"That has already been taken care of," the superintendent of the hospital informed the ring-master. "A Miss Morton has left funds for Mr. Strong's case."
"Well, I'll be jiggered!" exclaimed Jim Tracy. Then he smiled.
The circus neared its close. The animal tent came down, the lions, tigers, horses and elephants were taken to their cars. The performers donned their street clothes and went to their sleeping cars.
Helen, Benny Turton and Bill Watson paid a visit to the hospital just before it was time for the circus train to leave. Joe had not recovered consciousness, but he was resting easily, the nurse said.
"Tell him to join the show whenever he is able," was the message Jim Tracy had left for Joe, "and not to worry. Everything will be all right."
"Good-bye," whispered Helen close to Joe's ear, But he did not hear her.
And the circus moved on, leaving stricken Joe behind.
It was nearly morning when he came out of his unconsciousness with a start that shook the bed.
"Quiet now," said the soothing voice of the nurse.
Joe looked at her, wonder showing in his eyes. Then his gaze roved around the hospital room. He looked down at the white coverings on his enameled bed and then, realizing where he was, he asked: