he surveyed the
+shrinking form of his victim.</p>
+
+<p>Meanwhile where was Achilles Henderson?</p>
+
+<p>He and Stover bowled as rapidly over the road as the speed of a fourteen
+year old horse would permit. He looked eagerly before him, in the hope
+of catching a glimpse either of Kit or of the miners. When they started
+they were far behind, but at last they reached a point on the road where
+they could see Kit and his two captors making their way across the
+fields.</p>
+
+<p>"There they are!" said Stover, who was the first to see them.</p>
+
+<p>"And they've got the boy with them!" ejaculated Achilles. "Where are
+they going, do you think?"<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_160" id="Page_160">[Pg 160]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"Over to them woods, it's likely," replied Stover.</p>
+
+<p>"What for?"</p>
+
+<p>"I'm afraid they mean to do the boy harm."</p>
+
+<p>"Not if I can prevent it," said Achilles, with a stern look about the
+mouth.</p>
+
+<p>"They're goin' to give him a floggin', I think."</p>
+
+<p>"They'll get the same dose in larger measure, I can tell them that. Mr.
+Stover, isn't there any way I can reach the woods by a short cut so that
+they won't see me?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, there is a path in that field there. There is a fringe of trees
+separatin' it from the field where they are walkin'."</p>
+
+<p>"Then stop your horse, and I'll jump out!"</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Stover did so with alacrity. He disliked both Dick Hayden and Bob
+Stubbs, whom he had reason to suspect of carrying off a dozen of his
+chickens the previous season. He had not dared to charge them with it,
+knowing the men's ugly disposition, and being certain that they would
+revenge themselves upon him.</p>
+
+<p>"Do you want me along, Mr. Giant?" he asked.</p>
+
+<p>"No; I'm more than a match for them both."</p>
+
+<p>"Shouldn't wonder if you were," chuckled Stover.</p>
+
+<p>He kept his place in the wagon and laughed quietly to himself.</p>
+
+<p>"I'd like to see the scrimmage," he said to himself.</p>
+
+<p>With this object in view he drove forward, so that from the wagon seat
+he could command a view of the scene of conflict.</p>
+
+<p>"They're tying the boy to a tree," he said. "I reckon the giant'll be in
+time, and I'm glad on't. That boy's a real gentleman. Wonder what he's
+done to rile Dick Hayden and Bob Stubbs. He'd have a mighty small show
+if the giant hadn't come up.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_161" id="Page_161">[Pg 161]</a></span> Dick's a strong man, but he'll be like a
+child in the hands of an eight-footer."</p>
+
+<p>Meanwhile Achilles Henderson was getting over the ground at the rate of
+ten miles an hour or more. His long strides gave him a great advantage
+over an ordinary runner.</p>
+
+<p>"If they lay a hand on that boy I pity 'em!" he said to himself.</p>
+
+<p>It was fortunate for Kit that Dick Hayden, like a cat who plays with a
+mouse, paused to gloat over the evident alarm and uneasiness of his
+victim, even after all was ready for the punishment which he proposed to
+inflict.</p>
+
+<p>"Well, boy, what have you to say now?" he demanded, drawing the cowhide
+through his short stubby fingers.</p>
+
+<p>"I have nothing to say that will move you from your purpose, I am
+afraid," replied poor Kit.</p>
+
+<p>"I guess you're about right there, kid!" chuckled Hayden. "Are you ready
+to apologize to me for what you done over to the circus?"</p>
+
+<p>"I don't think there is anything to apologize for."</p>
+
+<p>"There isn't, isn't there? Didn't you bring that long-legged ruffian on
+to me?"</p>
+
+<p>"I was only doing my duty," said Kit, manfully.</p>
+
+<p>"Oho! so that's the way you look at it, do you?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, sir."</p>
+
+<p>"No doubt you'd like it if that tall brute were here now," said Hayden,
+tauntingly.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes," murmured Kit; "I wish my good friend Achilles were here."</p>
+
+<p>"So that's his name, is it? Well, I wouldn't mind if he were here.
+Stubbs, I think you and I could do for him, eh?"</p>
+
+<p>"I don't know," said Stubbs, dubiously.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_162" id="Page_162">[Pg 162]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"Well I do. He's only one man, while we are two, and strong at that."</p>
+
+<p>"Oho!" thought Achilles, who was now within hearing. "So my friend, the
+miner, is getting valorous! Well, he will probably have a chance to test
+his strength."</p>
+
+<p>By this time Hayden had got through with his taunts, and was ready to
+enjoy his vengeance.</p>
+
+<p>"Your time has come, boy!" he said, fiercely. "Stand back, Stubbs!"</p>
+
+<p>Bob Stubbs stepped back, and Dick Hayden raised the cruel cowhide in his
+muscular grasp. It would have inflicted a terrible blow had it fallen on
+the young acrobat. But something unexpected happened. The instrument of
+torture was torn from his hands, and a deep voice, which he knew only
+too well, uttered these words: "For shame, you brute! Would you kill the
+boy?"</p>
+
+<p>Panic stricken the brutal miner turned and found himself confronting
+Achilles Henderson.</p>
+
+<p>A fierce cry of rage and disappointment burst from his lips.</p>
+
+<p>"Where did you come from?" he stammered.</p>
+
+<p>"From Heaven, I think!" murmured poor Kit, with devout gratitude to that
+overruling Providence which had sent him such a helper in his utmost
+need.</p>
+
+
+
+
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXXIII" id="CHAPTER_XXXIII"></a>CHAPTER XXXIII.<br />
+DICK HAYDEN MEETS WITH RETRIBUTION.</h2>
+
+<p>Dick Hayden and Bob Stubbs, large and strong men as they were, looked
+puny, compared with the<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_163" id="Page_163">[Pg 163]</a></span> giant who towered beside them, his face
+kindling with righteous indignation.</p>
+
+<p>"What are you going to do to the boy?" he demanded, sternly.</p>
+
+<p>"I was going to flog him," answered Hayden in a surly tone.</p>
+
+<p>"And you were helping him?" went on Achilles, turning to Stubbs.</p>
+
+<p>"No, sir," answered Stubbs eagerly, for, big as he was, he was a coward.
+"I didn't want Dick to do it."</p>
+
+<p>"You coward!" exclaimed Hayden, contemptuously. "You're as deep in it as
+I am."</p>
+
+<p>"Is that true, Kit?" asked Achilles.</p>
+
+<p>"He isn't as bad as the other," said Kit. "That man Hayden thought of
+killing me, but his friend protested against it."</p>
+
+<p>"It shall be remembered to his credit. Why did you wish to flog the
+boy?" he asked of Hayden.</p>
+
+<p>"On account of what happened at the circus."</p>
+
+<p>"The boy didn't touch you."</p>
+
+<p>"He brought you on me."</p>
+
+<p>"Then I was the one to punish."</p>
+
+<p>"I couldn't get at you."</p>
+
+<p>"Here I am, at your service."</p>
+
+<p>Dick Harden measured the giant with a vindictive eye, but there was
+something in the sight of the mighty thews and sinews of the huge man
+that quelled his warlike ardor.</p>
+
+<p>"It wouldn't be a fair contest," he said sullenly.</p>
+
+<p>"There are two of you, as you said just before I came."</p>
+
+<p>"No, there are not," interposed Stubbs, hastily. "I hain't any grudge
+against you, Mr. Giant."</p>
+
+<p>"You are willing to help me?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes."<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_164" id="Page_164">[Pg 164]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"Then untie that boy."</p>
+
+<p>Stubbs unloosed the cord that bound Kit to the tree, while Achilles
+Henderson watched Hayden narrowly, for he had no mind to let him go
+free.</p>
+
+<p>"Are you that man's slave?" asked Hayden.</p>
+
+<p>"I am willing to oblige him," said Stubbs, meekly.</p>
+
+<p>Kit straightened up on being released, and breathed a sigh of relief.</p>
+
+<p>"Come along, Stubbs," said Hayden, with an ugly look at Kit and his
+protector. "Our business is through."</p>
+
+<p>"Not quite," said Achilles, quietly, as he laid his broad hand with a
+detaining grasp on the shoulder of the ruffian. "I am not through with
+you."</p>
+
+<p>"What do you want?" asked Dick Hayden with assumed bravado, but with an
+uneasy look on his lowering face.</p>
+
+<p>"I am going to give you a lesson. I gave you one at the circus ground,
+but you need another."</p>
+
+<p>"Touch me if you dare!" said Hayden, defiantly.</p>
+
+<p>For answer, Achilles hurled him to the ground with less effort than
+Hayden would have needed to serve Kit in the same way. Then with the
+cowhide uplifted he struck the prostrate wretch three sharp blows that
+made him howl with rage and pain. Stubbs looked on with pale face,
+thinking that his turn might come next.</p>
+
+<p>"Hit him, Stubbs! Kill him!" screamed Dick Hayden. "Would you stand by
+and see me murdered?"</p>
+
+<p>"I can't help you," said Stubbs. "What can I do?"</p>
+
+<p>Having administered justice to the chief ruffian, Achilles turned to
+Stubbs.</p>
+
+<p>"Now," he said, "what have you to say for your<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_165" id="Page_165">[Pg 165]</a></span>self? Why shouldn't I
+serve you in the same way?"</p>
+
+<p>"Spare me!" whined Stubbs, panic stricken. "I am the boy's friend. It
+was Hayden who wanted to hurt him."</p>
+
+<p>"My friend, I put very little confidence in what you say. Still I don't
+think you are as bad as this brute here. I will spare you on one
+condition."</p>
+
+<p>"What is it? Indeed, I will do anything you ask."</p>
+
+<p>"Then take this cowhide and give your companion a taste of its quality."</p>
+
+<p>Stubbs looked alarmed.</p>
+
+<p>"Don't ask me to do that," he said. "Me and Dick are pals."</p>
+
+<p>"Just as I supposed. In that case you require a dose of the same
+medicine," and Achilles made a threatening demonstration with the
+rawhide.</p>
+
+<p>"Don't do it," cried Stubbs, affrighted.</p>
+
+<p>"Then will you do as I say?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, yes."</p>
+
+<p>"Will you lay it on well?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes," answered Stubbs, who, forced to choose between his own skin and
+Hayden's, was influenced by a regard for his own person.</p>
+
+<p>Dick Hayden listened to this conference with lowering brow. He did not
+think Stubbs would dare to hit him. But he was destined to find himself
+unpleasantly surprised.</p>
+
+<p>Stubbs took the hide from the hands of the giant, and anxious to
+conciliate his powerful antagonist laid it with emphasis on Hayden,
+already smarting from his former castigation.</p>
+
+<p>"I'll kill you for that, Bob Stubbs!" he yelled, almost frothing at the
+mouth with rage.</p>
+
+<p>"I had to do it, Dick!" said Stubbs, apologetically. "You heard what he
+said."<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_166" id="Page_166">[Pg 166]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"I don't care what he said. To spare your own miserable carcass, you
+struck your friend. But I am your friend no longer. I'll have it out of
+you!"</p>
+
+<p>"Come, Kit, you are revenged," said the giant. "Now let us hurry on to
+the circus. There's a team in the road below. I think I can make a
+bargain with Mr. Stover to carry us all the way."</p>
+
+<p>They found Mr. Stover waiting for them.</p>
+
+<p>"Well," he said, "how did you make out?"</p>
+
+<p>"Suppose you look back and see!"</p>
+
+<p>Stover did look, and to his amazement he saw Dick Hayden and Bob Stubbs
+rolling on the ground, each holding the other in a fierce embrace.
+Hayden had attacked Stubbs, and though the latter tried hard to avoid a
+combat he was forced into it. Then, finding himself pushed, he fought as
+well as he could. Fortune favored him, for Dick Hayden tripped, and in
+so doing sprained his ankle. He fell with a groan, and Stubbs, glad to
+escape, left him in haste, and made the best of his way home.</p>
+
+<p>It was not until several hours afterwards that Hayden was found by
+another party, and carried home, where he was confined for a fortnight.
+This was fortunate for Kit and the giant, for he had intended to make a
+formal complaint before a justice of the peace which might have resulted
+in the arrest and detention of one or both. But his sprained ankle gave
+him so much pain that it drove all other thoughts out of his head for
+the time being.</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Stover was induced by an unusually liberal offer to convey the two
+friends to the next town, where they found their circus friends
+wondering what had become of them. Kit was none the worse for his
+experience, though it had been far from pleasant, and performed that
+afternoon and evening with his usual spirit and success.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_167" id="Page_167">[Pg 167]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>He told Achilles how he had been rescued by Janet Hayden, and the latter
+said with emphasis: "The girl's a trump! She has probably saved your
+life! That brute, her father, wouldn't shrink from any violence, no
+matter how great. You ought to make her some acknowledgment, Kit."</p>
+
+<p>"I wouldn't dare to," answered the young acrobat. "If her father should
+find out what she did for me, I am afraid her life would not be safe."</p>
+
+
+
+
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXXIV" id="CHAPTER_XXXIV"></a>CHAPTER XXXIV.<br />
+SOME IMPORTANT INFORMATION.</h2>
+
+<p>Two or three days later, the circus was billed to show at Glendale, a
+manufacturing village in Western Pennsylvania. The name attracted the
+attention of Kit, for this was the place where his uncle had lived for
+many years previous to the death of Kit's father. He naturally desired
+to learn something of his uncle's reputation among the villagers, who
+from his long residence among them must remember him well.</p>
+
+<p>The circus had arrived during the night. As a general thing Kit was not
+in a hurry to get up, but as he was to stay but a day in Glendale, he
+rose early, with the intention of improving his time.</p>
+
+<p>Breakfast in the circus tent was not ready till nine o'clock, for circus
+men of every description get up late, except the razorbacks, who are
+compelled to be about very early to unload the freight cars, and the
+canvas men, who put up the tents. So Kit went to the hotel, and
+registering his name called for breakfast.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_168" id="Page_168">[Pg 168]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>After he had eaten it, he strolled into the office, hoping to meet some
+one of whom he could make inquiries respecting his uncle. This was made
+unexpectedly easy. A man of about his uncle's age had been examining the
+list of arrivals. He looked at Kit inquisitively.</p>
+
+<p>"I beg your pardon, young man," he said, "but are you Christopher
+Watson?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, sir," answered Kit, politely.</p>
+
+<p>"Did you ever have any relatives living in this place?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, sir. My uncle, Stephen Watson, used to live here."</p>
+
+<p>"I thought so. I once saw your father. He came here to visit your uncle.
+You look like him."</p>
+
+<p>Kit was gratified, for he cherished a warm affection for his dead
+father, and was glad to have it said that he resembled him.</p>
+
+<p>"Are you going to stay here long?" asked the villager.</p>
+
+<p>"No, sir; I am here only for the day."</p>
+
+<p>"On business, I presume."</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, sir," answered Kit, smiling. "I am here with Barlow's circus."</p>
+
+<p>The other looked amazed.</p>
+
+<p>"You don't mean to say that you are connected with the circus?" he
+exclaimed.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, sir."</p>
+
+<p>"In what capacity?"</p>
+
+<p>"I am an acrobat."</p>
+
+<p>"I don't understand it at all. Why should your father's son need to
+travel with a circus?"</p>
+
+<p>"Because I have my living to earn, and that pays me better than any
+other employment I can get."</p>
+
+<p>"But your father was a rich man, I always heard."<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_169" id="Page_169">[Pg 169]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"I supposed so myself, till a short time since my uncle informed me that
+I was penniless, and must learn a trade."</p>
+
+<p>"But where did the money go, then? How does your uncle make a living?"</p>
+
+<p>"He has my father's old place, and appears to have enough to support
+himself and Ralph."</p>
+
+<p>"Sit down here, young man! There is something strange about this. I want
+to ask you a few questions."</p>
+
+<p>"You are the man I want to see," said Kit. "I think myself there is some
+mystery, and I would like to ask some questions about my uncle Stephen
+from some one who knew him here. I suppose you knew him?"</p>
+
+<p>"No one knew him better. Many is the time he has come to me for a loan.
+He didn't always pay back the money, and I dare say he owes me still in
+the neighborhood of fifty dollars."</p>
+
+<p>"Was he poor then?"</p>
+
+<p>"He was in very limited circumstances. He pretended to be in the
+insurance business, and had a small office in the building near the
+hotel, but if he made four hundred dollars a year in that way it was
+more than any one supposed."</p>
+
+<p>"Then," said Kit, puzzled, "how could he have lent my father ten
+thousand dollars?"</p>
+
+<p>"He lend you father ten thousand dollars, or anybody else ten thousand
+dollars! Why, that is perfectly ridiculous. Who says he did?"</p>
+
+<p>"He says so himself."</p>
+
+<p>"To whom did he tell that fish story?"</p>
+
+<p>"He told me. That is the way he explained his taking possession of the
+property. That was only one loan. He said he lent father money at
+various times, and had to take the estate in payment."<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_170" id="Page_170">[Pg 170]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>Kit's auditor gave a loud whistle.</p>
+
+<p>"The man's a deeper and shrewder rascal than I had any idea of," he
+said. "He is swindling you in the most barefaced manner."</p>
+
+<p>"I am not very much surprised to hear it," said Kit. "I was not
+satisfied that he was telling the truth. If you are correct, then, he
+has wrongfully appropriated my father's money."</p>
+
+<p>"There is not a doubt of it. Did he drive you from home?"</p>
+
+<p>"About the same. He attempted to apprentice me to a blacksmith, while
+his own son Ralph he means to send to college, and have him study law."</p>
+
+<p>"I remember Ralph well, though he was a small boy when he left this
+village. He was very unpopular among those of his own age. He was always
+up to some mean act of mischief. He got my boy into trouble once in
+school by charging him with something he had himself done."</p>
+
+<p>"He hasn't changed much, then," said Kit. "We both attended the same
+boarding school, but nobody liked Ralph."</p>
+
+<p>"Was he much of a scholar?"</p>
+
+<p>"No; he dragged along in the lower half of the class."</p>
+
+<p>"Were you two good friends?"</p>
+
+<p>"We didn't quarrel, but we kept apart."</p>
+
+<p>"So his father wants to make a lawyer of him?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes; I have had a letter from Smyrna in which I hear that my uncle has
+just bought Ralph a bicycle valued at a hundred and twenty-five
+dollars."</p>
+
+<p>"Money seems to be more plenty with him now than it used to be in his
+Glendale days. By the way would you like to see the place where your
+uncle used to live?"<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_171" id="Page_171">[Pg 171]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"Yes, sir, if you don't mind showing me."</p>
+
+<p>"I will do so with pleasure. Put on your hat, and we will go at once."</p>
+
+<p>They walked about a third of a mile, till they reached the outskirts of
+the village.</p>
+
+<p>"This is the home of the foreign population," said Kit's guide. "And
+there is the house which was occupied for at least ten years by your
+uncle."</p>
+
+<p>Kit eyed the building with interest. It was a plain looking cottage,
+containing but four rooms, which stood badly in need of paint. There was
+about an acre of land, rocky and sterile, attached to it.</p>
+
+<p>"This is the residence of the man who lent your father ten thousand
+dollars," said his guide, in an ironical tone. "Not much of a palace, is
+it?"</p>
+
+<p>"It can't be worth over a thousand dollars."</p>
+
+<p>"Your uncle sold it for seven hundred and eighty dollars, but he didn't
+get that sum in money, for it was mortgaged for six hundred."</p>
+
+<p>"You said my father came here once?"</p>
+
+<p>"It was to visit your uncle. While he was here, he stood security at the
+tailor's for new suits for your uncle and cousin, and must have given
+your uncle some cash besides, for he appeared to be in funds for some
+time afterwards. So you see the loan, or rather gift, was on the other
+side."</p>
+
+<p>"I don't see how my uncle dared to misrepresent matters in that way."</p>
+
+<p>"Nor I; for he could easily be convicted of fraudulent statements."</p>
+
+<p>"I am very much obliged to you, Mr.&mdash;&mdash;"</p>
+
+<p>"Pierce."</p>
+
+<p>"Mr. Pierce, for your information."</p>
+
+<p>"I hope you will make some use of it."</p>
+
+<p>"I certainly shall," said Kit, his good humored face showing unwonted
+resolution.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_172" id="Page_172">[Pg 172]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"Whenever you do, my testimony will be at your service, and there are
+plenty others who will corroborate my statements of your uncle's
+financial condition when here. The fact is, my young friend, your uncle
+has engaged in a most shameless plot against you."</p>
+
+<p>Kit was deeply impressed by this conversation. He was resolved, when the
+time came, to assert his rights, and lay claim to his dead father's
+property.</p>
+
+
+
+
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXXV" id="CHAPTER_XXXV"></a>CHAPTER XXXV.<br />
+ON THE TRAPEZE.</h2>
+
+<p>Kit was on pleasant relations with his fellow performers. Indeed, he was
+a general favorite, owing to his obliging disposition and pleasant
+manners. He took an interest in their acts as well as his own, and in
+particular had cultivated an intimacy with Louise Lefroy, the trapeze
+performer. He had practiced on the trapeze in the gymnasium, and had
+acquired additional skill under the tuition of Mlle. Lefroy.</p>
+
+<p>"Some time you will make an engagement as a trapeze performer,
+Christopher," said the lady to him one day.</p>
+
+<p>"No," answered Kit, shaking his head.</p>
+
+<p>"You wouldn't be afraid?"</p>
+
+<p>"No; I think I would make a very respectable performer; but I don't mean
+to travel with the circus after this season, unless I am obliged to."</p>
+
+<p>"Why should you be obliged to?"</p>
+
+<p>"Because I have my living to earn."<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_173" id="Page_173">[Pg 173]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"It is a pity," said Mlle. Lefroy. "You seem cut out for a circus
+performer."</p>
+
+<p>"Do you like it, Mlle. Lefroy?"</p>
+
+<p>The lady looked thoughtful.</p>
+
+<p>"I have to like it," she said. "Besides, there is an excitement about
+it, and I crave excitement."</p>
+
+<p>"But wouldn't you rather have a home of your own?"</p>
+
+<p>"Listen! I had a home of my own, but my husband was intemperate, and in
+fits of intoxication would illtreat me and my boy."</p>
+
+<p>"Then you have a boy?" said Kit, surprised.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes; and I support him at a boarding school out of my professional
+earnings, which are large."</p>
+
+<p>"I am going to ask you another question, but you may not like to answer
+it."</p>
+
+<p>"Speak plainly."</p>
+
+<p>"Your husband is living, is he not?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes."</p>
+
+<p>"Does he know that you are a circus performer?"</p>
+
+<p>"No; and I would not have him know for worlds."</p>
+
+<p>"Would he feel sensitive about it?"</p>
+
+<p>Mlle. Lefroy laughed bitterly.</p>
+
+<p>"You don't know him, or you would not ask that question," she said. "He
+would want to appropriate my salary. That is why I do not care to have
+him know how I am earning the living which he ought to provide for me."</p>
+
+<p>"I sympathize with you," said Kit, gently.</p>
+
+<p>"Then you don't think any the worse of me because I am a trapeze
+performer."</p>
+
+<p>"Why should I? Am I not a circus performer also?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes; but it is different with you, being a man. You would not like to
+think of your mother or sister in my position."<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_174" id="Page_174">[Pg 174]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"No; I would not, yet I can imagine circumstances that would justify
+it."</p>
+
+<p>From this time Kit was disposed to look with different eyes upon Mlle.
+Lefroy. He did not think of her as a daring actor, but rather as an
+injured wife and devoted mother, who every day risked her life for the
+sake of one who was dear to her.</p>
+
+<p>"Did you never fear that your husband might be present when you are
+performing?" asked Kit.</p>
+
+<p>"It is my constant dread," answered Mlle. Lefroy. "When I come out in my
+costume, and look over the sea of heads, I am always afraid I shall see
+<i>his</i> face."</p>
+
+<p>"But you never have yet?"</p>
+
+<p>"Never yet. I do not think if I should see that man I could go through
+my part. It requires nerve, as you know, and my nerves would be so
+shaken that my life would be in peril. If you ever hear of my meeting
+with an accident, you may guess the probable cause."</p>
+
+<p>"Then, if ever you recognize your husband among the spectators, it would
+be prudent to omit your performance."</p>
+
+<p>"That is what I propose to do."</p>
+
+<p>Kit little imagined how soon the contingency which his friend feared
+would arrive.</p>
+
+<p>Two evenings later Harry Thorne brought him a little note. He opened it
+and read as follows:</p>
+
+<div class="blockquot">
+<p class="center">
+Come and see me at once.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<span class="smcap">Louise Lefroy.</span>
+</p>
+</div>
+
+<p>Kit ascertained where Mlle. Lefroy was to be found, and obeyed the
+summons immediately.</p>
+
+<p>He found the lady in great agitation.</p>
+
+<p>"Are you not well?" he asked.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_175" id="Page_175">[Pg 175]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"Well in health, but not in mind," she answered.</p>
+
+<p>"Has anything happened?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes; what I dreaded has come to pass."</p>
+
+<p>"Have you seen your husband?" asked Kit quickly.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes; I was taking a walk, and saw him on the opposite side of the
+street."</p>
+
+<p>"Did he see you?"</p>
+
+<p>"No; but I ascertained that he is staying at the hotel. Now he is likely
+to follow the crowd, and attend the circus to-night."</p>
+
+<p>"That is probable. Then you will not appear."</p>
+
+<p>"I should not dare to. But it will be a great disappointment to the
+management. The trapeze act is always a popular one, especially in a
+country town like this. Now I am going to ask a favor of you."</p>
+
+<p>Kit's face flushed with excitement. He foresaw what it would be.</p>
+
+<p>"What is it?" he asked.</p>
+
+<p>"I want you to appear in my place this evening."</p>
+
+<p>"Do you think I am competent?"</p>
+
+<p>"You cannot do my act, but you can do enough to satisfy the public. But,
+my dear friend, I don't want to subject you to any risk. If you are at
+all nervous or afraid, don't attempt it."</p>
+
+<p>"I am not afraid," said Kit confidently. "I will appear!"</p>
+
+<p>In the evening the tent was full. Very few knew of the change in the
+programme. Mr. Barlow had consented to the substitution with some
+reluctance, for he feared that Kit might be undertaking something beyond
+his power to perform. Even the Vincenti brothers, Kit's associates, were
+surprised when the manager came forward and said:</p>
+
+<p>"Ladies and gentlemen, Mlle. Lefroy is indisposed,<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_176" id="Page_176">[Pg 176]</a></span> and will be unable
+to perform her act this evening. Unwilling to disappoint the public, we
+have substituted one of our youngest and most daring performers, who
+will appear in her place."</p>
+
+<p>When Kit came out, his young face glowing with excitement, and made his
+bow, the crowd of spectators greeted him with enthusiastic applause. His
+fellow actors joined in the ovation. They feared he had overrated his
+ability, but were ready to applaud his pluck.</p>
+
+<p>Now was the time, if any, for Kit to grow nervous, and show stage
+fright. But he felt none. The sight of the eager faces around him only
+stimulated him. He caught the rope which hung down from the trapeze, and
+quickly climbing up poised himself on his elevated perch.</p>
+
+<p>He did not allow himself to look down, but strove to shut out the sight
+of the hundreds of upturned faces, and proceeded to perform his act as
+coolly as if he were in a gymnasium, only six feet from the ground
+instead of thirty.</p>
+
+<p>It is not to be supposed that Kit, who was a comparative novice, could
+equal Mlle. Louise Lefroy, who had been cultivating her specialty for
+ten years. He went through several feats, however, hanging from the
+trapeze with his head down, then quickly recovering himself and swinging
+by his hands. The public was disposed to be pleased, and, when the act
+was finished, gave him a round of applause.</p>
+
+<p>Later in the evening a small man, with a very dark complexion, and keen,
+black eyes, approached him as he was standing near the lion's cage.</p>
+
+<p>"Is this Luigi Vincenti?" he asked.</p>
+
+<p>This was Kit's circus name. He passed for a brother, of Alonzo and
+Antonio Vincenti.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_177" id="Page_177">[Pg 177]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"Yes, sir," answered Kit.</p>
+
+<p>"I saw your trapeze act this evening," he went on. "It was very good."</p>
+
+<p>"Thank you, sir. You know, perhaps, that I am not a trapeze performer. I
+only appeared in place of Mlle. Lefroy, who is indisposed."</p>
+
+<p>"So I understand; but you do very well for a boy. My name is Signor
+Oponto. I am at the head of a large circus in Havana. My visit to the
+United States is partly to secure additional talent. How long are you
+engaged to Mr. Barlow?"</p>
+
+<p>"For no definite time. I suppose I shall remain till the end of the
+season."</p>
+
+<p>"You have no engagements beyond?"</p>
+
+<p>"No, sir; this is my first season with any circus."</p>
+
+<p>"Then I will make you an offer. I don't want to take you from Mr.
+Barlow, but when the season is over I shall be ready to arrange for your
+appearance in Havana under my personal management."</p>
+
+<p>Though Kit was modest he was human. He did feel flattered to find
+himself rated so high. It even occurred to him that he might like to be
+considered a star in circus circles, to be the admiration of circus
+audiences, and to be regarded with wondering awe by boys of his own age
+throughout the country. But Kit was also a sensible boy. After all, this
+pre&euml;minence was only of a physical character. A great acrobat or trapeze
+artist has no recognized place in society, and his ambition is of a low
+character. While these reflections were presenting themselves to his
+mind, Signor Oponto stood by in silence, waiting for his answer. He
+thought that Kit's hesitation was due to pecuniary considerations.</p>
+
+<p>"What salary does Mr. Barlow pay you?" he asked, in a businesslike
+tone.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_178" id="Page_178">[Pg 178]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"Twenty-five dollars a week."</p>
+
+<p>"I will give you fifty, and engage you for a year."</p>
+
+<p>He regarded Kit intently to see how this proposal struck him.</p>
+
+<p>"You are very liberal, Signor Oponto," Kit began, but the manager
+interrupted him.</p>
+
+<p>"I will also pay your board," he added; "and of course defray your
+expenses to Havana. Is that satisfactory?"</p>
+
+<p>"It would be very much so but for one thing."</p>
+
+<p>"What is that?"</p>
+
+<p>"I doubt whether I shall remain in the business after this season."</p>
+
+<p>"Why not? Don't you like it?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, very well; but I prefer to follow some profession of a literary
+character. I am nearly prepared for college, and I may decide to
+continue my studies."</p>
+
+<p>"But even your college students devote most of their time to base ball
+and rowing, I hear."</p>
+
+<p>"Not quite so bad as that," answered Kit, with a smile.</p>
+
+<p>"You don't refuse definitely, I hope."</p>
+
+<p>"No; it may be that I may feel obliged to remain in the business. In
+that case I will give you the preference."</p>
+
+<p>"That is all I can expect. Here is my card. Whenever you are ready,
+write to me, and your communication will receive instant attention."</p>
+
+<p>"Thank you, sir."</p>
+
+<p>The next day Mlle. Lefroy resumed her work, the danger of meeting her
+husband having passed. She expressed her gratitude to Kit for serving as
+her substitute, and wished to make him a present of ten dollars, but he
+refused to accept it.</p>
+
+<p>"I was glad of the chance to see what I could do<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_179" id="Page_179">[Pg 179]</a></span> on the trapeze," he
+said. "I never expect to follow it up, but I have already received an
+offer of an engagement in that line."</p>
+
+<p>"So I heard. And you don't care to accept it?"</p>
+
+<p>"No; I do not mean to be a circus performer permanently."</p>
+
+<p>"You are right. It leads to nothing, and before middle life you are
+liable to find yourself unfitted for it."</p>
+
+
+
+
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXXVI" id="CHAPTER_XXXVI"></a>CHAPTER XXXVI.<br />
+CLOSE OF THE CIRCUS.</h2>
+
+<p>Days and weeks flew swiftly by. September gave place to October, and the
+circus season neared its close. Already the performers were casting
+about for employment during the long, dull winter that must elapse
+before the next season.</p>
+
+<p>"What are your plans, Kit?" asked Antonio Vincenti, who in private
+called his young associate by his real name.</p>
+
+<p>"I don't know yet, Antonio. I may go to school."</p>
+
+<p>"Have you saved money enough to keep you through the winter?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes; I have four hundred dollars in the wagon."</p>
+
+<p>This is the expression made use of to indicate "in the hands of the
+treasurer."</p>
+
+<p>"You've done better than my brother or I. We must work during the
+winter."</p>
+
+<p>"Have you any chance yet?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes; we can go to work in a dime museum in Philadelphia for a month,
+and afterwards we will go<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_180" id="Page_180">[Pg 180]</a></span> to Chicago, where we were last winter. I
+could get a chance for you, too."</p>
+
+<p>"Thank you, but I don't care to work in that way at present. If I went
+anywhere I would go to Havana, where I am offered a profitable
+engagement."</p>
+
+<p>"Has Mr. Barlow said anything to you about next season?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes; but I shall make no engagement in advance. Something may happen
+which will keep me at home."</p>
+
+<p>"Oh, you'll be coming round in the spring. You'll have the circus fever
+like all the rest of us."</p>
+
+<p>Kit smiled and shook his head.</p>
+
+<p>"I haven't been in the business long enough to get so much attached to
+it as you are," he said. "But at any rate, I shall come round to see my
+old friends."</p>
+
+<p>The last circus performance was given in Albany, and the winter quarters
+were to be at a town twenty miles distant. Kit went through his acts
+with his usual success, and when he took off his circus costume, it was
+with a feeling that it might be the last time he would wear it.</p>
+
+<p>The breaking up was not to take place till the next day, and he was
+preparing to spend the night in some Albany hotel.</p>
+
+<p>He had taken off his tights, as has been said, and put on his street
+dress, when a tall man, with a frank, good humored expression, stepped
+up to him.</p>
+
+<p>"Are you Christopher Watson?" he asked.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes," answered Kit, in surprise, for he had no recollection of having
+met the stranger before.</p>
+
+<p>"Of course you don't know me, but I was a school-fellow and intimate
+friend of your father."</p>
+
+<p>"Then," said Kit, cordially, "I must take you by the hand. All my
+father's friends are my friends."</p>
+
+<p>The face of the stranger lighted up.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_181" id="Page_181">[Pg 181]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"That's the way to talk," he said. "I see you are like your father.
+Shake hands again."</p>
+
+<p>"But how did you know I was with Barlow's circus?" asked Kit, puzzled.</p>
+
+<p>"Your uncle told me."</p>
+
+<p>"Have you seen him lately?" asked Kit, quickly.</p>
+
+<p>"No; I saw him about three months ago at Smyrna."</p>
+
+<p>"What did he tell you about me?"</p>
+
+<p>"He said you were a wayward lad, and preferred traveling with a circus
+to following an honest business."</p>
+
+<p>"I am afraid you have got a wrong idea of me, then."</p>
+
+<p>"Bless you, I knew your uncle before you were born. He is not at all
+like your father. One was as open as the day, the other was cunning,
+selfish, and foxy."</p>
+
+<p>"I see you understand my Uncle Stephen as well as I do."</p>
+
+<p>"I ought to."</p>
+
+<p>"Were you surprised to hear that I was traveling with a circus?"</p>
+
+<p>"Well, I was; but your uncle told me one thing that surprised me more.
+He said that your father left nothing."</p>
+
+<p>"That surprised me, too; but I have got some light on the subject and I
+feel in need of a friend and adviser."</p>
+
+<p>"Then if you'll take Henry Miller for want of a better, I don't believe
+you'll regret it."</p>
+
+<p>"I shall be glad to accept your kind offer, Mr. Miller. Now that you
+mention your name, I remember it very well. My father often spoke of
+you."</p>
+
+<p>"Did he so?" said the stranger, evidently much<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_182" id="Page_182">[Pg 182]</a></span> gratified. "I am glad to
+hear it. Of all my school companions, your father was the one I liked
+best. And now, before we go any further, I want to tell you two things.
