"Then I will make you an offer. I don't want to take you from Mr. Barlow, but when the season is over I shall be ready to arrange for your appearance in Havana under my personal management."
Though Kit was modest he was human. He did feel flattered to find himself rated so high. It even occurred to him that he might like to be considered a star in circus circles, to be the admiration of circus audiences, and to be regarded with wondering awe by boys of his own age throughout the country. But Kit was also a sensible boy. After all, this preëminence was only of a physical character. A great acrobat or trapeze artist has no recognized place in society, and his ambition is of a low character. While these reflections were presenting themselves to his mind, Signor Oponto stood by in silence, waiting for his answer. He thought that Kit's hesitation was due to pecuniary considerations.
"What salary does Mr. Barlow pay you?" he asked, in a businesslike tone.
"Twenty-five dollars a week."
"I will give you fifty, and engage you for a year."
He regarded Kit intently to see how this proposal struck him.
"You are very liberal, Signor Oponto," Kit began, but the manager interrupted him.
"I will also pay your board," he added; "and of course defray your expenses to Havana. Is that satisfactory?"
"It would be very much so but for one thing."
"What is that?"