“Do we have to pay to get in?” asked Veve in surprise.
“No,” answered Mr. Carsdale, “but the workmen must have tickets. They’re required to prevent those who don’t belong to the circus from getting free meals.”
Veve and Connie observed that the animal trainer seemed well acquainted with the man at the entrance of the cook tent. He guided them into another tent which served as the circus dining room.
Already a number of performers were seated at several long tables set with heavy china.
“Where do we sit, Mr. Carsdale?” asked Connie politely.
“My place is over here near the tent wall,” said the animal man. “You may sit next to me.”
A waiter in a white coat brought the girls pancakes, sausages, tomato juice and fruit. The food was very good and there was a great deal of it. However, Veve and Connie saw so many interesting persons that after the first few minutes they nearly forgot to eat.
Across the table from Veve sat the Thin Man from the side show. Next to him were several little people no taller than Connie or Veve. Although adults, they never would grow any larger, and were known as Lilliputians.
“Why are they so small, Mr. Carsdale?” Veve asked in a whisper. “Didn’t they have enough cod liver oil when they were children?”
Connie gave her friend a quick kick under the table. However, Mr. Carsdale merely laughed and answered the question.