+First, I should have hunted you up sooner, but business called me to
+California, where I have considerable property. Next, having learned
+that you were left destitute, I decided to do something for the son of
+my old friend. So I took a hundred shares of stock in a new mine, which
+had just been put on the market when I reached 'Frisco, and I said to
+myself: 'That is for Kit Watson.' Well, it was a lucky investment. The
+shares cost me five dollars apiece, and just before I left California I
+sold them for fifty dollars apiece. What do you say to that?"</p>
+
+<p>"Is it possible mining shares rise in value so fast?" asked Kit in
+amazement.</p>
+
+<p>"Well, sometimes they do, and sometimes they don't. Often it's the other
+way, and I don't advise you or anybody else that knows nothing about it
+to speculate in mining shares. It is a risky thing, and you are more apt
+to lose than to win. However, this turned out O. K., and you are worth
+five thousand dollars to-day, my boy."</p>
+
+<p>"I don't know how to thank you, Mr. Miller," said Kit. "I can't seem to
+realize it."</p>
+
+<p>"You needn't thank me at all. I did it for your father's sake, but now
+that I know you I am glad to do it for your own. When we get to New York
+I advise you to salt it down in government bonds, or in some other good
+reliable stock."</p>
+
+<p>"I shall be glad to follow your advice, Mr. Miller."</p>
+
+<p>"Then I'll invest all but five hundred dollars, for you may want to use
+that. What sort of a season have you had?"<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_183" id="Page_183">[Pg 183]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"I've saved up four hundred dollars," said Kit proudly.</p>
+
+<p>"You don't say so! You must have got pretty good pay."</p>
+
+<p>"Twenty-five dollars a week."</p>
+
+<p>"Your uncle said you probably got two or three dollars a week."</p>
+
+<p>"He probably thought so. He has no idea I have been so well paid. I
+chose to keep it from him."</p>
+
+<p>"You said you wanted to ask my advice about something."</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, sir."</p>
+
+<p>"Why not come round to the Delavan and take a room? I am staying there,
+and I will tell the clerk to pick you out a room next to mine."</p>
+
+<p>"I will do so. I intended to stay at some hotel to night. This is the
+last night of the circus. To-morrow we close up, and separate. I shall
+draw my money and bid good-by to my circus friends."</p>
+
+<p>"I am glad of that. We will keep together. I have neither chick nor
+child, Kit, and if you'll accept me as your guardian I'll do the best I
+can for you. But perhaps you prefer to go back to your uncle."</p>
+
+<p>Kit shook his head.</p>
+
+<p>"I should never do that," he said, "especially after what I have learned
+during my trip."</p>
+
+<p>"Let it keep till to-morrow, for we are both tired. Now get ready and
+we'll go to the Delavan."</p>
+
+<p>Kit was assigned a nice room next to Mr. Miller, where he passed a
+comfortable night.</p>
+
+<p>The next day he revealed to his new friend the discoveries he had made
+in his uncle's old home in Pennsylvania&mdash;his uncle's poverty up to the
+time of his brother's death, and the evident falseness of his claim<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_184" id="Page_184">[Pg 184]</a></span> to
+have lent him large sums of money, in payment of which he had coolly
+appropriated his entire estate.</p>
+
+<p>His late friend listened to this story in amazement.</p>
+
+<p>"I knew Stephen Watson to be unprincipled," he said, "but I didn't think
+him as bad as that. He has swindled you shamefully."</p>
+
+<p>"Just my idea, Mr. Miller."</p>
+
+<p>"While he has carefully feathered his own nest. This wrong must be
+righted."</p>
+
+<p>"It was my intention to find some good lawyer, and ask his advice."</p>
+
+<p>"We'll do it, Kit. But, first of all, I'll go with you to this town in
+Pennsylvania, and obtain the necessary testimony sworn to before a
+justice. Then we'll find a good lawyer, and move on the enemy's works."</p>
+
+<p>"I will be guided by your advice entirely, Mr. Miller."</p>
+
+<p>"It will be a satisfaction to me to get even with your uncle. To swindle
+his own nephew in this barefaced manner! We'll bring him up with a short
+turn, Kit!"</p>
+
+<p>The next day Kit and his new friend left Albany.</p>
+
+
+
+
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXXVII" id="CHAPTER_XXXVII"></a>CHAPTER XXXVII.<br />
+KIT COMES HOME.</h2>
+
+<p>One morning James Schuyler Kit's old acquaintance at Smyrna, received a
+letter from Kit, in which he said: "Our circus season is ended, but I am
+detained a few days by important business. I will tell you about it when
+we meet. If you see my uncle tell him that I expect to reach Smyrna
+somewhere about the twenty-fifth of October."<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_185" id="Page_185">[Pg 185]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"I wonder what Kit's important business can be," thought James. "I hope
+it is something of advantage to him."</p>
+
+<p>James happened to meet Stephen Watson an hour later.</p>
+
+<p>"Mr. Watson," he said, "I had a letter from Kit this morning."</p>
+
+<p>"Indeed!"</p>
+
+<p>"He says that his circus season is over."</p>
+
+<p>"And he is out of employment," said Watson, his lip curling.</p>
+
+<p>"I suppose so; he expects to reach Smyrna somewhere about the
+twenty-fifth of the month."</p>
+
+<p>Stephen Watson smiled, but said nothing.</p>
+
+<p>"No doubt he will find it very convenient to stay at home through the
+winter," he reflected. "Well, he must think I am a fool to take back a
+boy who has defied my authority."</p>
+
+<p>It was Saturday, and Ralph was home from boarding-school.</p>
+
+<p>"Ralph," said his father, "I bring you good news."</p>
+
+<p>"What is it, pa?"</p>
+
+<p>"Your cousin will be home from the circus towards the last of next
+week."</p>
+
+<p>"Who told you? Did he write you?"</p>
+
+<p>"He wrote to James Schuyler, who told me."</p>
+
+<p>"I suppose he expects you will give him a home through the winter."</p>
+
+<p>"You may rest easy, Ralph. He won't have his own way with me, I can
+assure you."</p>
+
+<p>"What shall you do, pa?"</p>
+
+<p>"I shall see Bickford about taking him back. I have occasion to go over
+there on Monday to have the horse shod, and I can speak to him about
+it."<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_186" id="Page_186">[Pg 186]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>Ralph laughed.</p>
+
+<p>"That will bring down his pride," he said. "I suppose he will beg off."</p>
+
+<p>"He will find me firm as a rock. What I decide upon I generally carry
+through."</p>
+
+<p>"Good for you, pa! I was afraid you would weaken."</p>
+
+<p>"You don't know me, my son. I have been patient and bided my time. Your
+cousin presumed to set up his will against mine. He has got along thus
+far because he has made a living by traveling with a circus. Now the
+circus season is at an end, and he is glad enough to come back to me."</p>
+
+<p>On Monday Stephen Watson rode over to Oakford, and made it in his way to
+call on Aaron Bickford.</p>
+
+<p>"Have you got a boy, Mr. Bickford?" he asked.</p>
+
+<p>"I had one, but he left me last Saturday. He didn't suit me."</p>
+
+<p>This was the blacksmith's interpretation of it. The truth was the boy
+became disgusted with the treatment he received and the fare provided at
+his employer's table, and left him without ceremony.</p>
+
+<p>"How would you like to take back my nephew?"</p>
+
+<p>"Has he come back?" asked the blacksmith, pricking up his ears.</p>
+
+<p>"Not yet; but I expect him back toward the end of next week."</p>
+
+<p>"Has he left the circus?"</p>
+
+<p>"The circus has left him. That is, it has closed for the season. He has
+sent word to a boy in Smyrna that he will be back in a few days."</p>
+
+<p>"He gave me a great deal of trouble, Mr. Watson."</p>
+
+<p>"Just so, and I thought you might like to get even with him," said
+Stephen Watson, looking significantly at the blacksmith.<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_187" id="Page_187">[Pg 187]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"It would do me good to give him a flogging," said Aaron Bickford.</p>
+
+<p>"I shan't interfere," replied Watson. "The boy has acted badly and he
+deserves punishment."</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, I'll take him back," said the blacksmith. "I guess he'll stay this
+time," he added grimly.</p>
+
+<p>"I think he will have to. There won't be any circus to give him
+employment."</p>
+
+<p>"He is a good strong boy, and he can make a good blacksmith, if he has a
+mind to."</p>
+
+<p>"You must make him have a mind to," said Stephen Watson.</p>
+
+<p>When the horse was shod he got into the carriage and drove away.</p>
+
+<p>After this interview Mr. Bickford seemed in unusually good spirits, so
+much so that his wife inquired: "Have you had any good luck, Aaron?"</p>
+
+<p>"What makes you ask?"</p>
+
+<p>"Because you look unusually chipper. I was hopin' somebody had died and
+left you a fortune."</p>
+
+<p>"Well, not exactly, wife; but I've heard something that makes me feel
+good."</p>
+
+<p>"What's that?"</p>
+
+<p>"Stephen Watson, of Smyrna, was over here this morning."</p>
+
+<p>"Well?"</p>
+
+<p>"He says that boy Kit is coming home in a few days."</p>
+
+<p>"What if he is?"</p>
+
+<p>"He's goin' to bring him over here, and apprentice him to me again."</p>
+
+<p>"I should think once would be enough, considerin' how he treated you."</p>
+
+<p>"He ain't goin' to serve me so again, you may bet on that. I'm goin' to
+have my way this time."<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_188" id="Page_188">[Pg 188]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>"Ain't you afraid he'll run away again?"</p>
+
+<p>"Not much. The circus has shut up, and he'll have to stay with me, or
+starve. His uncle tells me I can punish him when I think he deserves
+it."</p>
+
+<p>"I hope you won't be disappointed, Mr. Bickford, but that boy's rather
+hard to handle."</p>
+
+<p>"I know it, but I'm the one that can handle him."</p>
+
+<p>"You thought so before, the evening we went to the show."</p>
+
+<p>"I know so this time."</p>
+
+
+
+
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXXVIII" id="CHAPTER_XXXVIII"></a>CHAPTER XXXVIII.<br />
+CONCLUSION.</h2>
+
+<p>Several days passed. On Thursday afternoon Kit arrived in Smyrna,
+accompanied by his generous California friend Henry Miller. They put up
+at the hotel, and after dinner Kit walked over to the house occupied by
+his uncle.</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Watson saw him from the window, and hastening to the door opened it
+himself.</p>
+
+<p>"Good afternoon, Uncle Stephen," said Kit.</p>
+
+<p>"So you're back!" said his uncle curtly.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes; did you expect me?"</p>
+
+<p>"James Schuyler told me you were coming."</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, I wrote him that he might inform you."</p>
+
+<p>"That was a good thought of yours. I have made arrangements for you."</p>
+
+<p>"What arrangements?"</p>
+
+<p>"I shall take you over to Oakford on Saturday, and place you with Aaron
+Bickford to learn the blacksmith's trade. This time I'd advise you not
+to run away."<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_189" id="Page_189">[Pg 189]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>Kit didn't exhibit any dismay when his uncle informed him of the plan he
+had arranged for him.</p>
+
+<p>"I will talk this over with you, Uncle Stephen," he said. "With your
+permission I will go into the house."</p>
+
+<p>"You can stay here till Saturday. Then you will go with me to Oakford."</p>
+
+<p>Kit followed his uncle into the house. "I have something important to
+say to you, Uncle Stephen," he went on. "Sit down, and I will tell you
+what I have discovered within the last few months."</p>
+
+<p>Stephen Watson anxiously awaited Kit's communication.</p>
+
+<p>"Can he have found out?" he asked himself. "But no! it is impossible."</p>
+
+<p>"I will give you five minutes to tell me your astonishing discovery," he
+said, with an attempt at his usual sneer.</p>
+
+<p>"I may need a longer time, but I will be as quick as I can. Among the
+places where our circus exhibited was Glendale, Pennsylvania.
+Remembering that you once lived there, I made inquiries about you in the
+village. I saw the house where you lived for many years. Judge of my
+surprise when I learned that you were always in extreme poverty. Then I
+recalled your story of having lent my father ten thousand dollars, in
+payment of which you took the bulk of his property. I mentioned it, and
+found that it was pronounced preposterous. I discovered that on the
+other hand, you were frequently the recipient of money gifts from my
+poor father. In return for this you have attempted to rob his son. The
+note which you presented against the estate was undoubtedly a forgery.
+But even had it been genuine, the property of which you took possession
+must have amounted to at least twenty thousand dollars."<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_190" id="Page_190">[Pg 190]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>Stephen Watson had not interrupted Kit by a word. He was panic stricken,
+and absolutely did not know what to say. He finally succeeded in
+answering hoarsely: "This is an outrageous falsehood, Christopher
+Watson. It is an ingenious scheme to rob me of what rightfully belongs
+to me. You must be a fool to think I am going to be frightened by a
+boy's wild fiction. Leave my house! I would have allowed you to stay
+till Saturday, but this is too much. If you come here again, I will
+horsewhip you!"</p>
+
+<p>But even when he was making this threat his face was pallid, and his
+glance uneasy.</p>
+
+<p>At this moment the bell rang.</p>
+
+<p>Kit himself answered the call, and returned with his friend, Henry
+Miller.</p>
+
+<p>"Why, it is Mr. Miller!" said Stephen Watson, who had not forgotten that
+Miller was very wealthy. "When did you return from California?"</p>
+
+<p>"Kit, have you told your uncle?" asked Henry Miller, ignoring this
+greeting.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, and he orders me to leave the house."</p>
+
+<p>"Hark you, Stephen Watson!" said Henry Miller sternly. "You are in a bad
+box. For over a week Kit and I have been looking up matters, and we are
+prepared to prove that you have outrageously defrauded him out of his
+father's estate. We have enlisted a first class lawyer in the case, and
+now we come to you to know whether you will surrender or fight."</p>
+
+<p>"Mr. Miller, this is very strange. Are you in the plot too?"</p>
+
+<p>"Don't talk of any plots, Stephen Watson. Your fraud is so transparent
+that I wonder you dare to hope it would succeed. You probably presumed
+upon Kit's being a boy of an unsuspicious nature. But he has found a
+friend, who was his father's friend be<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_191" id="Page_191">[Pg 191]</a></span>fore him, and who is determined
+that he shall be righted."</p>
+
+<p>"I defy you!" exclaimed Stephen Watson recklessly, for he saw that
+submission would be ruin, and leave him penniless.</p>
+
+<p>"Wait a minute! I'll give you another chance. Do you know what we are
+prepared to prove? Well, I will tell you. We can prove that you are not
+only a swindler but a forger, and our success will consign you to a
+prison cell. You deserve it, no doubt, but you shall have a chance."</p>
+
+<p>"What terms do you offer?" asked Stephen Watson, overwhelmed by the
+conviction that what Miller said was true.</p>
+
+<p>"Surrender unconditionally, restore to Kit his own property, and&mdash;&mdash;"</p>
+
+<p>"But it will leave me penniless!" groaned Stephen Watson.</p>
+
+<p>"Just as I supposed. In Kit's behalf, I will promise that you shall not
+starve. You once kept a small grocery store, and understand the trade.
+We will set you up in that business wherever you choose, and will give
+you besides a small income, say three hundred dollars a year, so that
+you may be able to live modestly."</p>
+
+<p>"But Ralph, my poor boy, what will become of him?"</p>
+
+<p>"I will pay the expenses of his education," said Kit, "and when he
+leaves school, I will make him an allowance so that he can enter a store
+and qualify himself to earn his own living. He won't be able to live as
+he has lived, but he shall not suffer."</p>
+
+<p>"It is more than either of you deserve," said Henry Miller. "I was not
+in favor of treating you so generously, but Kit, whom you have
+defrauded, insisted upon it. You ought to thank him on your knees."<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_192" id="Page_192">[Pg 192]</a></span></p>
+
+<p>Stephen Watson did not speak. He looked the picture of misery.</p>
+
+<p>"Do you agree to this?" asked Mr. Miller.</p>
+
+<p>"I must!" replied Watson, sullenly.</p>
+
+<p>It made a great sensation in Smyrna when Kit took his proper place as
+the true master of his dead father's estate. Stephen Watson left town
+suddenly, and Ralph followed him. No sorrow was felt for his reverse of
+fortune, for he had made no friends in the town. He and Ralph settled
+down in a small Western city, and started a grocery store. From time to
+time Kit receives abject letters, pleading for more money, and sometimes
+he sends it, but always against the advice of Henry Miller, who says
+rightly that Stephen Watson already fares better than he deserves.</p>
+
+<p>Ralph is turning out badly. His pride received a severe shock when his
+cousin was raised above him, and he has formed bad habits which in time
+will wreck him physically, unless he turns over a new leaf.</p>
+
+<p>It is hardly necessary to say that Kit decided not to learn the
+blacksmith's trade. His old employer, Aaron Bickford, has tried hard to
+get into his good graces and secure his trade, but Kit employs another
+man for whom he has a greater respect.</p>
+
+<p>Kit has made more than one visit to the worthy Mayor Grant from whom he
+received so much kindness when a young acrobat, and a marked partiality
+for Evelyn, the mayor's pretty daughter, may some day lead to a nearer
+connection between the families.</p>
+
+<p>Good, like bad fortune, seldom comes singly, and besides recovering his
+own property, Kit finds himself the favorite and presumed heir of Henry
+Miller, the wealthy Californian, who has taken up his home with our
+hero. Last summer they took a trip to California, and Kit was charmed
+with the wonderful Yosemite<span class='pagenum'><a name="Page_193" id="Page_193">[Pg 193]</a></span> Valley and the Geysers. He has decided to
+become a lawyer, though he will be in a position to live without
+employment of any kind.</p>
+
+<p>A few months after his return, Kit read in the paper of the killing of
+Dick Hayden, the miner, in a drunken brawl at Coalville.</p>
+
+<p>He at once took steps to seek out the daughter, Janet, who had rendered
+him such signal service when he was captured by the ruffians, and
+brought her to Smyrna, where he provided a happy home for her in a
+family of his acquaintance.</p>
+
+<p>Nor has Kit forgotten his circus friends. Last year when Barlow's circus
+returned from its wanderings he invited those whom he knew best, the
+giant, his two brother acrobats, and Mlle. Lefroy, to pass a week as his
+guests. For the sake of old times and experiences he is always ready to
+help poor professionals, and has been a friend in need to many. He knows
+that with all their weaknesses, they are generous to a fault, and ready
+to divide their last dollar with a needy comrade. There are some who
+think Kit shows a strange taste in keeping up acquaintance with his old
+associates, but like his friend, Charlie Davis, who has also retired
+from the circus, he will always have a kindly feeling for those with
+whom he traveled when a <span class="smcap">Young Acrobat</span>.</p>
+
+<p class="center tb">THE END.</p>
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+<pre>
+
+
+
+
+
+End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of The Young Acrobat of the Great North
+American Circus, by Horatio Alger Jr.
+
+*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK YOUNG ACROBAT ***
+
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+</body>
+</html>
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+The Project Gutenberg EBook of The Young Acrobat of the Great North
+American Circus, by Horatio Alger Jr.
+
+This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with
+almost no restrictions whatsoever.  You may copy it, give it away or
+re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included
+with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org
+
+
+Title: The Young Acrobat of the Great North American Circus
+
+Author: Horatio Alger Jr.
+
+Release Date: September 5, 2007 [EBook #22521]
+
+Language: English
+
+Character set encoding: ASCII
+
+*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK YOUNG ACROBAT ***
+
+
+
+
+Produced by David Edwards, Constanze Hofmann and the Online
+Distributed Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net (This
+file was produced from scans of public domain material
+produced by Microsoft for their Live Search Books site.)
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+                THE YOUNG ACROBAT
+
+                    of the
+
+          Great North American Circus
+
+
+                      BY
+
+               HORATIO ALGER, Jr.
+
+  AUTHOR OF "THE ERIE TRAIN BOY," "RAGGED DICK,"
+              "TATTERED TOM," ETC.
+
+
+
+
+                  NEW YORK
+              HURST AND COMPANY
+                 PUBLISHERS
+
+
+
+
+THE YOUNG ACROBAT
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER I.
+
+KIT WATSON.
+
+
+There was great excitement in Smyrna, especially among the boys.
+Barlow's Great American Circus in its triumphal progress from State to
+State was close at hand, and immense yellow posters announcing its
+arrival were liberally displayed on fences and barns, while smaller
+bills were put up in the post office, the hotel, and the principal
+stores, and distributed from house to house.
+
+It was the largest circus that had ever visited Smyrna. At least a dozen
+elephants marched with ponderous steps in its preliminary procession,
+while clowns, acrobats, giants, dwarfs, fat women, cannibals, and hairy
+savages from Thibet and Madagascar, were among the strange wonders which
+were to be seen at each performance for the small sum of fifty cents,
+children half price.
+
+For weeks the young people had been looking forward to the advent of
+this marvelous aggregation of curiosities, and the country papers from
+farther east had given glowing accounts of the great show, which was
+emphatically pronounced greater and more gorgeous than in any previous
+year. But it may be as well to reproduce, in part, the description given
+in the posters:
+
+     BARLOW'S GREAT NORTH AMERICAN CIRCUS.
+Now in its triumphal march across the continent, will
+         give two grand performances,
+                   AT SMYRNA
+   On the afternoon and evening of May 18th.
+       Never in all its history has this
+Unparalleled show embraced a greater variety of attractions,
+    or included a larger number of world famous
+Acrobats, Clowns, Bare back Riders, Rope walkers, Trapeze
+           Artists, and Star Performers,
+   In addition to a colossal menagerie, comprising
+       Elephants, Tigers, Lions, Leopards,
+    and other wild animals in great variety.
+   All this and far more, including a hundred
+                  DARING ACTS,
+ Can be seen for the trifling sum of Fifty cents;
+              Children half price.
+            COME ONE!      COME ALL!
+
+Two boys paused to read this notice, pasted with illustrative pictures
+of elephants and circus performers on the high board fence near
+Stoddard's grocery store. They were Dan Clark and Christopher Watson,
+called Kit for short.
+
+"Shall you go to the circus, Dan?" asked Kit.
+
+"I would like to, but you know, Kit, I have no money to spare."
+
+"Don't let that interfere," said Kit, kindly. "Here is half a dollar.
+That will take you in."
+
+"You're a tip-top fellow, Kit. But I don't think I ought to take it. I
+don't know when I shall be able to return it."
+
+"Who asked you to return it? I meant it as a gift."
+
+"You're a true friend, Kit," said Dan, earnestly. "I don't know as I
+ought to take it, but I will anyhow. You know I only get my board and a
+dollar a week from Farmer Clifford, and that I give to my mother."
+
+"I wish you had a better place, Dan."
+
+"So do I; but perhaps it is as well as I can do at my age. All boys are
+not born to good luck as you are."
+
+"Am I born to good luck? I don't know."
+
+"Isn't your uncle Stephen the richest man in Smyrna?"
+
+"I suppose he is; but that doesn't make me rich."
+
+"Isn't he your guardian?"
+
+"Yes; but it doesn't follow because there is a guardian there is a
+fortune."
+
+"I hope there is."
+
+"I am going to tell you something in confidence, Dan. Uncle Stephen has
+lately been dropping a good many hints about the necessity of being
+economical, and that I may have my own way to make in the world. What do
+you think it means?"
+
+"Have you been extravagant?"
+
+"Not that I am aware of. I have been at an expensive boarding school
+with my cousin Ralph, and I have dressed well, and had a fair amount of
+spending money."
+
+"Have you spent any more than Ralph?"
+
+"No; not so much, for I will tell you in confidence that he has been
+playing pool and cards for money, of course without the knowledge of the
+principal. I know also that this last term, besides spending his pocket
+money he ran up bills, which his father had to pay, to the amount of
+fifty dollars or more."
+
+"How did your uncle like it?"
+
+"I don't know. Ralph and his father had a private interview, but he got
+the money. I believe his mother took his part."
+
+"Why don't you ask your uncle just how you stand?"
+
+"I have thought of it. If I am to inherit a fortune I should like to
+know it. If I have my own way to make I want to know that also, so that
+I can begin to prepare for it."
+
+"Would you feel bad if you found out that you were a poor boy--like me,
+for instance?"
+
+"I suppose I should just at first, but I should try to make the best of
+it in the end."
+
+"Well, I hope you won't have occasion to buckle down to hard work. When
+do you go back to school?"
+
+"The next term begins next Monday."
+
+"And it is now Wednesday. You will be able to see the circus at any
+rate. It is to arrive to-night."
+
+"Suppose we go round to the lot to-morrow morning. We can see them
+putting up the tents."
+
+"All right! I'll meet you at nine o'clock."
+
+They were about to separate when another boy, of about the same age and
+size, came up.
+
+"It's time for dinner, Kit," he said; "mother'll be angry if you are
+late."
+
+"Very well! I'll go home with you. Good morning, Dan."
+
+"Good morning, Kit. Good morning, Ralph."
+
+Ralph mumbled out "Morning," but did not deign to look at Dan.
+
+"I wonder you associate with that boy, Kit," he said.
+
+"Why?" inquired Kit, rather defiantly.
+
+"Because he's only a farm laborer."
+
+"Does that hurt him?"
+
+"I don't care to associate with such a low class."
+
+"Daniel Webster worked on a farm when he was a boy."
+
+"Dan Clark isn't a Webster."
+
+"We don't know what he will turn out to be."
+
+"I don't consider him fit for me to associate with," said Ralph. "It may
+be different in your case."
+
+"Why should it be different in my case?" asked Kit, suspiciously.
+
+"Oh, no offense at all, but your circumstances and social position are
+likely to be different from mine."
+
+"Are they? That's just what I should like to find out."
+
+"My father says so, and as you are under his guardianship he ought to
+know."
+
+"Yes, he ought to know, but he has never told me."
+
+"He has told me, but I am not at liberty to say anything," said Ralph,
+looking mysterious.
+
+"I think I ought to be the first to be told," said Kit, not
+unreasonably.
+
+"You will be told soon. There is one thing I can tell you, however. You
+are not to go back to boarding school on Monday."
+
+Kit paused in the street, and gazed at his companion in surprise.
+
+"Are you going back?" he asked.
+
+"Yes; I'm going to keep on till I am ready for college."
+
+"And what is to be done with me?"
+
+Ralph shrugged his shoulders.
+
+"I am not at liberty to tell you," he answered.
+
+"I shall ask my uncle this very day."
+
+"Just as you please."
+
+Kit walked on in silence. His mind was busy with thoughts of the change
+in his prospects. He did not know what was coming, but he was anxious.
+It was likely to be a turning point in his life, and he was apprehensive
+that the information soon to be imparted to him would not be of an
+agreeable nature.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER II.
+
+INTRODUCES THREE CURIOSITIES.
+
+
+Stephen Watson, uncle of Kit and father of Ralph, was a man of middle
+age. It was difficult to trace any resemblance between him and his
+nephew. The latter had an open face, with a bright, attractive
+expression. Mr. Watson was dark and sallow, of spare habit, and there
+was a cunning look in his eyes, beneath which a Roman nose jutted out
+like a promontory. He looked like the incarnation of cold selfishness,
+and his real character did not belie his looks.
+
+Five years before Kit Watson's father had died. He resembled Kit in
+appearance, and was very popular in Smyrna. His brother wound up the
+estate, and had since been living in luxury, but whether the property
+was his or his nephew's Kit was unable to tell. He had asked the
+question occasionally, but his uncle showed a distaste for the subject,
+and gave evasive replies.
+
+What Kit had just heard made him anxious, and he resolved to attack his
+uncle once more. After dinner, therefore, he began:
+
+"Uncle Stephen, Ralph tells me I am not going back to school on
+Monday."
+
+"Ralph speaks correctly," Mr. Watson replied in a measured voice.
+
+"But why am I not to go?"
+
+"I will explain before the time comes."
+
+"Can you not tell me now? I am anxious to know."
+
+"You must curb your curiosity. You will know in good time."
+
+Kit regarded his uncle in silence. He wished to know what had caused
+this remarkable change, but it seemed useless to ask any more questions.
+
+The next morning he and Dan Clark, according to agreement, met in front
+of Stoddard's store.
+
+"I had hard work to get away," said Dan. "Let us go right over to the
+circus grounds."
+
+These were located about a third of a mile from the hotel, in a large
+twenty-acre pasture. The lot, as it was called, was a scene of activity.
+A band of canvas men were busily engaged in putting up the big tent.
+Several elephants were standing round, and the cages of animals had
+already been put in place inside the rising tent.
+
+On a bench outside sat a curious group, comprising Achilles Henderson,
+the great Scotch giant, who was set down on the bills as eight feet
+three inches in height, and was really about seven feet and a half;
+Major Conrad, the dwarf, who was about the size of an average child of
+three years, and Madame Celestina Morella, the queen of fat women, who
+was credited on the bills with a weight of five hundred and eighty seven
+pounds. She was certainly massive, but probably fell short a hundred and
+fifty pounds of these elephantine proportions.
+
+Kit and Dan paused to look at this singular trio.
+
+"I wonder how much pay they get?" said Dan, turning to Kit.
+
+"I saw in some paper that the fat woman gets fifty dollars a week."
+
+"That's pretty good pay for being fat, Kit."
+
+"Would you be willing to be as fat for that money?"
+
+"I think not," said Dan, "though it's a good deal more than I get now."
+
+They were standing near the bench on which the three were seated.
+Achilles, who looked good-natured, as most big men are, addressed the
+boys.
+
+"Well, boys, are you coming to see the show?"
+
+"Yes," answered both.
+
+"I used to like to myself when I was a boy. I didn't expect then I
+should ever travel with one."
+
+"Were you very large as a boy?" asked Dan, with curiosity.
+
+"When I was twelve years old I was six feet high, and people generally
+thought then that I was eighteen. I thought perhaps I shouldn't grow any
+more, but I kept on. When I was sixteen I was seven feet tall, and by
+twenty I had reached my present height."
+
+"Are you eight feet three inches tall, Mr. Henderson?"
+
+"Is that what the bills say?"
+
+"Yes."
+
+"Then it must be so," he said with a smile.
+
+"How long have you been traveling with the circus?"
+
+"Five years."
+
+"How do you like it?"
+
+"It's a good deal easier than working on a farm, especially in Vermont,
+where I was born and bred."
+
+"But they call you the Scotch giant."
+
+"It sounds well, doesn't it? My father was born in Scotland, but my
+mother was a Vermont Yankee. You know Americans are more willing to pay
+for a foreign curiosity than for one home born. That's why my _great_
+friend here"--emphasizing the word great--"calls herself Madame
+Celestina Morella."
+
+The fat lady smiled.
+
+"People think I am French or Italian," she said, "but I never was out of
+the United States in my life."
+
+"Where were you born, Madame Morella?"
+
+"In the western part of New York State. I know what you are going to ask
+me. Was I always fat? No, when I was sixteen I only weighed one hundred
+and twenty. Then I had a fit of sickness and nearly died. After
+recovering, I began to gain flesh, till I became a monster, as you see."
+
+As she said this, she laughed, and her fat sides shook with merriment.
+Evidently she did not let her size weigh upon her mind.
+
+"I suppose your real name isn't Celestina Morella?" said Kit.
+
+"My real name is Betsey Hatch. That is what they called me in my
+girlhood, but I should hardly know who was meant if I was called so
+now."
+
+"Have you been long in the show business?"
+
+"About seven years."
+
+"Do you like it?"
+
+"I didn't at first, but now I've got used to moving about. Now when the
+spring opens I have the regular circus fever. But I have my troubles."
+
+"What are they?" asked Kit, seeing that the fat woman liked to talk.
+
+"Well, I find it very difficult to secure at the hotels a bed large
+enough and strong enough to hold me. I suppose you won't be surprised to
+hear that."
+
+"Not much."
+
+"At Akron, Ohio, where the hotel was full, I was put in a cot bed,
+though I protested against it. As soon as I got in, the whole thing
+collapsed, and I was landed on the floor."
+
+She laughed heartily at the remembrance.
+
+"I remember that very well," said the giant, "for I slept in the room
+below. Half an hour after getting into bed, I heard a fearful noise in
+the room above, and thought at first the hotel had been struck by
+lightning, and a piercing shriek that echoed through the house led me to
+fear that my esteemed Italian friend was a victim. But my mind was soon
+relieved when I learned the truth."
+
+"I suppose, major, you never broke down a bed," said the giant, turning
+to the dwarf.
+
+"No," answered the major, in a shrill piping voice, "I never lie awake
+thinking of that."
+
+"I believe you served in the civil war, major?"
+
+"Yes, I was in the infantry."
+
+It was a stale joke, but all four laughed at it.
+
+"How much do you weigh, major?" Kit ventured to ask.
+
+"Twenty-one pounds and a half," answered the dwarf. "I have with me some
+of my photographs, if you would like to buy," and the little man
+produced half a dozen cards from his tiny pocket.
+
+"How much are they?"
+
+"Ten cents."
+
+"I'll take one," said Kit, and he produced the necessary coin.
+
+"If you go into the tent you can see some of the performers rehearsing,"
+suggested Achilles.
+
+"Let us go in, Dan."
+
+The two boys reached the portals and went into the big tent.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER III.
+
+KIT ASTONISHES TWO ACROBATS.
+
+
+The circus tent was nearly ready for the regular performance. Kit and
+Dan regarded the sawdust arena with the interest which it always
+inspires in boys of sixteen. Already it was invested with fascination
+for them. Two acrobats who performed what is called the "brothers' act"
+were rehearsing. They were placarded as the Vincenti brothers, though
+one was a French Canadian and the other an Irishman, and there was no
+relationship between them. At the time the boys entered, one had climbed
+upon the other's shoulders, and was standing erect with folded arms.
+This was, of course, easy, but the next act was more difficult. By a
+quick movement he lowered his head, and grasping the uplifted hands of
+the lower acrobat, raised his feet and poised himself aloft, with his
+feet up in the air, sustained by the muscular arms of his associate.
+
+"That must take strength, Kit," said Dan.
+
+"So it does."
+
+"No one but a circus man could do it, I suppose?"
+
+"I can do it," said Kit quietly.
+
+Dan regarded him with undisguised astonishment.
+
+"You are joking," he said.
+
+"No, I am not."
+
+"Where did you learn to do such a thing?" asked Dan, incredulous, though
+he knew Kit to be a boy of truth.
+
+"I will tell you. In the town where I attended boarding school there is
+a large gymnasium, under the superintendence of a man who traveled for
+years with a circus. He used to give lessons to the boys, but most
+contented themselves with a few common exercises. I suppose I should
+also, but there was an English boy in the school, very supple and
+muscular, who was proud of his strength, and ambitious to make himself a
+thorough gymnast. He persuaded me to take lessons in the most difficult
+acrobatic feats with him, as two had to work together."
+
+"Did you pay the professor extra to instruct you?" asked Dan.
+
+"He charged nothing. He was only too glad to teach us all he knew. It
+seems he was at one time connected with Barnum's circus, and prepared
+performers for the arena. He told us it made him think of his old circus
+days to teach us. At the close of last term we gave him five dollars
+apiece as an acknowledgment of his services. He assured us then that we
+were competent to perform in any circus."
+
+"Could you really do what the Vincenti brothers are doing?"
+
+"Yes; and more."
+
+"I wish I could see you do it."
+
+The boys were seated near the sawdust arena, and the last part of their
+conversation had been heard by the acrobats. It was taken as an
+illustration of boyish braggadocio, and as circus men are always ready
+for practical jokes, particularly at the expense of greenhorns, they
+resolved that there was a good chance for a little fun.
+
+One tipped the wink to the other, and turning to Kit, said: "What's that
+you're saying, kid?"
+
+"How does he know your name?" said Dan, mistaking kid, the circus name
+for boy, for his friend's nickname.
+
+"He said kid, not Kit," answered our hero.
+
+"Do you think you can do our act?" continued the acrobat.
+
+"I think I can," replied Kit.
+
+This elicited a broad grin from the acrobat.
+
+"Look here, kid," he said, "do you know how long it took me to learn the
+business?"
+
+"I don't know, but I should like to know."
+
+"Three years."
+
+"No doubt you can do a great deal more than I."
+
+"Oh, no, certainly not!" said the acrobat, ironically.
+
+"I see you don't believe me," said Kit.
+
+"I'll tell you what you remind me of, kid. There was a fellow came to
+our circus last summer, and wanted to get an engagement as rider. He
+said he'd been a cowboy out in New Mexico, and had been employed to
+break horses. So we gave the fellow a trial. We brought out a wild
+mustang, and told him to show what he could do. The mustang let him get
+on, as was his custom, but after he was fairly on, he gave a jump, and
+Mr. Cowboy measured his length on the sawdust."
+
+Kit and Dan both smiled at this story.
+
+"I am not a cowboy, and don't profess to ride bucking mustangs," he
+said, "though my friend Dan may."
+
+"I'd rather be excused," put in Dan.
+
+"I'll tell you what, kid, if you'll go through the performance you've
+just seen I'll give you five dollars."
+
+The fellow expected Kit would make some hasty excuse, but he was
+mistaken. Our hero rose from his seat, removed his coat and vest, and
+bounded into the arena.
+
+"I am ready," he said, "but I am not strong enough to be the under man.
+I'll do the other."
+
+"All right! Go ahead!"
+
+The speaker put himself in position. Kit gave a spring, and in an
+instant was upon his shoulders.
+
+There was an exclamation of surprise from the second acrobat.
+
+"Christopher!" he exclaimed. "The boy's got something in him, after
+all."
+
+"Now what shall I do?" asked Kit, as with folded arms he stood on the
+acrobat's shoulders.
+
+"Keep your place while I walk round the arena."
+
+Kit maintained his position while the acrobat ran round the circle,
+increasing his pace on purpose to dislodge his young associate. But Kit
+was too well used to this act to be embarrassed. He held himself erect,
+and never swerved for an instant.
+
+"Pretty good, kid!" said the acrobat. "Now reverse yourself and stand on
+my hands with your feet in the air."
+
+Kit made the change skillfully, and to the equal surprise of Dan and the
+other acrobat, both of whom applauded without stint.
+
+"Can you do anything else?" asked Alonzo Vincenti.
+
+"Yes."
+
+Kit went through a variety of other feats, and then descending from his
+elevated perch, was about to resume his coat and vest, when the circus
+performer asked him, "Can you tumble?"
+
+Kit's answer was to roll over the arena in a succession of somersaults
+and hand springs.
+
+"Well, I'm beat!" said the acrobat. "You're the smartest kid I ever met
+in my travels. Are you sure you're not a professional?"
+
+"Quite sure," answered Kit, smiling.
+
+"You never traveled with a show, then?"
+
+Kit shook his head.
+
+"Where on earth did you pick up all these acts?"
+
+"I took lessons of Professor Donaldson."
+
+"You did! Well, that explains it. I say, kid, you ought to join a
+circus. You'd command a fine salary."
+
+"Would I? How much could I get?" asked Kit, with interest.
+
+"Ten or twelve dollars a week and all expenses paid. That's pretty good
+pay for a kid, isn't it?"
+
+"It's more than I ever earned yet," answered Kit, with a smile.
+
+"I shouldn't wonder if Mr. Barlow would give you that now. If you ever
+make up your mind to join a show, come round and see him."
+
+"Thank you," said Kit.
+
+Soon after the boys left the circus lot and went home.
+
+"Would you really join a circus, Kit?" asked Dan.
+
+"It isn't the life I would choose," answered Kit, seriously, "but I may
+have to find some way of earning a living, and that very soon."
+
+"I thought your father left you a fortune."
+
+"So did I; but I hear that I am to be taken from boarding school, and
+possibly set to work. Ralph has given me a hint of it. I shall soon
+know, as my uncle intimates that he has a communication to make me."
+
+"I hope it isn't as bad as you think, Kit."
+
+"I hope so too, but I can tell you better to-morrow. We will meet
+to-night at the show."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IV.
+
+A SCENE NOT DOWN ON THE BILLS.
+
+
+Just before supper Kit was asked to an interview with his uncle.
+
+"You wish to speak to me, Uncle Stephen?" he said.
+
+"Yes; I have decided not to postpone the explanation for which you asked
+yesterday."
+
+"I shall be glad to hear it, sir."
+
+"Ever since your father's death I have supported you, not because I was
+morally or legally bound to do so, but because you were my nephew."
+
+"But didn't my father leave any property?" asked Kit in amazement.
+
+"He was supposed to have done so."
+
+"This house and grounds are surely worth a good deal of money!"
+
+"So they are," answered Stephen Watson, dryly, "but unfortunately they
+did not belong to your father."
+
+"This is certainly a mistake," exclaimed Kit, indignantly.
+
+"Wait till I have finished. These stood in your father's name, but there
+was a mortgage of two thousand dollars held by the Smyrna Savings Bank."
+
+"Surely the place is worth far more than two thousand dollars!"
+
+"Curb your impatience, and you will soon understand me. The place _is_
+worth far more than two thousand dollars. I consider it worth ten
+thousand."
+
+"Then I don't see----"
+
+"Your father left large debts, which of course had to be paid. I was
+therefore obliged to sell the estate, in order to realize the necessary
+funds."
+
+"For how much did you sell the place?"
+
+"For nine thousand dollars. I regarded that as a good price, considering
+that it was paid in cash or the equivalent."
+
+"To whom did you sell?"
+
+"I bought it in myself; I was not willing that the place which my
+brother had loved so well, should pass into the hands of strangers."
+
+"May I ask who was my father's principal creditor?" asked Kit.
+
+"Ahem! I was," answered Stephen Watson, in a tone of slight
+embarrassment.
+
+"You!" exclaimed Kit, in fresh surprise.
+
+"Yes; your father owed me twelve thousand dollars borrowed at various
+times."
+
+"How could he have been obliged to borrow so much?" asked Kit. "He
+always seemed comfortably situated. I never once heard him complain of
+being pressed for money."
+
+"Very likely; he was very reticent about his affairs. I would explain,
+but the matter is rather a delicate one."
+
+"I think I am entitled to know all about it, Uncle Stephen," said Kit,
+firmly.
+
+"Be it so! Perhaps you are right. Let me tell you in the briefest terms,
+then, that in his later years your father speculated in Wall Street--not
+heavily, for he had not the means, but heavily for one of his property.
+Of course he lost. Almost every one does, who ventures into the
+'street.' His first losses, instead of deterring him from further
+speculation, led him on to rasher ventures. It was then that he came to
+me for money."
+
+"Didn't you urge him to give up speculating?" asked Kit.
