"To-morrow evening at eight o'clock—the first performance of the Greatest Show in Europe—a unique opportunity—better book your seats early, ladies and gentlemen——"
Then the flaps of the tent fell and all the lights and sounds seemed to go out at once. The crowd melted away, and only Robert and his companion remained gazing spellbound at the closed and silent cave which had swallowed all the enchantment.
Rufus put his hands into his hair and tugged it desperately.
"Oh, if only I could go—if only I could—— Don't you want to go,
Robert?"
Robert woke partially from his dream.
"I'm going." He turned, and with his hands thrust into his pockets began to walk homewards. Rufus trotted feverishly at his side.
"I say, are you really? But then you've got no people; jolly for you. I wish I hadn't. My pater's so beastly strict; I'm scared of him. I say, when will you go?"
"To-morrow night, of course."
"Have you got the money?"
"No, but I'll get it."