Page:Dapples of the Circus (1943).pdf/115

 "You fellers are all right just as you are," returned Freckles. "You don't want to join any circus. I wouldn't go if I had a home, not on your life. Well, fellers, I guess it is good-bye. Here is the ringmaster."

Very solemnly the three shook hands, vowing eternal and everlasting friendship.

"I just know you will own the whole show some day, Freckles," said Beany in a whisper. He didn't want the ringmaster to hear such a prophecy. Freckles smiled feebly.

"Good-bye, fellers," he choked. "I—I—we Don't tell any one where I have gone for a week. Then perhaps I will write Mr. Perkins. I won't ever forget you fellers. You have always been good tome. I—I So long, fellers. The ringmaster says I must come now."

Pickles and Beany turned reluctantly while Freckles climbed aboard the sleeper.

"All right, boy," said the circus man