The flim-flam man was about to receive the countryman’s money when Leo stepped up.
“Drop this,” he said quietly.
“Wot yer givin’ us, sonny?” came in a hoarse growl from the swindler.
“I say drop the game.” Leo turned to the countryman. “Put away your money, or you will be swindled out of it.”
“By gum! Is thet so?” ejaculated the farmer, and he at once thrust the cash out of sight.
At this the would-be swindler turned on Leo.
“I’ll thrash you for that!” he howled, and rushed at the young gymnast, while the two partners in the deal did the same.
Leo knew it would be foolish to attempt to stand up against all three, so he gave a peculiar whistle, known to all circus hands.
A cry of “Hi! Rube!” arose and soon several circus detectives reached the spot. But the swindlers vanished before they could be captured.
The countryman, whose name was Adam Slocum, was much pleased over what Leo had done, and insisted on shaking hands. He invited Leo to call on him when the circus came to the next town.