While the big tent was being put up the other preparations for the show were proceeded with. Mr. Boyd and Mr. Sampson, who were part owners with Jim Tracy, arranged for a small parade, since it had been advertised. On the back of one of the elephants rode the fat lady, with a banner which explained that because of a strike of the canvasmen the usual street exhibition could not be given. The assurance was made, though, that the show itself would be the same as advertised.
"That will prevent the public from being too sympathetic with the strikers," said Jim Tracy. "The public, as a rule, doesn't care much for a strike that interferes with its pleasure."
At last the big tent was up, and all was in readiness for the afternoon performance, though it would be a little late.
"It won't be much fun taking down the tent after the show to-night," said Joe.
"Perhaps you won't have to," stated the ring-master. "I may be able to hire men to take the strikers' places before then."
"But if you can't, we'll help out," declared the young trapeze performer, though he knew it would be anything but pleasant for himself and the others, after high-tension work before a big audience, to handle heavy canvas and ropes in the dark.
The public seemed to take good-naturedly to the circus, not being over-critical of the lack of the usual big street parade. And men, women and children came in throngs to the afternoon performance.
The circus people fairly outdid themselves to give a good show, and Joe worked up a little novelty in one of his "lone" acts.
He gave an exhibition of rope-climbing, Jim Tracy introducing the act with a few remarks about the value of every one's knowing how to ascend or descend a rope when, thereby, one's life might some time be saved.
"Professor Strong will now entertain you," announced the ring-master, "and tell you something about rope-work."