Those up near the dome of the tent, still going through their
acts, now heard the patter of heavy rain drops on the canvas top.
The lights throughout the tent flickered a little under the
draught that sucked in through the openings in the tent and
the open space at the top of the side walls.
The audience showed signs of restlessness.
"It is only a spring shower, ladies and gentlemen," announced
the ringmaster. "You have no cause for alarm. The hats of the
ladies are perfectly safe. This tent is waterproof. You could
soak it in the Mississippi without getting a drop of water
through it. That's the way the Sparling show looks out for
its patrons. Nothing cheap about the Sparling outfit!"
A laugh greeted his remarks.
A blinding flash faded the gasoline lamps to a ghostly flame.
A few seconds later a crash that shook the earth followed,
causing the audience to shiver with nervous apprehension.
Teddy had come out and was gazing aloft. He grinned at Phil,
noting at the same time that all the lofty performers were
preparing to come down.
"Hello, fraid-cats up there!" jeered the Circus Boy.
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