orie.

"Whatever you do," said Mr. Maynard, "stay with Pompton, and do just as
he tells you. He is a very intelligent man, and he will take care of you
all right, and you must be kind and polite to him. Now scamper along and
get ready."

The children were soon ready, and went gaily off with Pompton, waving
good-byes to their parents, who stood on the hotel veranda.

They did not go in their own automobile, but in a trolley-car, and the
four children seated themselves demurely, side by side, with Pompton at
the end, next to Rosy Posy.

The ride was through a pleasant part of town, and on to the outskirts,
where they soon came in sight of the circus tents.

Pompton ushered his charges through the entrance, and they found
themselves in what seemed like a wilderness of tents, both large and
small. As it was not yet time for the performance, they walked round,
visiting the side-shows, and looking at the collection of "freaks," which
is considered an important part of every circus.

"Mayn't we have some popcorn, Pomp?" asked Marjorie, as they passed a
stand where that delectable refreshment was sold.

"Your ma said you were to have that after the show, Miss Marjorie. At
least, that's how I understood it." Pompton always took the children's
requests very seriously, and only granted them when he could do so
conscientiously.

"Oh, she wouldn't care, whether we had it before or after," said King;
"but I'll tell you what, Pomp, let's have half now and half after the
show."

"Very well, Master King. I don't suppose it does make any great matter.
Will you have pink or white?"

"Both," said Kitty, who was authority on these matters; "and then we'll
have pink lemonade."

"But you've just had your luncheon, Miss Kitty."

"That doesn't matter; this is a sort of dessert. And of course if we have
popcorn, we must have lemonade. Popcorn is so choky."

So the children had their refreshment, and then it was time to go to see
the performance.

Pompton took Rosy Posy in his arms, and the others following, they went
into the big tent and were ushered to their places.

Mr. Maynard had told Pompton to take a box, as in the small enclosure it
was easier to keep an eye on the children, and make sure they did nothing
they ought not to. For the little Maynards were impulsive, and though
Pompton was wise and sensible, he was not entirely accustomed to their
mischievous ways.

"Isn't this fun!" exclaimed Marjorie, as the usher show