Another is a specialist for the vans used for carrying plant, dentists’ cars, breaks for driving parties, caravans, &c.
I saw one of these model caravans at the Fair du Trône; it contained dining and drawing-rooms, a bedroom and servant’s room. Through the open window of the drawing-room, I heard the refrain of one of Métra’s waltzes. I went nearer and saw that the musician was a charming young girl, wearing a plush dressing-gown, conscientiously practising the piano.
I leave you with this vision of middle-class prosperity. I hope it will correct, as far as may be, the very false ideas which hitherto you may have cherished about banquistes and their wandering lives.
M. NAEL SALSBURY.
FOOTNOTES
[1] Grande banque is a general term for large shows and theatres in a fair.
Petite banque is used for small shows, such as “fatma,” giants, &c.
Banquistes includes all persons showing or performing on a fair ground, circus, or variety entertainment.
I am indebted to Mr. John Holden, the owner of the popular Palais des Fantocche, for these definitions: there do not appear to be any equivalent words in English slang.—Note by the Translator.