A Fool and His Money Read Free

I’m used to this life, I’ve been doing it for so many years – and I can’t tell you how many youngsters have told me all about their lives, in this very caravan. Some of them have stayed, some of them have gone on to other things. Yes, I’ve even seen half a dozen of them born here – right into this very circus. For some of us, it’s a way of life.’
    â€˜Well, it’s not for me. As soon as I have enough money, I’m leaving this horrid place.’
    â€˜I really wish I could help you, Anne. Really I do. But, well, with Margaret in the sanatorium in Switzerland … well, let’s say it’s costing me rather a lot of money. I can’t really spare enough to visit her. But Molly says she’s getting better. Maybe one day soon Margaret will return to England.’
    â€˜Is Molly still asking you for money?’
    â€˜Well, yes – and I feel I have to pay it. Anything to get Margaret well again.’
    Anne was only the person in the circus, other than Molly, to know about Clicker’s past. When he was a young man he’d had a romance with Margaret Field. Billed as the most daring high wire act in the world, she and Clicker had spent almost a year together. They had made plans to give up this life for something a little more conventional but then Margaret, discovering she was expecting Clicker’s child, disappeared. He had received one letter from her the following year telling him of their daughter, Molly. He had kept the letter all those years, heartbroken that he would never again see the love of his life or his daughter.
    His world was turned upside down again when, seven years ago, Molly arrived looking for her father. When she found him she seemed to be happy and, with her husband, joined the same circus as trick horse riders. Clicker felt he had at least found some happiness with his daughter close by – and she looked so much like her mother.
    Things went well for a few months, then the demands for money started. Molly had told Clicker that her mother was very ill in Switzerland and that she could no longer keep up the payments for her mother’s care. Clicker hadn’t hesitated; this was the least he could do for Margaret. And so, most of his money earnings went to Switzerland while the old man lived a frugal existence, pretending to be happy and funny just to earn enough to pay the bills.
    Anne looked at her watch.
    â€˜Oh my – I didn’t realise how late it’s getting. Time just flies by with you, Clicker. You always make me feel better. I must go and get ready. Thank you for the tea – and good luck for tonight.’
    Clicker grabbed Anne’s arm.
    â€˜Anne, don’t stay here if it’s making you unhappy. I’m so sorry I can’t help you with money at the moment. If I could do it, I would, but I’m sure something will turn up for you soon.’
    â€˜I know you want to help but please don’t worry. I’m sure you’re right. I’ve already got almost ten pounds saved up – that’s a start isn’t it?’
    â€˜Yes, of course it is. Mind you keep it safe too.’
    â€˜â€™Bye, Clicker.’
    The old man closed the caravan door and drew the curtains across the tiny windows. It was time to get ready.
    Peter Trevarthen held his mother’s hand as they walked from their house on Greenbank and made their way to the recreation ground and to the circus. As May walked with her father, she looked up at him.
    â€˜Daddy, are lions dangerous?’
    â€˜Well, yes, I suppose they are – if they escape.’
    â€˜Peter says lions can eat you.’
    â€˜Well, May dear, these lions will all be in the circus ring and nowhere near us – so you don’t need to worry. What are you most looking forward to, Peter?’
    â€˜I think I shall like the clown best. I’ve got a book all about clowns. Do you remember, Daddy – Auntie Jane gave it to me