“Hello! hello! hello! What’s this? What terror-inspiring bird of prey from the towering peaks of the Andes Mountains is about to perform before an awe-struck multitude for the first time in the history of the world?” asked another voice, and Jack and Mr. Delafield looked up to see the fat, jolly countenance of Nolan Waddleton, the “adjective man.”
“Oh, this is a new machine for a flying clown,” explained the property man. “Jack is going to spring something different.”
“Ah, I must have that for my posters,” said Mr. Waddleton. “That will be quite a drawing card. I need something fresh and new. Let’s see. Nerve-thrilling trip through the terrestrial——No, that won’t do. You’re going to keep off the earth. Through the towering—no, I’ve used that before. Oh, can’t you give me a couple of adjectives, some of you?” and he looked appealingly at Sam and Jack.
“How would ‘Startling sensation of a Simple Simon sailing serenely, supereminently and satisfactorily over the heads of a startled, strabismus-struck, sensation-satiated assemblage in an admirably adapted aeroplane’ strike you?” asked Mr. Delafield.
“Excellent! superb! lovely! marvelous! That’ll do first-rate!” exclaimed the “adjective man” enthusiastically. “I must write that down. We’ll have you on the bills soon,” he added, turning to Jack.
CHAPTER XVII
JACK MAKES A HIT
That afternoon’s performance was well attended. Jack did the same thing he had done on the previous day and was moderately well applauded. As usual, however, Sam Kyle created the most laughter, for he had an act that was mirth-provoking, and he took advantage of various happenings in the ring to turn a joke or do some odd stunt that was sure to bring forth clapping.
Ted Chester, with his miniature automobile, made a hit also. The people seemed to like him, and this delighted Ted. He strutted about as “proud as a turkey just before Thanksgiving,” as one of the other clowns put it.
“Mind you keep away from my side of the ring,” cautioned Ted as he met Jack on the big circular track. “If I find you interfering with me again I’ll take matters into my own hands. I don’t care for Sam Kyle. If you bother with me and spoil my act, you’ve got to take the consequences.”
“I’m not going to bother you,” replied Jack.