He had dropped out of a rear window on to a shed and disappeared.
In the meantime a policeman arrived.
When he heard the particulars of the affair he willingly took Murphy into custody, and later on the man was sent to jail.
Steps were taken to attach Porler’s balloons and other property, but it was found he had sold all his things.
“He knew he was taking big chances when he went into that underhanded work,” laughed Greson.
“Oh, I trust I shall never see that man again,” said Mart, with a shudder.
Strange to say, the boy’s wish was gratified. Fearful of prosecution, Porler fled to South America, and that was the last heard of him.
Leo and Mart rejoined the circus at a place called Wheatlands, and their friends were heartily glad to see them back, safe and sound.
There was news for both. Professor Ricardo was much better, and on the week following was to return to work. This would put Leo back among the acrobats again, and for this the young gymnast was not sorry.
He did not forget to put in a good word for Mart to Professor Ricardo, and consequently the boy remained in his old place, and Larry Greson was given a situation among the menagerie men, something which suited him better than did ballooning.