More than one was anxious, however, for the time to come when the amateurs would be given a chance. At length the manager came before the curtain, and announced that those who wished might try their talents on the audience.
Several of the boys began to call for this or that chum, whom they knew could do some specialty.
“Give us that whistling stunt, Jimmy!” was one cry.
“Hey, Sim; here’s a chance to show how far you can jump!” cried another.
“Speak about the boy on the burning deck!” suggested a third.
“Now we must have quietness,” declared the manager. “Those who wish to perform may come up here, give me their names, and I will announce them in turn.”
Several lads started for the stage, Jack included. His chums called good-naturedly after him as he walked up the aisle.
“I might as well have all the fun I can to-night,” thought our hero. “When Professor Klopper finds out what I’ve done, if he hasn’t already, he’ll be as mad as two hornets.”
The boys, and one or two girls, who had stage aspirations, crowded around the manager, eager to give in their names.
“Now, one at a time, please,” advised the theatrical man. “You’ll each be given a chance. I may add,” he went on, turning to the audience, “that the prizes will be awarded by a popular vote, as manifested by applause. The performer getting the most applause will be considered to have won the five dollars, and so with the other two prizes.”