David's "pile" was close to the outside
wall of the tent. Braddock marked its location in respect to a certain
side pole. He began to tremble; a weakness fell upon him; the
resolution partly formed in the big tent, and which had drawn him
resistlessly to this very spot, gained strength as his blinking eyes
swerved their gaze from time to time in the direction of the "pile."
All the while he was talking volubly and without a sentient purpose.
After fifteen minutes he sauntered from the section, cold with
apprehension but absolutely determined on the action which was to
follow. Leaving the tent, he strolled off toward the ticket wagon,
carefully noting the position of the men who were loading the
menagerie tent for the trip ahead. A cautious _detour_ brought
him back to the dressing-tent, and directly in front of the spot where
David's clothing was deposited.
The trembling increased. His mouth filled with saliva. He felt of his
hair. It was wet. As he stood there shivering and irresolute, the band
struck up the tune that signified much to his present venture,--the
tune heralding the approach of the entire company of male performers
in the "ground and lofty tumbling act.
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