+
+"Yes, but my words availed little. Perhaps you will think I ought to
+have refused him loans, but he assured me in the strongest terms that
+unless he obtained money from some source he would be ruined, and I
+yielded. I might have been weak--it was weak, for I stood a chance of
+losing all, having merely his notes of hand to show for the money I
+lent. But it is hard to refuse a brother. I think I should do the same
+again."
+
+Kit was silent. His uncle's words were warm, and indicated strong
+sympathy for Kit's father, but his tone was cold, and there seemed a
+lack of earnestness. Kit could not repress a feeling of incredulity.
+There was another obstacle to his accepting with full credence the tale
+which his uncle told him. He had always understood from his father that
+his uncle was a poor and struggling man. How could he have in his
+possession the sum of twelve thousand dollars to lend his brother? This
+question was certainly difficult to answer. He paused, then refraining
+from discussing the subject, said:
+
+"Why have you not told me this before, Uncle Stephen?"
+
+"Would it have made you any happier?" returned Stephen Watson.
+
+"No."
+
+"Till you had acquired a fair education, I thought it better to keep the
+unpleasant truth from you. It would only have annoyed you to feel that
+you owed everything to my generosity, and were in fact a child of
+charity."
+
+Kit's face flushed deeply as he heard this expression from his uncle's
+lips.
+
+"Do you mean that my father left absolutely nothing?" he asked.
+
+"Yes, absolutely nothing. Well, no, not quite that. I think there was a
+balance of a little over a hundred dollars left after paying all debts.
+That is hardly worth counting."
+
+"Yes, that is hardly worth counting," said Kit in a dull, mechanical
+tone.
+
+"Still, I determined to educate you, and give you equal advantages with
+my own son. I have done so up to the present moment. I wish I could
+continue to do so, but Ralph is getting more expensive as he grows older
+(and you also), and I cannot afford to keep you both at school. You will
+therefore stop studying, and I shall secure you some work."
+
+"If things are as you say, I cannot complain of this," Kit said in a
+dull, spiritless tone, "but it comes upon me like a thunderbolt."
+
+"No doubt, no doubt. I knew it would be a shock, and I have postponed
+telling you as long as possible."
+
+"I suppose I ought to thank you. Have you anything more to say to me
+now?"
+
+"No."
+
+"Then, sir, I will leave you. I will ask further particulars some other
+day."
+
+"He takes it hard," muttered Stephen Watson, eyeing the retreating form
+of his nephew thoughtfully. "I wonder if he will suspect that there is
+anything wrong. Even if he does, he is only a boy, and can prove
+nothing."
+
+       *       *       *       *       *
+
+"What makes you so glum, Kit?" asked Dan Clark, when they met at seven
+o'clock, as agreed, to go together to the show.
+
+"Not much, Dan, only I have learned that I am a pauper."
+
+"But the estate--the house and the grounds?" said Dan, bewildered.
+
+"Belong to my uncle."
+
+"Who says so?"
+
+"He says so. But I don't want to say any more about it now. Let us start
+for the circus, and I will try to forget my pauper position, for one
+evening at least."
+
+Before they reached the lot, they heard the circus band discoursing
+lively music. They were in a crowd, for all Smyrna, men, women and
+children, were bound for the show. It was a grand gala night. In the
+city, where there are many amusements, the circus draws well, but in the
+country everybody goes.
+
+Outside the great tent were the side shows. In one of them Kit found his
+friends of the morning, the giant, the dwarf, and the fat lady, with
+other curiosities hereafter to be mentioned. Just inside the tent, in
+what might be called the ante chamber, was the collection of animals.
+The elephants were accorded more freedom than the rest, but the lion,
+tiger, and leopard were shut up in cages. The lion seemed particularly
+restless. He was pacing his narrow quarters, lashing his tail, and from
+time to time emitting deep growls, betokening irritation and anger.
+
+"How would you like to go into the cage?" asked Dan.
+
+"I don't care for an interview with his majesty," responded Kit.
+
+A stranger was standing near the cage.
+
+"Don't go too near, boys!" he said. "That lion is particularly fierce.
+He nearly killed a man last season in Pennsylvania."
+
+"How was that?"
+
+"The man ventured too near the cage. The lion stretched out his claws,
+and fastened them in the man's shoulder, lacerating it fearfully before
+he could be released. He came near dying of blood poisoning."
+
+Kit and Dan sheered off. The lion looked wicked enough to kill a dozen
+men.
+
+At eight o'clock the performance commenced. First there was a procession
+of elephants and horses, the latter carrying the bareback riders and
+other members of the circus, with the curiosities and freaks. Then came
+two bareback riders, who jumped through hoops, and over banners, and
+performed somersaults, to the wondering delight of the boys. Then came
+tumblers, and in preparation for another scene a gaudily dressed clown
+entered the ring. Suddenly there was heard a deep baying sound, which
+struck terror into every heart. It was the lion; but seemed close at
+hand. In an instant a dark, cat-like form, rushing down the aisle,
+sprang into the ring.
+
+The great Numidian lion had broken from his cage, and the life of every
+one in the audience was in peril. Ladies shrieked, strong men grew pale,
+and all wildly looked about for some way of escape.
+
+Striking down the clown, and standing with one foot on the prostrate
+form, the lion's cruel eyes wandered slowly over the vast assemblage.
+
+Only ten feet from him, in front seats, sat Kit and Dan.
+
+Kit rose in his seat pale and excited, but with a resolute fire in his
+eyes. He had thought of a way to vanquish the lion.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER V.
+
+HOW KIT VANQUISHED THE LION.
+
+
+The danger was imminent. Under the canvas there were at least two
+thousand spectators. Smyrna had less than five thousand inhabitants, but
+from towns around there were numerous excursion parties, which helped to
+swell the number present. Had these people foreseen the terrible scene
+not down on the bills, they would have remained at home and locked the
+doors of their houses. But danger is seldom anticipated and peril
+generally finds us unprepared.
+
+Dan Clark saw Kit about to leave his seat.
+
+"Where are you going?" he cried.
+
+"I am going into the arena."
+
+"What? Are you out of your head?" asked Dan, and he took hold of Kit to
+detain him. But the boy tore himself from the grasp of his friend, and
+with blanched brow, for he knew full well the risk he ran, he sprang
+over the parapet, and in an instant he stood in the sawdust circle
+facing the angry monarch of the wilds, whose presence had struck terror
+into the hearts of two thousand members of a superior race.
+
+The sudden movement of Kit created a sensation only less than the
+appearance of the lion.
+
+The residents of Smyrna all knew him, but they could not understand the
+cause of his apparent fool-hardiness.
+
+"Come back! Come away, for your life!" exclaimed dozens of Kit's friends
+and acquaintances.
+
+"Who is that boy? Is he one of the circus men?" asked strangers who were
+present.
+
+"You will be killed, Kit! Come back!" implored Dan Clark, appalled at
+the danger of his friend.
+
+Kit heard, but did not heed, the various calls. He knew what he was
+about, and he did not mean to be killed. But there seemed the greatest
+danger of it. He was six feet from the angry beast, who lashed his tail
+with renewed wrath, when he saw his new and puny foe. Kit knew, however,
+that the lion's method of attack is to spring upon his victims, and that
+he needs a space of from twelve to fifteen feet to do it. He himself,
+being but six feet distant, was within the necessary space. The lion
+must increase the distance between them in order to accomplish its
+purpose.
+
+Now it happened that Mr. Watson had in his kitchen an elderly woman, who
+had for years been addicted to the obnoxious habit of snuff taking--a
+habit, I am glad to be able to say, which is far less prevalent now than
+in former days. Just before Kit had started for the circus, Ellen, who
+was a Scotch woman, said: "Master Kit, if you are going near the store,
+will you buy me a quarter of a pound of snuff?"
+
+"Certainly, Ellen," answered Kit, who was always obliging.
+
+The snuff he had in his pocket at the time of the lion's appearance in
+the ring, and it was the thought of this unusual but formidable weapon
+that gave him courage. If he had merely had a pistol or revolver in his
+pocket, he would not have ventured, for he knew that a wound would only
+make the lion fiercer and more dangerous.
+
+The lion stood stock still for a moment. Apparently he was amazed at the
+daring of the boy who had rushed into his presence. His fierce eyes
+began to roll wickedly and he uttered one of those deep, hoarse growls,
+such as are wont to strike fear alike into animals and men. He glared at
+Kit very much as a cat surveys a puny mouse whom she purposes to make
+her victim.
+
+It was a few brief seconds, but to the audience, who were spellbound,
+and scarcely dared to breathe, it seemed as many minutes that the boy
+and lion stood confronting each other without moving. Indeed, Kit stood
+as if fascinated before the mighty beast, and a thrill passed through
+his frame as he realized the terrible danger into which he had
+impulsively rushed. But he knew full well that his peril was each
+instant growing greater. He could not retreat now, for the furious beast
+would improve the chance to spring upon him and rend him to pieces.
+
+With curious deliberation he drew from his pocket a paper parcel, while
+the lion, as if stirred by curiosity, eyed him attentively. He opened it
+carefully, and then, without an instant's delay, he flung a handful of
+the snuff which it contained full in the eyes of the terrible animal.
+
+No sooner had he done so than he gave a spring, and in a flash was over
+the parapet and back in his seat.
+
+It was not a moment too soon!
+
+The lion was blinded by the snuff, which caused him intense pain. He
+released the terrified clown, who lost no time in escaping from the
+arena, while the vanquished beast rolled around on the sawdust in his
+agony, sending forth meanwhile the most terrible roars.
+
+By this time the circus management had recovered from its momentary
+panic. The trainer and half a dozen animal men (those whose duty it was
+to take care of the animals) rushed into the circle, and soon obtained
+the mastery of the lion, whose pain had subdued his fury, and who was
+now moaning piteously.
+
+Then through the crowded tent there ran a thrill of admiration for the
+boy who had delivered them all from a terrible danger.
+
+One man, an enthusiastic Western visitor, sprang to his feet, and,
+waving his hat, exclaimed: "Three cheers for the brave boy, who has
+shown more courage than all the rest of us put together! Hip, hip,
+hurrah!"
+
+The call was responded to with enthusiasm. Men and even women rose in
+their seats, and joined in the cheering. But some of the friends of Kit
+amended the suggestion by crying, "Hurrah for Kit Watson!"
+
+"Hurrah for Kit Watson!" cried the Western man. "He's the pluckiest kid
+I ever saw yet."
+
+Kit had not been frightened before, but he felt undeniably nervous when
+he saw the eyes of two thousand people fixed upon him. He blushed and
+seemed disposed to screen himself from observation. But at this moment a
+tall, portly man advanced from the front of the tent, and came up to
+where Kit was sitting.
+
+"My boy," he said, "do me the favor to follow me. I am Mr. Barlow."
+
+It was indeed the proprietor of the circus. He had come in person to
+greet the boy who had averted such a tragedy.
+
+Mechanically Kit followed Mr. Barlow, who led him again into the arena.
+Then the manager cleared his throat, and said:
+
+"Ladies and gentlemen, I have nothing to show you here to-night that is
+better worth your attention than the young man whose heroic act you
+have just witnessed and profited by. I introduce to you the boy hero,
+Kit Watson!"
+
+"Speech! speech!" exclaimed the spectators, after a liberal meed of
+applause.
+
+Kit stood erect, and spoke modestly.
+
+"I don't pretend to be a hero," he said. "I was as much frightened as
+anybody, but I thought of the snuff in my pocket, and I recalled to mind
+a story of a man who subdued a lunatic by means of it. So, on the
+impulse of the moment, I jumped into the ring. I am very much obliged to
+you for your cheers, and I wish I was as brave as you seem to think. I
+won't take up any more of your time, for I know you want the show to go
+on."
+
+Kit retired amid a burst of applause, and resumed his seat.
+
+The entertainment of the evening now proceeded, greatly to the
+satisfaction of the crowded ranks of spectators. But from time to time
+glances were cast towards the seat which Kit occupied.
+
+"Kit," whispered Dan, "I am proud of you! I didn't think you had it in
+you."
+
+"Don't say any more, Dan, or I shall become so vain you can't endure me.
+Look! there are our friends, the acrobats."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VI.
+
+KIT'S POOR PROSPECTS.
+
+
+There was one of the spectators who did not admire Kit's heroic conduct,
+nor join in the applause which was so liberally showered upon him. This
+was Ralph Watson, who sat on the opposite side of the tent, with his
+chum, James Schuyler, a boy who had recently come to Smyrna from the
+city of New York. Ralph had been very pale when the lion first made his
+appearance in the arena, and trembled with fear, and no one had felt
+greater relief when the danger was past. But, being naturally of a
+jealous disposition, he was very much annoyed by the sudden popularity
+won by Kit.
+
+"Isn't that your cousin?" asked James Schuyler.
+
+"Yes," answered Ralph shortly.
+
+"What a brave boy he is!"
+
+Ralph shrugged his shoulders.
+
+"I don't see much bravery about it," he said. "It isn't as if the lion
+was a wild one in his native forest. This one was tame."
+
+"He didn't look very tame to me," rejoined James, who, though rather
+snobbish, was willing to admit the danger they had all incurred. "The
+people didn't think so either. Hear them cheer your cousin."
+
+"It will make him terribly conceited. He will actually think he's a
+hero."
+
+"I wouldn't have given much for any of our lives if he hadn't jumped
+into the ring, and blinded the lion."
+
+Meanwhile Kit was enjoying the performance, and thinking very little of
+how his action would be regarded by Ralph, for whom he had no very
+cordial feeling, though they had been, from the necessity of the case,
+close companions for many years.
+
+On their return home, Kit and Ralph reached the gate together.
+
+"It seems you're a great hero all at once," said Ralph, with a sneer.
+
+Kit understood the sneer, but did not choose to notice it.
+
+"Thank you for the compliment," he responded quietly.
+
+"O, I didn't mean to flatter you! You are puffed up enough."
+
+"Are you sorry I jumped into the ring, Ralph?" asked Kit good-naturedly.
+
+"I don't believe there was any real danger."
+
+"Then I must congratulate you upon your courage. All the rest of us were
+frightened, and even Mr. Barlow admitted that there was danger."
+
+"The lion was half tame. It isn't as if he were wild."
+
+"He looked wild enough to me when I faced him in the ring. I confess
+that my knees began to tremble, and I wished myself at home."
+
+"You'd better set up as a lion tamer," said Ralph.
+
+"Thank you; I think I should prefer some other business, where my life
+would be safer."
+
+"You are likely to have your wish, then."
+
+"What do you mean?" asked Kit quickly, detecting a significance in
+Ralph's tone.
+
+"I mean that father intends to have you learn a trade."
+
+"Has he told you so?"
+
+"Yes."
+
+"Doesn't he propose to consult me?"
+
+"Why should he? You are only a boy, and can't judge what is best for
+yourself."
+
+"Still I am likely to be more interested than any one else in the way I
+am to earn my living. What trade are _you_ going to learn?"
+
+"What trade am I going to learn?" repeated Ralph, with the assumption of
+insulted dignity. "None at all. I shall be a merchant or a professional
+man."
+
+"And why should not I be the same?" asked Kit.
+
+"Because you're a poor boy. Didn't my father tell you this afternoon
+that you had no money coming to you?"
+
+"Yes; but that needn't prevent me from becoming a merchant, or studying
+a profession."
+
+"So _you_ think. You can't expect my father to pay for sending you to
+college, or support you while you are qualifying yourself to be a
+merchant."
+
+"I don't know yet what I am entitled to expect."
+
+"You will soon know."
+
+"How soon?"
+
+"To-morrow. There's a blacksmith in the next town, Aaron Bickford, who
+has agreed to take you as an apprentice."
+
+"So it's all settled, is it?" Kit asked, full of indignation.
+
+"Yes, if Mr. Bickford likes your appearance. He's coming to Smyrna on
+business to-morrow, and will call here. You're to live at his house."
+
+"Indeed! I am very much obliged for the information."
+
+"Oh, you needn't get grouty about it. I've no doubt you'll have enough
+to eat."
+
+"So I am to be a blacksmith, and you a merchant or----"
+
+"Lawyer. I think I shall decide to be a lawyer," said Ralph,
+complacently.
+
+"That will make quite a difference in our social positions."
+
+"Of course; but I will help you all I can. If you have a shop of your
+own, I will have my horses shod at your place."
+
+"Does your father think I am particularly well fitted to be a
+blacksmith?"
+
+"He thinks you will get along very well in the business, if you are
+industrious. A poor boy can't choose. He must take the best he can get."
+
+Kit did not sleep very much that night. He was full of anger and
+indignation with his uncle. Why should his future be so different from
+his cousin's? At school he had distinguished himself more in his
+studies, and he did not see why he was not as well fitted to become a
+merchant or a lawyer as Ralph.
+
+"They can't make me a blacksmith without my consent," was his final
+thought, as he closed his eyes and went to sleep.
+
+Kit was up early the next morning. As breakfast was not ready, he
+strolled over to the hotel, which was only five minutes' walk from his
+uncle's house.
+
+The circus tent had vanished. Late at night, after the evening
+performance was over, the canvas men had busied themselves in taking
+them down, and packing them for transportation to a town ten miles
+distant on the railroad, where they were to give two exhibitions the
+next day. The showy chariots, the lions, tigers, elephants and camels,
+with all the performers, were gone. But Mr. Barlow, the owner of the
+circus, had remained at the Smyrna Hotel all night, preferring to
+journey comfortably the next morning.
+
+He was sitting on the piazza when Kit passed. Though he had never seen
+Kit but once, his business made him observant of faces, and he
+recognized him immediately.
+
+"Aha!" he said, "this is the young hero of last evening, is it not?"
+
+Kit smiled.
+
+"I am the boy who jumped into the ring," he said.
+
+"So I thought. I hope you slept well after the excitement."
+
+A sudden thought came to Kit. Mr. Barlow looked like a kind hearted man,
+and he had already shown that he was well disposed toward him.
+
+"I slept very poorly," he said.
+
+"Was it the thought of the danger you had been in?"
+
+"No, sir; I learned that my uncle, without consulting me, had arranged
+to apprentice me to a blacksmith."
+
+Mr. Barlow looked surprised.
+
+"But you look like a boy of independent means," he said, puzzled.
+
+"I have always supposed that this was the case," said Kit, "but my uncle
+told me yesterday, to my surprise, that I was dependent upon him, and
+had no expectations."
+
+"You don't want to be a blacksmith?"
+
+"No, sir; I consider any kind of work honorable, but that would not suit
+me."
+
+"You would succeed well in my business," said the showman, "but I am
+very careful how I recommend it to boys. It isn't a good school for
+them. They are exposed to many temptations in it. But if a boy has a
+strong will, and good principles, he may avoid all the evils connected
+with it."
+
+Kit had not thought of it before, but now the question suggested itself:
+"Why should I not join the circus. I should like it better than being a
+blacksmith."
+
+"How much do you pay acrobats?" he asked.
+
+"Are you an acrobat?" asked Mr. Barlow.
+
+Kit told the story of his practicing with the Vincenti Brothers.
+
+"Good!" said Mr. Barlow. "If they indorse you, it is sufficient. If you
+decide to join my company, I will give you, to begin with, ten dollars
+a week and your expenses."
+
+"Thank you, sir," said Kit, dazzled by the offer, "Where will you be on
+Saturday?"
+
+"At Grafton on Saturday, and Milltown on Monday."
+
+"If I decide to join you, I will do so at one or the other of those
+places."
+
+Here the railroad omnibus came up, and Mr. Barlow entered it, for he was
+to leave by the next train.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VII.
+
+AARON BICKFORD, THE BLACKSMITH.
+
+
+Kit returned to breakfast in good spirits. He saw a way out of his
+difficulties. Though he had no false pride, he felt that a blacksmith's
+life would be distasteful to him. He was fond of study, and had looked
+forward to a college course. Now this was out of the question. It seemed
+that he was as poor as his friend, Dan Clark, with his own way to make
+in the world. When he left school, at the beginning of the vacation, he
+supposed that he would inherit a competence. It was certainly a great
+change in his prospects, but now he did not feel dispirited. He thought,
+upon the whole, he would enjoy traveling with the circus. His duties
+would be light, and the pay liberal.
+
+Before he returned to breakfast, Ralph had come down-stairs, and had a
+few words with his father.
+
+"I think you are going to have trouble with Kit, father," he commenced.
+
+"What makes you think so, and what about?" asked Mr. Watson.
+
+"I told him last evening about your plan of apprenticing him to Mr.
+Bickford."
+
+"You did wrong. I did not propose to mention the matter to him till Mr.
+Bickford's arrival. What did he say?"
+
+"He turned up his nose at the idea. He thinks he ought to become a
+merchant or a professional man like me. He is too proud to be a
+blacksmith."
+
+"Then he must put his pride in his pocket. It will be all I can do to
+pay the expenses of your education. I can't provide for two boys."
+
+"When Kit is off your hands won't you increase my allowance, father?"
+asked Ralph, insinuatingly.
+
+"Suppose we postpone that matter," replied Mr. Watson, in a tone of
+voice that was not encouraging. "I have lost some money lately, and I
+can't do anything more for you just at present."
+
+Ralph looked disappointed, but did not venture to press the subject.
+
+"Where have you been, Kit?" he asked, as he saw his cousin entering the
+gate, and coming up the path to the front door.
+
+"I have been taking a walk," answered Kit, cheerfully.
+
+"It's a good idea to rise early."
+
+"Why?"
+
+"Because you will probably be required to do so in your new place."
+
+"What new place?"
+
+"At the blacksmith's."
+
+Kit smiled. To Ralph's surprise he did not appear to be annoyed.
+
+"I see you are getting reconciled to the idea. Last evening you seemed
+to dislike it."
+
+"Your father has not said anything about it to me."
+
+"He will very soon."
+
+"Won't you come round and see me occasionally, Ralph?" asked Kit, with a
+curious smile.
+
+"Yes; I may call on Saturday. I should like to see how you look."
+
+Kit smiled again. He thought it extremely doubtful whether Ralph would
+see him at the blacksmith's forge.
+
+Half an hour after breakfast, while Ralph and Kit were in the stable,
+the sound of wheels was heard, and a stout, broad-shouldered man, with a
+bronzed complexion, drove up in a farm wagon. Throwing his reins over
+the horse's neck, he descended from the wagon, and turned in at the
+gate. Mr. Watson, who had been sitting at the front window, opened the
+door for him.
+
+"Glad to see you, Mr. Bickford," he said.
+
+"Is the boy ready?" asked the blacksmith. "I can take him right over
+with me this morning."
+
+"Come into the house, I will send for him."
+
+Mr. Bickford noticed the handsome appearance of the hall, and the front
+room, the door of which was partly open, and said: "If the boy's been
+used to livin' here, he must be kind of high strung. I can't give him no
+such home as this."
+
+"Of course not, Mr. Bickford. He can't expect it. He's a poor boy, and
+will have to make his own way in the world. Beggars can't be choosers,
+you know."
+
+A servant was sent to the stable to summon Kit. Ralph, who thought he
+should enjoy the scene, accompanied him.
+
+Kit regarded the blacksmith with some curiosity.
+
+"This is Mr. Aaron Bickford, of Oakford, Kit," began his uncle.
+
+"I hope you are well, Mr. Bickford," said Kit, politely.
+
+The blacksmith gazed at Kit with earnest scrutiny.
+
+"Humph!" said he; "are you strong and muscular?"
+
+"Pretty fair," answered Kit, with a smile.
+
+"Kit," said his uncle, clearing his throat, "in your circumstances I
+have thought it desirable that you should learn a trade, and have spoken
+to Mr. Bickford about taking you as an apprentice."
+
+"In what business?" asked Kit.
+
+"I'm a blacksmith," said Mr. Bickford, taking it upon himself to reply,
+"and it's a good, healthy business as any you'd want to follow."
+
+"I have no doubt of it," said Kit, quietly, "but I don't think I should
+like it all the same. Uncle Stephen, how does it happen that you have
+selected such a business for me?"
+
+"I heard that Mr. Bickford needed an apprentice, and I have arranged
+matters with him to take you, and teach you his trade."
+
+"Yes," put in Mr. Bickford, "I've agreed to give you your board and a
+dollar a week the first year. That's more than I got when I was
+'prentice. My old master only paid me fifty cents a week."
+
+Kit turned to his uncle.
+
+"Do you think my education has fitted me for a blacksmith's trade?" he
+asked.
+
+"It won't interfere," replied Mr. Watson, a little uneasily.
+
+"Wouldn't it have been well to consult me in the matter? It seems to me
+I am rather interested."
+
+"Oh, I supposed you would object, as you had been looking forward to
+being a gentleman, but I can't afford to keep you in idleness any
+longer, and so have arranged matters with Mr. Bickford."
+
+"Suppose I object to going with him?" said Kit, calmly.
+
+"Then I shall overrule your objections, and compel you to do what I
+think is for your good."
+
+Kit's eye flashed with transient anger, but as he had no idea of
+acceding to his uncle's order, he did not allow himself to become unduly
+excited. Indeed he had a plan, which made temporary submission a matter
+of policy.
+
+"What's the boy's name?" asked Aaron Bickford.
+
+"I am generally called Kit. My right name is Christopher."
+
+"Then, Kit, you'd better be getting your traps together, for I can't
+stop long away from the shop."
+
+"I have arranged to have you go back with Mr. Bickford to-day," said
+Stephen Watson.
+
+"That's rather short notice, isn't it?" Kit rejoined.
+
+"The sooner the matter is arranged, the better!" answered his uncle.
+
+"Very well," said Kit, with unexpected submission. "I'll go and pack up
+my clothes."
+
+Mr. Watson looked relieved. He had expected to have more trouble with
+his nephew.
+
+In twenty minutes Kit reappeared with his school valise. He had packed
+up a supply of shirts, socks, handkerchiefs, and underclothing.
+
+"I am all ready," he said.
+
+"Then we'll be going," said the blacksmith, rising with alacrity.
+
+Kit took his place on the seat beside Mr. Bickford.
+
+"Good-by, uncle!" he said; "it may be some time before we meet again."
+
+"What does the boy mean?" asked Stephen Watson, turning to Ralph with a
+puzzled look.
+
+"I don't know. He's been acting queer all the morning."
+
+So Kit rode away with Aaron Bickford, but he had not the slightest
+intention of becoming blacksmith. Instead of blacksmith's forges,
+visions of a circus ring and acrobatic feats were dancing before his
+mind.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VIII.
+
+KIT'S RIDE TO OAKFORD.
+
+
+Oakford was six miles away. The blacksmith's horse was seventeen years
+old, and did not make very good speed. Kit was unusually busy thinking.
+He had taken a decisive step; he had, in fact, made up his mind to enter
+upon a new life. He had not objected to going away with the blacksmith,
+because it gave him an excuse for packing up his clothes, and leaving
+the house quietly.
+
+It may be objected that he had deceived Mr. Bickford. This was true, and
+the thought of it troubled him, but he hardly knew how to explain
+matters.
+
+Not much conversation took place till they were within a mile of
+Oakford. Aaron Bickford had filled his pipe at the beginning of the
+journey, and he had smoked steadily ever since. At last he removed his
+pipe from his mouth, and put it in his pocket.
+
+"Were you ever in Oakford?" he asked.
+
+"Yes," answered Kit. "I know the place very well."
+
+"How do you think you'll like livin' there?"
+
+"I don't think I shall like it."
+
+Mr. Bickford looked surprised.
+
+"I'll keep you at work so stiddy you won't mind where you are," he
+remarked dryly.
+
+"Not if I know it," Kit said to himself.
+
+He knew Mr. Bickford by reputation. He was a close-fisted, miserly man,
+who was not likely to be a very desirable employer, for he expected
+every one who worked for him to labor as hard as himself. Moreover, he
+and his wife lived in a very stingy manner, and few of the luxuries of
+the season appeared on their table. The fact that complaints upon this
+score had been made by some of Kit's predecessors in his employ, led Mr.
+Bickford to make inquiries with a view to ascertaining whether Kit was
+particular about his food.
+
+"Are you partic'lar about your vittles?" he asked abruptly.
+
+"I have been accustomed to good food," answered Kit.
+
+"You can't expect to live as you have at your uncle's," continued the
+blacksmith. "Me and my wife have enough to eat, but we think it best to
+eat plain food. Some of my help have had stuck up notions, and expected
+first class hotel fare, but they didn't get it at my house."
+
+"I believe you," said Kit.
+
+Mr. Bickford eyed him sharply, not being sure but this might be a
+sarcastic observation, but Kit's face was straight, and betrayed
+nothing.
+
+"You'll live as well as I do myself," he proceeded, after a pause. "I
+don't pamper my appetite by no means."
+
+Kit was quite ready to believe this also, but did not say so.
+
+"What time did you get up at your uncle's?" asked the blacksmith.
+
+"We have breakfast a little before eight. I get up in time for
+breakfast."
+
+"You do, hey?" ejaculated the blacksmith, scornfully. "Wa'al, I declare!
+You must be tuckered out gettin' up so airly."
+
+"O no, I stand it very well, Mr. Bickford," said Kit, amused.
+
+"Do you know what time I get up?" asked Mr. Bickford, with a touch of
+indignation in his tone.
+
+"I would like to know," answered Kit meekly.
+
+"Wa'al, I get up at five o'clock. What do you say to that, hey?"
+
+"I think it is very early."
+
+"I suppose you couldn't get up so early as that?"
+
+"I might, if there was any need of it."
+
+"I reckon there will be need of it if you're goin' to work for me."
+
+Kit cleared his throat. He felt that the time had come for an
+explanation.
+
+"Mr. Bickford," he said, "I owe you an apology."
+
+"What?" said Bickford, regarding his young companion in surprise.
+
+"I have deceived you."
+
+"I don't know what you're talkin' about."
+
+"I don't think I did right to come with you to day."
+
+"I can't make out what you're talkin' about. Your uncle has engaged to
+let you work for me."
+
+"But I haven't engaged to work for you, Mr. Bickford."
+
+"Hey?" and the blacksmith eyed our hero in undisguised amazement.
+
+"I may as well say that I don't intend to work for you."
+
+"You don't mean to work for me?" repeated Bickford slowly.
+
+"Just so. I have no intention of becoming a blacksmith."
+
+"Is the boy crazy?" ejaculated Aaron Bickford.
+
+"No, Mr. Bickford; I have full command of my senses. You will have to
+look out for another apprentice."
+
+"Then why did you agree to come with me?"
+
+"That is what I have to apologize for. I wanted to get away from my
+uncle's house quietly, and I thought it the best way to pretend to agree
+to his plan."
+
+Aaron Bickford was not a sweet tempered man. He had a pretty strong will
+of his own, and was called, not without reason, obstinate. He began to
+feel angry.
+
+"Well, boy, have you got through with what you had to say?" he asked.
+
+"I believe so--for the present."
+
+"Then I guess it's about time for me to say something."
+
+"Very well, sir."
+
+"You'll find me a tough customer to deal with, young man."
+
+"Then perhaps it is just as well that I do not propose to work for you."
+
+"But you are goin' to work for me!" said the blacksmith, nodding his
+head.
+
+"Whether I want to or not?" interrogated Kit, placidly.
+
+"Yes, whether you want to or not, willy nilly, as the lawyers say."
+
+"I think, Mr. Bickford, you will find that it takes two to make a
+bargain."
+
+"So it does, and there's two that's made this bargain, your uncle and
+me."
+
+Mr. Bickford was not always strictly grammatical in his language, as the
+reader will observe.
+
+"I don't admit my uncle's right to make arrangements for me without my
+consent."
+
+"You know more'n he does, I reckon?"
+
+"No, but this matter concerns me more than it does him."
+
+"Maybe you expect to live without workin'!"
+
+"No; if it is true, as my uncle says, that I have no money, I shall have
+to make my living, but I prefer to choose my own way of doing it."
+
+"You're a queer boy. Bein' a blacksmith is too much work for you, I
+reckon."
+
+"At any rate it isn't the kind of work I care to undertake."
+
+"What's all this rigmarole comin' to? Here we are 'most at my house. If
+you ain't goin' to work for me, what are you goin' to do?"
+
+"I should like to pass the night at your house, Mr. Bickford. After
+breakfast I will pay you for your accommodations, and go----"
+
+"Where?"
+
+"You must excuse my telling you that. I have formed some plans, but I do
+not care to have my uncle know them."
+
+"Are you going to work for anybody?" asked the blacksmith, whose
+curiosity was aroused.
+
+"Yes, I have a place secured."
+
+"Is it on a farm?"
+
+"No."
+
+"You're mighty mysterious, it seems to me. Now you've had your say, I've
+got something to tell you."
+
+"Very well, Mr. Bickford."
+
+"You say you're not goin' to work for me?"
+
+"Yes, sir."
+
+"Then I say you _are_ goin' to work for me. I've got your uncle's
+authority to set you to work, and I'm goin' to do it."
+
+Kit heard this calmly.
+
+"Suppose we postpone the discussion of the matter," he said. "Is that
+your house?"
+
+Aaron Bickford's answer was to drive into the yard of a cottage. On the
+side opposite was a blacksmith's forge.
+
+"That's where you're goin' to work!" he said, grimly, pointing to the
+forge.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IX.
+
+KIT MAKES A NEW ACQUAINTANCE.
+
+
+Grafton, where Barlow's circus was billed to appear on Saturday, was
+only six miles farther on. Oakford was about half way, so that in
+accompanying the blacksmith to his home, Kit had accomplished about half
+the necessary journey. Now that he had undeceived the blacksmith as to
+his intention of staying he felt at ease in his mind. It was his plan to
+remain over night in the house and pursue his journey early the next
+day.
+
+"Are these all the clo'es you brought with you?" asked Bickford,
+surveying Kit's neat and rather expensive suit with disapproval.
+
+"Yes. Am I not well enough dressed for a blacksmith?" asked Kit, with a
+smile.
+
+"You're a plaguy sight too well dressed," returned Bickford. "You want a
+good rough suit, for the forge is a dirty place."
+
+"I thought I told you I did not intend to work for you, Mr. Bickford."
+
+"That's what you said, but I don't take no stock in it. Your uncle has
+bound you out to me, and that settles it."
+
+"If he has bound me out, where are the papers, Mr. Bickford?" asked Kit,
+keenly.
+
+This question was a poser. The blacksmith supposed that Kit might be
+ignorant that papers were required, but he found himself mistaken.
+
+"There ain't no papers, but that don't make no difference," he said. "He
+says you're to work for me, and I'm goin' to hold you to it."
+
+Kit did not reply, for he saw no advantage in discussion.
+
+"You'll get a dollar a week and your board, and you can't do better. I
+reckon dinner is about ready now."
+
+Kit felt ready for the dinner, for the morning's ride had sharpened his
+appetite. So when, five minutes later, he was summoned to the table, he
+willingly accepted the invitation.
+
+"This is my new 'prentice, Mrs. Bickford," said the blacksmith, by way
+of introduction, to a spare, red headed woman, who was bustling about
+the kitchen, where the table was spread.
+
+Mrs. Bickford eyed Kit critically.
+
+"He's one of the kid glove kind, by his looks," she said. "You don't
+expect to get much work out of him, do you?"
+
+"I reckon I will, or know the reason why," responded Bickford,
+significantly.
+
+"Set right down and I'll dish up the victuals," said Mrs. Bickford. "We
+don't stand on no ceremony here. What's your name, young man?"
+
+"People call me Kit."
+
+"Sounds like a young cat. It's rediculous to give a boy such a name.
+First thing you know I'll be calling you Kitty."
+
+"I hope I don't look like a cat," said Kit laughing.
+
+"You ain't got no fur on your cheeks yet," said the blacksmith, laughing
+heartily at his own witticism. "What have you got for dinner, mother?"
+
+"It's a sort of picked-up dinner," answered Mrs. Bickford. "There's some
+pork and beans warmed up, some slapjacks from breakfast, and some fried
+sassidges."
+
+"Why, that's a dinner for a king," said the blacksmith, rubbing his
+hands.
+
+He took his seat, and put on a plate for Kit specimens of the delicacies
+mentioned above. In spite of his appetite Kit partook sparingly,
+supplementing his meal with bread, which, being from the baker's shop,
+was of good quality. He congratulated himself that he was not to board
+permanently at Mr. Bickford's table.
+
+When dinner was over, the blacksmith in a genial mood said to Kit: "You
+needn't begin to work till to-morrow. You can tramp round the village if
+you want to."
+
+Kit was glad of the delay, as early the next morning he expected to bid
+farewell to Oakford, and thus would avoid a conflict.
+
+He had been in Oakford before, and knew his way about. He went out of
+the yard and walked about in a leisurely way. It was early in June, and
+the country was at its best. The birds were singing, the fields were
+green with verdure, and Kit's spirits rose. He felt that it would be
+delightful to travel about the country, as he would do if he joined
+Barlow's Circus.
+
+He overtook a boy somewhat larger than himself, a stout, strong country
+boy, attired in a rough, coarse working suit. He was about to pass him,
+when the country boy called out, "Hallo, you!"
+
+"Were you speaking to me?" asked Kit, turning and looking back.
+
+"Yes. Didn't I see you riding into town with Aaron Bickford?"
+
+"Yes."
+
+"Are you going to work for him?"
+
+"That is what he expects," answered Kit diplomatically. He hesitated
+about confiding his plans to a stranger.
+
+"Then I pity you."
+
+"Why?"
+
+"I used to work for him."
+
+"Did you?"
+
+"Yes, I stood it as long as I could."
+
+"Then you didn't like it?"
+
+"I guess not."
+
+"What was the trouble?"
+
+"Everything. He's a stingy old hunks, to begin with. I went to work for
+a dollar a week and board. If the board had been decent, it would have
+been something, but I'd as soon board at the poorhouse."
+
+"I have taken dinner there," said Kit, smiling.
+
+"Did you like it?"
+
+"I have dined better. In fact I have seldom dined worse."
+
+"What did the old woman give you?"
+
+Kit enumerated the articles composing the bill of fare.
+
+"That's better than usual," said the new acquaintance.
+
+"I suppose the dollar a week is all right," said Kit.
+
+"Good enough if you can get it. It's about as easy to get blood out of a
+stone, as money out of old Bickford. Generally I had to wait ten days
+after the time before I could get the money."
+
+"How is the work?"
+
+"Hard, and plenty of it. It's work early and work late, and if there
+isn't work at the forge, you've got to help the old woman, by drawing
+water and doing chores. You don't live in Oakford, do you?"
+
+"No; I came from Smyrna."
+
+"I thought not. Bickford can't get a boy to work for him here. What made
+you come? Couldn't you get a place at home?"
+
+"I didn't try."
+
+"Well, you haven't done much in coming here."
+
+"I begin to think so," Kit responded, with a smile.
+
+"Hasn't the circus been in your town?"
+
+"Yes."
+
+"I wanted to go, but I guess I'll manage to see it in Grafton. It shows
+there to-morrow."
+
+"Are you going?" asked Kit with interest.
+
+"Yes; I shall walk. I'll start early and spend the day there."
+
+"We may meet there."
+
+"You don't expect to go, do you? Bickford won't let you off."
+
+Kit smiled.
