Page:Dapples of the Circus (1943).pdf/140

 "Sure, Uncle Bill. What's my cue?"

"Well, you just go from place to place. Go where things are the worst. Crack a joke, a joke on the weather if you have one. Let it be a good one. Give 'em your best. Perhaps they will swear at you, but never mind. Keep at it until you get 'em to laugh. Once get 'em to laughing and we can beat this nasty storm."

Freckles was amazed at this advice. What could a joke do to help the plight of the circus? But he followed after the clown to see if Uncle Bill had advised well.

The man of mirth waddled up to the first wagon.

"Great night for ducks, buddies," he said.

"It's a better night for geese like you; get out of this," growled a husky driver.

Twas a goose that saved Rome," replied the clown. "And you can learn from a goose. Keep your feathers dry and don't go in swimming when it is rain-