CHAPTER XXVIII.
MASON PROVES HIS NERVE.
The first circus of the season had come to town. Now, when a circus strikes New Haven, Yale men take it in with a vengeance. Something about a circus sets their coltish blood to dancing, and they are bound to patronize it. They take in all the side-shows, too, and it is apparent that the most of them enjoy the side-shows more than the performance under the main tent.
Behold Jack Ready and a party of kindred spirits taking in the “sights.” Of course, Ready has dragged Joe Gamp along, and whenever he can start the New Hampshire youth to “haw-hawing” he delights to do so. Starbright is with them, and he smiles and enjoys everything. Big Bingham chaffs with Ready, who is sometimes witty, sometimes “chestnutty,” but always eccentric.
“Come in and behold Melba, the most beautiful woman snake-charmer in the world!” cries the barker outside the side-show.
“Your royal giblets,” says Ready, “didst ever see Weary Wiggins? Nay? Then be careful of thy statements, for he is something of a snake-charmer himself.”
“G’wan!” retorts the barker. “Wot yer givin’ us! You wouldn’t know a snake-charmer if you saw one. Now, honest, did yer ever see one?”
“Well, you are very nearly the first I’ve ever seen,” Ready answered breezily. “Your nose is your own advertisement, sir. You can provide your own snakes with a pint of bug-juice.”