+
+"I don't think Mr. Bickford will have much to say about it," he said.
+
+"Are you going to hook jack?" asked his new acquaintance.
+
+"I didn't mean to tell you, but I will. I have made up my mind not to
+work for Mr. Bickford at all."
+
+"Then why did you come here?"
+
+"Because my uncle saw fit to arrange with him."
+
+"What are you going to do, then?"
+
+"I am offered work with the circus."
+
+"You are!" exclaimed the country boy, opening wide his eyes in
+astonishment. "What are you going to do?"
+
+"I'm going to be an acrobat."
+
+"What's that?"
+
+Kit explained as well as he could.
+
+"What are they going to pay you?"
+
+"Ten dollars a week and my expenses," answered Kit, proudly.
+
+"Jehu!" ejaculated the other boy. "Why, that's good wages for a man. Do
+you think they'd hire me, too?"
+
+"If you think you can do what they require, you can ask them."
+
+"Why can't I do it as well as you?"
+
+"Because I have been practicing for a long time at a gymnasium. What is
+your name?"
+
+"Bill Morris."
+
+"Then, Bill, don't say a word to any one about my plans. Suppose we go
+to Grafton together?"
+
+"All right!"
+
+Before the boys parted they made an agreement to meet at five o'clock
+the next morning, to set out on their walk to Grafton.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER X.
+
+KIT'S FIRST NIGHT AT THE BLACKSMITH'S.
+
+
+At nine o'clock the blacksmith, giving a deep yawn, said: "You'd better
+be getting to bed, young feller. You'll have to be up bright and airly
+in the morning."
+
+Kit was already feeling sleepy, and made no objection. Though it was yet
+early, he had found it hard work to get through the evening, as he could
+find nothing to read except a weekly paper, three months old, and a copy
+of "Pilgrim's Progress." In truth, neither Mr. Bickford nor his wife
+were of a literary turn, and did not even manage to keep up with the
+news of the day.
+
+"I am ready," said Kit.
+
+"Mother, show him to his room," added the blacksmith. "To-morrow I'll
+give him a lesson at the forge."
+
+"Perhaps you will," said Kit to himself, "but I think it doubtful."
+
+Kit's room was a small back one on the second floor. The front apartment
+was occupied by Mr. and Mrs. Bickford, and there was one of the same
+size which was used as a spare chamber.
+
+Kit's room was supplied with a cot bed, and was furnished in the
+plainest manner. One thing he missed. He saw no washstand.
+
+"Where am I to wash in the morning?" he asked.
+
+"You can wash in the tin basin in the kitchen," answered Mrs. Bickford.
+"There's a bar of soap down there and a roller towel, so I guess you
+won't have to go dirty."
+
+Kit shuddered at the suggestion. He had seen bars of yellow soap in the
+grocery at home, and didn't think he should enjoy its use. Nor did he
+fancy using the same towel with the blacksmith and his wife. He had seen
+the roller towel hanging beside the sink, and judged from its appearance
+that it had already been used nearly a week.
+
+"I have been accustomed to wash in my own room," he ventured to say.
+
+"You've been used to a great many things that you won't find here,"
+replied Mrs. Bickford, grimly.
+
+Kit thought it extremely likely.
+
+"If you can't do as the rest of us do, you can get along without
+washing," continued the lady.
+
+"I will try and manage," answered Kit, bearing in mind that he expected
+to leave the Bickford mansion forever the next morning.
+
+"That new boy of yours is kind of uppish," remarked Mrs. Bickford, when
+she returned to the sitting room.
+
+"What's the matter now?"
+
+"He wants to wash in his own room. He's too fine a gentleman to wash in
+the kitchen."
+
+"What did you tell him?"
+
+Mrs. Bickford repeated her remark.
+
+"Good for you, mother! We'll take down his pride a little."
+
+"Is he goin' to work in them fine clo'es he brought with him?"
+
+"He didn't bring any others."
+
+"He'll spile 'em, and not have anything to wear to meetin'."
+
+"Haven't we got a pair of overalls in the house--one that the last boy
+used?"
+
+"Yes; I'll get 'em right away."
+
+"They'll be good for him to wear."
+
+Before Kit got into bed, the door of his chamber was unceremoniously
+opened, and Mrs. Bickford walked in, carrying a faded pair of overalls.
+
+"You can put these on in the mornin'," she said. "They'll keep your
+clo'es clean. They may be a mite long for you, but you can turn up the
+legs at the bottom."
+
+She left the room without waiting for an answer.
+
+Kit surveyed the overalls with amusement.
+
+"I wonder how I should look in them," he said to himself.
+
+He drew them over his trousers, and regarded his figure as well as he
+could in the little seven by nine glass that hung on the wall.
+
+"There is Kit, the young blacksmith!" he said with a smile. "On the
+whole, I don't think it improves my appearance. I'll take them off, and
+leave them for the next boy."
+
+"What did the boy say, mother?" asked Mr. Bickford, upon his wife's
+return.
+
+"He just took 'em; he didn't say anything."
+
+"I s'pose he's never worn overalls before," said the blacksmith. "What
+do you think he told me on the way over?"
+
+"I don't know."
+
+"He said he wasn't goin' to work for me at all. He didn't like the
+blacksmith's trade."
+
+"Well, of all things!"
+
+"I just told him he hadn't no choice in the matter, that me and his
+uncle had arranged matters, and that I should hold him to the
+contract."
+
+"I'm afraid he'll be dainty about his vittles. He didn't eat much
+dinner."
+
+"Wait till he gets to work, mother. I guess he'll have appetite enough.
+I mean he shall earn his board, at any rate."
+
+"I hope we won't have no trouble with him, Aaron."
+
+"You needn't be afraid, mother."
+
+"Somehow, Aaron, you never did manage to keep boys very long," said Mrs.
+Bickford, dubiously.
+
+"Because their folks were weak, and allowed 'em to have their own way.
+It'll be different with this boy."
+
+"What makes you think so?"
+
+"Because his uncle is anxious to get rid of him. He told me the boy,
+till lately, had imagined he was goin' to have property. He's supported
+him out of charity, dressin' him like a gentleman, sendin' him to
+school, and spendin' a pile of money on him. Now he thinks it about time
+to quit, and have the boy learn a trade. Of course the boy'll complain,
+and try to beg off, but it won't be no use. Stephen Watson won't make no
+account of what he says. He keeps a horse himself, and has promised to
+have him shod at my shop."
+
+"Well, it may be for the best; I hope so."
+
+Aaron Bickford felt a good deal of confidence in himself. He understood
+very well that Kit was averse to working in his shop, but he meant to
+make him do it.
+
+"I'd like to see the boy I can't master," he said to himself,
+complacently. "Years hence, when the boy has a forge of his own, he'll
+thank me for perseverin' with him. There's money to be made in the
+business. Why, when I began I wasn't worth a hundred dollars, and I
+owed for my anvil. Now I own this house and shop, and I've got a tidy
+sum in the bank."
+
+This was true. But it must be added that the result was largely due to
+the pinching economy which both he and his wife had practiced.
+
+When Mr. Bickford woke up the next morning it was half-past five
+o'clock.
+
+"Strange how I came to oversleep," he said. "I guess I must have been
+more tuckered out than I supposed. Well, the boy's had a longer nap than
+I meant he should. However, it's only for one mornin'."
+
+Mr. Bickford did not linger over his toilet. Five minutes was rather an
+overstatement of the time.
+
+He went to Kit's chamber, and, opening the door, went in as
+unceremoniously as his wife had done the night before.
+
+A surprise awaited him.
+
+There was no one in the bed.
+
+"What! has the boy got up a'ready?" he asked himself, in a bewildered
+way. "He's better at gettin' up than I expected."
+
+Looking about him, he discovered on a chair by the bedside the overalls,
+and upon them a note and a silver dollar.
+
+"What's all that mean?" he asked himself.
+
+Looking closer he saw that the note was directed to him. Beginning to
+suspect that something was wrong, he opened it.
+
+This was what the note contained:
+
+     MR. BICKFORD--I leave you a dollar to pay for my food and lodging.
+     I do not care to become a blacksmith. Good by.
+
+                                                     KIT WATSON.
+
+"I'll have him back!" exclaimed Aaron Bickford, an angry look appearing
+on his face. "He ain't goin' to get the best of me."
+
+Mr. Bickford harnessed up his horse, and started after the fugitive. But
+in what direction should he drive? He was not long at fault. He met a
+milkman who had seen two boys starting out on the Grafton road, and so
+informed him.
+
+"I guess they're bound for the circus," he said.
+
+"Like as not," returned the blacksmith.
+
+But he had a long chase of it. It was not until he was within half a
+mile of the circus tents that he descried the two boys, trudging along,
+Kit with his valise in his hand. Hearing the sound of wheels, the boys
+looked back, and in some dismay recognized their pursuer.
+
+The blacksmith stood up in his wagon, and pointing his long whip at Kit,
+cried out, "Stop where you are, Kit Watson, or I'll give you the worst
+thrashing you ever had!"
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XI.
+
+KIT FALLS INTO THE HANDS OF THE ENEMY.
+
+
+If Aaron Bickford expected to frighten Kit by his threat, he was
+destined to find himself badly mistaken.
+
+Kit was startled at first, not having anticipated that the blacksmith
+would get upon his track so soon. But he was a boy of spirit, and had no
+thought of surrender. Mr. Bickford halted his horse, and Kit faced him.
+
+"Didn't you find my note?" he asked.
+
+"Yes, I did."
+
+"Then you know that I don't care to work for you."
+
+"What's that got to do with it? Your uncle and me have settled that you
+shall."
+
+"Then you'll have to unsettle it. I have a right to choose my own
+occupation, and I don't intend to become a blacksmith. Even if I did, I
+should choose some one else as my teacher."
+
+"None of your impudence, young man! You'll have a long account to settle
+with me, I warn you of that."
+
+"I had but one account to settle--for my board and lodging--and I've
+attended to that. Good morning, Mr. Bickford."
+
+Kit turned and began to continue his journey.
+
+"Hallo! Stop, I tell you!" shouted the blacksmith.
+
+"Have you got any more to say? If so, I'll listen."
+
+"What more I have to say, I shall say with a horsewhip!" retorted
+Bickford, grimly, preparing to descend from his wagon.
+
+"Come, William, we must run for it," said Kit. "Are you good at
+running?"
+
+"Try me!" was the laconic reply.
+
+By the time Aaron Bickford was out of his wagon, the boys had increased
+the distance between them by several rods.
+
+"Oho, so that's your game, is it?" said the blacksmith. "If I don't
+overhaul them, my name isn't Aaron Bickford."
+
+Kit was a good runner--quite as good as his pursuer--but he had one
+serious disadvantage. His valise was heavy, and materially affected his
+speed. He had carried it several miles, and though he had shifted it
+from one hand to the other, both arms were now tired.
+
+"Let me take it, Kit," said his companion, who was now on intimate terms
+with him.
+
+"It'll be just as heavy for you as for me."
+
+"Never mind! He isn't after me."
+
+"Well, if you don't mind carrying it a little while."
+
+The advantage of the change was soon apparent. Kit increased his speed,
+and William, whose arms were not tired, was not materially retarded by
+his burden.
+
+"If I had no valise I would climb a tree," said Kit, while running. "I
+don't believe Mr. Bickford is good at climbing."
+
+"We haven't got far to go to reach the circus tents," returned William.
+
+But though the boys held out well, Aaron Bickford gradually gained upon
+them. Many years at the anvil had given him plenty of wind and
+endurance. Besides, he was entirely fresh, not having taken a long walk
+already, as the boys had done.
+
+"You'd better give up!" he cried out, in the tone of one who was sure of
+victory. "It takes more than a boy like you to get the best of Aaron
+Bickford."
+
+It did indeed seem as if the boys must surrender. Within a few rods
+Bickford would be even with them.
+
+Kit came to a sudden determination.
+
+"Jump over the fence!" he cried.
+
+There was a rail fence skirting one side of the road.
+
+No sooner said than done. Both boys clambered over the fence, and with
+that barrier between them faced the angry blacksmith.
+
+"Well, I've got you!" he cried, panting.
+
+"Have you? I don't see it," answered Kit.
+
+"You might as well give up fust as last."
+
+"Suppose we discuss matters a little, Mr. Bickford," said Kit, calmly.
+"What right have you to pursue me?"
+
+"What right? Your uncle's given me the charge of you."
+
+"That is something he had no right to do."
+
+"Why not? Ain't he your guardian?"
+
+"No."
+
+"Who is, then?"
+
+"I have no guardian but myself."
+
+"That's a likely story. I can't listen to no such foolish talk."
+
+Aaron Bickford felt that it was time to move upon the enemy's
+entrenchments, and, putting one leg on the lower rail, he proceeded to
+climb over the fence.
+
+But the boys had anticipated this move, and were prepared for it. By the
+time the blacksmith was inside the field, the boys, who were
+considerably lighter and more active, had crossed to the reverse side.
+
+"Here we are again, Mr. Bickford," said William Morris.
+
+The blacksmith frowned.
+
+"Don't you be impudent, Bill Morris," he said. "I haven't anything to do
+with you, but I sha'n't let you sass me."
+
+"What have I said that's out of the way?" asked William.
+
+"Oh, you're mighty innocent, you are! You're aidin' and abettin' Kit
+Watson to escape from me, his lawful master."
+
+"I have no master, Mr. Bickford," said Kit, proudly.
+
+"Well, that's what they used to call 'em when I was a boy. Boys weren't
+so pert and impudent in them days."
+
+Meanwhile the blacksmith was recrossing the fence.
+
+Kit and William took the opportunity to run, and by the time Mr.
+Bickford was again on the roadside they were several rods away.
+
+This naturally exasperated the blacksmith, who felt mortified at his
+failure to overtake the youngsters. A new idea occurred to him.
+
+"You, Bill, do you want to earn a dime?" he asked.
+
+"How?" inquired William.
+
+"Just help me catch that boy Kit, and I'll give you ten cents."
+
+"I don't care to earn money that way, Mr. Bickford," responded William,
+scornfully.
+
+"Good for you, William!" exclaimed Kit.
+
+"You won't earn ten cents any easier," persisted Bickford.
+
+"I wouldn't do such a mean thing for a dollar, nor five dollars,"
+replied William. "Kit's a friend of mine, and I'm going to stand by
+him."
+
+The blacksmith was made angry by this persistent refusal. Then again he
+was faint and uncomfortable from having missed his breakfast, which
+seemed likely to be indefinitely postponed.
+
+"I'll lick you, Bill Morris, as well as Kit, when I catch you," he said.
+
+"Probably you will--when you catch me!" retorted William, in an
+aggravating tone. "Run faster, Kit."
+
+The boys ran, but again they were impeded by the heavy valise, and
+slowly but surely the blacksmith was gaining upon them.
+
+Kit, who was again carrying the burden, began to show signs of distress,
+and dropped behind his companion.
+
+"I can't hold out much longer, Bill," he said, puffing laboriously.
+
+Aaron Bickford heard these words, and they impelled him to extra
+exertion. At last he caught up and grasped Kit by the collar.
+
+"I've got ye at last!" he cried, triumphantly.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XII.
+
+MR. BICKFORD'S DEFEAT.
+
+
+Aaron Bickford was a strong man. By his work at the forge he had
+strengthened his muscles till they were like iron. So was Kit a strong
+boy, but it would be absurd to represent him as a match for the sturdy
+blacksmith.
+
+"I've got ye at last!" repeated Bickford tightening his grasp of Kit's
+coat collar.
+
+"Let go my collar!" cried Kit, not struggling, for he knew that it would
+be useless.
+
+"I'll let go your collar when I've got ye in the wagon," answered the
+blacksmith, "and not till then. You, Bill, bring along his valise. I'll
+take ye home in the wagon, though it would be only right if I let ye
+walk."
+
+"Mr. Bickford," said Kit, "you have no right to touch me. You have no
+authority over me."
+
+"I ain't, hey? Well, we'll argy that matter when we get home."
+
+And he commenced dragging Kit in the direction of the wagon.
+
+It certainly seemed as if Kit's plans were destined, if not for defeat,
+to postponement. Unconditional surrender was his only choice against the
+superior strength of Aaron Bickford. It was certainly very vexatious.
+
+But help was nearer than he anticipated.
+
+They were now within sight of the circus tents, and Kit, to his joy,
+descried the giant, Achilles Henderson, taking a morning walk, and
+already within hearing distance.
+
+"Mr. Henderson!" he called out, eagerly.
+
+"Who is that you're calling?" asked the blacksmith sharply.
+
+Achilles heard, and instantly recognized the boy who had talked with him
+at Smyrna.
+
+It took but a few strides to bring him to the spot where Kit was held in
+captivity.
+
+"What does this mean?" he asked.
+
+"This man is dragging me away without authority," answered Kit.
+
+"Who is he?" asked the giant.
+
+"He is a blacksmith, and claims me as an apprentice, but I never agreed
+to work for him."
+
+"That's a lie," said the blacksmith, "he's my runaway apprentice."
+
+"I would believe the boy sooner than you," said Achilles, not favorably
+impressed by the blacksmith's bull dog look.
+
+"It doesn't make any difference what you believe," said Bickford,
+rudely; and he began to pull Kit in the direction of the wagon.
+
+"Let go that boy's collar," cried Achilles, sternly.
+
+"I won't!" retorted the blacksmith. "I advise you to mind your own
+business."
+
+Achilles Henderson, like most big men, was good natured, but he was
+roused by the other's insolence. He carried war into the enemy's camp by
+seizing the blacksmith and shaking him till he was compelled to release
+his grasp.
+
+"What do you mean by this outrage?" demanded Bickford, furiously.
+
+"It's only a gentle hint," said Achilles, smiling. "Now, my friend, I've
+got a piece of advice to give you. If that is your wagon back there
+you'd better get into it as soon as convenient--the sooner the
+better--and get out of my way or I'll give you a stronger hint."
+
+The blacksmith was too indignant to be prudent. What! Confess himself
+vanquished, and go home without the boy! The idea was intolerable to
+him.
+
+"I'm goin' to take the boy," he said, angrily, and darting forward he
+essayed to seize Kit by the collar again.
+
+"Oho! You need a stronger hint," said Achilles. With this he grasped the
+blacksmith about the middle, and tossed him over the fence into the
+adjoining field as easily as if he were a cat.
+
+Aaron Bickford did not know what had happened to him. He lay motionless
+for a few seconds, and then picked himself up with some difficulty, and
+confronted the giant with mingled fear and anger.
+
+"I'll have the law of ye for this," he shouted.
+
+Achilles laughed.
+
+"It's as you like," he said. "I've got my witnesses here," pointing to
+the two boys.
+
+Mr. Bickford got over the fence, and sullenly turned in the direction of
+his deserted wagon.
+
+"You'll hear from me again, all of you!" he shouted, shaking his fist.
+
+"Don't trouble yourself to write," said the giant, jocosely. "We can
+worry along without a letter."
+
+The blacksmith was too full of wrath for utterance. He kept on his way,
+muttering to himself, and shaking his fist at intervals.
+
+"Now what's all this about?" asked Achilles. "What's the matter with our
+amiable friend?"
+
+Kit explained.
+
+"So you don't want to be a blacksmith? Where are you going, if I may
+inquire?"
+
+"I'm going to join the circus," answered Kit.
+
+"In what capacity--as a lion tamer?"
+
+"No; I shouldn't fancy that business. I am to be an acrobat."
+
+"An acrobat! But are you qualified?" asked Achilles, somewhat surprised.
+
+He had not heard of Kit's practice with the Vincenti brothers on the day
+of his first visit to the circus.
+
+"I am pretty well qualified already," answered Kit, "I saw Mr. Barlow
+yesterday morning, and he promised me an engagement at ten dollars a
+week."
+
+"Good!" said Achilles, heartily. "I am pleased to hear it. I took a
+liking to you the other day, and I'm glad you're going to join us. But
+do you think it wise to choose such a life?"
+
+"You have chosen it," said Kit.
+
+"Yes; but what could I do--a man of my size? I must earn more than a
+common man. My board and clothes both cost more. What do you think I
+paid for this suit I have on?"
+
+"I couldn't tell, sir."
+
+"Sixty dollars. The tailor only charges thirty dollars to a man of
+ordinary size, but I am so absurdly large that I have to pay double
+price."
+
+"Why don't you buy your suits ready made?" asked Kit, smiling.
+
+Achilles laughed heartily at the idea.
+
+"Show me a place where I can get ready made clothes to fit me," he
+answered, "and I will gladly accept your suggestion."
+
+"That may be a little difficult, I admit."
+
+"Why, you have no idea how inconvenient I find it to be so large. I
+can't find a bed to suit me in any hotel. If I go to the theater I can't
+crowd myself into an ordinary seat. I have to have all kinds of
+clothing, inside and outside, made to order. My hats and shoes must also
+be made expressly for me."
+
+"I suppose you get very well paid," suggested Kit.
+
+"Seventy-five dollars a week sounds pretty large, and would be if my
+expenses were not so great. You wouldn't be a giant for that money,
+would you?"
+
+"I am not so ambitious," replied Kit, smiling. "But there was a moment
+when I wished myself of your size."
+
+"When was that?"
+
+"When the blacksmith grasped me by the collar."
+
+"You don't have to work very hard," said William Morris.
+
+"My boy, it is pretty hard work to be stared at by a crowd of people. I
+get tired of it often, but I see no other way of making a living."
+
+"You would make a pretty good blacksmith."
+
+"I couldn't earn more than a man of average strength, and that wouldn't
+be enough, as I have explained."
+
+"Were your parents very tall?" asked Kit.
+
+"My father was six feet in height, but my mother was a small woman. I
+don't know what put it into me to grow so big. But here we are at the
+lot. Will you come in?"
+
+"When can I see Mr. Barlow?" asked Kit, anxiously.
+
+"He is at the hotel. He won't be round till half-past nine. Have you two
+boys had breakfast?"
+
+"No," answered Kit; "I'm nearly famished."
+
+"Come round to the circus tent. You are to be one of us, and will board
+there. I guess we can provide for your friend, too."
+
+Never was invitation more gladly accepted. Both Kit and William felt as
+if they had not broken their fast for a week.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIII.
+
+BREAKFAST IN THE CIRCUS TENT.
+
+
+Achilles entered the circus inclosure--the "lot," as it is generally
+called,--and made his way to a small tent situated not far from the one
+devoted to the performances. An attendant was carrying in a plate of hot
+steak and potatoes from the cook tent near by.
+
+"Is breakfast ready?" asked Achilles.
+
+"Yes; any time you want it."
+
+"Is anybody inside?"
+
+"Only Mademoiselle Louise."
+
+"Well, I want three breakfasts--for myself and my two young friends
+here."
+
+"I didn't know you had sons," said Mike, the attendant, regarding Kit
+and William with some curiosity.
+
+"I haven't. One of these young men is an acrobat, who will be one of us.
+The other is his friend. Bring along the grub as quick as possible--we
+are all hungry."
+
+"All right, sir."
+
+Running the length of the tent, which was about twenty feet by ten, was
+a long table surrounded by benches.
+
+The giant took his seat and placed the boys one on each side of him.
+Just opposite sat a woman of twenty-five or thereabouts, who was already
+eating breakfast.
+
+"Good morning, Mlle. Louise," said the giant.
+
+"Good morning, Mr. Henderson," responded the lady. "Who are your young
+companions?"
+
+"I don't know their names, but this one," placing his hand on Kit's
+shoulder, "has been engaged by Mr. Barlow as an acrobat."
+
+"Indeed! He looks young."
+
+"I am sixteen," volunteered Kit.
+
+"What circus have you traveled with before this season?" asked Mlle.
+Louise.
+
+"I have never traveled with any, madam."
+
+"But you are an acrobat?"
+
+"I have had my practice in a gymnasium."
+
+"How came Mr. Barlow to engage you?"
+
+"At Smyrna I practiced a little with the Vincenti brothers."
+
+"At Smyrna? Why, that's where the lion dashed into the arena!"
+
+"Yes."
+
+"Do you know the boy who had the courage to face him?"
+
+Kit blushed.
+
+"I am the boy," he said.
+
+"You don't mean it!" exclaimed the lady, vivaciously. "Why, you're a
+hero. I must shake hands with you," and she reached across the table and
+gave Kit a hearty grasp of the hand.
+
+"Is that so?" interposed Achilles. "Why, I didn't know you were the boy.
+I was not present at the time, and only heard of it afterwards. Mlle.
+Louise is right. You are a brave fellow."
+
+"I am much obliged to you both for your favorable opinion," said Kit
+modestly, "but I didn't realize my danger till afterwards."
+
+"Oh, heavens! I can see him now--that wicked beast!" exclaimed the lady.
+"I was nearly scared out of my senses. As for poor Dupont, he was nearer
+death than I ever want to be till my time comes."
+
+"Was Dupont the clown?" asked Kit.
+
+"Yes. The lion held him down, with his foot upon the poor clown's back,
+and but for your brave act he would have torn the poor fellow to pieces.
+Mr. Henderson, you missed the most thrilling act of the evening."
+
+"So I begin to think. By the way, boys, I ought to have introduced this
+lady. She is the famous aerial artist, whom you saw the other evening in
+her wonderful feats upon the trapeze."
+
+"Yes," said Mlle. Louise, complacently, "I think I have a pretty good
+act. I get plenty of applause, eh, Mr. Henderson?"
+
+"That's true. I think I should leave the circus if I had to appear in
+your act. I never could summon up courage."
+
+The lady laughed.
+
+"Monsieur Achilles," she said, "I wouldn't advise you to emulate me. I
+don't believe you could find a rope strong enough to support you, and if
+you should fall, I pity the audience."
+
+"You have convinced me. I shall give up all thoughts of it," said the
+giant, with mock gravity. "It would suit better our young friend here,
+who is an acrobat."
+
+"Did you ever practice on a trapeze?" asked Mlle. Louise, turning to
+Kit.
+
+"Yes, often," answered Kit, "but never at a great height."
+
+"Would it frighten you to find yourself so high up in the air?"
+
+"I don't think so; I have a cool head."
+
+"You must practice. I will give you a few hints myself. If you are cool
+and courageous, as I judge you will soon learn. By the way, what is your
+name?"
+
+"Kit Watson."
+
+"It'll be something else when you begin work."
+
+"Do all performers have assumed names?"
+
+"Generally. Here I am Mademoiselle Louise Lefroy, but it isn't a bit
+like my real name."
+
+Before this the boys had been served with breakfast. The steak was
+rather tough, and the coffee not of the best quality, but Kit and
+William thoroughly enjoyed it, and thought it about the best breakfast
+they had ever eaten. Mlle. Louise continued to converse with them, and
+was very gracious.
+
+"Are you too an acrobat?" she asked William.
+
+William became so confused that he swallowed some coffee the wrong way,
+and came near choking.
+
+"No, ma'am," he answered bashfully, "but I'd like to go round with the
+show."
+
+"You'll be better off at home if you've got one," said the giant. "You
+are not a performer; you are too small for a property man, and not
+strong enough for a razorback."
+
+"What's a razorback?" asked William, in amazement.
+
+Achilles smiled.
+
+"It's a boy or man who helps load and unload the circus cars," he
+answered. "It is heavy work, and you would be thrown among a low lot of
+people--canvasmen, and such. Our young friend here, on the other hand,
+will have a good sleeping berth, eat at the first table, and be well
+provided for generally."
+
+William looked disappointed. He had never thought particularly about
+traveling with a circus till now, but his meeting with Kit had given him
+a circus fever.
+
+At ten o'clock Mr. Barlow came to the grounds, and Achilles volunteered
+to go with Kit to speak with him about his engagement.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIV.
+
+SOME CIRCUS PEOPLE.
+
+
+Mr. Barlow recognized Kit instantly.
+
+"So you have kept your promise, my young friend," he said. "Well, have
+you come to join us?"
+
+"Yes, sir, if your offer holds good."
+
+"My offers always hold good; I never go back on my word."
+
+Kit was glad to hear this, for he would have been placed in an
+embarrassing position if, like some men, Mr. Barlow had forgotten an
+offer made on the impulse of the moment.
+
+"Have you any directions to give, sir?"
+
+"You may report to my manager, Mr. Bryant. First, however, it may be
+well for you to see the Vincenti brothers, and arrange for a joint act."
+
+"When do you wish me to appear, sir?"
+
+"Whenever you are ready. You may take a week to rehearse, if necessary.
+Your pay will commence at once."
+
+"Thank you, Mr. Barlow; you are very kind and considerate."
+
+Mr. Barlow smiled, and, waving his hand, passed on.
+
+He was very popular with all who were in his employ, and had a high
+reputation for kindness and strict integrity.
+
+"I'd like to work for him," said William Morris, who had listened to the
+conversation between Kit and the circus proprietor.
+
+"I should like to have you along with me," replied Kit, "but from what
+Mr. Henderson says there is no good opening."
+
+It was not till eleven o'clock that Kit met his future partners, the
+Vincenti brothers.
+
+"Good!" said Alonzo, in a tone of satisfaction. "We must get up a joint
+act. I suppose you haven't got a suit of tights?"
+
+"No. I never expected to need one."
+
+"I have an extra one which I think will fit you. Though I am ten years
+older than you we are about the same size."
+
+Kit had occasion to remark that circus performers are short as a rule.
+Many of them do not exceed five feet four inches in height, but
+generally they are compactly built, with well developed muscles, and
+possess unusual strength and agility.
+
+The circus suit was brought out. It proved to be an excellent fit.
+
+William Morris eyed Kit with admiration.
+
+"You look like a regular circus chap, Kit!" he exclaimed. "I wish I was
+in your shoes."
+
+"Wait till you see whether I am a success, William," replied Kit.
+
+"Now, if you are ready, we will have a little practice," said Alonzo
+Vincenti.
+
+"May I look on?" asked William.
+
+"Oh, yes; we don't generally admit spectators, but you are a friend of
+the boy."
+
+They all entered the tent, and for an hour Kit was kept hard at work.
+
+In the act devised by the Vincenti brothers, he stood on the shoulders
+of the second, who in his turn stood on the shoulders of the first.
+Various changes were gone through, in all of which Kit proved himself an
+adept, and won high compliments from his new associates.
+
+"Can you tumble?" asked Antonio.
+
+Kit smiled.
+
+"I was afraid I should when I first got on your shoulders," he answered.
+
+"That was what I meant,--something like this," and he whirled across the
+arena, rolling over and over on hands and feet in the manner of a cart
+wheel.
+
+Kit imitated Antonio rather slowly and awkwardly at first, but rapidly
+showed improvement.
+
+"You'll soon learn," said Antonio. "Now let me show you something else."
+
+This something else was a succession of somersaults, made in the most
+rapid manner.
+
+Kit tried this also, slowly at first, as before, but proving a rapid
+learner.
+
+"In the course of three or four days you will be able to do it in
+public," said Alonzo.
+
+"When do you advise me to make my first appearance?" asked Kit.
+
+"To-night, in our first act."
+
+"But shall I be ready?"
+
+"You'll do. We may as well make a beginning."
+
+"I wish I could see you, Kit," said William.
+
+"Can't you?"
+
+"I was going to the afternoon performance. It would make me too late
+home if I stayed in the evening."
+
+"Won't there be some people over from Oakford that you can ride back
+with?"
+
+"I didn't think of that. Yes, John Woods told me that his father was
+coming, and would bring him along. I could ride home with them."
+
+"Good! then you'd better stay."
+
+"Perhaps I'd better go over and buy a ticket."
+
+But to William's satisfaction he was given free admission as a friend of
+Kit. Not only that, but he was invited to take dinner and supper at the
+circus table. In fact, he was treated with distinguished consideration.
+
+"Kit," he said, "I was in luck to meet you."
+
+"And it was lucky for me that I met you. I shouldn't like to have met
+Aaron Bickford single handed."
+
+"I wish old Bickford would come to the circus to-night. Wouldn't he be
+surprised to see you performing in tights?"
+
+"I think it would rather take him by surprise," said Kit, smiling.
+
+Kit and William occupied seats at the afternoon performance as
+spectators, it having been arranged that Kit's _debut_ should be made in
+the evening. Our hero regarded the different acts with unusual interest,
+and his heart beat a little quicker when he heard the applause elicited
+by the performances of the Vincenti brothers, for he had already begun
+to consider himself one of them.
+
+When the performance was over, and the audience was dispersing, Kit felt
+a hand laid upon his shoulder.
+
+He turned and his glance rested upon a man of about forty, with a grave,
+serious expression. He was puzzled, for it was not a face that he
+remembered to have ever seen before.
+
+"You don't know me?" said the stranger.
+
+"No, sir."
+
+"And yet you have done me a very great service."
+
+"I didn't know it, sir."
+
+"The greatest service that any one person can do to another--you have
+saved my life."
+
+Then a light dawned upon Kit's mind, and he remembered what Achilles
+Henderson had said to him in the morning.
+
+"Is your name Dupont?" he asked.
+
+"Yes; I am Joe Dupont, the clown, whom you saved from a horrible death.
+I tell you, when Nero stood there in the ring with his paw on my breast
+I gave myself up for lost. I expected to be torn to pieces. It was an
+awful moment!" and the clown shuddered at the picture which his
+imagination conjured up. "Yes, sir; I wouldn't see such another moment
+for all the money Barlow is worth. I wonder my hair didn't turn white."
+
+"Excuse me, Mr. Dupont, but I find it hard to think you are Joe Dupont,
+the clown," said Kit.
+
+"Why?"
+
+"Because you look so grave and sedate."
+
+Joe Dupont smiled.
+
+"I only make a fool of myself in the ring," he said. "Outside you might
+take me for a merchant or minister. Indeed, I am a minister's son."
+
+"You a minister's son!" ejaculated Kit.
+
+"Yes; you wouldn't think it, would you? I was rather a wild lad, as
+minister's sons often are. My poor father tried hard to give me an
+education, but my mind wasn't on books or school exercises, and at
+sixteen I cut and run."
+
+"Did you join a circus then?"
+
+"Not at once. I tried hard to earn my living in different ways. Finally
+I struck a circus, and got an engagement as a razorback. When I got
+older I began to notice and imitate the clowns, and finally I made up my
+mind to become one myself."
+
+"Do you like the business?"
+
+"I have to like it. No; I am disgusted with myself often and often. You
+can judge from one thing. I have a little daughter, Katy, now eight
+years of age. She has never seen me in the ring and never will. I could
+never hold up my head in her presence if she had once seen me playing
+the fool before an audience."
+
+All this surprised Kit. He had been disposed to think that what clowns
+were before the public they were in private life also. Now he saw his
+mistake.
+
+"You contribute to the public amusement, Mr. Dupont," said Kit.
+
+"True; but what sort of a life record is it? Suppose in after years Katy
+is asked, 'Who was your father?' and is obliged to answer, 'Joe Dupont,
+the clown.' But I ought not to grumble. But for you I should have died a
+terrible death, and Katy would be fatherless, so I have much to be
+thankful for after all."
+
+Kit listened to the clown not without surprise. He could hardly realize
+that this was the comical man whose grotesque actions and sayings had
+convulsed the spectators only an hour before. When he came to think of
+it, he felt that he would rather be an acrobat than a clown.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XV.
+
+MR. BICKFORD GOES TO THE CIRCUS.
+
+
+When Aaron Bickford, balked of his prey, was compelled to get into his
+wagon and start for home, he felt uncommonly cross. To begin with, he
+was half famished, having harnessed up and set out on what turned out to
+be a wild goose chase without breaking his fast. Yet he could have borne
+this with comparative equanimity if he had effected the purpose which he
+had in view--the capture of his expected apprentice.
+
+But he had been signally defeated. Indeed he had been humiliated in
+presence of Kit and William Morris, by being unceremoniously picked up
+and tossed over the fence. As William was an Oakford boy, he foresaw
+that his discomfiture would soon be known to all his fellow townsmen,
+and that public ridicule would be his portion. There seemed no way to
+avoid this, unless by begging William to keep silent, and this he could
+not bring himself to do, even if the request was likely to be granted.
+
+"Where's the boy?" asked his wife, as, after unharnessing his horse, he
+went into the house.
+
+"I don't know where he is," answered Bickford, in a surly tone.
+
+"Didn't you find him?"
+
+"Yes, I found him."
+
+"Wouldn't he come back?"
+
+"He didn't."
+
+"I'd have made him if I were you."
+
+"Perhaps you would, and then perhaps you wouldn't. Perhaps you
+couldn't."
+
+"You don't mean to say, Aaron Bickford, that you let a whippersnapper
+like that defy you?"
+
+"What could I do against a man eight feet high?"
+
+"Goodness, Mr. Bickford, have you been drinking?" ejaculated his wife.
+
+"No, I haven't been drinking."
+
+"Do you mean to tell me that boy is eight feet high?"
+
+"No, I don't mean to tell you the boy is eight feet high. But I won't
+answer any more foolish questions till you give me something to eat. I
+am fairly faint with hunger."
+
+"Sit down, then, and I hope after you've gratified your appetite you'll
+be a little less mysterious."
+
+Mrs. Bickford was privately of opinion that her husband had stopped at
+some drinking place--otherwise why should he prate of men eight feet
+tall?
+
+Aaron Bickford ate almost ravenously, though the food set before him was
+not calculated to gratify the taste of an epicure. But all things are
+acceptable to an empty stomach.
+
+When he seemed to be satisfied, his wife began anew.
+
+"Who is it that is eight feet high?" she asked.
+
+"The giant at the circus."
+
+"What did you have to do with him?"
+
+"Not much, but he had something to do with me," answered Bickford,
+grimly.
+
+"How is that?"
+
+"I overhauled the boy, and was dragging him back to the wagon, when this
+fellow hove in sight. It seems he knew the young rascal, and took his
+part. He seized me as easily as you would take up a cat, and flung me
+over the fence."
+
+"I wish I'd been there!" exclaimed Mrs. Bickford, angrily.
+
+"What could you have done. You would have been flung over too," said her
+husband, contemptuously.
+
+"I would have got a good grip of his hair, and I guess that would have
+made him let go."
+
+"You'd have to stand on a ladder, then."
+
+"So the boy got away?"
+
+"Of course he did."
+
+"And where did he go?"
+
+"I expect he went to the circus along with William Morris."
+
+"Was that boy with him?"
+
+"Yes."
+
+"They were pretty well matched. What can they do at the circus?"
+
+"I don't know. Perhaps their long-legged friend will give them a ticket
+to the show."
+
+"Aaron, suppose we go to the circus?"
+
+"What for?"
+
+"You may get hold of the boy, and bring him back. The giant won't be
+with him all the time."
+
+"I'd like to get the boy back," said Bickford, in a wavering tone. "I'd
+give him a lesson."
+
+"And so would I. I guess between us we could subdue him. But of course
+he must be got back first."
+
+"I'll think of it, Sarah."
+
+Later in the day Mr. Bickford told his wife he would go to the circus,
+but he tried to evade taking her in order to save the expense of another
+ticket. To this, however, she would not agree. The upshot was, that
+after supper the old horse was harnessed up, and the amiable pair, bent
+on vengeance, started for Grafton.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVI.
+
+MR. BICKFORD AT THE CIRCUS.
