ered bashfully, "but I'd like to go round with the
show."

"You'll be better off at home if you've got one," said the giant. "You
are not a performer; you are too small for a property man, and not
strong enough for a razorback."

"What's a razorback?" asked William, in amazement.

Achilles smiled.

"It's a boy or man who helps load and unload the circus cars," he
answered. "It is heavy work, and you would be thrown among a low lot of
people--canvasmen, and such. Our young friend here, on the other hand,
will have a good sleeping berth, eat at the first table, and be well
provided for generally."

William looked disappointed. He had never thought particularly about
traveling with a circus till now, but his meeting with Kit had given him
a circus fever.

At ten o'clock Mr. Barlow came to the grounds, and Achilles volunteered
to go with Kit to speak with him about his engagement.

CHAPTER XIV.

SOME CIRCUS PEOPLE.

Mr. Barlow recognized Kit instantly.

"So you have kept your promise, my young friend," he said. "Well, have
you come to join us?"

"Yes, sir, if your offer holds good."

"My offers always hold good; I never go back on my word."

Kit was glad to hear this, for he would have been placed in an
embarrassing position if, like some men, Mr. Barlow had forgotten an
offer made on the impulse of the moment.

"Have you any directions to give, sir?"

"You may report to my manager, Mr. Bryant. First, however, it may be
well for you to see the Vincenti brothers, and arrange for a joint act."

"When do you wish me to appear, sir?"

"Whenever you are ready. You may take a week to rehearse, if necessary.
Your pay will commence at once."

"Thank you, Mr. Barlow; you are very kind and considerate."

Mr. Barlow smiled, and, waving his hand, passed on.

He was very popular with all who were in his employ, and had a high
reputation for kindness and strict integrity.

"I'd like to work for him," said William Morris, who had listened to the
conversation between Kit and the circus proprietor.

"I should like to have you along with me," replied Kit, "but from what
Mr. Henderson says there is no good opening."

It was not till eleven o'clock that Kit met his future partners, the
Vincenti brothers.

"Good!" said Alonzo, in a tone of satisfaction. "We must get up a joint
act. I suppose you haven't got a suit of tights?"

"No. I never expected to need one."

"I have an extra one which I think will