Chapter XVII — The circus boys on the flying Rings
byChapter XVII opens with tension settling over the circus after a dramatic mishap. The incident, involving a high fall during a performance, spreads through the backstage area like wildfire. Two clowns, barely dressed and still wiping off makeup, discuss it in hushed tones, unsure whether the fall was survivable. Meanwhile, the audience outside continues to laugh and cheer, unaware of what has just occurred behind the curtain. The show must go on, and the band plays louder, covering the absence of a fallen performer. But behind the scenes, the concern is growing fast. A performer’s fall is more than just a slip—it’s a risk everyone lives with, yet hopes never to face. Safety in the circus isn’t just about netting and harnesses; it’s about trust in every wire and each other.
Elsewhere, the animal handlers try calming the animals, particularly Emperor, the elephant, who senses something is wrong. He refuses to move until firmly ordered by Mr. Kennedy, responding to the command with hesitation. Animals, like performers, absorb tension in the air—they know when something is amiss. The dressing tent, once a place of jokes and last-minute costume fixes, now feels like a sickroom. Phil Forrest lies unconscious on a makeshift bed of blankets and trunks, surrounded by concerned friends and staff. His chest rises and falls in shallow rhythm, his face pale. No one knows how badly he’s hurt. Time ticks by as performers whisper their guesses and worry out loud about the failed wire. It wasn’t just bad luck—it had been worn through, which now casts a shadow over everyone’s confidence.
Mr. Sparling arrives quickly, his usual humor replaced by grave focus. He brushes past the gathered crowd and kneels beside Phil, eyes filled with concern. Sparling isn’t just the circus owner here—he’s something closer to a father figure. His voice is stern as he questions everyone, demanding to know how this could happen. When the doctor arrives, a hush falls over the group. The tension becomes unbearable as the examination begins. Sparling’s jaw tightens while he waits. Relief floods the tent when the doctor finally announces that, while the injuries are painful, nothing appears permanently damaged. Phil will recover, but it will take time.
Despite the suggestion that Phil should be left in the town’s hospital, Sparling immediately refuses. He instructs the doctor to stay and oversee Phil’s care personally. There’s no negotiation; Phil is family. Arrangements are swiftly made, and Phil is moved to a quiet hotel room, away from the noise and bustle of the circus. The doctor remains at his side, treating him through the night. The circus, meanwhile, must continue on to its next stop. That’s the nature of the business—it waits for no one. But hearts are heavy as they roll out of town, leaving one of their best behind.
In the early morning hours, Phil stirs, his consciousness returning in fragments. His first thought is of the show. Has it already gone on without him? The answer, gently delivered, is yes. But he isn’t forgotten. The circus family made sure he would be safe and well cared for, even in their absence. A quiet understanding begins to form in his mind—this isn’t just a job or a performance; it’s a life tied to others who truly care. He might be hurt, but he is not alone.
The emotional weight of being left behind is tempered by the outpouring of support Phil receives. Meals are brought to him. Performers send notes of encouragement through town messengers. Even Teddy, usually playful and loud, sends a carefully folded letter full of concern and promises to save a front-row spot for Phil when he returns. Injuries in performance arts aren’t just physical—they’re emotional, too. Knowing one’s value remains intact, even in absence, is healing in its own right.
Recovery becomes Phil’s new act for the time being. Rest, patience, and medical attention form the foundation of this unexpected chapter. His spirit, though shaken, remains intact. The fall did not break him—it simply reminded everyone of the high stakes they all balance daily. In time, he’ll return, stronger and more respected than ever. The circus may have moved on, but it carried Phil’s story forward, turning misfortune into a tale of resilience.