+
+
+Mr. Bickford's chief object in going to the circus was to regain
+possession of Kit, his runaway apprentice, as he chose to consider him.
+But, besides this, he really had a curiosity to see the show, and
+thought this would afford him a good excuse for doing so. The same
+remark will apply to Mrs. Bickford, whose curiosity had been excited the
+year previous by seeing a circus procession. The blacksmith and his wife
+were not prejudiced against amusements, like many others, but were too
+frugal to attend them. Now that they could combine business with
+pleasure, they threw to the winds all hesitation.
+
+"Do you think you'll get the boy, father?" asked Mrs. Bickford, as they
+jolted over the road to Grafton.
+
+"I'll make a try for it, Sarah. He's a good strong boy, and he'll make a
+capital blacksmith. Did you notice his broad shoulders?"
+
+"He looks like he'd have a hearty appetite," said the careful spouse.
+
+"We won't pamper him, Sarah," replied Bickford, smiling grimly. "He
+won't get no such victuals as he did at home. Plain food and plenty of
+it, that's the way to bring up boys."
+
+"Perhaps he won't be at the circus," suggested Mrs. Bickford.
+
+"I'd be surprised if he wasn't. Boys have a natural hankering for the
+circus. I had when I was a boy."
+
+"Did you ever go, Aaron?"
+
+"No; I didn't have the money."
+
+"Do you know how much they charge?"
+
+"Fifty cents, I believe."
+
+"It's an awful sight of money to pay for amusement. If it lasts two
+hours, that makes twenty-five cents an hour."
+
+"So it does, Sarah. That's as much as I can earn by hard work in that
+time."
+
+"I don't know as it's right to fling away so much money."
+
+"I wouldn't do it if it wasn't for gettin' the boy back. He'll be worth
+a good deal to me if I do. He's a good deal stronger than Bill Morris."
+
+"Of course that makes a difference. I don't care so much for the circus,
+though I should like to see the man stand up on a horse and jump through
+hoops. I wonder if the horse jumps through too."
+
+"I don't know, but we'll soon know all that is to be known. The boy
+won't expect to see us, I reckon," concluded the blacksmith, with a
+chuckle.
+
+At length they reached the circus grounds. All was bustle and excitement
+in the neighborhood of the lot.
+
+"I declare, Aaron, it looks like Fourth of July," said Mrs. Bickford.
+
+"So it does. It beats all--what a crowd there is."
+
+They bought tickets and entered the inclosure.
+
+In a small tent near the entrance were the curiosities. They were about
+to walk in when a young man curtly asked for tickets.
+
+"We bought tickets at the gate. Here they are."
+
+"All right; but you need separate tickets here."
+
+"I declare that's a swindle," said Mrs. Bickford. "I thought we could
+see the whole show on these."
+
+"We only charge ten cents extra for this."
+
+"It's a shame. Shall we go in, Aaron?"
+
+"I guess we will. I want to see that 'ere fat woman."
+
+"I'd like to see the dwarf and the woman with hair five feet long. A
+circus is dreadful expensive, but bein' as we're here we might as well
+see the whole thing."
+
+Twenty cents was paid at the door, and the economical pair, grown
+suddenly so extravagant, walked in.
+
+The first object on which the blacksmith's eyes rested kindled him with
+indignation, and recalled mortifying memories. It was Achilles
+Henderson, the giant, who, on his side recognized Aaron Bickford.
+
+"Good evening, my friend," he said, with a smile. "I believe we have met
+before."
+
+"Do you know him?" asked Mrs. Bickford, in surprise.
+
+Aaron's brow contracted as he answered:
+
+"It's the ruffian that threw me over the fence this morning."
+
+"I see you remember me," said Achilles, good-naturedly.
+
+"I ought to remember you," retorted the blacksmith.
+
+"Come, don't bear malice. It was only a little joke."
+
+"I don't like such jokes."
+
+"Well, well; I'll give you satisfaction. I'll let you throw me over the
+fence any time you want to, and I won't make a particle of resistance."
+
+Somehow this proposal did not strike the blacksmith as satisfactory. He
+asked abruptly: "Where's the boy?"
+
+"There were two boys."
+
+"I mean the stout, broad-shouldered boy."
+
+"I don't know just where he is at present."
+
+"Do you know why I've come here this evening?"
+
+"To see the show, I expect."
+
+"I've come to get that boy. I've no doubt he's somewhere about here."
+
+"Oho!" thought the giant; "I must put my young friend on his guard."
+
+"If you'll help me I'll do as much for you some time."
+
+"So you are going to carry him back with you?" went on Achilles,
+desirous of learning the extent of Kit's danger.
+
+"Yes, I am."
+
+"You say he is your apprentice?"
+
+"Of course he is."
+
+"And you've got the papers to show for it?"
+
+"I don't need no papers. I've got his uncle's consent."
+
+"I think, my friend, you're not familiar with the law," thought
+Achilles. "Kit won't go with you to-night."
+
+But it was nearly time for the performance. Mr. and Mrs. Bickford left
+the smaller tent, and entering the big one took their seats. They
+watched the performance with great wonder and enjoyment till the
+entrance of Kit and the Vincenti brothers. They did not immediately
+discover him, but when he stood on the shoulders of Alonzo Vincenti,
+who, in turn, stood on the shoulders of Antonio, and the three-storied
+acrobat walked round the ring, Mrs. Bickford recognized Kit, and,
+pointing with her parasol to the young acrobat, as she half raised
+herself from her seat, she exclaimed in a shrill voice: "Look, Aaron,
+there's your boy, all rigged out in circus clothes!"
+
+"Well, that beats all!" ejaculated the blacksmith, gazing with wide open
+mouth at Kit.
+
+Just then, Kit, reversing his attitude, raised his feet in the air and
+was borne round the ring, amid the plaudits of the spectators.
+
+"How do you think he does it?" asked Mrs. Bickford in astonishment.
+
+"I give it up," said the blacksmith.
+
+"He's a smart critter. Do you think they pay him?"
+
+"I reckon he gets two or three dollars a week, but he hain't no business
+to hire out to the circus folks. He's going back with us to-night, and
+I'll turn him out a blacksmith in two years."
+
+When Kit had finished his act, he went to the dressing room and changed
+his clothes.
+
+"I wonder whether the old fellow is after me!" he thought. "What could
+have put it into his head that I was here?"
+
+As he emerged from the dressing room he met Mr. Barlow, the proprietor
+of the circus, who advanced towards him, and shook his hand cordially.
+
+"Bravo, my young friend!" he said. "You did yourself great credit. Are
+you sure you have never performed in a circus before?"
+
+"Quite sure, sir."
+
+"You went through your act like an old professional. You did as well as
+either of the other two."
+
+"Thank you, sir. I am glad you are satisfied."
+
+"I ought to be. I regard you as a decided acquisition to my show. Keep
+on doing your best, and I can assure you that your efforts will be
+appreciated. How much did I agree to pay you?"
+
+"Ten dollars a week, sir."
+
+"That isn't enough. I raise your salary at once to twenty-five."
+
+Kit was dazzled by his good fortune. What! Twenty-five dollars a week
+and traveling expenses for a boy of sixteen! It seemed marvelous.
+
+"I am afraid I am dreaming, Mr. Barlow," he said. "I can't believe that
+I am really to receive so handsome a salary."
+
+"You will realize it to-night when you collect your first week's pay."
+
+"But this won't be a full week, sir."
+
+"Never mind! You shall receive full pay. Do you think I forget your
+heroic act at Smyrna?"
+
+"Thank you, sir. I hope nothing will prevent my continuing in your
+employ."
+
+"What should prevent?" asked Mr. Barlow, quickly. "Have you had an offer
+from another show?"
+
+"No, sir; I am not well known enough for that; but I saw a man in the
+audience who would probably like to get me away."
+
+"Who is it?"
+
+"A blacksmith from Oakford."
+
+"I don't understand. What have you to do with a blacksmith?"
+
+Kit explained briefly.
+
+"When do you think he will try to recover possession of you?" asked the
+circus proprietor.
+
+"Just after the show is over."
+
+"Has he any papers?"
+
+"Not one."
+
+"Then he has no claim on you. If he makes any trouble let me know."
+
+"I will, Mr. Barlow."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVII.
+
+KIT'S STRATAGEM.
+
+
+Kit, when dressed, sought the part of the house where he knew that
+William Morris was seated.
+
+"How did I do, Will?" he asked.
+
+"Splendidly!" answered the boy enthusiastically. "I felt proud of you."
+
+"I think I have a right to be satisfied myself. I have had my pay
+raised."
+
+"You don't mean to say you are to get more than ten dollars?" said his
+friend, opening his eyes in amazement.
+
+"I am raised to twenty-five."
+
+"You don't mean to say you are to get twenty-five dollars a week, Kit?"
+
+"Yes, I do."
+
+"And your board?"
+
+"And my board and traveling expenses," added Kit, with a smile.
+
+"I wish I were in your shoes, Kit," said William. "Think of me with only
+one dollar a week."
+
+"Would you be willing to go through my acts for the money I am going to
+receive?"
+
+William shook his head.
+
+"I couldn't do it, Kit," he replied. "It always makes me dizzy when I
+have my head down. I don't believe I could ever do anything in a
+circus."
+
+"Well, William, I won't forget you. If I save money, as I am sure to do,
+I'll see if I can't do something for you by and by. By the way, did you
+see Mr. and Mrs. Bickford?"
+
+"No, you don't mean to say they are here?"
+
+"Look over there!"
+
+William followed the direction of Kit's finger, and he easily discovered
+the blacksmith and his wife.
+
+"By gracious! You're right!" he said. "It's the first money I've known
+old Bickford to pay for any amusement for years."
+
+"They came after me, William."
+
+"You won't go back with them?"
+
+"Not much. I don't care to give up twenty-five dollars a week for the
+privilege of learning the trade of a blacksmith."
+
+"Suppose they try to carry you off?"
+
+"That gives me an idea. With your help I'll try to play a trick on them.
+It'll be capital fun."
+
+"Go ahead and tell me what it is, Kit. I'm with you!"
+
+"My plan is that you should ride home with Mr. Bickford," said Kit.
+
+"I don't understand," said William, looking puzzled.
+
+"I'll tell you my idea. Bickford has come here with the intention of
+taking me back with him to Oakford."
+
+"But you don't mean to go?"
+
+"Of course not, but when the show is over I shall put myself in his way,
+and after a little objection agree to go. I will ask for five minutes to
+get ready. In that time I will change hats with you, and as it is dark
+you can easily pass yourself off for me."
+
+"Capital!" exclaimed William, laughing. "Won't the old man look foolish
+when he finds out who is with him?"
+
+"Don't let him know till you arrive, or he would force you to leave the
+carriage, and walk home alone, and a six mile walk is no joke."
+
+"All right Kit! I understand, and I think I can carry out your idea. I
+haven't much love for the old man or his wife either, and I am glad of a
+chance to get even with them."
+
+The performance continued till ten o'clock. The blacksmith and his wife
+enjoyed it beyond their anticipations. Amusements of any kind were new
+to them, and their pleasure was like that of children.
+
+"I begin to think, Sarah, we shall get our money's worth," said Aaron
+cautiously, as the entertainment neared its end; "this is a great show."
+
+"So it is, Aaron. I don't begrudge the money myself, though fifty cents
+is a pretty high price to pay. Then, besides, you'll have a chance to
+carry the boy home."
+
+"That's so, Sarah. Just as soon as the show is over, foller me, and
+we'll try to find him."
+
+At length the last act was ended, and the crowd of spectators began
+pouring from the tent.
+
+Mr. Bickford hurriedly emerged from the audience, and began to look
+around for Kit. He had but little trouble in finding him, for the boy
+purposely put himself in his way. Aaron Bickford strode up to him.
+
+"Well, I've caught you at last!" he said, putting his hand on the boy's
+shoulder.
+
+"What do you want of me, Mr. Bickford?" said Kit.
+
+"What do I want of you? Well, I want you to go home with me, of
+course."
+
+"Won't you let me stay with the circus a week?" asked Kit, in a subdued
+tone.
+
+"No, I won't. I've got the wagon here, and I'm goin' to take you back
+with me to-night."
+
+"If you really think my uncle wishes it, perhaps I had better go," said
+Kit, in what appeared to be a wavering tone.
+
+Mr. Bickford was quite elated. He feared he should have trouble in
+persuading Kit to accompany him. He would not have been surprised if the
+boy had disappeared, and given him trouble to find him, and his
+unexpected submissiveness was an agreeable surprise.
+
+"Well, boy, it's time to be goin'. Oakford's six miles off, and we won't
+get home before midnight unless we start right off."
+
+"I'll go and get my things, Mr. Bickford. Where is your horse and
+wagon?"
+
+"Out by the entrance. It's hitched to a tree."
+
+"All right! You go and unhitch the horse, and I'll be right along."
+
+"But suppose you give me the slip? You'd better go along now."
+
+"I'll bring him with me, Mr. Bickford," said the giant. "I'm sorry he
+isn't going to stay with us, and I'll see him off."
+
+Achilles Henderson spoke in so straightforward a manner that Mr.
+Bickford was deceived.
+
+"Very well," he said. "I'll go along with Mrs. Bickford. Don't keep me
+waitin', for it's gettin' late."
+
+The blacksmith and his wife took up their march to the place where their
+team had been hitched. They found it safe, and untied the horse.
+
+"We're goin' to have a dark ride home, mother," he said.
+
+"Yes, Aaron, but you've done a good evening's work."
+
+"That's so, Sarah. I expected I'd have more trouble with the boy."
+
+"There's nothing like being firm, Aaron. When he saw you were in
+earnest, he gave up."
+
+"I mean to keep a tight rein on him, Sarah. He's a boy that likes to
+have his own way, if I ain't greatly mistaken. We must break his will."
+
+The horse was unhitched, and still Kit had not arrived. Mr. Bickford
+began to fear that he had been tricked after all, when two figures,
+contrasting strongly with each other, appeared. One was the giant, in
+his ample height, and the other was a boy.
+
+"There they are, Aaron!" said Mrs. Bickford, who was the first to descry
+the oddly assorted pair.
+
+"Where is the boy to sit?" asked Achilles.
+
+"In the back seat. Mother and I will sit in front."
+
+"All right! There you are!" said Mr. Henderson, lifting the boy in his
+arms, as easily as if he were a kitten, and putting him on the rear
+seat.
+
+"Good-by, Kit!" he said. "I'm sorry you're going to leave us. Perhaps
+Mr. Bickford will let you off if we show anywhere near here."
+
+"The boy will be at work, and can't be let off," said the blacksmith,
+stiffly. "But it is time we were off."
+
+"Good-by, then, Kit!"
+
+"Good-by!" said the supposed Kit, in a low tone, for he feared that the
+difference in his voice would be recognized. But Mr. Bickford had no
+suspicions. He was anxious to get started, for he and his wife were
+always in bed by this time ordinarily.
+
+So the team started, and Achilles Henderson, suppressing a laugh,
+strode away to the circus cars, which were already being prepared for a
+midnight journey to the next place. It may be explained here that the
+circus of to-day generally owns its own cars, which are used for the
+conveyance of all connected with it, their luggage, the tents, the
+animals, and all the paraphernalia of the show. As soon as the show is
+ended, the canvas men set to work to take down and fold up the tents.
+All the freight is conveyed to the cars, and the razorbacks, already
+referred to, set about loading them. The performers, ticketmen, and
+candy butchers seek their berths in the sleeping cars and are often in
+the land of dreams before the train starts.
+
+While Mr. Bickford was driving in the darkness to Oakford with the
+supposed Kit on the back seat, the real Kit was in his berth in the
+circus cars, preparing for a refreshing night's rest.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVIII.
+
+MR. BICKFORD'S MORTIFYING DISCOVERY.
+
+
+Mr. Bickford was in excellent spirits. He had enjoyed the evening, and
+although he had been compelled to disburse a dollar for two circus
+tickets, a sum which to him seemed large, he was disposed to acknowledge
+that he had received his money's worth. Besides, and this seemed to him
+the greatest triumph of all, he had recovered his runaway apprentice, or
+thought he had. He inwardly resolved that Kit should smart for his past
+insubordination, though he had not yet decided in what way he would get
+even with him. The unexpected submissiveness shown by Kit elated him,
+and confirmed him in the idea he had long entertained that he could
+manage boys a good deal better than the average of men.
+
+"Talk about hard cases," he said one day to his wife. "I'd like to see
+the boy that can get the start of Aaron Bickford. He'll have to get up
+unusually airly in the mornin'."
+
+Mr. Bickford felt a little like crowing over his captive, and turned his
+head partly round to survey the boy on the back seat. Fortunately for
+William the darkness was so great that there was small chance of his
+detecting the imposture.
+
+"I reckon you didn't expect to be ridin' back to Oakford along of me
+this evenin'," he observed.
+
+"No, sir," muttered William in a voice scarcely audible.
+
+"Ho, ho, you feel kind of grouty, eh?" said the blacksmith. "Well, I
+ain't much surprised. You thought you could have your own way with Aaron
+Bickford, but you're beginnin' to see your mistake, I reckon?"
+
+"Yes, sir," replied the supposed Kit, in a meek voice.
+
+"Ho, ho! That's the way boys ginerally come out when they try to buck
+agin' their elders. Not but you might have succeeded with some men, but
+you didn't know the man you had to deal with this time."
+
+There was a sort of gurgle, for William was trying hard not to laugh, as
+he was picturing to himself the rage and mortification of Mr. Bickford
+when he discovered the deceit that had been practiced upon him. But the
+blacksmith misunderstood the sound, and thought Kit was sobbing.
+
+"You needn't take on!" he said, magnanimously. "It ain't so bad as it
+might be. You'll be a good deal better off learnin' a good trade than
+trampin' round the country with the circus. I hope this'll be a lesson
+to you. You'd better not try to run away ag'in, for it won't be no use.
+You won't always have that long-legged giant to help you. If I'd done
+right, I should have had him took up for 'sault and battery. He needn't
+think because he's eight feet high, more or less, that he can defy the
+laws of the land. I reckon he got a little skeered of what he done, or
+he wouldn't have acted so different this evening."
+
+William did not reply to this. He was rather in hopes Mr. Bickford would
+stop addressing him, for he did not like to run the risk of answering,
+as it might open the eyes of the blacksmith to the fact that he had the
+wrong boy in the wagon.
+
+The distance to Oakford steadily diminished, though Mr. Bickford's horse
+was a slow one. At length it had dwindled to half a mile.
+
+"Now I don't care if he does find out who I am," thought William. "It
+ain't but a little way home now, and I shouldn't mind walking." Still
+his own house was rather beyond Mr. Bickford's, and it was just as well
+to ride the whole way, if he could escape detection so long.
+
+"Where did you learn them circus performances, Christopher?" suddenly
+asked the blacksmith, turning once more in his seat.
+
+By this time they were within a few rods of the blacksmith's yard, and
+William became bold, now that he had nothing to lose by it.
+
+"My name isn't Christopher," he answered in his usual tone.
+
+"Your name isn't Christopher? That's what your uncle told me."
+
+"I think you are mistaken," said William quietly.
+
+"What's got into the boy? Is he goin' to deny his own name? What is your
+name, then?"
+
+"My name is William Morris," was the distinct response.
+
+"What!" exclaimed the blacksmith in amazement.
+
+"I think you ought to know me, Mr. Bickford. I worked for you some time,
+you know."
+
+"Take off your hat, and let me look at your face!" said Aaron Bickford,
+sternly.
+
+William laughed as he complied with the request. It was now rather
+lighter, and the blacksmith, peering into his face, saw that it was
+indeed true--that the boy on the back seat was not Kit Watson at all,
+but his ex-apprentice, William Morris.
+
+"It's Bill Morris, by the living jingo!" he exclaimed. "What do you say
+to that, Sarah?"
+
+"You're a master hand at managing boys, Aaron," said his wife
+sarcastically.
+
+"How came you in the wagon, Bill Morris?" demanded Bickford, not caring
+to answer his wife.
+
+"The giant put me in," answered William.
+
+"Where is that boy, Christopher Watson?"
+
+"I expect he is travelin' with the show, Mr. Bickford."
+
+"Who put you up to this mean trick?" demanded the blacksmith,
+wrathfully.
+
+"Kit Watson."
+
+"I've got an account to settle with you, William Morris. I s'pose you
+think you've done something pretty smart."
+
+"I think he has, Aaron," said Mrs. Bickford, who seemed to take a
+malicious pleasure in opening her husband's wounds afresh.
+
+"Mrs. Bickford, it isn't very creditable in you to triumph over your
+husband, just after he's been spendin' fifty cents for your amusement."
+
+"Goodness knows, Mr. Bickford, you don't often take me to shows. I guess
+what you spend that way won't ruin you."
+
+While the married pair were indulging in their little recriminations,
+William had managed to slip out of the wagon in the rear, and he was now
+a rod away.
+
+"Good night, Mr. Bickford!" he shouted. "I'm much obliged to you for
+bringing me home. It's saved me a long walk."
+
+The blacksmith's reply was one that I do not care to record. He was
+thoroughly angry and disgusted. If it hadn't been so late he would have
+got out and tried to inflict punishment on William with his whip, but
+the boy was too far away by this time to make this possible.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIX.
+
+STEPHEN WATSON VISITS OAKFORD.
+
+
+On Monday as Mr. Bickford was about his work a carriage drove into the
+yard, containing Stephen Watson and Ralph.
+
+"Good morning, Mr. Bickford," said Stephen Watson. "I've called over to
+inquire about Kit. I hope he is doing his duty by you."
+
+The blacksmith looked at Mr. Watson with embarrassment, and did not
+immediately reply.
+
+Mr. Watson repeated his question.
+
+"Kit isn't with me," answered Bickford, at length.
+
+"Isn't with you!" repeated Stephen Watson, in surprise. "Where is he?"
+
+"He's run away."
+
+"Run away!" ejaculated Kit's uncle. "What is the meaning of that?"
+
+"He said he didn't want to be a blacksmith, and that you had no
+authority to make him."
+
+"But where has he gone? Have you any idea?"
+
+"He has gone off with Barlow's circus."
+
+"But what object can he have in going off with a circus?" asked Mr.
+Watson, no less bewildered.
+
+"They've hired him to perform."
+
+"Are you sure of this?"
+
+"I ought to be," answered the blacksmith, grimly. "My wife and I saw him
+jumpin' round last evenin' in the circus tent over at Grafton."
+
+"But I don't see what he--a green hand--can do. Ralph, can you throw any
+light on this mystery?"
+
+Ralph explained that Kit had practiced acrobatic feats extensively at
+the gymnasium connected with the school.
+
+"Did he ever talk of going off with a circus?" asked Mr. Watson.
+
+"Never, though he enjoyed the exercise."
+
+"I went after him and tried to get him back," said Mr. Bickford, "but he
+gave me the slip."
+
+"He's done a very foolish and crazy thing. He can't get more than three
+or four dollars a week from the circus, and in the fall he'll be out of
+a job."
+
+"Just as you say, sir. He'd have a good payin' trade if he stayed with
+me. What do you think it is best to do about it, Mr. Watson?"
+
+"I shall do nothing. If the boy chooses to make a fool of himself, he
+may try it. Next fall, and possibly before, he'll be coming back in
+rags, and beg me to take him back."
+
+"I hope you won't take him back," said Ralph, who was jealous of Kit.
+
+"I shall not consider myself bound to do so, but if he consents to obey
+me, and learn a trade of Mr. Bickford, I will fit him, up and enable him
+to do so--out of charity, and because he is my nephew."
+
+"Then you don't mean to do anything about it, sir?" asked Aaron
+Bickford, considerably disappointed, for he longed to get Kit into his
+power once more.
+
+"No, I will leave the boy to himself. Ralph, as our business seems to be
+over, we will turn about and go home."
+
+Mr. Watson drove out of the blacksmith's yard.
+
+"Well, Ralph," he said, as they were on their way home, "I am very much
+annoyed at what your cousin has done, but I don't see that I am to
+blame."
+
+"Of course you're not, pa," returned Ralph, promptly.
+
+"Still the public may misjudge me. It will be very awkward to answer
+questions about Kit. I really don't know what to say."
+
+"Say he's run away and joined the circus. We might as well tell the
+truth."
+
+"I don't know but it will be best. I will add that, though it grieves
+me, I think it advisable, as he is so old, not to interfere with him,
+but let him see the error of his way for himself. I will say also that
+when he chooses to come back, I will make suitable arrangements for
+him."
+
+"I guess that will do. I will say the same."
+
+"I don't mind saying to you that I shall feel it quite a relief to be
+rid of the expense of maintaining him, for he has cost me a great deal
+of money. You are my son, and of course I expect to take care of you,
+and bring you up as a gentleman, but he has no claim upon me except that
+of relationship. I won't say that to others, however."
+
+"You are quite right, pa. As he is poor, and has his own living to make,
+it isn't best to send him to a high-priced school, and give him too much
+money to spend."
+
+It will be seen that there was a striking resemblance between the views
+of father and son, both of whom were intensely selfish, mean and
+unscrupulous.
+
+Stephen Watson foresaw that there would be a difficulty in making
+outside friends of the family understand why Kit had left home. He
+deliberately resolved to misrepresent him, and the opportunity came
+sooner than he anticipated.
+
+On the afternoon of the day of his call upon the blacksmith, there was a
+ring at the bell, and a middle-aged stranger was ushered into the
+parlor.
+
+"I suppose you don't remember me," he said to Stephen Watson.
+
+"I can't say I do," replied Stephen, eying him.
+
+"I knew your brother better than I did you. I am Harry Miller, who used
+to go to school with you both in the old red schoolhouse on the hill."
+
+"I remember your name, but I should not have remembered you."
+
+"I don't wonder. Time changes us all. I am sorry to hear that your poor
+brother is dead."
+
+"Yes," answered Stephen, heaving a sigh proper to the occasion, which
+was intended to signify his grief at the loss. "He was cut down like the
+grass of the field. It is the common lot."
+
+"His wife died earlier, did she not?"
+
+"Yes."
+
+"But there was a son?"
+
+"Yes."
+
+"How old is the boy?"
+
+"Just turned sixteen."
+
+"May I see him? I should like to see the son of my old deskmate."
+
+"Ah!" sighed Stephen. "I wish he were here to meet you."
+
+"But surely he is not dead?"
+
+"No; he is not dead, but he is a source of anxiety to me."
+
+"And why?" asked the visitor, with concern. "Has he turned out badly?"
+
+"Why, I don't know that I can exactly say that he has turned out badly."
+
+"What is the matter with him, then?"
+
+"He is wayward, and instead of being willing to devote himself to his
+school studies like my son Ralph, he has formed an extraordinary taste
+for the circus."
+
+"Indeed! but where is he?"
+
+"He is traveling with Barlow's circus."
+
+"In what capacity?"
+
+"As an acrobat."
+
+Henry Miller laughed.
+
+"I remember," he said, "that his father was fond of athletic sports. You
+never were."
+
+"No, I was a quiet boy."
+
+"That you were, and uncommonly sly!" thought Miller, but he did not
+consider it polite to say so. "Is the boy--by the way, what is his
+name?"
+
+"Christopher. He is generally called Kit."
+
+"Well, is Kit a good gymnast?"
+
+"I believe he is."
+
+"When did he join the circus?"
+
+"Only yesterday. In fact it is painful for me to say so, he ran away
+from a good home to associate with mountebanks."
+
+"And what are you going to do about it?"
+
+"He is so headstrong that I have thought it best to give him his own
+way, and let him see for himself how foolish he has been. Of course he
+has a home to return to whenever he sees fit."
+
+"That may be the best way. I should like to see the young rascal. I
+would follow up the circus and do so, only I am unfortunately called to
+California on business. I am part owner of a gold mine out there."
+
+"I trust you have been prospered in your worldly affairs."
+
+"Yes, I have every reason to be thankful. I suppose I am worth two
+hundred thousand dollars."
+
+Stephen Watson, whose god was money, almost turned green with jealousy.
+At the same time he asked himself how he could take advantage of his old
+schoolmate's good luck.
+
+"I wish he would take a fancy to my Ralph," he thought.
+
+So he called in Ralph, and introduced him to the rich stranger.
+
+"He's a good boy, my Ralph," he said; "sober and correct in all his
+habits, and fond of study."
+
+Ralph was rather surprised to hear this panegyric, but presently his
+father explained to him in private the object he had in view. Then Ralph
+made himself as agreeable as he could, but he failed to please Mr.
+Miller.
+
+"He is too much like his father," he said to himself.
+
+When he terminated his call, he received a very cordial invitation to
+come again on his return from California.
+
+"If Kit has returned I certainly will come," he replied, an answer which
+pleased neither Ralph nor his father.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XX.
+
+A CHAT WITH A CANDY BUTCHER.
+
+
+Kit had a berth assigned him in one of the circus cars. His nearest
+neighbor was Harry Thorne, a young man of twenty-four, who filled the
+position of candy butcher. As this term may sound strange to my readers,
+I will explain that it is applied to the venders of candy, lemonade,
+peanuts, and other articles such as are patronized by those who come to
+see the show. It is really a very profitable business, as will be
+explained in the course of the story.
+
+Harry Thorne was social and ready to give Kit any information about the
+circus.
+
+"How long is it since you joined a circus?" asked Kit, after getting
+acquainted.
+
+"I was younger than you," answered Thorne.
+
+"Why did you join? What gave you the idea?"
+
+"A spirit of adventure, I think. Besides, there was a large family of
+us--I am the oldest--and it was necessary for me to do something."
+
+"That's a queer name--candy butcher."
+
+"It seems so to you, but I am used to it."
+
+"Did you become a candy butcher at once?"
+
+"Not till I was eighteen. Before that I ran errands and made myself
+generally useful. I thought of being an acrobat, like you, but I was too
+stout and not active enough."
+
+"I shouldn't think there would be much money made in your business,"
+said Kit.
+
+"That shows you don't know much about circus matters. Last fall I ran in
+with seven hundred dollars saved, besides paying all my expenses during
+the six months I was out."
+
+"You ought to be pretty well off now, if you have been a candy butcher
+for five or six years."
+
+"I haven't a cent, and am owing two hundred dollars in Philadelphia."
+
+"How is that?"
+
+"You don't often find a circus man that saves money. It's easy come,
+easy go. But I send money home every season--three or four hundred
+dollars at least, if I do well."
+
+"That's a good thing any way. But if I were in your place I would put
+away some money every season."
+
+"I could do it, but it's hard to make up my mind."
+
+"I can't see how you can make such sums. It puzzles me."
+
+"We are paid a fixed salary, say twenty-five dollars a month, and
+commission on sales. I was always pretty lucky in selling, and my income
+has sometimes been very large. But I don't make much in large places. It
+is in the smaller towns that the money is made. When a country beau
+brings his girl to the circus, he don't mind expense. He makes up his
+mind to spend several dollars in having a good time--so he buys
+lemonade, peanuts, apples, and everything that he or his girl fancies.
+In the city, where there are plenty of places where such things can be
+bought, we don't sell much. In New York or Philadelphia I make very
+little more than my salary."
+
+"What is there most profit on?" asked Kit.
+
+"Well, I should say lemonade. You've heard of circus lemonade?"
+
+"Is there anything peculiar about it?"
+
+"Yes, something peculiarly weak. A good-sized lemon will make half a
+dozen glasses, and perhaps more. But there is something cheaper still,
+and that is citric acid. I remember one hot day in an Ohio town. The
+thermometer stood at 99 degrees and there wasn't a drop of spring or
+well water to be had, for we had cornered it. All who were thirsty had
+to drink lemonade, and it took a good many glasses to quench thirst. I
+made a harvest that day, and so did the other candy butchers. If we
+could have a whole summer of such days, I could retire on a small
+fortune in October."
+
+"Do you like the circus business?"
+
+"Sometimes I get tired of it, but when the spring opens I generally have
+the circus fever."
+
+"What do you do in the winter?"
+
+"It is seldom I get anything to do. I am an expense, and that is why I
+find myself in debt when the new season opens. Last winter I was more
+lucky. A young fellow--an old circus acquaintance of mine--has a store
+in the country, and he offered to supply me with a stock of goods to
+sell on commission in country villages near by. In that way I filled up
+about three months, making my expenses, but doing nothing more. However,
+that was a great thing for me, and I start this season only two hundred
+dollars in debt, as I think I told you a few minutes ago."
+
+"Is it the same way with performers?"
+
+"No; they have a better chance. Next winter, if you try, you can
+probably make an engagement to perform at some dime museum or variety
+hall, in New York or elsewhere. I once got the position of ticket seller
+for a part of the winter."
+
+"I don't think I should like to perform in a dime museum," said Kit.
+
+"What's the odds, if you are well paid for it?"
+
+"I don't intend to make my present business a permanent one."
+
+"That's different. What will you do next fall?"
+
+"I may go to school."
+
+Harry Thorne whistled.
+
+"That will be a novelty," he said. "I haven't been to school since I was
+twelve years old."
+
+"Wouldn't you like to go now?"
+
+"No; I'm too old. Are you much of a scholar?"
+
+"I'm a pretty good Latin scholar, and know something of Greek."
+
+"I'll bet there isn't another acrobat in the country that can say that.
+What salary do you get, if you don't mind telling?"
+
+"Twenty-five dollars a week."
+
+"You're in luck. How came Barlow to give you so much?"
+
+"I think he took a liking to me. Perhaps he wanted to pay me for facing
+the lion at Smyrna."
+
+"Were you the boy who did that? I thought your face looked familiar.
+You've got pluck, Kit."
+
+"I hope so; but I'm not sure whether it is I or the snuff that is
+entitled to the most credit."
+
+"Anyhow it took some courage, even if you did have the snuff with you."
+
+"Do you know what is to be our route this season?"
+
+"I think we are going West as far as St. Louis, taking all the larger
+towns and cities on our way. We are to show a week in Chicago. But I
+don't care so much for the cities as the country towns--the one-night
+places."
+
+"Does Mr. Barlow go with us?"
+
+"Not steadily. He drops in on us here and there. There's one thing I
+can say for him--he won't have any man in his employ drink or gamble. We
+have to bind ourselves to total abstinence while we are in his
+employ--that is, till the end of the season. Gambling is the great vice
+of circus men; it is more prevalent even than drinking."
+
+"Don't the men do it on the sly?"
+
+"They run a risk if they do. At the first offense they are fined, at the
+second or third they are bounced."
+
+"That doesn't trouble me any. I neither drink nor gamble."
+
+"Good for you."
+
+"Say, when are you two fellows goin' to stop talkin'?" was heard from a
+neighboring berth. "You don't give a fellow a chance to sleep."
+
+Kit and his new friend took the hint and addressed themselves to
+slumber.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXI.
+
+KIT MEETS A SCHOOLMATE.
+
+
+Kit slept profoundly, being very tired. He was taken by surprise when,
+the next morning, he was shaken into a state of wakefulness, and opening
+his eyes met those of his neighbor Harry Thorne.
+
+"Is it morning?" he asked, in a sleepy tone.
+
+"I should say it was. It is a quarter after nine, and the parade starts
+at ten."
+
+"The parade?"
+
+"Yes; we give a morning parade in every place we visit. If you are not
+on hand to take part in it, you will be fined five dollars."
+
+"I'll be up in a jiffy," said Kit, springing out of his berth. "But
+there's time enough, isn't there?"
+
+"Yes; but not too much. You will want to get some breakfast. By the way,
+are you used to driving?"
+
+"Oh, yes. I have done a good deal of it," answered Kit.
+
+"I thought so, as you are a country boy. How would you like to drive a
+span of horses attached to one of the small chariots?"
+
+Kit was extremely fond of a horse, and he answered promptly, "I'll do
+it."
+
+"There are two. The other is driven by Charlie Davis, once a performer
+but now a ticket man. He is a little older than you."
+
+"All right! I don't see how I came to sleep so late."
+
+"You and Charlie are good matches. Once he went to bed Saturday night,
+and did not wake up till Monday morning."
+
+"That beats my record!"
+
+Kit was dressed in less than ten minutes.
+
+"Where shall I get breakfast?" he asked.
+
+"The regular breakfast is over, and you will have to buy some. There is
+a restaurant just opposite the lot. You might get in with one of the
+cooks, and get something in the cook tent."
+
+"No; I'll go to the restaurant. To-morrow I'll be on hand at the regular
+breakfast."
+
+The restaurant was a small one, with no pretensions to style, but Kit
+was hungry and not particular. At the same table there was a dark
+complexioned boy of about his own size, who had just begun to dispatch a
+beefsteak.
+
+He looked up as Kit seated himself.
+
+"You're the new acrobat, are you not?" asked the other.
+
+"Yes; are you Charlie Davis?"
+
+"Yes; how do you know me?"
+
+"Harry Thorne was speaking of you."
+
+"I see you're one of the late birds as well as I. I generally have to
+buy my breakfast outside. How do you like circus life?"
+
+"I haven't tried it well enough to tell. This is only my second day."
+
+"I went into it at fourteen. I've been an acrobat, too, but I have a
+weak ankle, and have gone into the ticket department."
+
+"Are you going to remain in the circus permanently?"
+
+"No, I'm trying to wean myself from it. A friend has promised to set me
+up in business whenever I get ready to retire. If I kept on, I would be
+no better off at forty than I am now."
+
+"Yet circus people make a good deal of money, I hear."
+
+"Right you are, my boy, but they don't keep it. They get spoiled for
+anything else, and soon or later they are left out in the cold. I've had
+a good deal of fun out of it, for I like traveling, but I'm going to
+give it up."
+
+"I took it up because I had nothing else to do, but I shan't stay in it
+long. I'll tell you about it some day. I hear you drive one of the pony
+chariots."
+
+"Yes."
+
+"I am to drive the other."
+
+"Good! Don't let them run away with you, my boy."
+
+"I'll try not to," said Kit, smiling. "Is there any danger?"
+
+"Not much. They're trained. Are you fond of horses?"
+
+"I like nothing better."
+
+"So it is with me. I'll wait till you are through breakfast, and then
+we'll go over together."
+
+Half an hour later Kit sat on the box of a chariot, drawn by two
+beautiful ponies. The circus line had been formed, and the parade began.
+Behind him was a circus wagon, or rather a cage on wheels, through the
+gratings of which could be seen a tiger, crafty and cruel looking. In
+front was an elephant, with two or three performers on his back. Kit was
+dressed in street costume, his circus dress not being required.
+
+In another part of the procession was Charlie Davis, driving a
+corresponding wagon.
+
+Kit felt a peculiar exhilaration as he drove his ponies, and reflected
+upon the strangeness of his position, as compared with his previous
+experiences. He had from time to time watched circus processions, but
+not in his wildest and most improbable dreams had it ever occurred to
+him to imagine that he would ever himself take part in one. As he looked
+down from his perch he saw the streets lined with the usual curious
+crowd of spectators, among whom boys were largely represented.
+
+"I suppose some of them are envying me," he thought to himself, with a
+smile. "Suppose there was some one who recognized me?"
+
+No sooner had the thought come into his mind, than he heard his own name
+called in a voice indicating amazement.
+
+"Kit Watson, by all that's wonderful!" were the words that fell on his
+ears.
