ure, 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 c