human
Phil, how did that accident happen?
gpt
You saw it, did you not, Mr. Sparling?
human
Yes. But I was unable to understand how it occurred.
gpt
That is exactly what is bothering me,
human
You suspect something?
gpt
I suspect I got a bump that I shan't forget soon, laughed the Circus Boy.
human
It is a wonder I did not break my neck.
gpt
You undoubtedly saved Dimples' life at the risk of your own. You are the pluckiest lad--no, I'll say the pluckiest _man_ I have ever known.
human
Don't make me blush, Mr. Sparling.
gpt
Nevertheless, I wish you wouldn't take chances on that act again. Give the audience the same old act and they will be satisfied with that.
human
Didn't you like the act?
gpt
Like it?
human
Yes.
gpt
It was the finest exhibition of its kind that I ever saw. I hope neither the Ringlings, nor Barnum and Bailey, nor any of the big shows get a peep at that act.
human
Why?
gpt
Because were they to do so I would be sure to lose my little star performers right in the middle of the season,
human
Oh, I hardly think so. I do not wish to leave this show. Had it not been for you I should still be doing chores for my board and clothes back in Edmeston. Now wouldn't that be fine?
gpt
Very,
human
Whatever I have accomplished I have you to thank for.
gpt
You mean you owe to your own brightness and cleverness. No, Phil, you are a boy who would have succeeded anywhere. They can't keep you down--no, not even were they to sit on you.
human
If Fat Marie, with her five hundred and odd pounds, were to sit on me, I rather think I would be kept down,
gpt
What is Teddy doing out in the ring?
human
I left him there to keep an eye on the injured horse.
gpt
Why, Phil?
human
Until I could get back and make an examination.
gpt
Very well; I want to see you after you have done so.
human
I will look you up.