Page:Firecrackers a realistic novel.pdf/74

 with cold water at a sink in one corner of the room.

I'd like to, Paul declared, if you don't mind.

There's always enough for five, Mrs. Hugo promised him.

The group gathered around the table. The acrobats had drawn bathrobes about their heated bodies. Their faces were shiny. They even looked happier.

I'll tell you what it is, Hugo began, forking a steaming potato, you gotta go into the act next week, Gunnar.

Robin's mouth was full of stew, but he sputtered out a You bet!

But I'm just learning the profession, the young man protested.

Apple-sauce. You're better 'an we are now. Ain't he, mother?

Well, he's just as good.

There! cried Hugo. D'ya hear that? That means a whole lot from the little woman. She ain't the one to never say no more'n that.

What do you think? Gunnar demanded of Paul.

I think you can do anything! Paul cried. Why. ..

Gunnar signalled him a mute plea for silence.

Well, he considered aloud, I was going to some day. Why not next week? Where do you play?

We're billed at the Riverside. We close the show.