+
+Looking to the right, his glance fell upon Jack Dormer, a schoolmate,
+who had been attending the same academy with him for a year past.
+
+Kit colored, feeling a little embarrassed.
+
+"How are you, Jack?" he said.
+
+"How came you in this circus procession, Kit?"
+
+"I can't tell you now. Come round to the lot, after the parade is over,
+and I'll tell you all about it."
+
+Jack availed himself of the invitation and presented himself at the
+circus grounds.
+
+"What does it all mean, Kit?" he asked. "Have you really and truly
+joined the circus?"
+
+"Come round this afternoon, and you'll see me perform. I am one of the
+Vincenti brothers, acrobats."
+
+"But what put it in your head? That's what I want to know?"
+
+"I thought I would like it better than being a blacksmith."
+
+"But who ever dreamed of your being a blacksmith?"
+
+"My uncle did. I'll tell you all about it."
+
+Kit told his story. Jack Dormer listened with sympathetic interest.
+
+"Do they pay you well?" he asked.
+
+"I get twenty-five dollars a week, and all expenses."
+
+"Can you get me a job?" asked Jack quite overcome by the magnificence of
+the salary.
+
+"As an acrobat, Jack?" asked Kit, laughing, for Jack had the reputation
+of being one of the clumsiest boys in school.
+
+"Well, no, I don't suppose I could do much in that way, but isn't there
+something I could do?"
+
+"Take my advice, Jack, and give it up. You've got a good home, and
+there is no need of your going into any such business even if you were
+qualified."
+
+"Don't you like it?"
+
+"I can't tell yet. Of course it is exciting, but those who have been in
+it a good while advise against it. I may not stay in it more than one
+season."
+
+"Shall I tell the fellows at school where you are?"
+
+"No, I would rather you wouldn't."
+
+"Does your cousin Ralph come back to school?"
+
+"Yes."
+
+"We could spare him a good deal better than you."
+
+"I am not fond of Ralph myself, but the world is wide enough for us
+both."
+
+Kit saw his schoolmate again after the afternoon performance, and
+received many compliments.
+
+"I couldn't believe it was you," he said. "You acted as if you were an
+old hand at the business."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXII.
+
+NEW ACQUAINTANCES.
+
+
+Sunday was of course a day of rest for the circus employees. Most of
+them observed it by lying in bed unusually late. Kit, however, rose in
+good season, and found himself first at breakfast. When the proper time
+arrived, he walked to the village, and selecting the first church he
+came to, entered. He had always been in the habit of attending church,
+and felt that there was no good reason why he should give up the
+practice now that he was away from home.
+
+He stood in the lobby, waiting for the sexton to appear, when a
+fine-looking man of middle age entered the church with a young girl of
+fourteen at his side.
+
+He glanced at Kit with interest, and after a moment's pause walked up to
+him.
+
+"Are you a stranger here?" he asked.
+
+"Yes, sir," answered Kit.
+
+"I shall be glad to have you accept a seat in my pew."
+
+"Thank you, sir," said Kit, politely; "I was waiting for the sexton,
+intending to ask him for a seat."
+
+"I have plenty of room in my pew, having only my daughter with me. Are
+you staying long in the town?"
+
+"Only as long as the circus does," answered Kit.
+
+The gentleman looked surprised.
+
+"Are you connected with the circus?" he asked, quickly.
+
+"Yes, sir."
+
+By this time the young girl was examining Kit with interest and
+attention.
+
+"Is it possible you are a performer?"
+
+"Yes, sir."
+
+"I wouldn't have dreamed it. You look like a young gentleman."
+
+"I hope I am, sir."
+
+"Pardon me, I meant no offense, but you don't at all answer my idea of a
+circus performer."
+
+"I have only been two days with the circus," said Kit; "and that may
+account for my not having a circus look."
+
+"It is time to take our seats. I will speak with you afterwards. First,
+however, let me introduce my daughter, Evelyn Grant."
+
+"I am glad to make your acquaintance, Miss Evelyn," said Kit, removing
+his hat. "My name is Christopher Watson."
+
+Evelyn offered her hand with a smile.
+
+"I had no idea circus young men were so polite," she said.
+
+There was no chance for any further conversation, as they had entered
+the church. Mr. Grant's pew was in a prominent position. He drew back to
+let the two young people enter. They seated themselves at the lower end
+of the pew and Mr. Grant took his seat at the head. Kit noticed that
+several persons in neighboring pews regarded him with apparent
+curiosity.
+
+Kit enjoyed the services, which were of an interesting character. He had
+expected to feel like a stranger, but thanks to the kindness of Mr.
+Grant, he felt quite as much at home as when he sat in his uncle's pew
+at Smyrna.
+
+When the services were over, they filed slowly out of church. A new
+surprise was in store for Kit.
+
+"If you have no engagement we shall be glad to have you dine with us,
+Master Watson," said Mr. Grant.
+
+"You will come, won't you?" said Evelyn, with a smile.
+
+"You are very kind," said Kit, in grateful surprise. "Nothing could be
+more agreeable to me."
+
+Just then a gentleman approached Mr. Grant, and said: "I am glad to see
+you looking so well, Mr. Mayor."
+
+"Is your father the mayor of the city?" asked Kit.
+
+"Yes; he was elected last December."
+
+"I am very fortunate to be invited to dinner by the mayor."
+
+"And by the mayor's daughter. Don't forget that."
+
+"You may be sure I appreciate that, too."
+
+"How funny it seems to me to be walking with a circus performer! What do
+you do? You don't stand upon a horse's back, and jump through hoops, do
+you?"
+
+"No, I can't do that."
+
+"But what do you do?"
+
+"I am an acrobat."
+
+Kit explained to her what he did.
+
+"It must be very hard."
+
+"Oh, no! I learned to do it in a gymnasium, before I ever dreamed of
+being connected with a circus."
+
+"Where was the gymnasium?"
+
+"Attached to Dr. Codman's academy."
+
+"Why, I had a cousin who attended there," said Evelyn, in surprise.
+
+"What was his name?"
+
+"Edward Moore."
+
+"I know him very well. He is a nice fellow."
+
+At this moment Kit, in looking around, was surprised to see the familiar
+face and figure of Mr. Barlow, the circus proprietor, who had evidently,
+like himself, been attending the service. Recognition was mutual.
+
+"I am glad to see you here, Watson," said Mr. Barlow, offering his hand.
+"I always attend church myself when I have an opportunity, but I am
+afraid few in my employ follow my example. I always feel more confidence
+in any young man who seems to enjoy a church service."
+
+Mr. Barlow was a man whose name was widely known, and Kit saw that Mr.
+Grant looked as if he would like to be introduced.
+
+"Mr. Barlow," he said, "allow me to introduce a new friend, Mr. Grant,
+the mayor of the town."
+
+"I am pleased to make your acquaintance, Mr. Mayor," said the showman,
+offering his hand.
+
+"The pleasure is mutual, sir," said the mayor. "I need not say that your
+name has long been familiar to me."
+
+"I am glad you have taken one of my young men under your wing. He is a
+recent acquisition, but I have reason to think well of him."
+
+"He is to dine with us to-day. I shall be glad to extend an invitation
+to you also, Mr. Barlow."
+
+"You are very kind, and but for a previous engagement I would accept
+with pleasure. I shall be glad to see you at my show to-morrow with
+complimentary tickets."
+
+"What a nice old gentleman Mr. Barlow is," said Evelyn, in a low voice.
+
+"I have found him an excellent friend. He won't allow any of us to drink
+or gamble while we are in his employ."
+
+"I hope you wouldn't want to do either, Mr. Watson."
+
+"I have no disposition to do so. But, Miss Evelyn, I want to ask you a
+favor."
+
+"What is it? If it isn't anything very great, I may grant it."
+
+"Don't call me Mr. Watson."
+
+"What shall I call you then?"
+
+"My friends call me Kit."
+
+"That's a nice name. Yes, I'll call you Kit."
+
+It will be seen that the two young people were getting on famously.
+
+"Do you live far away, Miss Evelyn?"
+
+"About a quarter of a mile from here."
+
+In turning the corner of a street, Kit met his friend Harry Thorne,
+walking with Charlie Davis. Both regarded Kit with surprise.
+
+"Kit seems to be getting on," said Charlie. "Do you know who he is
+walking with?"
+
+"No; do you?"
+
+"With the daughter of the mayor."
+
+"How do you know?"
+
+"The gentleman in front was pointed out to me as the mayor. I shouldn't
+wonder if he were going to dine there."
+
+When Kit returned to the circus tents about four o'clock in the
+afternoon, he met with some good-natured raillery which he took in good
+part. He felt that he had passed the day in a much more satisfactory
+manner than if, like the great majority of his companions, he had risen
+late and lounged about the circus grounds, beguiling the time with
+smoking and story telling.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIII.
+
+KIT'S DARING ACT.
+
+
+Kit's acts thus far had been confined to the ring, but now a new one was
+expected from him. Early in the performance a series of flying leaps
+from a springboard, in which all the acrobats took part, was introduced.
+From a point thirty feet back the performer ran swiftly till he reached
+the springboard, from which a leap was made accompanied by a somersault,
+carrying him over a considerable space in advance.
+
+It was the custom to place first one elephant, then a second, and
+finally a third, in front of the springboard. There was only one man who
+could leap over three elephants. The two Vincenti brothers took part
+regularly, but Kit, being a new hand, had thus far been excused. But one
+of the regular performers being temporarily unwell, it was considered
+desirable that his place should be supplied.
+
+"Do you think you can do it?" asked Alonzo Vincenti, somewhat
+doubtfully.
+
+"Yes," answered Kit, confidently.
+
+"It will be sufficient if you jump over one elephant," continued his
+associate. "Then you can drop out."
+
+"I can do better than that," said Kit.
+
+"I don't know about that. My brother can only jump over two."
+
+"You jump over three elephants."
+
+"Yes; but I am the only one who can do it. It takes a good spring to
+clear even two. It won't do to lose your head."
+
+"Can I have a chance to rehearse?"
+
+"Yes, I will speak about it."
+
+"Then I will appear this evening."
+
+"But if you fail you are likely to hurt yourself."
+
+"I know that. That is why I would rather make the first trial in the
+evening. The lights and the crowd will excite and help me."
+
+Kit was not foolhardy in his undertaking, for he had already had some
+practice in similar feats with his old teacher. Besides, he was
+ambitious. In school his ambition had shown itself in his attempt to
+eclipse his schoolfellows in scholarship. In the gymnasium he had ranked
+first, and now that he had joined the circus he didn't like to be
+assigned to a place in the rear.
+
+Let me take the opportunity here to advise my young readers not to
+imitate Kit in essaying dangerous parts. "Be bold, but not too bold!" is
+a very good motto.
+
+During the forenoon Kit found an opportunity to practice in the empty
+tent, in order to settle the question whether he had lost any of his
+old-time skill. The result was satisfactory, and renewed his confidence.
+
+"I can do better before a tent full of spectators than when practicing
+by myself," he decided.
+
+The evening came.
+
+Standing near the ticket seller half an hour before the show began, Kit
+heard his name called.
+
+Turning quickly he saw his friends of the previous day, Mayor Grant and
+his daughter Evelyn.
+
+"Good evening, my boy!" said the mayor cordially. "We have come to see
+what you can do."
+
+"Then I hope I shall do myself credit," said Kit, shaking hands with the
+mayor and his daughter. "Have you engaged seats?"
+
+"Not yet."
+
+"Then let me select them for you."
+
+"With pleasure. I am glad to have a friend at court."
+
+Kit selected seats as near as possible to the ring where he was to
+perform.
+
+"These are splendid seats," said Evelyn. "How soon do you appear?"
+
+"In a few minutes. I shall have to leave you now, but I will be back
+after my first act."
+
+"What a nice boy he is, papa!" said Evelyn.
+
+"Yes; it is a pity he is attached to a circus."
+
+"Why? Isn't it a respectable business?"
+
+"Yes; but there are many temptations connected with it, and most circus
+performers never rise any higher."
+
+Evelyn was not inclined to discuss the question, though there is no
+doubt that she took a more favorable view of the circus profession than
+her father. The procession had just begun to move round the inner ring
+of the circus, including the elephants, the riders, the clowns, and
+performers of all kinds. Kit appeared, as in the public procession,
+driving a span of ponies.
+
+This was the introduction. Then the various parts of the programme
+succeeded. Soon Kit performed his act in the ring. He had a new act
+to-night. Standing on the shoulders of one of the Vincenti brothers, he
+turned a somersault and landed on the shoulders of the other, standing
+six to eight feet away.
+
+"I don't see how he does it, papa," said Evelyn. "He must be very
+smart."
+
+"I see you are determined to make a hero of this young man, Evelyn."
+
+"Don't you admire him yourself, papa?"
+
+"Admire is rather a strong word, daughter. I will admit, however, that I
+like him, and hope he will soon change his business."
+
+After the act was over, Kit came round and received congratulations.
+Evelyn repeated what her father said.
+
+"I agree with you, sir," said Kit, "I haven't selected this as my life
+business, but shall keep my engagement till the end of the season."
+
+"How, on the whole, do you like your new associates? I don't need to be
+told that they are very different from those to whom you are
+accustomed."
+
+"They are very kind to me, and generous to each other when there is
+need. They will divide their last dollar with a friend."
+
+"They often come to their last dollar, don't they?"
+
+"Yes; they can't keep money. They are always in debt when the new season
+opens, no matter how much they brought home with them at the end of the
+last."
+
+"Are there no exceptions?"
+
+"Yes, a few. I have heard of one circus manager who commenced as a candy
+butcher, and now is proprietor of a very fair-sized show. Of course he
+had to save up money or he would never have succeeded so well."
+
+Kit had to cut short his visit, for the new act, already referred to,
+was near at hand.
+
+In the list of leapers Kit came last. First of all, there was a simple
+somersault from the springboard. This was easy. Just after Kit came the
+clown, who, though really a clever acrobat, stopped short when he came
+to the board and merely jumped up and down to the amusement of the young
+spectators.
+
+"He can't jump no more'n I can," said one small boy, contemptuously.
+
+"I shouldn't think they'd let him try," said another.
+
+Both boys were surprised when, in the next trial, where the task was to
+jump over an elephant, the despised clown made a good spring and landed
+fairly on his feet.
+
+"I guess he was afraid before," said the first boy.
+
+"No; he only pretended for fun. Do you see that boy? I wonder if he can
+jump over the elephant."
+
+The question was soon answered. Kit took his turn and sprang with
+apparent ease over the great beast.
+
+Next another elephant was driven in alongside of the first. Again the
+leapers advanced to try their skill. But two held back, not feeling
+competent for the task. The clown once more made a feint of jumping, but
+only jumped up and retired apparently filled with confusion.
+
+Evelyn gazed in intense excitement.
+
+"It must be awfully hard to jump like that, papa," she said.
+
+"I don't think I shall ever try it, Evelyn."
+
+Another elephant was driven alongside the other two, making three in
+all. The other contestants retired, for only Alonzo had succeeded
+hitherto in executing this difficult feat. He expected to be the only
+one now, but noticed with surprise that Kit seemed ready to follow him.
+
+"You don't mean to try it, Kit?" he said, in amazement.
+
+"Why not?"
+
+"You will fail, and if you do, you may hurt yourself seriously."
+
+"I shall not fail," said Kit, confidently.
+
+Alonzo looked anxious, but there was no time to expostulate. He ran
+swiftly to the board, made a vigorous spring, and landed handsomely on
+the bedding which had been provided beyond. He had scarcely stepped
+aside, when, to the astonishment of the other acrobats, Kit gathered
+himself up, ran to the springboard, and exerting himself to the utmost,
+made his leap, and landed a foot ahead of Alonzo.
+
+Then the tent rang with applause, and there were many exclamations of
+astonishment, not only among the spectators, but also among the circus
+performers.
+
+Kit's face flushed with pleasure, and bowing his acknowledgments, he
+withdrew.
+
+"He is certainly a wonderful boy," said the mayor.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIV.
+
+KIT RECEIVES A LETTER.
+
+
+Kit received compliments enough to spoil him, if he had not been
+strong-minded and level-headed boy. Among others Mr. Barlow, who had
+been present and witnessed his daring act, took the opportunity to
+congratulate him.
+
+"You seem to be born for a circus performer, my young friend," he said.
+"You have come to the front at once."
+
+"Thank you, sir," said Kit. "I am glad that I succeeded, but such
+success as that does not satisfy my ambition."
+
+"You mean, perhaps, that you want to jump over four, perhaps five
+elephants?" suggested the manager.
+
+Kit smiled.
+
+"No," he answered; "I don't think I shall venture beyond three. But I
+don't expect to remain in the circus more than this season."
+
+"That is almost a pity, when you are so well qualified to excel in it."
+
+"Mr. Barlow," said Kit, seriously, "if I were a great manager like you,
+I would not mind, but I don't care to go through life as a circus
+performer."
+
+"I don't know but you are right, my boy. In fact I know you are. I
+shouldn't care to be a performer myself."
+
+"I don't think you would excel in that line," said Kit, with a glance
+at the portly form of the well-known showman.
+
+"You wouldn't advise me to try jumping over elephants, I infer," said
+Mr. Barlow, with an amused smile.
+
+"No, sir."
+
+"I will take your advice, my boy. Though your share of worldly
+experience isn't great, you are certainly correct in that. I shall
+relieve the fears of Mrs. Barlow at once by telling her that I have
+decided not to enter the ring."
+
+Kit also received the congratulations of the mayor and Evelyn, but the
+former added: "Though your act was a daring one, I was almost sorry to
+see it."
+
+"Why, sir?"
+
+"I feared it would confirm you in your love of your present business."
+
+"No, sir, there is no danger," replied Kit. "I have a fair education
+already, and prefer to qualify myself for something different."
+
+"I am glad to hear you say so. You are undoubtedly right."
+
+"I must say good-by now," said Kit; "for we get off at midnight."
+
+"Shall you not return this way?"
+
+"No, sir; we are to go West, I hear."
+
+"I hope when the season is over, you will make us a visit. Come and stay
+a week," said the mayor, hospitably.
+
+"Do come," said Evelyn, earnestly.
+
+"How can I thank you for your kindness to a stranger?" said Kit,
+gratefully. "I shall certainly avail myself of your hospitality. There
+are not many who would take such notice of a circus boy."
+
+"You are something more than a circus boy," said the mayor, "or I might
+not have been so drawn to you. Good-by, then, and if you ever need a
+friend, don't forget that you are at liberty to call upon me."
+
+It was a source of regret to Kit that he was obliged to part with
+friends whom in so short a time he had come to value so highly. He
+resolved that he would accept the mayor's offer at the close of the
+season. He would need a friend and adviser, and he felt confident that
+Mayor Grant's counsel would be wise and judicious.
+
+Kit was already asleep in his bunk when the circus train started for the
+next place on the route. When he woke up he was in the town of
+Colebrook. Here a surprise was in store for him in the shape of a letter
+from his uncle. When he saw the familiar handwriting and the postmark
+"Smyrna," he broke the seal with a feeling of curiosity. He did not
+expect to derive either pleasure or satisfaction from the perusal.
+
+We will look over his shoulder while he is reading the letter.
+
+     NEPHEW CHRISTOPHER,--I cannot express to you my surprise and
+     disappointment when I rode over to Oakford to see you, and learned
+     from Mr. Bickford that you had run away from his house and joined
+     the circus. There must be something low and depraved in your
+     tastes, that you should thus abandon the prospect of earning a
+     respectable livelihood, and go tramping through the country with a
+     circus. What do you think your father would say if he could come to
+     life, and become aware of the course you have so rashly taken?
+
+     I should be justified in forcibly removing you from your present
+     associations, and returning you to your worthy employer, Mr. Aaron
+     Bickford, and perhaps it is my duty to do so. But I think it wiser
+     for you to realize for yourself the folly of your course. You have
+     deliberately deserted a good home and a kind guardian and become a
+     tramp, if I may so express myself. I cannot imagine my son Ralph
+     doing such a thing. He is, I hope, too dutiful and too sensible to
+     throw away the advantages which fortune has secured him, to become
+     a mountebank.
+
+     It is very embarrassing to me to answer questions about you. There
+     are some who will be unjust enough, I doubt not, to blame me for
+     your wild course, but I shall be sustained by the consciousness of
+     my entire innocence in the matter. At great expense I have
+     maintained you and paid the cost of your education, giving you
+     privileges and advantages equal to those I have given my own boy. I
+     have done so cheerfully, because you were my nephew, and I am sorry
+     you have made me so poor a return. But I shall look for my reward
+     to my own conscience, and hope you may yet see the folly and
+     wickedness of your course.
+
+     I have only to add that when that time comes you are welcome to
+     return to my roof and protection, and I will intercede with your
+     excellent employer, Mr. Bickford, to take you back and teach you
+     his trade, whereby you may be enabled to earn a more respectable
+     living than you are doing at present. Ralph joins with me in this
+     wish.
+
+                                       Your uncle,
+                                            STEPHEN WATSON.
+
+Kit's lip curled when he read this hypocritical letter, and was tempted
+to despise his uncle more now than ever. He lost no time in sending this
+reply:
+
+     UNCLE STEPHEN,--I have received your letter, and can only express
+     my surprise at the view you take of your treatment of me. Whether
+     my father really left me as destitute as you claim, I am not in a
+     position to say. If you have really gone to personal expense in
+     maintaining and educating me up to this point, I shall, when I am
+     able, reimburse you to the last cent. But I cannot forgive you for
+     your trying to force a boy, reared and educated as I have been, to
+     learn the trade of a blacksmith. You say that I have enjoyed
+     advantages similar to those of your son Ralph. I wish to ask
+     whether you would dream of apprenticing him to any such business.
+
+     You speak of my low associations, and call me a mountebank. In the
+     town I have just left I was the guest of the mayor, and have
+     promised to spend a week at his house on a visit when the circus
+     season is over. Though you have done your best to lower me
+     socially, I am confident that I shall be able to win a good place
+     by my own unaided exertions.
+
+     I have no intention in continuing as a circus performer, though I
+     am very liberally paid. It is too soon for me to decide upon my
+     future course, but you may tell Mr. Bickford he need not wait for
+     me to resume my place in his shop.
+
+     I do not know when I shall see you or Ralph again, but you need
+     have no fear that I shall appeal to your generosity.
+
+                                         Your nephew,
+                                              CHRISTOPHER WATSON.
+
+Stephen Watson read this letter with surprise and chagrin. He was sorry
+to hear that Kit was doing so well, and alarmed at his implied doubt
+whether he had really been left destitute by his father.
+
+"That boy is going to give me trouble," he muttered.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXV.
+
+THE ATTACK ON THE CIRCUS TENT.
+
+
+Four weeks passed, in which Kit continued to acquit himself to the
+satisfaction of the manager. His youth and pleasant face, added to his
+uncommon skill, made him a favorite with the public, and being a boy
+with a love of adventure he enjoyed thoroughly the constant variety of
+circus life and travel.
+
+All circus existence is not sunshine, however. There are communities
+which are always dreaded by circus managers, on account of the rough and
+lawless element which dominates them.
+
+Early one morning Barlow's circus arrived at the mining town of
+Coalville (as we will call it), in Pennsylvania. An afternoon
+performance was given, and passed off smoothly; but in the evening a
+gang of about twenty miners made their appearance, bent on mischief.
+
+Mr. Clark, the manager, sought Mr. Barlow.
+
+"I think we shall have trouble this evening, Mr. Barlow," he said.
+
+"Guard against it, then. What indications have you seen?"
+
+"A gang of twenty miners have just entered the lot. They look ugly."
+
+"Have the canvas men on guard, and summon the razorbacks, if necessary.
+Don't provoke a conflict, but be ready for one."
+
+Mr. Clark hastily made his arrangements as quietly as possible. Near the
+ticket seller lounged a body of men, strong and muscular.
+
+These were the canvas men. Some of them looked as reckless and dangerous
+as the miners, from whom a disturbance was feared.
+
+These canvas men, whose duty it is to set up and take down the tents,
+are, for the most part, a rough set. They are paid from fifteen to
+twenty dollars a month and board. Their accommodations are very poor,
+but as good perhaps as they are accustomed to. They are not averse to a
+scrimmage, and obeyed with alacrity the directions of Mr. Clark.
+
+The body of miners marched in procession to the ticket seller and then
+halted, one serving as spokesman.
+
+"Give us twenty tickets, boss," said the leader.
+
+"Where is your money?" asked the ticket seller, cautiously.
+
+"Never you mind! We're on the free list, ain't we, boys?"
+
+"Yes, we are!" was the chorus from his followers.
+
+"There are no deadheads admitted to the show," said the ticket agent,
+firmly.
+
+"You'll be a deadhead yourself if you ain't careful, young feller!" was
+the retort.
+
+"Keep back, men! There are others waiting for a chance to buy tickets."
+
+"Let 'em wait! Just hand over them tickets, or we'll run over you."
+
+The fellow looked so dangerous that the ticket seller saw there was no
+time to parley.
+
+He raised the well-known circus cry, which is called out in times of
+danger, like a summons to arms,
+
+"Hey, Rube!"
+
+Instantly the canvas men and razorbacks rushed to the rescue, and made
+an impetuous attack on the disorderly crowd of miners. They, too, were
+aching for a fight, and there was a wild scene of battle, in which, as
+in the ancient days, the opposing forces fought hand to hand.
+
+The canvas men were strong, but so were the miners. Their muscles were
+toughened by daily toil, and it looked as if the outsiders might win.
+
+Kit was not of course called upon to take part in the contest, but he
+was unwillingly involved.
+
+One of the miners detached himself from the main body, and creeping
+stealthily to the big tent, whipped out a large knife, and was on the
+point of cutting one of the ropes, his intention being to sever one
+after another till the big tent collapsed. Kit saw his design, and
+rushing forward seized his arm.
+
+"Hold on there!" he cried. "What are you about?"
+
+"Let me alone, and mind your own business!" returned the miner, in a
+hoarse, deep voice.
+
+But Kit saw that it was a critical moment, and that great mischief
+might be done. He looked about him for help, for he was far from able to
+cope with his brawny antagonist. Still he clung to the arm of the
+intruder, and succeeded in delaying his purpose.
+
+"Let go or I'll cut you!" said the miner, savagely.
+
+Then Kit in desperation raised the cry, "Hey, Rube!"
+
+But it hardly seemed likely to bring the needed assistance, for all the
+fighting men were engaged in the battle near the ticket seller.
+
+"That won't do no good, young bantam!" said the ruffian, as he aimed a
+blow at our hero.
+
+Kit's career would in all probability have been cut short, but for the
+timely arrival of Achilles Henderson. The giant had heard the boy's
+warning cry, and being near at hand, rushed to his aid. His arrival was
+most opportune. He seized the miner in his powerful grasp, and the
+ruffian, strong and muscular as he was, was like a child in his clutch.
+His knife fell from his hand, as he was shaken like a reed by the giant.
+
+"Secure the knife, Kit!" cried Achilles.
+
+Kit needed no second bidding. He stooped swiftly and took up the weapon.
+
+But Achilles was needed in another direction.
+
+The contest between the miners and the canvas men still raged fiercely
+near the ticket stand. It looked as if the intruders would conquer. From
+the ranks of the defenders rose a wild and desperate cry, "Hey, Rube!"
+
+Achilles heard it.
+
+"Come, Kit!" he said. "We are wanted."
+
+He hurled the miner in his grasp to the ground with such force that the
+man lay senseless; then he rushed with all the speed which his long
+limbs enabled him to attain to the scene of the conflict.
+
+Here again he was none too soon. The leader of the miners, who had been
+the first spokesman and aggressor, was armed with a powerful club with
+which he was preparing to deal the ticket seller a terrible and possibly
+fatal blow, when Achilles rushed into the _melee_ like a hurricane. He
+snatched the club from the hands of the ruffian, and dealt about
+unsparingly.
+
+The ringleader was the first to fall. Next Achilles attacked the rest of
+the brutal gang, till half a dozen men with broken heads lay upon the
+ground. The attacking force were completely demoralized, and in dismay
+fled from the field.
+
+The ticket seller breathed a sigh of relief.
+
+"I thought I was done for, Mr. Henderson," he said, when the giant
+returned flushed with his exertions. "You are equal to half a dozen
+men."
+
+"I haven't had so much exercise in a long time," said Achilles, panting.
+"Kit, where is the knife that scalawag was going to cut the rope with?"
+
+"Here it is, Mr. Henderson."
+
+"I will keep it in remembrance of this little adventure. Perhaps I had
+better go and look after the original owner."
+
+He met the ruffian limping like one disabled. His look was sullen and
+menacing.
+
+"Give me my knife," he growled.
+
+"I couldn't think of it, my man!" said Achilles blandly. "Evidently you
+are not old enough to be trusted with a knife."
+
+"I'd like to thrash you!" growled the miner again.
+
+"I've no doubt of it, my friend; your intentions are good, but can't be
+carried out. And now I have a word to say," he continued, sternly. "Just
+get out of the lot as fast as your legs can carry you, or I'll serve you
+worse than I did before."
+
+The ruffian looked toward the ticket stand. He saw several of his
+friends limping away like himself, looking like whipped curs, and he saw
+that there was no choice for him but to obey. With a muttered oath and a
+sullen scowl, he left the grounds.
+
+"Kit," said the giant, "it won't do for me to exercise like this every
+day. I shall need a second supper."
+
+"You are certainly entitled to one, Mr. Henderson," replied our hero.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVI.
+
+KIT IS MADE A PRISONER.
+
+
+It had been a day of exciting adventure, but so far as Kit was concerned
+the end was not yet. He performed as usual, but as his second act was
+over at quarter past nine, he thought, being fatigued, that he would not
+wait until the close, but go at once to the circus car in which he had a
+berth, and go to bed.
+
+He crossed the lot, and emerged into the street.
+
+It was moderately dark, there being no moon, and only the light of a few
+stars to relieve the gloom.
+
+Kit had not taken a dozen steps from the lot when two stout men
+approached him, both evidently miners.
+
+"That's the kid that prevented my cutting the rope," he heard one say.
+
+"Is he? I saw him with the giant."
+
+"I mean to settle his hash for him," said the first.
+
+Kit saw that he was in danger, and turned to run back to his friends.
+But it was too late! The first speaker laid a strong arm upon his
+shoulder, and his boyish strength was not able to overcome it.
+
+"Don't be in such a hurry, kid," said his captor.
+
+"Let me go," cried Kit.
+
+"You belong to the circus, don't you?"
+
+"Yes."
+
+"What do you do?"
+
+"I am an acrobat."
+
+"What's that?"
+
+"I leap and turn somersaults, and so on."
+
+"Yes, I know. Do you remember me?"
+
+"I might if it were lighter."
+
+The man lit a match and held it close to his face.
+
+"Do you know me now?"
+
+"Yes."
+
+"Who am I?"
+
+"You are the man who tried to cut the ropes of the tent."
+
+"Right you are. I would have succeeded but for you."
+
+"I suppose you would."
+
+"Did you call that giant to pitch into me?"
+
+"No; I didn't know he was near."
+
+"He treated me like a brute," said the man, wrathfully. "My limbs are
+aching now from the fall he gave me."
+
+Kit did not answer.
+
+"I'd like to give him a broken head, as he gave some of my friends.
+Where is he?"
+
+"I suppose he is somewhere in the lot. I'll go and call him, if you want
+me to."
+
+"That's too thin! Now I've got you I won't let you off so easy."
+
+"What do you intend to do?" asked Kit becoming alarmed.
+
+"To give you a lesson."
+
+Kit did not ask what kind of a lesson was meant, but he feared it
+included bodily injury. Then at least, if never before, he wished
+himself back at his uncle's house in Smyrna, uncongenial as it was
+otherwise.
+
+The first speaker spoke in a low voice to the second. Kit did not hear
+the words, but judged what they were from what followed.
+
+The two men placed him beside them, and he was sternly ordered to move
+on.
+
+They kept the road for perhaps half a mile, then turned off into a
+narrow lane which appeared to ascend a hill. Finally they stopped in
+front of a dark cabin, of one story, which seemed to be unoccupied. The
+outer door was fastened by a bolt.
+
+One of the men drew out a bolt, and threw open the door. A dark interior
+was revealed. One of the men lit a match, throwing a fitful light upon
+an empty room. At one end of the apartment was a ring, fixed in a beam,
+and in the corner was a stout rope.
+
+"That will do," said the first speaker.
+
+He took the rope, secured one end of it to the ring, and then tied Kit
+firmly with the balance. It was long enough to allow of his lying down.
+
+"Now," said the first man grimly, "I reckon the kid will be safe here
+till to-morrow."
+
+They prepared to leave the cabin.
+
+"Are you going to leave me here?" asked Kit, in dismay.
+
+"Yes."
+
+"What good will it do you?"
+
+"You'll see--to-morrow."
+
+Kit had ten dollars in his pocket, and he thought of offering it in
+return for his freedom, but it occurred to him fortunately that his
+captors would deprive him of it, as it was quite within their power to
+do, and not compensate him in any way. He understood by this time the
+character of the men into whose hands he had fallen, and he thought it
+prudent to remain silent.
+
+As the first captor stood with the door open, while just on the point of
+leaving, he said grimly, "How do you like it, kid?"
+
+"Not at all," answered Kit.
+
+"If you beg my pardon for what you did, I might let you go."
+
+Kit did not believe this, and he had no intention of humiliating himself
+for nothing.
+
+"I only did my duty," he said. "I have nothing to ask pardon for."
+
+"You may change your mind--to-morrow!"
+
+Another ominous reference to to-morrow. Evidently he was only deferring
+his vengeance, and intended to wreak it on his young prisoner the next
+day.
+
+It was not a comforting thought, nor was it calculated to sooth Kit,
+weary as he was, to sleep.
+
+The door was closed, and Kit heard the sliding of the bolt on the
+outside. He was a prisoner, securely enough, and with small chance of
+rescue.
+
+Now, though Kit is my hero, I do not mean to represent him as above
+human weakness, and I won't pretend that he didn't feel anxious and
+disturbed. His prospects seemed very dark. He could not hope for mercy
+from the brutal men who had captured him. As they could not get hold of
+the giant they would undoubtedly seek to make him expiate the offenses
+of Achilles Henderson as well as his own.
+
+"If only Mr. Henderson knew where I was," he said to himself, "I should
+soon be free."
+
+But there seemed little hope of this. He had not told any one that he
+intended to retire to the circus cars earlier than usual. The chances
+were that he would not be missed till the circus company had reached the
+next town on their route, ten miles away. Then there would be no clew to
+his whereabouts, and even if there were he might be killed before any
+help could come to him. So far as he had been able to observe, the
+miners were--a portion of them, at least--a lawless set of men, who were
+not likely to be influenced by considerations of pity or ordinary
+humanity.
+
+Kit had been very religiously brought up during his father's life, at
+least, and he had not lost his faith in an overruling Providence. So in
+this great peril it was natural for him to pray to God for deliverance
+from danger. When his prayer was concluded, he felt easier, and in spite
+of his disagreeable surroundings he managed to fall asleep.
+
+Meanwhile the circus performance terminated, and preparations were
+commenced for the journey to the next town. The canvas men swarmed
+around the tents and swiftly took them down and conveyed them to the
+freight cars, where they assisted the razorbacks to pack them in small
+compass.
+
+Harry Thorne, who had his berth next to Kit, turned in rather late. He
+looked into Kit's bed, and to his surprise found it unoccupied.
+
+"What can have become of the boy?" he asked himself.
+
+He went outside, and espying Achilles Henderson, he said: "Have you seen
+anything of Kit Watson?"
+
+"Isn't he in his berth?" asked Mr. Henderson, surprised.
+
+"No."
+
+Inquiry developed the fact that Kit had not been seen by any one since
+the conclusion of his act.
+
+"I am afraid the boy has come to harm," said Achilles. "This is a rough
+place, and there are plenty of tough characters about, as our experience
+this afternoon showed."
+
+"What shall we do? The cars will soon be starting, and we must leave him
+behind."
+
+"If he doesn't show up before that time, I will stay behind and hunt him
+up. He is too good a boy to be left to his fate."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVII.
+
+A MINER'S CABIN.
+
+
+Kit's principal captor was known as Dick Hayden. He was an Englishman,
+and a leader in every kind of mischief. If there was any disturbance
+between the miners and their employers, he was generally found to be at
+the bottom of it. A naturally quarrelsome disposition was intensified by
+intemperance. In the attack upon the circus tents he found himself in
+his element. His ignominious defeat made him ugly and revengeful.
+
+His wife was dead, but he had one child, Janet, a girl of thirteen, who
+cooked for him and took care of his cabin. The poor girl had a hard time
+of it, but she endeavored so far as possible to avoid trouble with her
+brutal parent.
+
+It was near ten o'clock when Hayden came home after locking Kit in the
+deserted cabin. He had gone away without supper, but late as it was,
+Janet had something hot ready for him on the stove.
+
+"Well, Janet, child, have you my supper ready?" he said, not
+unpleasantly, for his victory over Kit and the meditated revenge of the
+next day had put him in good humor.
+
+"Yes, father; it's on the stove and ready to dish up."
+
+"Lay the table, then, for I'm main tired and hungry."
+
+The little girl quickly spread the cloth, and Dick Hayden ate like a
+voracious animal.
+
+When supper was over he sat back in his chair and lit a pipe. A
+comfortable supper made him loquacious.
+
+"Well, Janet, you don't ask where I've been."
+
+"Was it to the circus, father?"
+
+"Yes."
+
+"How did you like the show?"
+
+"I didn't see it," he growled, a frown gathering upon his brow.
+
+"And why not, father?"
+
+"Because we had a fight to get in free, and got the worst of it."
+
+"They must be main strong, then, those circus men."
+
+"Strong!" repeated Hayden, scornfully. "Well, mayhap they are, but we'd
+have bested them but for the giant."
+
+"The giant! Is it the big man I saw in the parade?"
+
+"Yes; he's as strong as three men. He flung me down as easily as I'd
+throw a boy."
+
+"Then he must have been strong, for you're a powerful man, father."
+
+"There isn't a man as works in the mine'll compare with me, lass," said
+Hayden, proudly; "but all the same I'm no match for a monster."
+
+"Tell me about it, father," said Janet, with natural curiosity.
+
+Dick Hayden went on to describe the fight around the ticket stand, and
+how he had slipped away, intending to cut the ropes of the tent and let
+it down on the heads of the spectators gathered inside.
+
+"I'd have done it, too," he added, "but for a kid."
+
+"I thought just now you said it was the giant."
+
+"And I stick to it, lass; but this boy saw what I was doing, and brought
+the giant to the spot. I could do nothing after that. He threw me down,
+so that for a few minutes I was stunned."
+
+"And how did the fight come out at the ticket stand, father?"
+
+"Our men had almost overpowered the circus men, when the giant rushed
+into the midst, and, seizing a club from Bob Stubbs, laid about him,
+till half a dozen of our strongest men lay on the ground with broken
+heads."
+
+What puzzled Janet was, that her father should have come home in such
+good humor after so disastrous a defeat. It was contrary to her
+experience of him. She would naturally have expected that he would be
+surly and quarrelsome. The mystery was soon made clear.
