first at breakfast. When the proper time
arrived, he walked to the village, and selecting the first church he
came to, entered. He had always been in the habit of attending church,
and felt that there was no good reason why he should give up the
practice now that he was away from home.

He stood in the lobby, waiting for the sexton to appear, when a
fine-looking man of middle age entered the church with a young girl of
fourteen at his side.

He glanced at Kit with interest, and after a moment's pause walked up to
him.

"Are you a stranger here?" he asked.

"Yes, sir," answered Kit.

"I shall be glad to have you accept a seat in my pew."

"Thank you, sir," said Kit, politely; "I was waiting for the sexton,
intending to ask him for a seat."

"I have plenty of room in my pew, having only my daughter with me. Are
you staying long in the town?"

"Only as long as the circus does," answered Kit.

The gentleman looked surprised.

"Are you connected with the circus?" he asked, quickly.

"Yes, sir."

By this time the young girl was examining Kit with interest and
attention.

"Is it possible you are a performer?"

"Yes, sir."

"I wouldn't have dreamed it. You look like a young gentleman."

"I hope I am, sir."

"Pardon me, I meant no offense, but you don't at all answer my idea of a
circus performer."

"I have only been two days with the circus," said Kit; "and that may
account for my not having a circus look."

"It is time to take our seats. I will speak with you afterwards. First,
however, let me introduce my daughter, Evelyn Grant."

"I am glad to make your acquaintance, Miss Evelyn," said Kit, removing
his hat. "My name is Christopher Watson."

Evelyn offered her hand with a smile.

"I had no idea circus young men were so polite," she said.

There was no chance for any further conversation, as they had entered
the church. Mr. Grant's pew was in a prominent position. He drew back to
let the two young people enter. They seated themselves at the lower end
of the pew and Mr. Grant took his seat at the head. Kit noticed that
several persons in neighboring pews regarded him with apparent
curiosity.

Kit enjoyed the services, which were of an interesting character. He had
expected to feel like a stranger, but thanks to the kindness of Mr.
Grant, he felt quite as much at home as when he sat in his uncle's pew
at Smyrna.

When the services were over, they filed slowly out of church. A new
surprise wa