The performers roared.
“I’m going to try it again.”
“No; you’ve done enough for one day. You won’t be able to hold up the coffeepot tomorrow morning if you do much more.”
“Do you think we will be able to accomplish anything on the flying rings, Mr. Miaco?” asked Phil after they had returned to the dressing tent.
“There is no doubt of it. Were I in your place I should take an hour’s work on them every day. Besides building you up generally, it will make you surer and better able to handle yourself. Then, again, you never know what minute you may be able to increase your income. People in this business often profit by others’ misfortunes,” added the clown significantly.
“I would prefer not to profit that way,” answered Phil.
“You would rather do it by your own efforts?”
“Yes.”
“It all amounts to the same thing. You are liable to be put out any minute yourself, then somebody else will get your job, if you are a performer of importance to the show.”
“You mean if my act is?”