+
+"But we've got even with them!" chuckled Hayden directly after.
+
+"How is that, father?"
+
+"We caught the kid."
+
+"You have?"
+
+"Yes; he was goin' to the circus cars to turn in when Stubbs and I
+caught him."
+
+"You--you didn't kill him, father?" asked Janet in alarm.
+
+"No, not yet."
+
+"Where is he?"
+
+"Do you mind the deserted cabin on Knob Hill?"
+
+"Yes, father."
+
+"He's locked up in that, tied hand and foot."
+
+"How long do you mean to keep him there?" asked Janet, anxiously.
+
+"Till to-morrow, and then----" Dick paused ominously.
+
+"Well, and then?"
+
+"He'll be lucky if he gets off with a whole skin," growled her father.
+"But for him I'd have brought down the tent about the ears of the people
+that sat inside, and we'd have had a fine revenge on the showmen."
+
+"You don't mean to kill the boy, do you, father?"
+
+"What is it to you, lass? You'd best mind your own business. You've got
+nothing to do with it."
+
+"How does the boy look? Was it the one that drove the first chariot,
+father?"
+
+"Like enough, lass! Did you see him?"
+
+"Yes; I saw the parade. Everybody was out in the streets then."
+
+"And you took partic'lar notice of the boy? That's like a lass,"
+chuckled Hayden.
+
+"But it was his duty, father, to stand by the show, seein' he belongs to
+it."
+
+"I don't trouble myself about that. He brought that monster on me, and
+I'm sore yet with the fall he gave me. I'll take it out of the kid."
+
+"But it seems to me, father, it would be better to lay for the giant."
+
+"What folly is that, lass? I'd be main glad to give the giant a dose of
+what he gave me, but he'll leave town to-night, and I ain't big enough
+to tackle him, even if I had the chance. So I'll revenge myself on his
+friend, the boy. The kid may be his son, for aught I know."
+
+"And what will you do for him, father?" asked Janet, pertinaciously.
+"You won't kill him?"
+
+"Well, I won't go so far as that, for I've no mind to put my neck in a
+noose, but I'll flog him within an inch of his life. I'll teach him to
+mind his own business for the future."
+
+Janet knew her father's strength and brutality, and she shuddered at the
+idea of the boy being exposed to it. She knew very well it would be of
+no use to make a protest. She would only get herself into trouble. Yet
+she couldn't reconcile herself to the thought of poor Kit being cruelly
+punished. She asked herself what she could do to prevent it.
+
+There was one thing in favor of a rescue. She knew where Kit was
+confined. If it were not so late she would steal out, and going to the
+cabin relieve him from captivity. But it was too late, and too dark for
+that. Besides, she could not leave her father's cabin without
+observation.
+
+"I will wait till to-morrow morning," she said to herself.
+
+It so chanced that on account of some slight repairs the mine in which
+her father was employed was shut down for a few days. This was
+favorable, for he would lie in bed till eight o'clock at least, and
+there would be a chance to get out without observation.
+
+The next morning, about five o'clock, Janet rose from her bed, hastily
+dressed herself, and crept to the door of her father's chamber. He was
+sound asleep, and breathing heavily. There was small chance of his
+awakening before seven o'clock.
+
+Janet took a little meat and bread in a tin pail, for she thought the
+captive might be in need of breakfast, and then, putting a sharp knife
+in her pocket to cut the ropes that bound him, she left the house and
+took her way over the hill to the deserted cabin which served as Kit's
+prison.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVIII.
+
+KIT RESCUED BY A GIRL.
+
+
+Kit had succeeded in getting a little sleep during the night, but his
+position was necessarily constrained and he was but very slightly
+refreshed. Moreover he was a prey to anxiety, for he did not know what
+fate awaited him on the succeeding day.
+
+At four o'clock in the morning a little light found its way into the
+cabin through a small window at the rear. The other windows were boarded
+up.
+
+Kit, appreciating the desirability of escaping before a visit should be
+made him by his captors, tried hard to work himself out of his bonds,
+but only succeeded in confining himself more closely than before.
+
+"What will they do to me?" he asked himself anxiously.
+
+He had heard from some of the circus men accounts of the roughness and
+brutality of the miners, or at least of a certain class of them, for
+some were quiet and peaceable men, and he knew that there was no extreme
+of which they were not capable. Life is sweet, and to a boy of sixteen,
+in good health and strength, it is especially dear. Suppose he should
+lose his life in this region? Probably none of his friends would ever
+learn what had become of him, and his uncle and cousin would not
+scruple to spread rumors to his discredit.
+
+It was certainly tantalizing that he should be tied hand and foot,
+utterly unable to help himself.
+
+More and more light crept in at the window, and there was every
+indication of its being a glorious day. But this prospect brought no
+pleasure to poor Kit.
+
+"Before this time the circus people must have found out my absence," he
+thought. "Will they take the trouble to look for me?"
+
+Kit was on good terms with his comrades, indeed he was popular with them
+all, as a bright boy is apt to be, and he did not like to think that no
+effort would be made to find him. Still, as he could not help owning to
+himself, they had no clew that was likely to lead to success. He had
+given no one notice where he was going, and his capture was not likely
+to have been observed by any one.
+
+While he was indulging in these sorrowful reflections, his attention was
+drawn to a noise at the window.
+
+"They can't have come back so early," he said to himself in surprise.
+
+He twisted himself round to catch a glimpse, if possible, of the early
+visitor, and to his delight, he caught a partial view of Janet's dress.
+Suppose she should prove a deliverer, he said to himself with beating
+heart.
+
+The visitor, whoever it was, was evidently trying to peer into the
+cabin. Kit was so placed in a corner as to be almost out of sight in the
+dark interior. He felt that he must attract attention.
+
+"Hallo, there!" he cried in a loud clear voice.
+
+"He's there!" thought Janet, "just as father said."
+
+"Let me out!" cried Kit, eagerly. "Draw out the bolt, and open the
+door!"
+
+"Will she do it, or will she be frightened away?" he asked himself, with
+his heart filled with suspense.
+
+He did not have long to wait for an answer, and a favorable one. He
+heard the bolt withdrawn, then the door was opened, and the girl's face
+appeared. Janet Hayden was small, not especially pretty, and rather
+old-fashioned in looks, but to poor Kit she seemed like an angel.
+
+"Are you the circus boy?" she asked timidly.
+
+"Yes; I am tied here. Have you got a knife to cut this rope?"
+
+"Yes; I brought one with me."
+
+"Then you knew I was here?" Kit asked in surprise.
+
+"Yes; it was my father that locked you up here--my father and another
+man."
+
+"Will you cut the rope and let me go, then?"
+
+"Yes; that is what I came for."
+
+The little maid went up to the captive, bent over, and with considerable
+sawing, for the knife she had with her was a dull case knife, succeeded
+in severing the rope, and Kit was able to rise and stand upon his feet.
+It was a perfect luxury to feel himself once more free and unshackled.
+
+"I'm very much obliged to you," he said, gratefully. "You can't imagine
+how stiff I am."
+
+"I should think you would be," said Janet, sympathetically.
+
+"When did your father tell you that I was here?"
+
+"After he got home last night. It was after he had eaten his supper."
+
+"And where is he now?"
+
+"At home and asleep."
+
+"Does he get up early?" asked Kit, in some anxiety.
+
+"Yes, when he is at work; but the mine is shut down for a few days, so
+he lies abed longer."
+
+"Did he say anything about coming here to-day?"
+
+"Yes, he meant to come--he and the other man--and I was afraid he would
+do you some harm."
+
+"He would have done so, I am sure," said Kit, shuddering. "I don't see
+how such a rough father should have so good a daughter."
+
+Janet blushed, and seemed pleased with the compliment.
+
+"I think I take after my mother," she said.
+
+"Is your mother alive?"
+
+"No, she died two years ago," answered Janet, sorrowfully. "She was
+Scotch, and that is why I am called by a Scotch name."
+
+"What is your name, if you don't mind telling me?"
+
+"Janet. I am Janet Hayden."
+
+"I shall always remember it, for you have done me a great service."
+
+"What is your name?" asked Janet, feeling less timid than at first.
+
+"Kit Watson."
+
+"That is a funny name--Kit, I mean."
+
+"My right name is Christopher, but my friends call me Kit. Can you
+direct me to the next town--Groveton, where the circus shows to-day."
+
+"Yes, if you will come outside, I will point out which way it is."
+
+Kit emerged from the cabin, nothing loath, and Janet pointed in a
+westerly direction.
+
+"You go over the hill," she said, "and you will come to a road. You will
+know it, for near the stile there is a red house."
+
+"Thank you. How far is it to the next town?"
+
+"Eight miles, I believe."
+
+"That would be a long walk. Do you think I could get any one to take me
+over in a wagon?"
+
+"I think the man who lives in the red house, Mr. Stover, would take you
+over, if you pay him."
+
+"I shall be glad to pay him, and----" Kit paused, for he felt rather
+delicate about offering any money to Janet, though he knew she had
+rendered him most valuable service. "Will you let me offer you a little
+present?"
+
+He took a five dollar bill from his pocket, and offered it to Janet.
+
+"What is that?" she asked.
+
+"It is a five dollar bill."
+
+"You must be rich," she said, for this seemed to her a great deal of
+money.
+
+"Oh, no! but will you take it?"
+
+"No," answered Janet, shrinking back, "I didn't come here for money."
+
+"I am sure you didn't, but I should like to give you something."
+
+"No, I would rather not. Besides, if father knew I had money, he would
+suspect something, and beat me."
+
+"Like the brute that he is," thought Kit.
+
+"But I must go at once, for he may wake up and miss me. Good-by!"
+
+"Good-by!" said Kit.
+
+He had no time to say more, for the child was already hurrying down the
+hill.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIX.
+
+JANET MEETS THE GIANT.
+
+
+Janet took her way homewards, hurrying with quick feet, lest her father
+should wake up before she arrived. But she had taken so early a start
+that she found him still sleeping soundly. She instantly began to make
+preparations for breakfast.
+
+By the time it was on the table her father woke up and yawned. With his
+waking there came the thought of his young circus captive, and the
+vengeance he intended to wreak upon him. This pleasant idea roused him
+completely, and he dressed himself briskly.
+
+"Is breakfast ready, Janet?" he asked.
+
+"Yes, father."
+
+"What time is it?"
+
+"Seven o'clock," answered Janet, looking at the clock over the mantel.
+
+"I am expecting Bob Stubbs here this morning. Have you got enough for
+him?"
+
+"I think so, father," replied Janet. She did not speak with alacrity,
+for Mr. Stubbs was no favorite of hers.
+
+At that moment a step was heard at the door, and the gentleman spoken of
+made his appearance.
+
+"You're late, Dick," said Stubbs, rubbing his bristling chin.
+
+"Yes, I got tired out yesterday. When the mine's shut down I like to
+take my time. Have you had breakfast, Bob?"
+
+"Ye-es," answered Stubbs hesitating, as he glanced at the neatly spread
+table, with the eggs and bacon on the center dish.
+
+"Never mind! You can eat some more. Put a chair for him, Janet."
+
+"This lass of yours is growing pretty," said Stubbs, with a glance of
+admiration.
+
+"There's a compliment for you, lass!" said the father.
+
+Janet, however, did not appear to appreciate it, and continued to look
+grave.
+
+"Wonder how the kid's getting along," said Bob Stubbs, with his mouth
+full of bacon.
+
+"I reckon he's hungry," said Dick Hayden, in a voice of satisfaction.
+
+"Have you left him without anything to eat, father?" asked Janet.
+
+"Yes."
+
+"The poor fellow will be starved."
+
+"And serves him right, too. There ain't no call to pity him."
+
+"Why won't you take him some breakfast if you're going round there? I
+will put some up in a tin pail."
+
+"What do you say to that, Bob, hey?" said Hayden.
+
+"It's natural for the gal to pity him. He's a nice lookin' chap enough."
+
+"He's nicer looking than he will be when we get through with him, eh,
+Bob?"
+
+"That's so, Dick."
+
+As Janet listened to this conversation, her heart revolted against the
+brutality conveyed by the words. She felt dissatisfied to think that her
+own father was such a man. She could not well feel an affection for
+him, remembering how ill he had treated her gentle mother, who, as she
+knew, would be living to-day had she been wedded to a better husband.
+
+The two men did not linger long at the table. They were accustomed to
+swallow their food rapidly, in order to get to the scene of their daily
+labor on time. So in twenty minutes they rose from the table, and
+putting on their hats left the cabin.
+
+As they departed Janet breathed a sigh of relief, and congratulated
+herself that she had released the poor boy, and so saved him from the
+brutal treatment he was likely to receive at the hands of the two
+miners.
+
+"He will have had plenty of time to get away before father and Mr.
+Stubbs reach the cabin," she said to herself.
+
+Janet washed the dishes, and then, having an errand at the store, put on
+her hat and left the cabin. She did not trouble herself to lock the
+door, for there was nothing in the place likely to excite the cupidity
+of any dishonest person.
+
+Janet had accomplished a part of the distance when she saw approaching
+her a figure that at once attracted her earnest attention.
+
+The reason will be readily understood when I say that it was Achilles
+Henderson, the circus giant.
+
+Mr. Henderson had been exploring the neighborhood in the hope of finding
+some trace of Kit, but thus far had been unsuccessful. He was very much
+perplexed, having absolutely no clew, and was thinking of starting for
+Groveton, where the circus was billed to appear that evening. He was
+walking in an undecided way, and never thought of noticing the little
+girl who stood staring at him. Indeed he was so used to being stared at
+that he took it as a matter of course, and did not think of giving the
+curious gazer a second glance.
+
+But his attention was called by a low, half frightened voice.
+
+"Mr. Giant!"
+
+"Well, little girl, what do you want?" he asked.
+
+"Are you looking for anybody?" asked Janet, first glancing carefully
+around, to make sure that she was not likely to be overheard.
+
+"Yes," answered Achilles, quickly. "I am looking for a boy."
+
+"A circus boy?"
+
+"Yes; do you know where he is?"
+
+"Come nearer! I don't want anybody to hear what I say."
+
+"All right, my little maid! Is the boy alive and well?"
+
+"Yes, he was two hours ago."
+
+"Where is he?"
+
+"I don't know where he is now."
+
+Achilles looked disappointed.
+
+"Tell me all you know," he said.
+
+"My father and Bob Stubbs took him last night, and shut him up in a
+lonely cabin on the hill."
+
+"Where is the cabin?"
+
+"He isn't there now. I let him out."
+
+"Good for you, little girl! You're a trump. You're a great deal better
+than your father. Do you know where the boy went?"
+
+"I will tell you where I told him to go."
+
+"Where is your father now? Is he at work?"
+
+"No; the mine is shut down."
+
+"How did you know that the boy was in the cabin?"
+
+"I heard father tell where he was last night, when he was at supper. So
+I got up very early, and stole out to release him, for I was afraid
+father might kill him. He said he meant to punish him for what you did.
+He said he would rather get at you."
+
+"He's quite welcome to, if he wants to," answered Achilles, grimly. "On
+the whole I wouldn't advise him to tackle me."
+
+"He thought you had gone on with the circus."
+
+"I should have done so if I hadn't missed Kit."
+
+"Yes; he told me his name was Kit."
+
+"Was he tied?"
+
+"Yes; I took a knife with me and cut the ropes."
+
+"The poor fellow must have passed an uncomfortable night."
+
+"Yes, he said so."
+
+"He must have been very glad to see you."
+
+"Yes, he was. I am only afraid of one thing."
+
+"What is that?"
+
+"Father and the other man left the house more than half an hour ago to
+go to the cabin. When they find him gone, they will be very angry."
+
+"Like as not."
+
+"And I think they will try to find him."
+
+"Very true; I wish I knew where he was. They wouldn't dare to attack him
+in my company."
+
+"No, Mr. Giant. You must be very strong."
+
+"I think I would be a match for them."
+
+Achilles questioned Janet minutely as to the advice she had given Kit.
+
+"I might follow the boy," he said to himself, "at a guess, but there's
+only half a chance of my hitting right. Where is the cabin?" he asked,
+suddenly.
+
+Janet pointed in the proper direction.
+
+"I know what I'll do," he said, with sudden decision. "I'll follow your
+father and the other man. All the danger to Kit is likely to come from
+them. If I can get track of them, I can make sure that no mischief will
+be done."
+
+Achilles Henderson then stepped over a fence which an ordinary man would
+have had to climb, and made his way to the deserted cabin.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXX.
+
+DICK HAYDEN FINDS THE BIRD FLOWN.
+
+
+Half an hour previously Dick Hayden and his congenial friend, Bob
+Stubbs, reached the cabin. They had much pleasant and jocose
+conversation on the way touching their young captive, and how he had
+probably passed the night. They had personal injuries to avenge, and
+though Achilles was responsible for them, they proposed to wreak
+vengeance on the boy whom a luckless fate had thrown into their hands.
+
+"My shoulders are sore yet," said Hayden, "over the fall that big brute
+gave me."
+
+"And my head hasn't got over the crack I got when he laid me flat with
+his club," responded Stubbs.
+
+"Well, we've got a friend of his, that's one comfort. I'm going to take
+it out of the kid's hide."
+
+"You don't mean to--do for him?" said Stubbs, cautiously.
+
+"I don't mean to kill him, if that's what you mean, Stubbs. I have too
+much regard for my neck, but I mean to give him a sound flogging. You
+ain't afraid, be you?"
+
+"Catch Bob Stubbs afraid of anything, except the hangman's rope! I don't
+mind telling you that I have reasons to be afraid of that."
+
+"Why? You've never been hung, have you?"
+
+"No; but an uncle of mine was strung up in England."
+
+"What for?"
+
+"He got into trouble with a fellow workman and stabbed him."
+
+"He was in bad luck. Why didn't he cut it, and come to America?"
+
+"He tried it, but the bobbies caught him in the steerage of an ocean
+steamer, and then it was all up with him."
+
+"Well, I hope his nephew will come to a better end. But here we are at
+the cabin."
+
+There was nothing in the outward appearance of the hut to indicate that
+the bird was flown. Janet bolted the door after releasing the prisoner,
+and no one could judge that it had been opened.
+
+"All is safe," said Bob Stubbs.
+
+"Of course it is! Why shouldn't it be?"
+
+"No reason; but some of his friends might have found him."
+
+"All his friends are at Groveton. Then they had no idea what we did with
+him."
+
+"They must have found out that he was gone."
+
+"They couldn't find him, so that would do him no good."
+
+Stubbs was about to draw the bolt, but Hayden stayed his hand.
+
+"Wait a minute, Bob," he said; "I'll look in at the window, and see what
+he is doing."
+
+Dick Hayden went around to the rear of the building, and flattened his
+face against the pane in the effort to see the corner where the captive
+had been tied. He could not see very distinctly, but what he did see
+startled him.
+
+He could perceive no one.
+
+"Could the boy have loosened the rope?" he asked himself hurriedly.
+
+Even in that case, as the window was nailed so that it could not be
+opened, and the door was bolted, there seemed no way of escape. His eyes
+eagerly explored other portions of the cabin, but he could not catch a
+glimpse of Kit.
+
+He rushed round to the front, and in an excitement which Stubbs could
+not understand, pulled the bolt back with a jerk.
+
+"What's the matter, Dick?" asked Stubbs, staring.
+
+Dick Hayden did not answer, but threw open the door.
+
+He strode in, and peeped here and there.
+
+"The boy's gone!" he said hoarsely, to Stubbs, who followed close
+behind.
+
+"Gone!" echoed Stubbs, in blank amazement. "How did he get away?"
+
+"That's the question," responded Dick, growling.
+
+"Well, I'm--flabbergasted! There's witchery here!"
+
+Dick Hayden bent over and picked up the pieces of rope which lay in the
+corner where the prisoner had been placed. He examined the ends, and
+said briefly, turning to Stubbs: "They've been cut!"
+
+"So they have, Dick. Who in natur' could have done it? Perhaps the kid
+did it himself. Might have had a knife in his pocket."
+
+"Don't be a fool, Stubbs! Supposin' he'd done it, how was he goin' to
+get out?"
+
+"That's what beats me!"
+
+"Somebody must have let him out."
+
+"Do you think it's his circus friends?"
+
+"No; they're all in Groveton. Somebody must have been passin' and heard
+the boy holler, and let him out."
+
+"What are you goin' to do about it, Dick?"
+
+"Goin' to sit down and take a smoke. It may give me an idea."
+
+It will be noticed that of these two, Dick Hayden, as the bolder and
+stronger spirit, was the leader, and Bob Stubbs the subservient
+follower. Stubbs was no less brutal, when occasion served, but he was
+not self reliant. He wanted some one to lead the way, and he was willing
+to follow.
+
+The two men sat down beside the cabin, and lit their pipes. Nothing was
+said for a time. Dick seemed disinclined to conversation, and Stubbs was
+always disposed to be silent when enjoying a smoke.
+
+The smoke continued for twenty minutes or more.
+
+Finally Dick withdrew the pipe from his mouth.
+
+"Well, Dick, what do you think about it? What shall we do?" inquired his
+friend.
+
+"I am going to foller the kid."
+
+"But you don't know where he's gone," replied Stubbs.
+
+"No; but I may strike his track. Are you with me?"
+
+"Of course I am."
+
+"Then listen to me. The one that let the boy out knows the neighborhood.
+The boy would naturally want to go to Groveton, and likely he would be
+directed to Stover. If the kid had any money, he would ask Stover to
+drive him over, or else he would foot it."
+
+"You're right, Dick. That's what he'd do," said Stubbs, admiring his
+companion's penetration.
+
+"Then we must go over to Stover's."
+
+"All right! I'm with you."
+
+"I'm a poor man, Bob, but I'd give a ten dollar bill to have that kid in
+my power once more."
+
+"I don't doubt it, Dick."
+
+"I hate to have it said that a kid like that got the advantage of Dick
+Hayden."
+
+"So would I, Bob."
+
+"If I get hold of him I'll give him a lesson that he won't soon forget."
+
+"And serve him right too."
+
+The two men rose, and took their way across the fields, following
+exactly the same path which our hero had traveled earlier in the
+morning.
+
+They walked with brisk steps, having a definite purpose in view. Dick
+Hayden was intensely anxious to recapture Kit, whose escape had balked
+him of his vengeance, and mortified him exceedingly. As he expressed it,
+he could not bear to think that a boy of sixteen had got the advantage
+of him.
+
+At length they reached the red house already referred to, and saw Ham
+Stover, the owner, in the yard.
+
+"You are up betimes, Dick," said Stover. "What's in the wind?"
+
+"Have you seen aught of a boy of sixteen passin' this way?" asked Dick,
+anxiously.
+
+"A likely lookin' lad, well dressed?"
+
+"Yes."
+
+"He was round here an hour ago, and took breakfast in the house."
+
+This was true; the slight refreshment Janet had brought him having
+proved insufficient to completely stay the cravings of Kit's appetite
+after his night in the cabin.
+
+"Where is he now?"
+
+"What do you want of him?"
+
+"Never you mind--I'll tell you bimeby. Where is he?"
+
+"He wanted me to harness up and take him to Groveton."
+
+Dick Hayden and Stubbs exchanged glances. It was evident that they had
+struck Kit's trail.
+
+"Well, did you do it?"
+
+"No; I couldn't spare the time. Besides I wanted the horse to go to the
+village. I'm going to harness up now."
+
+"What did the boy do?"
+
+"He walked."
+
+"How long since did he start?"
+
+"About half an hour or thereabouts."
+
+Dick Hayden made a rapid calculation.
+
+"We may overtake him if we walk fast," he said.
+
+Without stopping to enlighten the curiosity of Mr. Stover the two men
+set out rapidly on the Groveton road.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXI.
+
+IN THE ENEMY'S HANDS.
+
+
+Mr. Stover was considerably surprised when twenty minutes later, looking
+up from his work in the yard, he saw a man of colossal size crossing the
+street. He hadn't attended the circus, and had not therefore heard of
+the giant, who was one of its principal features.
+
+"Who in creation can that be?" Stover asked himself.
+
+Achilles Henderson turned into the yard, and accosted the farmer:
+
+"Good morning, friend," he said. "Can you tell me if a boy of about
+sixteen has passed here this morning?"
+
+"That boy again!" thought the bewildered farmer.
+
+"Yes," he answered.
+
+"Please describe him."
+
+Mr. Stover did so.
+
+"The very one!" said Achilles. "Now how long since was he here?"
+
+"He took breakfast with my family, and started off nigh on to an hour
+ago."
+
+"In what direction did he go?"
+
+This question was also answered.
+
+"Thank you, friend," said the giant; "you have done me a favor."
+
+"Then won't you do me one?" said Stover. "Who is this boy that so many
+people are askin' for?"
+
+"He is a young acrobat connected with Barlow's circus. But what do you
+mean by so many people asking about him?"
+
+"There was two men here twenty minutes ago, that seemed very anxious to
+find him."
+
+Achilles Henderson heard this with apprehension. He could guess who they
+were, and what he heard alarmed him for Kit's safety.
+
+"Who are they?" he inquired hastily.
+
+"Dick Hayden and Bob Stubbs."
+
+"Are they miners?"
+
+"Yes."
+
+"Did you tell them where the boy went?"
+
+"Sartin! Why not?"
+
+"Because they mean to do the boy a mischief; they may even kill him."
+
+"What in creation should they do that for?"
+
+"Mr. Stover, I must follow them at once. Have you a team?"
+
+"Yes; but I calculated to use it."
+
+"I must have it, and I want you to go with me. You may charge what you
+please. Remember a boy's life may depend on it."
+
+"Then you shall have it," said the farmer, "and I'll go with you. I took
+a likin' to the boy. He was a gentleman, if ever I saw one; and my women
+folks was mightily taken with him. Dick Hayden and Bob Stubbs are rough
+kind of men, and I wouldn't trust any one I set store by in their hands.
+But why----"
+
+"Harness your horse, and I'll answer your questions on the way, Mr.
+Stover."
+
+"How do you know my name?" asked Stover, with sudden thought.
+
+"I was told by some one as I came along."
+
+The farmer lost no time in harnessing his horse, Achilles Henderson
+lending a hand. The horse seemed rather alarmed, never having seen a
+giant before, but soon got over his fright. The two men then jumped into
+the wagon, and set out in search of Kit.
+
+Meanwhile our hero had taken his way leisurely along the road. He didn't
+anticipate being followed, at any rate so soon, and felt under no
+particular apprehension. He had walked about three miles when a broad
+branching elm tree tempted him to rest by its shade. He threw himself
+down on the grass, and indulged in self congratulations upon his escape
+from his captors. But his congratulation proved to be premature. After
+a while he raised his eyes and looked carelessly back in the direction
+from which he had come. What he saw startled him.
+
+The two miners, Hayden and Stubbs, had lost no time on the way. They
+were bent on capturing Kit, in order to revenge themselves upon him.
+
+Reaching a little eminence in the road Dick Hayden caught sight of his
+intended victim sitting under the tree.
+
+His eyes gleamed with a wicked light.
+
+"There's the kid, Stubbs!" he said. "Stir your stumps, old man, and
+we'll collar him!"
+
+The two miners started on a run, and when Kit caught sight of them they
+were already within a few rods. The young acrobat saw that his only
+safety, if indeed there was any chance at all, was in flight. He started
+to his feet, and being fleet of limb gave them a good chase. But in the
+end the superior strength and endurance of the men conquered. Flushed
+and panting, Kit was compelled to stop. Hayden grasped him by the collar
+with a look of wicked satisfaction.
+
+"So I've got you, my fine chap, have I?"
+
+"Yes, so it seems!" said Kit, his heart sinking.
+
+"Sit down! I've got a few questions to ask."
+
+There was a broad flat stone by the roadside. He seated Kit upon it with
+a forcible push, and the two men ranged themselves one on each side of
+him.
+
+"What time did you leave the cabin, boy?"
+
+"I don't know what time it was. It must have been two hours
+since--perhaps more."
+
+"Did any one let you out?"
+
+"Yes."
+
+"Who was it?"
+
+"I don't know the person's name."
+
+"Was it a man?"
+
+Kit began to feel that he must be cautious. He knew that she was the
+daughter of the man who was questioning him, and that she would be in
+danger of rough treatment if her father should find out that she had
+thwarted him.
+
+"I cannot tell you," he answered, though he well knew that the answer
+was likely to get him into trouble.
+
+"You can't tell? Why not? Don't you know whether it was a man or not?"
+
+"Yes, I know."
+
+"You mean that you won't tell me, then?" said Hayden, in a menacing
+tone.
+
+"I mean that I don't care to do it. I might get the person into
+trouble."
+
+"You would that, you may bet your life. I can tackle any man round here,
+and I'd get even with that man if I swung for it."
+
+"That is why I don't care to tell you," said Kit. "How can you tell that
+the man knew you put me there?"
+
+"Didn't you tell him?"
+
+"No."
+
+"It was a man, then!" said Hayden, turning to Stubbs. "Look here, young
+feller, if you tell me who it was, you may get off better yourself."
+
+"I would rather not!" answered Kit, pale but firm.
+
+"Suit yourself, kid, but you may as well know that you'll be half killed
+before we get through with you. Get up!"
+
+As he spoke, Hayden jerked Kit to his feet, and began to drag him toward
+the rail fence.
+
+"Take down the rails, Stubbs!" he said.
+
+"What's your game, Dick?"
+
+"I'm going to give the kid a drubbing that he won't be likely to forget,
+but I can't do it in the road, for some one may come along."
+
+"I'm with you, Dick."
+
+At the lower end of the field which they had now entered was a strip of
+woods, which promised seclusion and freedom from interruption. Poor Kit,
+as he was dragged forward by his relentless captor, found his spirits
+sinking to zero.
+
+"Will no one deliver me from this brutal man?" he exclaimed inwardly.
+
+He felt that his life was in peril.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXII.
+
+KIT'S DANGER.
+
+
+The men reached the edge of the woods and halted.
+
+"I'd like to hang him!" growled Dick Hayden with a malignant look.
+
+"It wouldn't do, Dick," said Stubbs. "We'd get into trouble."
+
+"If we were found out."
+
+"Murder will 'most always come out," said Stubbs, uneasily. He was a
+shade less brutal and far less daring than his companion.
+
+It can be imagined with what feelings Kit heard this colloquy. He had no
+confidence in the humanity of his captors, and considered them, Dick
+Hayden in particular, as capable of anything. He did not dare to
+remonstrate lest in a spirit of perversity the two men might proceed to
+extremities.
+
+Kit was not long in doubt as to the intentions of his captors.
+
+"Take off your coat, boy!" said Hayden, harshly.
+
+Kit looked into the face of his persecutor, and decided that it would be
+prudent to obey. Otherwise he would have forcibly resisted.
+
+He removed his coat and held it over his arm.
+
+"Lay down the coat and take off your vest," was the next order.
+
+This also Kit felt compelled to do.
+
+Dick Hayden produced from the capacious side pocket of his coat a cord,
+which he proceeded to test by pulling. It was evidently very strong.
+
+"Stubbs, tie him to yonder sapling!" said Dick.
+
+Stubbs proceeded, nothing loth, to obey the directions of his leader.
+Kit was tied with his back exposed. Dick Hayden watched the preparations
+with evident enjoyment.
+
+"This is the moment I have been longing for," he said.
+
+From his other pocket he drew a cowhide, which he passed through the
+fingers of his left hand, while with cruel eyes he surveyed the
+shrinking form of his victim.
+
+Meanwhile where was Achilles Henderson?
+
+He and Stover bowled as rapidly over the road as the speed of a fourteen
+year old horse would permit. He looked eagerly before him, in the hope
+of catching a glimpse either of Kit or of the miners. When they started
+they were far behind, but at last they reached a point on the road where
+they could see Kit and his two captors making their way across the
+fields.
+
+"There they are!" said Stover, who was the first to see them.
+
+"And they've got the boy with them!" ejaculated Achilles. "Where are
+they going, do you think?"
+
+"Over to them woods, it's likely," replied Stover.
+
+"What for?"
+
+"I'm afraid they mean to do the boy harm."
+
+"Not if I can prevent it," said Achilles, with a stern look about the
+mouth.
+
+"They're goin' to give him a floggin', I think."
+
+"They'll get the same dose in larger measure, I can tell them that. Mr.
+Stover, isn't there any way I can reach the woods by a short cut so that
+they won't see me?"
+
+"Yes, there is a path in that field there. There is a fringe of trees
+separatin' it from the field where they are walkin'."
+
+"Then stop your horse, and I'll jump out!"
+
+Mr. Stover did so with alacrity. He disliked both Dick Hayden and Bob
+Stubbs, whom he had reason to suspect of carrying off a dozen of his
+chickens the previous season. He had not dared to charge them with it,
+knowing the men's ugly disposition, and being certain that they would
+revenge themselves upon him.
+
+"Do you want me along, Mr. Giant?" he asked.
+
+"No; I'm more than a match for them both."
+
+"Shouldn't wonder if you were," chuckled Stover.
+
+He kept his place in the wagon and laughed quietly to himself.
+
+"I'd like to see the scrimmage," he said to himself.
+
+With this object in view he drove forward, so that from the wagon seat
+he could command a view of the scene of conflict.
+
+"They're tying the boy to a tree," he said. "I reckon the giant'll be in
+time, and I'm glad on't. That boy's a real gentleman. Wonder what he's
+done to rile Dick Hayden and Bob Stubbs. He'd have a mighty small show
+if the giant hadn't come up. Dick's a strong man, but he'll be like a
+child in the hands of an eight-footer."
+
+Meanwhile Achilles Henderson was getting over the ground at the rate of
+ten miles an hour or more. His long strides gave him a great advantage
+over an ordinary runner.
+
+"If they lay a hand on that boy I pity 'em!" he said to himself.
+
+It was fortunate for Kit that Dick Hayden, like a cat who plays with a
+mouse, paused to gloat over the evident alarm and uneasiness of his
+victim, even after all was ready for the punishment which he proposed to
+inflict.
+
+"Well, boy, what have you to say now?" he demanded, drawing the cowhide
+through his short stubby fingers.
+
+"I have nothing to say that will move you from your purpose, I am
+afraid," replied poor Kit.
+
+"I guess you're about right there, kid!" chuckled Hayden. "Are you ready
+to apologize to me for what you done over to the circus?"
+
+"I don't think there is anything to apologize for."
+
+"There isn't, isn't there? Didn't you bring that long-legged ruffian on
+to me?"
+
+"I was only doing my duty," said Kit, manfully.
+
+"Oho! so that's the way you look at it, do you?"
+
+"Yes, sir."
+
+"No doubt you'd like it if that tall brute were here now," said Hayden,
+tauntingly.
+
+"Yes," murmured Kit; "I wish my good friend Achilles were here."
+
+"So that's his name, is it? Well, I wouldn't mind if he were here.
+Stubbs, I think you and I could do for him, eh?"
+
+"I don't know," said Stubbs, dubiously.
+
+"Well I do. He's only one man, while we are two, and strong at that."
+
+"Oho!" thought Achilles, who was now within hearing. "So my friend, the
+miner, is getting valorous! Well, he will probably have a chance to test
+his strength."
+
+By this time Hayden had got through with his taunts, and was ready to
+enjoy his vengeance.
+
+"Your time has come, boy!" he said, fiercely. "Stand back, Stubbs!"
+
+Bob Stubbs stepped back, and Dick Hayden raised the cruel cowhide in his
+muscular grasp. It would have inflicted a terrible blow had it fallen on
+the young acrobat. But something unexpected happened. The instrument of
+torture was torn from his hands, and a deep voice, which he knew only
+too well, uttered these words: "For shame, you brute! Would you kill the
+boy?"
+
+Panic stricken the brutal miner turned and found himself confronting
+Achilles Henderson.
+
+A fierce cry of rage and disappointment burst from his lips.
+
+"Where did you come from?" he stammered.
+
+"From Heaven, I think!" murmured poor Kit, with devout gratitude to that
+overruling Providence which had sent him such a helper in his utmost
+need.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXIII.
+
+DICK HAYDEN MEETS WITH RETRIBUTION.
+
+
+Dick Hayden and Bob Stubbs, large and strong men as they were, looked
+puny, compared with the giant who towered beside them, his face
+kindling with righteous indignation.
+
+"What are you going to do to the boy?" he demanded, sternly.
+
+"I was going to flog him," answered Hayden in a surly tone.
+
+"And you were helping him?" went on Achilles, turning to Stubbs.
+
+"No, sir," answered Stubbs eagerly, for, big as he was, he was a coward.
+"I didn't want Dick to do it."
+
+"You coward!" exclaimed Hayden, contemptuously. "You're as deep in it as
+I am."
+
+"Is that true, Kit?" asked Achilles.
+
+"He isn't as bad as the other," said Kit. "That man Hayden thought of
+killing me, but his friend protested against it."
+
+"It shall be remembered to his credit. Why did you wish to flog the
+boy?" he asked of Hayden.
+
+"On account of what happened at the circus."
+
+"The boy didn't touch you."
+
+"He brought you on me."
+
+"Then I was the one to punish."
+
+"I couldn't get at you."
+
+"Here I am, at your service."
+
+Dick Harden measured the giant with a vindictive eye, but there was
+something in the sight of the mighty thews and sinews of the huge man
+that quelled his warlike ardor.
+
+"It wouldn't be a fair contest," he said sullenly.
+
+"There are two of you, as you said just before I came."
+
+"No, there are not," interposed Stubbs, hastily. "I hain't any grudge
+against you, Mr. Giant."
+
+"You are willing to help me?"
+
+"Yes."
+
+"Then untie that boy."
+
+Stubbs unloosed the cord that bound Kit to the tree, while Achilles
+Henderson watched Hayden narrowly, for he had no mind to let him go
+free.
+
+"Are you that man's slave?" asked Hayden.
+
+"I am willing to oblige him," said Stubbs, meekly.
+
+Kit straightened up on being released, and breathed a sigh of relief.
+
+"Come along, Stubbs," said Hayden, with an ugly look at Kit and his
+protector. "Our business is through."
+
+"Not quite," said Achilles, quietly, as he laid his broad hand with a
+detaining grasp on the shoulder of the ruffian. "I am not through with
+you."
+
+"What do you want?" asked Dick Hayden with assumed bravado, but with an
+uneasy look on his lowering face.
+
+"I am going to give you a lesson. I gave you one at the circus ground,
+but you need another."
+
+"Touch me if you dare!" said Hayden, defiantly.
+
+For answer, Achilles hurled him to the ground with less effort than
+Hayden would have needed to serve Kit in the same way. Then with the
+cowhide uplifted he struck the prostrate wretch three sharp blows that
+made him howl with rage and pain. Stubbs looked on with pale face,
+thinking that his turn might come next.
+
+"Hit him, Stubbs! Kill him!" screamed Dick Hayden. "Would you stand by
+and see me murdered?"
+
+"I can't help you," said Stubbs. "What can I do?"
+
+Having administered justice to the chief ruffian, Achilles turned to
+Stubbs.
+
+"Now," he said, "what have you to say for yourself? Why shouldn't I
+serve you in the same way?"
