est.
We may see each other occasionally. Shall you tell the deacon of the
change?"

"I think not. He and I don't get along very well, and he hasn't much
real interest in me, now that he feels I am following in the footsteps
of my father. And if he knew that I was taking up the profession my
mother felt called to, he would have even less regard for me. I'll not
write to him at all."

"Perhaps that is wise. I wonder, Joe, if in traveling about with
Sampson Brothers' Show you will meet any one who knew your mother?"

"I wish that would happen," Joe answered. "I'd like to hear about her.
I shall ask for information about her."

Joe related his encounter with one of the Lascalla Brothers--which one
he did not know.

"I wonder if he'll try to make trouble?" he asked.

"I hardly think so," answered the professor. "He's probably a bad egg,
and talks big. Just go on your own way, do the best you can, keep
straight and you'll be all right."

They talked for some little time further, discussing matters that
needed to be settled between them, and making arrangements for Joe to
leave.

Now that he had come to a decision he was very glad that he was going
with the circus.

"I'll be glad to meet Benny Turton, the 'human fish,' again," said Joe
to himself. "His act is sure a queer one. I wonder if I could stay
under water as long as he does. I'm going to try it some day if I get
a chance at his tank. And Helen--I'll be glad to see her again, too."

Joe did not admit, even to himself, just how glad he would be to meet
the pretty circus rider again. But he surely anticipated pleasure in
renewing the acquaintance.

"That is, if she'll notice me," thought Joe. "I wonder what the social
standing is between trick and fancy riders and the various trapeze
performers."

The next day was a busy one. Joe had to pack his belongings. Some he
arranged to store with the professor's things. He also helped his
friend, the magician, to prepare an advertisement for the theatrical
papers, announcing that The Rosello Show was for lease, along with the
advance bookings. Joe also went over the apparatus with the professor,
making a list of some necessary repairs that would have to be made.

"And now, Joe," said the professor, when the time for parting came, "I
want you to feel free to use any of my tricks, or those you got up
yourself, whenever you want to."

"Use the tricks?" queried Joe.

"Yes. It may be that you'll