“They’re not small from any lack of food,” he explained. “They’re just that way because they’re freaks of nature.”
Veve and Connie were only half through breakfast when Eva Leitsall sauntered into the tent. The little circus girl stopped short on seeing them at the table. She certainly never had expected to meet Veve and Connie again.
“Come over here, Eva!” called Mr. Carsdale.
The little girl sat down in an empty seat next to Veve. Now that she was not dressed in her circus costume she looked like any ordinary child. Her curly hair had not been combed very well and her eyes were sleepy.
“Have you joined the circus?” she asked Connie and Veve.
“Sure, they both have,” laughed Mr. Carsdale, who had decided to have a little fun. “At least for a while.”
“What have you signed on to do?” asked Eva, not very well pleased.
Now, Mr. Carsdale liked Eva but he also enjoyed teasing her. He knew the little circus girl was inclined to feel rather proud of her accomplishments and that she sometimes boasted. So he said quickly:
“I may make Veve my assistant in the animal act. And Connie might be in the riding act.”
“We don’t need anyone,” replied Eva, scowling. “Besides, she can’t ride, can she?”