We are a valuable couple , and I could prove it if I chose to , '' began Ben , getting excited and boastful . `` Oh , see , they 're coming ! -- gold carriages and lovely horses , and flags and elephants , and every thing , '' cried Bab , giving a clutch at Ben 's arm as the opening procession appeared headed by the band , tooting and banging till their faces were as red as their uniforms . Round and round they went till every one had seen their fill , then the riders alone were left caracoling about the ring with feathers flying , horses prancing , and performers looking as tired and indifferent as if they would all like to go to sleep then and there . `` How splendid ! '' sighed Bab , as they went dashing out , to tumble off almost before the horses stopped . `` That 's nothing ! You wait till you see the bareback riding and the ` acrobatic exercises , ' '' said Ben , quoting from the play-bill , with the air of one who knew all about the feats to come , and could never be surprised any more . `` What are ` crowbackic exercises ' ? '' asked Billy , thirsting for information . `` Leaping and climbing and tumbling ; you 'll see George ! what a stunning horse ! '' and Ben forgot every thing else to feast his eyes on the handsome creature who now came pacing in to dance , upset and replace chairs , kneel , bow , and perform many wonderful or graceful feats , ending with a swift gallop while the rider sat in a chair on its back fanning himself , with his legs crossed , as comfortably as you please . `` That , now , is something like , '' and Ben 's eyes shone with admiration and envy as the pair vanished , and the pink and silver acrobats came leaping into the ring . The boys were especially interested in this part , and well they might be ; for strength and agility are manly attributes which lads appreciate , and these lively fellows flew about like India-rubber balls , each trying to outdo the other , till the leader of the acrobats capped the climax by turning a double somersault over five elephants standing side by side . `` There , Sir , how 's that for a jump ? '' asked Ben , rubbing his hands with satisfaction as his friends clapped till their palms tingled . `` We 'll rig up a spring-board and try it , '' said Billy , fired with emulation . `` Where 'll you get your elephants ? '' asked Sam , scornfully , for gymnastics were not in his line .
`` You 'll do for one , '' retorted Ben , and Billy and Bab joined in his laugh so heartily that a rough-looking , man who sat behind them , hearing all they XXXXX , pronounced them a `` jolly set , '' and kept his eye on Sancho , who now showed signs of insubordination .
Leaping caracoling climbing come cried fired get quoting said sighed