excess of his gratitude. But not knowing exactly how such a show of
thankfulness might be received, he contented himself by repeatedly
promising that he would be punctual to the time and place appointed.

He would have loitered in the vicinity of the candy stand in order
that he might gain some insight into the business; but Mr. Lord
advised him to remain away, lest his uncle Daniel would see him,
and suspect where he had gone when he was missed in the morning.

As Toby walked around the circus grounds, whereon was so much to
attract his attention, he could not prevent himself from assuming
an air of proprietorship. His interest in all that was going on
was redoubled, and in his anxiety that everything should be done
correctly and in the proper order he actually, and perhaps for the
first time in his life, forgot that he was hungry. He was really to
travel with a circus, to become a part, as it were, of the whole,
and to be able to see its many wonderful and beautiful attractions
every day.

Even the very tent ropes had acquired a new interest for him, and
the faces of the men at work seemed suddenly to have become those
of friends. How hard it was for him to walk around unconcernedly:
and how especially hard to prevent his feet from straying toward
that tempting display of dainties which he was to sell to those who
came to see and enjoy, and who would look at him with wonder and
curiosity! It was very hard not to be allowed to tell his playmates
of his wonderfully good fortune; but silence meant success, and he
locked his secret in his bosom, not even daring to talk with anyone
he knew, lest he should betray himself by some incautious word.