Part 33 (2/2)

Phil nodded his approval of the statement.

In the meantime Teddy had made fast the end of the rope to the aerial bar, and grasping the rope firmly in his hands, began letting himself down hand under hand.

”Better twist your legs about the rope,” called Phil.

”No. It isn't neces--”

Just then Teddy uttered a howl. The rope, which he had not properly secured, suddenly slipped from the bar overhead.

Teddy dropped like a shot.

CHAPTER XIX

THE CIRCUS ON AN ISLAND

Teddy landed in the net with a smack that made the spectators gasp.

”Are you hurt,” cried Mr. Sparling, running forward.

Teddy got up, rubbing his s.h.i.+ns gingerly, working his head from side to side to make sure that his neck was properly in place.

”N-n-no, I guess not. I'll bet that net got a clump that it won't forget in a hurry, though. Folks, the show is all over.

You may go home now,” added Teddy, turning to the audience and waving his hand to them.

The seats began to rattle as the people, realizing that there was nothing more to be seen, finally decided to start for home.

”It is lucky, young man, that I had that net under you,”

announced Mr. Sparling.

”Lucky for me, but a sad blow to the net,” answered Teddy humorously, whereat Mr. Sparling shook his head hopelessly.

The tent was beginning to darken and the showman glanced up apprehensively.

”What's the outlook?” he asked as Mr. Kennedy pa.s.sed.

”Just a shower, I guess.”

The owner strode to the side wall and peered out under the tent, then crawled out for a survey of the skies.

”We are in for a lively storm,” he declared. ”It may not break until late tonight, and I hardly think it will before then.

Please tell the director to cut short all the acts tonight.

I want every stick and st.i.tch off the lot no later than eleven o'clock tonight.”

”Shall we cut out the Grand Entry?”

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