"For no definite time. I suppose I shall remain till the end of the
season."

"You have no engagements beyond?"

"No, sir; this is my first season with any circus."

"Then I will make you an offer. I don't want to take you from Mr.
Barlow, but when the season is over I shall be ready to arrange for your
appearance in Havana under my personal management."

Though Kit was modest he was human. He did feel flattered to find
himself rated so high. It even occurred to him that he might like to be
considered a star in circus circles, to be the admiration of circus
audiences, and to be regarded with wondering awe by boys of his own age
throughout the country. But Kit was also a sensible boy. After all, this
preeminence was only of a physical character. A great acrobat or trapeze
artist has no recognized place in society, and his ambition is of a low
character. While these reflections were presenting themselves to his
mind, Signor Oponto stood by in silence, waiting for his answer. He
thought that Kit's hesitation was due to pecuniary considerations.

"What salary does Mr. Barlow pay you?" he asked, in a businesslike
tone.

"Twenty-five dollars a week."

"I will give you fifty, and engage you for a year."

He regarded Kit intently to see how this proposal struck him.

"You are very liberal, Signor Oponto," Kit began, but the manager
interrupted him.

"I will also pay your board," he added; "and of course defray your
expenses to Havana. Is that satisfactory?"

"It would be very much so but for one thing."

"What is that?"

"I doubt whether I shall remain in the business after this season."

"Why not? Don't you like it?"

"Yes, very well; but I prefer to follow some profession of a literary
character. I am nearly prepared for college, and I may decide to
continue my studies."

"But even your college students devote most of their time to base ball
and rowing, I hear."

"Not quite so bad as that," answered Kit, with a smile.

"You don't refuse definitely, I hope."

"No; it may be that I may feel obliged to remain in the business. In
that case I will give you the preference."

"That is all I can expect. Here is my card. Whenever you are ready,
write to me, and your communication will receive instant attention."

"Thank you, sir."

The next day Mlle. Lefroy resumed her work, the danger of meeting her
husband having passed. She expressed her gratitude to Kit for serving as
her substitute, and wished to m