Phil and Teddy started for the stateroom. At the door they
halted, scarcely able to believe their eyes. There sat
Mr. Sparling, smiling a welcome to them.

"_Mr. Sparling!_" cried Phil dashing in, with Teddy close at
his heels.

"Yes, I wanted to surprise you," laughed the showman, throwing
an arm about each boy.

"I am so glad to see you," cried Phil, hugging his
employer delightedly.

"And it does my heart good to set eyes on you two once more.
The Sparling organization has not been quite the same since
you left. And, Teddy, we haven't had any excitement since
you left."

"How's the donkey?"

"Kicking everything out of sight that comes near him. He has not
been in the ring since you left," laughed the showman.

"I wish I was back there. I don't like this game for a
little bit."

"You mean you do not like the work?"

"Well, no, not exactly that. The work is all right, but--"