CHAPTER XXIII -The Circus Boys Across the Continent

In Chapter XXIII of “The Circus Boys Across The Continent,” the Circus Boys explore the marvels of Salt Lake City, visiting notable sites like the great Mormon Temple and swimming in the Great Salt Lake. Their journey across the mountains and through the Rockies continues to thrill them with its breathtaking scenes, and they grow as performers, navigating the circus season without major accidents, despite minor falls.

The narrative shifts to a growing concern within the circus—increases in burglaries at towns visited by the show and dangerous sabotage acts, like the cutting of the big top’s guy ropes in Reno, which could have led to disaster if not for a last-minute wind direction change. This sabotage incident deeply troubles Mr. Sparling, the show’s owner, reinforcing his determination to catch the culprit believed to be Red Larry, a former employee turned malefactor.

Phil Forrest, one of the Circus Boys, proposes a bold plan to catch the saboteur by suggesting that the trains transporting the circus be thoroughly searched. Despite skepticism from Mr. Sparling and others about the feasibility of this plan, Phil’s conviction and reasoning persuade Sparling to order searches of the trains at daybreak, with special instructions not to alert the crews until the searches are about to begin.

Through a mix of diligent planning and a deep understanding of the circus operations, Phil aims to personally contribute to the search, displaying his courage and dedication to the circus. His methodical approach and Sparling’s willingness to take Phil’s advice highlight a dynamic of mutual respect and exemplify the resilience of the circus community in facing challenges head-on. The chapter closes with Phil prepared to repay his debt to Red Larry, signaling his readiness to confront the dangers that lie ahead in their journey across the continent.