Teddy grinned a sheepish sort of grin.

"Told me I'd better go out in the horse barn--said my particular
style of beauty was better suited to the stable than to the
kitchen."

"Did you?"

"Well, no, not so as you might notice it. I went down to the
creek and went in swimming, clothes and all. That was the
easiest way. You see, I could wash the mud off my clothes and
myself all at the same time."

"It's a wonder they let you in at all, then."

"They didn't; at least not until I had wrung the water out of my
trousers and twisted my hair up into a regular top-knot. Then I
crawled in behind the kitchen stove and got dried out after a
while. But I got my supper. I always do."

"Yes; I never knew you to go without meals."

"Sorry you ain't going to the circus tomorrow, Phil."

"I am. Teddy, I'm free. I can do as I like now. Yes, I'll go
to the circus with you, and maybe if I can earn some money
tonight I'll treat you to red lemonade and peanuts."

"Hooray!" shouted Teddy, tossing his hat high in the air.