Even the basest ruffian in the canvas gang, even the vilest
of the hostlers, will stand by you through thick and thin. And there
are real murderers among them, too. You must have faith in us."
"I have faith in YOU" he said simply. Then, true Virginian that he
was, this tired, harassed boy bent low and lifted her hand to his
gallant lips. "I will give my life up for you any day, madam. It is
yours."
"Spoken like a gentleman," said the clown, his eyes twinkling.
A couple of horses came clattering into the tent from the ring. At the
entrance they were seized by waiting attendants; one of the mysteries
that had always puzzled the boy was solved. He had wondered where the
plunging steeds raced to after their whirlwind exit from the ring. A
moment later, a swarm of men came rushing in with hoops, balloons and
banners and hurdle-poles, followed by the "Greatest Living Bareback
Rider of the Globe, the One and Only Mellburg." After him came a tired
ringmaster, lanky and not half so proud as he looked to be in his
spike-tailed coat.
Some one in the big tent was making an announcement in stentorian
tones.
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