Van was hard at Piggy’s heels, in spite of the efforts of the bystanders to catch him; the clown followed Van, Uncle Sam followed the clown; a haymaker went streaking after Uncle Sam; a male attendant in petticoats gathered up his skirts and followed the haymaker—it was far more stirring than the ride of the Miller of Dee.
The whole of the United States stood up in their floats and shrieked with joy, Rhode Island and California clasping hands, as the mad procession went whirling by. Those who did not join in the chase stood cheering and holding their sides and offering good advice.
“Ten to one on the pig!”
“I put my money on the clown!”
“I’m for Van, strong!”
“Hurry, hurry, Uncle Sam. You’re getting left!”
That was an unparalleled race, long to be remembered in the annals of Fourth of July festivities; history hath not its like.
It ended abruptly.
Van caught up with Piggy at the far end of the lawn