+
+"Spare me!" whined Stubbs, panic stricken. "I am the boy's friend. It
+was Hayden who wanted to hurt him."
+
+"My friend, I put very little confidence in what you say. Still I don't
+think you are as bad as this brute here. I will spare you on one
+condition."
+
+"What is it? Indeed, I will do anything you ask."
+
+"Then take this cowhide and give your companion a taste of its quality."
+
+Stubbs looked alarmed.
+
+"Don't ask me to do that," he said. "Me and Dick are pals."
+
+"Just as I supposed. In that case you require a dose of the same
+medicine," and Achilles made a threatening demonstration with the
+rawhide.
+
+"Don't do it," cried Stubbs, affrighted.
+
+"Then will you do as I say?"
+
+"Yes, yes."
+
+"Will you lay it on well?"
+
+"Yes," answered Stubbs, who, forced to choose between his own skin and
+Hayden's, was influenced by a regard for his own person.
+
+Dick Hayden listened to this conference with lowering brow. He did not
+think Stubbs would dare to hit him. But he was destined to find himself
+unpleasantly surprised.
+
+Stubbs took the hide from the hands of the giant, and anxious to
+conciliate his powerful antagonist laid it with emphasis on Hayden,
+already smarting from his former castigation.
+
+"I'll kill you for that, Bob Stubbs!" he yelled, almost frothing at the
+mouth with rage.
+
+"I had to do it, Dick!" said Stubbs, apologetically. "You heard what he
+said."
+
+"I don't care what he said. To spare your own miserable carcass, you
+struck your friend. But I am your friend no longer. I'll have it out of
+you!"
+
+"Come, Kit, you are revenged," said the giant. "Now let us hurry on to
+the circus. There's a team in the road below. I think I can make a
+bargain with Mr. Stover to carry us all the way."
+
+They found Mr. Stover waiting for them.
+
+"Well," he said, "how did you make out?"
+
+"Suppose you look back and see!"
+
+Stover did look, and to his amazement he saw Dick Hayden and Bob Stubbs
+rolling on the ground, each holding the other in a fierce embrace.
+Hayden had attacked Stubbs, and though the latter tried hard to avoid a
+combat he was forced into it. Then, finding himself pushed, he fought as
+well as he could. Fortune favored him, for Dick Hayden tripped, and in
+so doing sprained his ankle. He fell with a groan, and Stubbs, glad to
+escape, left him in haste, and made the best of his way home.
+
+It was not until several hours afterwards that Hayden was found by
+another party, and carried home, where he was confined for a fortnight.
+This was fortunate for Kit and the giant, for he had intended to make a
+formal complaint before a justice of the peace which might have resulted
+in the arrest and detention of one or both. But his sprained ankle gave
+him so much pain that it drove all other thoughts out of his head for
+the time being.
+
+Mr. Stover was induced by an unusually liberal offer to convey the two
+friends to the next town, where they found their circus friends
+wondering what had become of them. Kit was none the worse for his
+experience, though it had been far from pleasant, and performed that
+afternoon and evening with his usual spirit and success.
+
+He told Achilles how he had been rescued by Janet Hayden, and the latter
+said with emphasis: "The girl's a trump! She has probably saved your
+life! That brute, her father, wouldn't shrink from any violence, no
+matter how great. You ought to make her some acknowledgment, Kit."
+
+"I wouldn't dare to," answered the young acrobat. "If her father should
+find out what she did for me, I am afraid her life would not be safe."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXIV.
+
+SOME IMPORTANT INFORMATION.
+
+
+Two or three days later, the circus was billed to show at Glendale, a
+manufacturing village in Western Pennsylvania. The name attracted the
+attention of Kit, for this was the place where his uncle had lived for
+many years previous to the death of Kit's father. He naturally desired
+to learn something of his uncle's reputation among the villagers, who
+from his long residence among them must remember him well.
+
+The circus had arrived during the night. As a general thing Kit was not
+in a hurry to get up, but as he was to stay but a day in Glendale, he
+rose early, with the intention of improving his time.
+
+Breakfast in the circus tent was not ready till nine o'clock, for circus
+men of every description get up late, except the razorbacks, who are
+compelled to be about very early to unload the freight cars, and the
+canvas men, who put up the tents. So Kit went to the hotel, and
+registering his name called for breakfast.
+
+After he had eaten it, he strolled into the office, hoping to meet some
+one of whom he could make inquiries respecting his uncle. This was made
+unexpectedly easy. A man of about his uncle's age had been examining the
+list of arrivals. He looked at Kit inquisitively.
+
+"I beg your pardon, young man," he said, "but are you Christopher
+Watson?"
+
+"Yes, sir," answered Kit, politely.
+
+"Did you ever have any relatives living in this place?"
+
+"Yes, sir. My uncle, Stephen Watson, used to live here."
+
+"I thought so. I once saw your father. He came here to visit your uncle.
+You look like him."
+
+Kit was gratified, for he cherished a warm affection for his dead
+father, and was glad to have it said that he resembled him.
+
+"Are you going to stay here long?" asked the villager.
+
+"No, sir; I am here only for the day."
+
+"On business, I presume."
+
+"Yes, sir," answered Kit, smiling. "I am here with Barlow's circus."
+
+The other looked amazed.
+
+"You don't mean to say that you are connected with the circus?" he
+exclaimed.
+
+"Yes, sir."
+
+"In what capacity?"
+
+"I am an acrobat."
+
+"I don't understand it at all. Why should your father's son need to
+travel with a circus?"
+
+"Because I have my living to earn, and that pays me better than any
+other employment I can get."
+
+"But your father was a rich man, I always heard."
+
+"I supposed so myself, till a short time since my uncle informed me that
+I was penniless, and must learn a trade."
+
+"But where did the money go, then? How does your uncle make a living?"
+
+"He has my father's old place, and appears to have enough to support
+himself and Ralph."
+
+"Sit down here, young man! There is something strange about this. I want
+to ask you a few questions."
+
+"You are the man I want to see," said Kit. "I think myself there is some
+mystery, and I would like to ask some questions about my uncle Stephen
+from some one who knew him here. I suppose you knew him?"
+
+"No one knew him better. Many is the time he has come to me for a loan.
+He didn't always pay back the money, and I dare say he owes me still in
+the neighborhood of fifty dollars."
+
+"Was he poor then?"
+
+"He was in very limited circumstances. He pretended to be in the
+insurance business, and had a small office in the building near the
+hotel, but if he made four hundred dollars a year in that way it was
+more than any one supposed."
+
+"Then," said Kit, puzzled, "how could he have lent my father ten
+thousand dollars?"
+
+"He lend you father ten thousand dollars, or anybody else ten thousand
+dollars! Why, that is perfectly ridiculous. Who says he did?"
+
+"He says so himself."
+
+"To whom did he tell that fish story?"
+
+"He told me. That is the way he explained his taking possession of the
+property. That was only one loan. He said he lent father money at
+various times, and had to take the estate in payment."
+
+Kit's auditor gave a loud whistle.
+
+"The man's a deeper and shrewder rascal than I had any idea of," he
+said. "He is swindling you in the most barefaced manner."
+
+"I am not very much surprised to hear it," said Kit. "I was not
+satisfied that he was telling the truth. If you are correct, then, he
+has wrongfully appropriated my father's money."
+
+"There is not a doubt of it. Did he drive you from home?"
+
+"About the same. He attempted to apprentice me to a blacksmith, while
+his own son Ralph he means to send to college, and have him study law."
+
+"I remember Ralph well, though he was a small boy when he left this
+village. He was very unpopular among those of his own age. He was always
+up to some mean act of mischief. He got my boy into trouble once in
+school by charging him with something he had himself done."
+
+"He hasn't changed much, then," said Kit. "We both attended the same
+boarding school, but nobody liked Ralph."
+
+"Was he much of a scholar?"
+
+"No; he dragged along in the lower half of the class."
+
+"Were you two good friends?"
+
+"We didn't quarrel, but we kept apart."
+
+"So his father wants to make a lawyer of him?"
+
+"Yes; I have had a letter from Smyrna in which I hear that my uncle has
+just bought Ralph a bicycle valued at a hundred and twenty-five
+dollars."
+
+"Money seems to be more plenty with him now than it used to be in his
+Glendale days. By the way would you like to see the place where your
+uncle used to live?"
+
+"Yes, sir, if you don't mind showing me."
+
+"I will do so with pleasure. Put on your hat, and we will go at once."
+
+They walked about a third of a mile, till they reached the outskirts of
+the village.
+
+"This is the home of the foreign population," said Kit's guide. "And
+there is the house which was occupied for at least ten years by your
+uncle."
+
+Kit eyed the building with interest. It was a plain looking cottage,
+containing but four rooms, which stood badly in need of paint. There was
+about an acre of land, rocky and sterile, attached to it.
+
+"This is the residence of the man who lent your father ten thousand
+dollars," said his guide, in an ironical tone. "Not much of a palace, is
+it?"
+
+"It can't be worth over a thousand dollars."
+
+"Your uncle sold it for seven hundred and eighty dollars, but he didn't
+get that sum in money, for it was mortgaged for six hundred."
+
+"You said my father came here once?"
+
+"It was to visit your uncle. While he was here, he stood security at the
+tailor's for new suits for your uncle and cousin, and must have given
+your uncle some cash besides, for he appeared to be in funds for some
+time afterwards. So you see the loan, or rather gift, was on the other
+side."
+
+"I don't see how my uncle dared to misrepresent matters in that way."
+
+"Nor I; for he could easily be convicted of fraudulent statements."
+
+"I am very much obliged to you, Mr.----"
+
+"Pierce."
+
+"Mr. Pierce, for your information."
+
+"I hope you will make some use of it."
+
+"I certainly shall," said Kit, his good humored face showing unwonted
+resolution.
+
+"Whenever you do, my testimony will be at your service, and there are
+plenty others who will corroborate my statements of your uncle's
+financial condition when here. The fact is, my young friend, your uncle
+has engaged in a most shameless plot against you."
+
+Kit was deeply impressed by this conversation. He was resolved, when the
+time came, to assert his rights, and lay claim to his dead father's
+property.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXV.
+
+ON THE TRAPEZE.
+
+
+Kit was on pleasant relations with his fellow performers. Indeed, he was
+a general favorite, owing to his obliging disposition and pleasant
+manners. He took an interest in their acts as well as his own, and in
+particular had cultivated an intimacy with Louise Lefroy, the trapeze
+performer. He had practiced on the trapeze in the gymnasium, and had
+acquired additional skill under the tuition of Mlle. Lefroy.
+
+"Some time you will make an engagement as a trapeze performer,
+Christopher," said the lady to him one day.
+
+"No," answered Kit, shaking his head.
+
+"You wouldn't be afraid?"
+
+"No; I think I would make a very respectable performer; but I don't mean
+to travel with the circus after this season, unless I am obliged to."
+
+"Why should you be obliged to?"
+
+"Because I have my living to earn."
+
+"It is a pity," said Mlle. Lefroy. "You seem cut out for a circus
+performer."
+
+"Do you like it, Mlle. Lefroy?"
+
+The lady looked thoughtful.
+
+"I have to like it," she said. "Besides, there is an excitement about
+it, and I crave excitement."
+
+"But wouldn't you rather have a home of your own?"
+
+"Listen! I had a home of my own, but my husband was intemperate, and in
+fits of intoxication would illtreat me and my boy."
+
+"Then you have a boy?" said Kit, surprised.
+
+"Yes; and I support him at a boarding school out of my professional
+earnings, which are large."
+
+"I am going to ask you another question, but you may not like to answer
+it."
+
+"Speak plainly."
+
+"Your husband is living, is he not?"
+
+"Yes."
+
+"Does he know that you are a circus performer?"
+
+"No; and I would not have him know for worlds."
+
+"Would he feel sensitive about it?"
+
+Mlle. Lefroy laughed bitterly.
+
+"You don't know him, or you would not ask that question," she said. "He
+would want to appropriate my salary. That is why I do not care to have
+him know how I am earning the living which he ought to provide for me."
+
+"I sympathize with you," said Kit, gently.
+
+"Then you don't think any the worse of me because I am a trapeze
+performer."
+
+"Why should I? Am I not a circus performer also?"
+
+"Yes; but it is different with you, being a man. You would not like to
+think of your mother or sister in my position."
+
+"No; I would not, yet I can imagine circumstances that would justify
+it."
+
+From this time Kit was disposed to look with different eyes upon Mlle.
+Lefroy. He did not think of her as a daring actor, but rather as an
+injured wife and devoted mother, who every day risked her life for the
+sake of one who was dear to her.
+
+"Did you never fear that your husband might be present when you are
+performing?" asked Kit.
+
+"It is my constant dread," answered Mlle. Lefroy. "When I come out in my
+costume, and look over the sea of heads, I am always afraid I shall see
+_his_ face."
+
+"But you never have yet?"
+
+"Never yet. I do not think if I should see that man I could go through
+my part. It requires nerve, as you know, and my nerves would be so
+shaken that my life would be in peril. If you ever hear of my meeting
+with an accident, you may guess the probable cause."
+
+"Then, if ever you recognize your husband among the spectators, it would
+be prudent to omit your performance."
+
+"That is what I propose to do."
+
+Kit little imagined how soon the contingency which his friend feared
+would arrive.
+
+Two evenings later Harry Thorne brought him a little note. He opened it
+and read as follows:
+
+     Come and see me at once.              LOUISE LEFROY.
+
+Kit ascertained where Mlle. Lefroy was to be found, and obeyed the
+summons immediately.
+
+He found the lady in great agitation.
+
+"Are you not well?" he asked.
+
+"Well in health, but not in mind," she answered.
+
+"Has anything happened?"
+
+"Yes; what I dreaded has come to pass."
+
+"Have you seen your husband?" asked Kit quickly.
+
+"Yes; I was taking a walk, and saw him on the opposite side of the
+street."
+
+"Did he see you?"
+
+"No; but I ascertained that he is staying at the hotel. Now he is likely
+to follow the crowd, and attend the circus to-night."
+
+"That is probable. Then you will not appear."
+
+"I should not dare to. But it will be a great disappointment to the
+management. The trapeze act is always a popular one, especially in a
+country town like this. Now I am going to ask a favor of you."
+
+Kit's face flushed with excitement. He foresaw what it would be.
+
+"What is it?" he asked.
+
+"I want you to appear in my place this evening."
+
+"Do you think I am competent?"
+
+"You cannot do my act, but you can do enough to satisfy the public. But,
+my dear friend, I don't want to subject you to any risk. If you are at
+all nervous or afraid, don't attempt it."
+
+"I am not afraid," said Kit confidently. "I will appear!"
+
+In the evening the tent was full. Very few knew of the change in the
+programme. Mr. Barlow had consented to the substitution with some
+reluctance, for he feared that Kit might be undertaking something beyond
+his power to perform. Even the Vincenti brothers, Kit's associates, were
+surprised when the manager came forward and said:
+
+"Ladies and gentlemen, Mlle. Lefroy is indisposed, and will be unable
+to perform her act this evening. Unwilling to disappoint the public, we
+have substituted one of our youngest and most daring performers, who
+will appear in her place."
+
+When Kit came out, his young face glowing with excitement, and made his
+bow, the crowd of spectators greeted him with enthusiastic applause. His
+fellow actors joined in the ovation. They feared he had overrated his
+ability, but were ready to applaud his pluck.
+
+Now was the time, if any, for Kit to grow nervous, and show stage
+fright. But he felt none. The sight of the eager faces around him only
+stimulated him. He caught the rope which hung down from the trapeze, and
+quickly climbing up poised himself on his elevated perch.
+
+He did not allow himself to look down, but strove to shut out the sight
+of the hundreds of upturned faces, and proceeded to perform his act as
+coolly as if he were in a gymnasium, only six feet from the ground
+instead of thirty.
+
+It is not to be supposed that Kit, who was a comparative novice, could
+equal Mlle. Louise Lefroy, who had been cultivating her specialty for
+ten years. He went through several feats, however, hanging from the
+trapeze with his head down, then quickly recovering himself and swinging
+by his hands. The public was disposed to be pleased, and, when the act
+was finished, gave him a round of applause.
+
+Later in the evening a small man, with a very dark complexion, and keen,
+black eyes, approached him as he was standing near the lion's cage.
+
+"Is this Luigi Vincenti?" he asked.
+
+This was Kit's circus name. He passed for a brother, of Alonzo and
+Antonio Vincenti.
+
+"Yes, sir," answered Kit.
+
+"I saw your trapeze act this evening," he went on. "It was very good."
+
+"Thank you, sir. You know, perhaps, that I am not a trapeze performer. I
+only appeared in place of Mlle. Lefroy, who is indisposed."
+
+"So I understand; but you do very well for a boy. My name is Signor
+Oponto. I am at the head of a large circus in Havana. My visit to the
+United States is partly to secure additional talent. How long are you
+engaged to Mr. Barlow?"
+
+"For no definite time. I suppose I shall remain till the end of the
+season."
+
+"You have no engagements beyond?"
+
+"No, sir; this is my first season with any circus."
+
+"Then I will make you an offer. I don't want to take you from Mr.
+Barlow, but when the season is over I shall be ready to arrange for your
+appearance in Havana under my personal management."
+
+Though Kit was modest he was human. He did feel flattered to find
+himself rated so high. It even occurred to him that he might like to be
+considered a star in circus circles, to be the admiration of circus
+audiences, and to be regarded with wondering awe by boys of his own age
+throughout the country. But Kit was also a sensible boy. After all, this
+preeminence was only of a physical character. A great acrobat or trapeze
+artist has no recognized place in society, and his ambition is of a low
+character. While these reflections were presenting themselves to his
+mind, Signor Oponto stood by in silence, waiting for his answer. He
+thought that Kit's hesitation was due to pecuniary considerations.
+
+"What salary does Mr. Barlow pay you?" he asked, in a businesslike
+tone.
+
+"Twenty-five dollars a week."
+
+"I will give you fifty, and engage you for a year."
+
+He regarded Kit intently to see how this proposal struck him.
+
+"You are very liberal, Signor Oponto," Kit began, but the manager
+interrupted him.
+
+"I will also pay your board," he added; "and of course defray your
+expenses to Havana. Is that satisfactory?"
+
+"It would be very much so but for one thing."
+
+"What is that?"
+
+"I doubt whether I shall remain in the business after this season."
+
+"Why not? Don't you like it?"
+
+"Yes, very well; but I prefer to follow some profession of a literary
+character. I am nearly prepared for college, and I may decide to
+continue my studies."
+
+"But even your college students devote most of their time to base ball
+and rowing, I hear."
+
+"Not quite so bad as that," answered Kit, with a smile.
+
+"You don't refuse definitely, I hope."
+
+"No; it may be that I may feel obliged to remain in the business. In
+that case I will give you the preference."
+
+"That is all I can expect. Here is my card. Whenever you are ready,
+write to me, and your communication will receive instant attention."
+
+"Thank you, sir."
+
+The next day Mlle. Lefroy resumed her work, the danger of meeting her
+husband having passed. She expressed her gratitude to Kit for serving as
+her substitute, and wished to make him a present of ten dollars, but he
+refused to accept it.
+
+"I was glad of the chance to see what I could do on the trapeze," he
+said. "I never expect to follow it up, but I have already received an
+offer of an engagement in that line."
+
+"So I heard. And you don't care to accept it?"
+
+"No; I do not mean to be a circus performer permanently."
+
+"You are right. It leads to nothing, and before middle life you are
+liable to find yourself unfitted for it."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXVI.
+
+CLOSE OF THE CIRCUS.
+
+
+Days and weeks flew swiftly by. September gave place to October, and the
+circus season neared its close. Already the performers were casting
+about for employment during the long, dull winter that must elapse
+before the next season.
+
+"What are your plans, Kit?" asked Antonio Vincenti, who in private
+called his young associate by his real name.
+
+"I don't know yet, Antonio. I may go to school."
+
+"Have you saved money enough to keep you through the winter?"
+
+"Yes; I have four hundred dollars in the wagon."
+
+This is the expression made use of to indicate "in the hands of the
+treasurer."
+
+"You've done better than my brother or I. We must work during the
+winter."
+
+"Have you any chance yet?"
+
+"Yes; we can go to work in a dime museum in Philadelphia for a month,
+and afterwards we will go to Chicago, where we were last winter. I
+could get a chance for you, too."
+
+"Thank you, but I don't care to work in that way at present. If I went
+anywhere I would go to Havana, where I am offered a profitable
+engagement."
+
+"Has Mr. Barlow said anything to you about next season?"
+
+"Yes; but I shall make no engagement in advance. Something may happen
+which will keep me at home."
+
+"Oh, you'll be coming round in the spring. You'll have the circus fever
+like all the rest of us."
+
+Kit smiled and shook his head.
+
+"I haven't been in the business long enough to get so much attached to
+it as you are," he said. "But at any rate, I shall come round to see my
+old friends."
+
+The last circus performance was given in Albany, and the winter quarters
+were to be at a town twenty miles distant. Kit went through his acts
+with his usual success, and when he took off his circus costume, it was
+with a feeling that it might be the last time he would wear it.
+
+The breaking up was not to take place till the next day, and he was
+preparing to spend the night in some Albany hotel.
+
+He had taken off his tights, as has been said, and put on his street
+dress, when a tall man, with a frank, good humored expression, stepped
+up to him.
+
+"Are you Christopher Watson?" he asked.
+
+"Yes," answered Kit, in surprise, for he had no recollection of having
+met the stranger before.
+
+"Of course you don't know me, but I was a school-fellow and intimate
+friend of your father."
+
+"Then," said Kit, cordially, "I must take you by the hand. All my
+father's friends are my friends."
+
+The face of the stranger lighted up.
+
+"That's the way to talk," he said. "I see you are like your father.
+Shake hands again."
+
+"But how did you know I was with Barlow's circus?" asked Kit, puzzled.
+
+"Your uncle told me."
+
+"Have you seen him lately?" asked Kit, quickly.
+
+"No; I saw him about three months ago at Smyrna."
+
+"What did he tell you about me?"
+
+"He said you were a wayward lad, and preferred traveling with a circus
+to following an honest business."
+
+"I am afraid you have got a wrong idea of me, then."
+
+"Bless you, I knew your uncle before you were born. He is not at all
+like your father. One was as open as the day, the other was cunning,
+selfish, and foxy."
+
+"I see you understand my Uncle Stephen as well as I do."
+
+"I ought to."
+
+"Were you surprised to hear that I was traveling with a circus?"
+
+"Well, I was; but your uncle told me one thing that surprised me more.
+He said that your father left nothing."
+
+"That surprised me, too; but I have got some light on the subject and I
+feel in need of a friend and adviser."
+
+"Then if you'll take Henry Miller for want of a better, I don't believe
+you'll regret it."
+
+"I shall be glad to accept your kind offer, Mr. Miller. Now that you
+mention your name, I remember it very well. My father often spoke of
+you."
+
+"Did he so?" said the stranger, evidently much gratified. "I am glad to
+hear it. Of all my school companions, your father was the one I liked
+best. And now, before we go any further, I want to tell you two things.
+First, I should have hunted you up sooner, but business called me to
+California, where I have considerable property. Next, having learned
+that you were left destitute, I decided to do something for the son of
+my old friend. So I took a hundred shares of stock in a new mine, which
+had just been put on the market when I reached 'Frisco, and I said to
+myself: 'That is for Kit Watson.' Well, it was a lucky investment. The
+shares cost me five dollars apiece, and just before I left California I
+sold them for fifty dollars apiece. What do you say to that?"
+
+"Is it possible mining shares rise in value so fast?" asked Kit in
+amazement.
+
+"Well, sometimes they do, and sometimes they don't. Often it's the other
+way, and I don't advise you or anybody else that knows nothing about it
+to speculate in mining shares. It is a risky thing, and you are more apt
+to lose than to win. However, this turned out O. K., and you are worth
+five thousand dollars to-day, my boy."
+
+"I don't know how to thank you, Mr. Miller," said Kit. "I can't seem to
+realize it."
+
+"You needn't thank me at all. I did it for your father's sake, but now
+that I know you I am glad to do it for your own. When we get to New York
+I advise you to salt it down in government bonds, or in some other good
+reliable stock."
+
+"I shall be glad to follow your advice, Mr. Miller."
+
+"Then I'll invest all but five hundred dollars, for you may want to use
+that. What sort of a season have you had?"
+
+"I've saved up four hundred dollars," said Kit proudly.
+
+"You don't say so! You must have got pretty good pay."
+
+"Twenty-five dollars a week."
+
+"Your uncle said you probably got two or three dollars a week."
+
+"He probably thought so. He has no idea I have been so well paid. I
+chose to keep it from him."
+
+"You said you wanted to ask my advice about something."
+
+"Yes, sir."
+
+"Why not come round to the Delavan and take a room? I am staying there,
+and I will tell the clerk to pick you out a room next to mine."
+
+"I will do so. I intended to stay at some hotel to night. This is the
+last night of the circus. To-morrow we close up, and separate. I shall
+draw my money and bid good-by to my circus friends."
+
+"I am glad of that. We will keep together. I have neither chick nor
+child, Kit, and if you'll accept me as your guardian I'll do the best I
+can for you. But perhaps you prefer to go back to your uncle."
+
+Kit shook his head.
+
+"I should never do that," he said, "especially after what I have learned
+during my trip."
+
+"Let it keep till to-morrow, for we are both tired. Now get ready and
+we'll go to the Delavan."
+
+Kit was assigned a nice room next to Mr. Miller, where he passed a
+comfortable night.
+
+The next day he revealed to his new friend the discoveries he had made
+in his uncle's old home in Pennsylvania--his uncle's poverty up to the
+time of his brother's death, and the evident falseness of his claim to
+have lent him large sums of money, in payment of which he had coolly
+appropriated his entire estate.
+
+His late friend listened to this story in amazement.
+
+"I knew Stephen Watson to be unprincipled," he said, "but I didn't think
+him as bad as that. He has swindled you shamefully."
+
+"Just my idea, Mr. Miller."
+
+"While he has carefully feathered his own nest. This wrong must be
+righted."
+
+"It was my intention to find some good lawyer, and ask his advice."
+
+"We'll do it, Kit. But, first of all, I'll go with you to this town in
+Pennsylvania, and obtain the necessary testimony sworn to before a
+justice. Then we'll find a good lawyer, and move on the enemy's works."
+
+"I will be guided by your advice entirely, Mr. Miller."
+
+"It will be a satisfaction to me to get even with your uncle. To swindle
+his own nephew in this barefaced manner! We'll bring him up with a short
+turn, Kit!"
+
+The next day Kit and his new friend left Albany.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXVII.
+
+KIT COMES HOME.
+
+
+One morning James Schuyler Kit's old acquaintance at Smyrna, received a
+letter from Kit, in which he said: "Our circus season is ended, but I am
+detained a few days by important business. I will tell you about it when
+we meet. If you see my uncle tell him that I expect to reach Smyrna
+somewhere about the twenty-fifth of October."
+
+"I wonder what Kit's important business can be," thought James. "I hope
+it is something of advantage to him."
+
+James happened to meet Stephen Watson an hour later.
+
+"Mr. Watson," he said, "I had a letter from Kit this morning."
+
+"Indeed!"
+
+"He says that his circus season is over."
+
+"And he is out of employment," said Watson, his lip curling.
+
+"I suppose so; he expects to reach Smyrna somewhere about the
+twenty-fifth of the month."
+
+Stephen Watson smiled, but said nothing.
+
+"No doubt he will find it very convenient to stay at home through the
+winter," he reflected. "Well, he must think I am a fool to take back a
+boy who has defied my authority."
+
+It was Saturday, and Ralph was home from boarding-school.
+
+"Ralph," said his father, "I bring you good news."
+
+"What is it, pa?"
+
+"Your cousin will be home from the circus towards the last of next
+week."
+
+"Who told you? Did he write you?"
+
+"He wrote to James Schuyler, who told me."
+
+"I suppose he expects you will give him a home through the winter."
+
+"You may rest easy, Ralph. He won't have his own way with me, I can
+assure you."
+
+"What shall you do, pa?"
+
+"I shall see Bickford about taking him back. I have occasion to go over
+there on Monday to have the horse shod, and I can speak to him about
+it."
+
+Ralph laughed.
+
+"That will bring down his pride," he said. "I suppose he will beg off."
+
+"He will find me firm as a rock. What I decide upon I generally carry
+through."
+
+"Good for you, pa! I was afraid you would weaken."
+
+"You don't know me, my son. I have been patient and bided my time. Your
+cousin presumed to set up his will against mine. He has got along thus
+far because he has made a living by traveling with a circus. Now the
+circus season is at an end, and he is glad enough to come back to me."
+
+On Monday Stephen Watson rode over to Oakford, and made it in his way to
+call on Aaron Bickford.
+
+"Have you got a boy, Mr. Bickford?" he asked.
+
+"I had one, but he left me last Saturday. He didn't suit me."
+
+This was the blacksmith's interpretation of it. The truth was the boy
+became disgusted with the treatment he received and the fare provided at
+his employer's table, and left him without ceremony.
+
+"How would you like to take back my nephew?"
+
+"Has he come back?" asked the blacksmith, pricking up his ears.
+
+"Not yet; but I expect him back toward the end of next week."
+
+"Has he left the circus?"
+
+"The circus has left him. That is, it has closed for the season. He has
+sent word to a boy in Smyrna that he will be back in a few days."
+
+"He gave me a great deal of trouble, Mr. Watson."
+
+"Just so, and I thought you might like to get even with him," said
+Stephen Watson, looking significantly at the blacksmith.
+
+"It would do me good to give him a flogging," said Aaron Bickford.
+
+"I shan't interfere," replied Watson. "The boy has acted badly and he
+deserves punishment."
+
+"Yes, I'll take him back," said the blacksmith. "I guess he'll stay this
+time," he added grimly.
+
+"I think he will have to. There won't be any circus to give him
+employment."
+
+"He is a good strong boy, and he can make a good blacksmith, if he has a
+mind to."
+
+"You must make him have a mind to," said Stephen Watson.
+
+When the horse was shod he got into the carriage and drove away.
+
+After this interview Mr. Bickford seemed in unusually good spirits, so
+much so that his wife inquired: "Have you had any good luck, Aaron?"
+
+"What makes you ask?"
+
+"Because you look unusually chipper. I was hopin' somebody had died and
+left you a fortune."
+
+"Well, not exactly, wife; but I've heard something that makes me feel
+good."
+
+"What's that?"
+
+"Stephen Watson, of Smyrna, was over here this morning."
+
+"Well?"
+
+"He says that boy Kit is coming home in a few days."
+
+"What if he is?"
+
+"He's goin' to bring him over here, and apprentice him to me again."
+
+"I should think once would be enough, considerin' how he treated you."
+
+"He ain't goin' to serve me so again, you may bet on that. I'm goin' to
+have my way this time."
+
+"Ain't you afraid he'll run away again?"
+
+"Not much. The circus has shut up, and he'll have to stay with me, or
+starve. His uncle tells me I can punish him when I think he deserves
+it."
+
+"I hope you won't be disappointed, Mr. Bickford, but that boy's rather
+hard to handle."
+
+"I know it, but I'm the one that can handle him."
+
+"You thought so before, the evening we went to the show."
+
+"I know so this time."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXVIII.
+
+CONCLUSION.
+
+
+Several days passed. On Thursday afternoon Kit arrived in Smyrna,
+accompanied by his generous California friend Henry Miller. They put up
+at the hotel, and after dinner Kit walked over to the house occupied by
+his uncle.
+
+Mr. Watson saw him from the window, and hastening to the door opened it
+himself.
+
+"Good afternoon, Uncle Stephen," said Kit.
+
+"So you're back!" said his uncle curtly.
+
+"Yes; did you expect me?"
+
+"James Schuyler told me you were coming."
+
+"Yes, I wrote him that he might inform you."
+
+"That was a good thought of yours. I have made arrangements for you."
+
+"What arrangements?"
+
+"I shall take you over to Oakford on Saturday, and place you with Aaron
+Bickford to learn the blacksmith's trade. This time I'd advise you not
+to run away."
+
+Kit didn't exhibit any dismay when his uncle informed him of the plan he
+had arranged for him.
+
+"I will talk this over with you, Uncle Stephen," he said. "With your
+permission I will go into the house."
+
+"You can stay here till Saturday. Then you will go with me to Oakford."
+
+Kit followed his uncle into the house. "I have something important to
+say to you, Uncle Stephen," he went on. "Sit down, and I will tell you
+what I have discovered within the last few months."
+
+Stephen Watson anxiously awaited Kit's communication.
+
+"Can he have found out?" he asked himself. "But no! it is impossible."
+
+"I will give you five minutes to tell me your astonishing discovery," he
+said, with an attempt at his usual sneer.
+
+"I may need a longer time, but I will be as quick as I can. Among the
+places where our circus exhibited was Glendale, Pennsylvania.
+Remembering that you once lived there, I made inquiries about you in the
+village. I saw the house where you lived for many years. Judge of my
+surprise when I learned that you were always in extreme poverty. Then I
+recalled your story of having lent my father ten thousand dollars, in
+payment of which you took the bulk of his property. I mentioned it, and
+found that it was pronounced preposterous. I discovered that on the
+other hand, you were frequently the recipient of money gifts from my
+poor father. In return for this you have attempted to rob his son. The
+note which you presented against the estate was undoubtedly a forgery.
+But even had it been genuine, the property of which you took possession
+must have amounted to at least twenty thousand dollars."
+
+Stephen Watson had not interrupted Kit by a word. He was panic stricken,
+and absolutely did not know what to say. He finally succeeded in
+answering hoarsely: "This is an outrageous falsehood, Christopher
+Watson. It is an ingenious scheme to rob me of what rightfully belongs
+to me. You must be a fool to think I am going to be frightened by a
+boy's wild fiction. Leave my house! I would have allowed you to stay
+till Saturday, but this is too much. If you come here again, I will
+horsewhip you!"
+
+But even when he was making this threat his face was pallid, and his
+glance uneasy.
+
+At this moment the bell rang.
+
+Kit himself answered the call, and returned with his friend, Henry
+Miller.
+
+"Why, it is Mr. Miller!" said Stephen Watson, who had not forgotten that
+Miller was very wealthy. "When did you return from California?"
+
+"Kit, have you told your uncle?" asked Henry Miller, ignoring this
+greeting.
+
+"Yes, and he orders me to leave the house."
+
+"Hark you, Stephen Watson!" said Henry Miller sternly. "You are in a bad
+box. For over a week Kit and I have been looking up matters, and we are
+prepared to prove that you have outrageously defrauded him out of his
+father's estate. We have enlisted a first class lawyer in the case, and
+now we come to you to know whether you will surrender or fight."
+
+"Mr. Miller, this is very strange. Are you in the plot too?"
+
+"Don't talk of any plots, Stephen Watson. Your fraud is so transparent
+that I wonder you dare to hope it would succeed. You probably presumed
+upon Kit's being a boy of an unsuspicious nature. But he has found a
+friend, who was his father's friend before him, and who is determined
+that he shall be righted."
+
+"I defy you!" exclaimed Stephen Watson recklessly, for he saw that
+submission would be ruin, and leave him penniless.
+
+"Wait a minute! I'll give you another chance. Do you know what we are
+prepared to prove? Well, I will tell you. We can prove that you are not
+only a swindler but a forger, and our success will consign you to a
+prison cell. You deserve it, no doubt, but you shall have a chance."
+
+"What terms do you offer?" asked Stephen Watson, overwhelmed by the
+conviction that what Miller said was true.
+
+"Surrender unconditionally, restore to Kit his own property, and----"
+
+"But it will leave me penniless!" groaned Stephen Watson.
+
+"Just as I supposed. In Kit's behalf, I will promise that you shall not
+starve. You once kept a small grocery store, and understand the trade.
+We will set you up in that business wherever you choose, and will give
+you besides a small income, say three hundred dollars a year, so that
+you may be able to live modestly."
+
+"But Ralph, my poor boy, what will become of him?"
+
+"I will pay the expenses of his education," said Kit, "and when he
+leaves school, I will make him an allowance so that he can enter a store
+and qualify himself to earn his own living. He won't be able to live as
+he has lived, but he shall not suffer."
+
+"It is more than either of you deserve," said Henry Miller. "I was not
+in favor of treating you so generously, but Kit, whom you have
+defrauded, insisted upon it. You ought to thank him on your knees."
+
+Stephen Watson did not speak. He looked the picture of misery.
+
+"Do you agree to this?" asked Mr. Miller.
+
+"I must!" replied Watson, sullenly.
+
+It made a great sensation in Smyrna when Kit took his proper place as
+the true master of his dead father's estate. Stephen Watson left town
+suddenly, and Ralph followed him. No sorrow was felt for his reverse of
+fortune, for he had made no friends in the town. He and Ralph settled
+down in a small Western city, and started a grocery store. From time to
+time Kit receives abject letters, pleading for more money, and sometimes
+he sends it, but always against the advice of Henry Miller, who says
+rightly that Stephen Watson already fares better than he deserves.
+
+Ralph is turning out badly. His pride received a severe shock when his
+cousin was raised above him, and he has formed bad habits which in time
+will wreck him physically, unless he turns over a new leaf.
+
+It is hardly necessary to say that Kit decided not to learn the
+blacksmith's trade. His old employer, Aaron Bickford, has tried hard to
+get into his good graces and secure his trade, but Kit employs another
+man for whom he has a greater respect.
+
+Kit has made more than one visit to the worthy Mayor Grant from whom he
+received so much kindness when a young acrobat, and a marked partiality
+for Evelyn, the mayor's pretty daughter, may some day lead to a nearer
+connection between the families.
+
+Good, like bad fortune, seldom comes singly, and besides recovering his
+own property, Kit finds himself the favorite and presumed heir of Henry
+Miller, the wealthy Californian, who has taken up his home with our
+hero. Last summer they took a trip to California, and Kit was charmed
+with the wonderful Yosemite Valley and the Geysers. He has decided to
+become a lawyer, though he will be in a position to live without
+employment of any kind.
+
+A few months after his return, Kit read in the paper of the killing of
+Dick Hayden, the miner, in a drunken brawl at Coalville.
+
+He at once took steps to seek out the daughter, Janet, who had rendered
+him such signal service when he was captured by the ruffians, and
+brought her to Smyrna, where he provided a happy home for her in a
+family of his acquaintance.
+
+Nor has Kit forgotten his circus friends. Last year when Barlow's circus
+returned from its wanderings he invited those whom he knew best, the
+giant, his two brother acrobats, and Mlle. Lefroy, to pass a week as his
+guests. For the sake of old times and experiences he is always ready to
+help poor professionals, and has been a friend in need to many. He knows
+that with all their weaknesses, they are generous to a fault, and ready
+to divide their last dollar with a needy comrade. There are some who
+think Kit shows a strange taste in keeping up acquaintance with his old
+associates, but like his friend, Charlie Davis, who has also retired
+from the circus, he will always have a kindly feeling for those with
+whom he traveled when a YOUNG ACROBAT.
+
+THE END.
+
+
+
+
+
+End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of The Young Acrobat of the Great North
+American Circus, by Horatio Alger Jr.
+
+*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK YOUNG ACROBAT ***
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