Page:Dapples of the Circus (1943).pdf/134

 together. Probably one of the most important people in the circus, from a human standpoint, was the circus mother. She was a large, matronly woman of about sixty. Her hair was gray and there were a few wrinkles on her brow, but her heart was only about sixteen, and her smile never failed, no matter what the trouble.

Every one called her mother, and she was mother to the whole circus; but really she was a matron, watching especially over the women and girls.

But this did not hinder the men and boys from bringing their troubles to her. It was from her that Freckles received the first real woman's love in his whole life, and he was accordingly grateful.

Not only did the circus mother see that all garments, and especially costumes and trappings, were mended and clean, but she always looked out for the spiritual welfare of her great family. Each season she took charge of the money affairs of some of the young men who were naturally