"Some one spilled acid on one of the wire ropes, and it ate into the metal, corroding it and separating a number of the strands so that a little extra weight broke them," said Joe.
"Acid on the cable?" cried Helen. "How did you find out?"
"I just examined the wire. I knew it couldn't have rusted naturally in such a short time. There was a peculiar smell about the wire, and I know enough of chemistry to make a simple acid test! What kind of acid was used I don't know, but it was strong enough to eat the steel."
"Who could have put it on?"
"That I've got to find out!"
"Was it Harry Loper?"
"I taxed him with it, but he swears he knew nothing of it," said Joe. "I'm inclined to believe him, too. I charged him with drinking, and he could not deny that. But he said he met some old friends and they induced him to have a little convivial time with them. No, I don't believe he'd do it. He's weak and foolish, but he had no reason to try to injure me."
"Who would, Joe? Of course there's Bill Carfax, but he hasn't been seen near the circus of late."
"No, I don't believe it could have been Bill. I'll have to be on my guard."
"Do, Joe!" urged Helen. "Oh, I can't bear to think of it!"