Page:Dapples of the Circus (1943).pdf/61

 and showing him at the local fair. He had been working on him for several weeks before he finally got permission from Sir Arthur to exhibit him at the fair.

Most ponies are very clever and learn tricks much more readily than a full-sized horse. This is because they have been trick horses for centuries. Their diminutive size always gives them an advantage with an audience, for the children are always ready to clap for them even before they have made their bow. The Homesdale children were all excitement about Dapples's tricks, and they watched Jerry each day as he labored patiently with the small horse. When the fair day finally arrived, they could hardly wait until he should come into the arena and do his tricks.

When Dapples trotted demurely into the open space in front of the judges' stand, and made a low bow, a ripple of applause swept through the great audience in the grand stand.