CHAPTER IX -The circus boys in dixie Land

In Chapter IX of “The Circus Boys in Dixie Land,” Phil Forrest, a circus boy himself, decides to leave his bag at the station and head to the circus lot to gather information from the stake and chain gang – the men responsible for setting up the circus. Upon arrival, he engages with the foreman of the group, genially extracting information about competing circuses and the strategies employed to outdo one another, specifically targeting the Sparling show. Phil learns that their tactics include staying ahead in locations and having inside knowledge of Sparling’s schedule.

The foreman acknowledges having secret insights into Sparling’s moves and hints at internal sources within Sparling providing them with information. Intrigued and slightly worried about this espionage, Phil understands the competitive nature and secretive tactics of the circus business. He decides to observe more, learning that Sully’s Circus, the one he’s investigating, plans to lead the circuit into the South, preempting Sparling’s movements.

After this discovery, Phil watches Sully’s Circus’s parade and performance, analyzing their acts with a professional eye while enjoying the spectacle. He notes the strength and presentation of their acts, comparing them silently to his experiences and standards set by the Sparling show. Phil exchanges thoughts with a ‘candy butcher’ (vendor) to get deeper insights into Sully’s operations and observes questionable characters he suspects are pickpockets, confirming the shady elements surrounding Sully’s Circus.

Throughout his investigation, Phil meticulously documents his findings, intending to inform Mr. Sparling of his competitor’s plans and tactics. Despite enjoying the circus from the perspective of an audience member, Phil’s dedication to his work and Mr. Sparling’s show remains unwavering, highlighting his deep connection and loyalty to the circus that is his home.