Golden Hope Read Online Free PDF Page B

than all others in the convoy.
    â€˜You’ve got the name right. But we’re en route to Melbourne. So I wouldn’t count on seeking work with us, stranger . We aren’t taking on any more warbs.’
    His smile faltered. ‘Warbs?’
    â€˜Roustabouts who erect tents, groom the horses and all that.’
    The rider’s smile was now double-edged. ‘I’m not seeking work, kid. I’m offering it.’
    He rode off without another word, leaving Clytie even more irritated.
    Her work now completed to a level that gave Vlad no cause for complaint, she was free to follow the figures drifting closer to Gourlay’s wagon in curiosity. The stranger was engaged in animated conversation with Boss Gourlay on the platform erected like a miniature stage in front of the manager’s red wagon. Gourlay stood in the stance of John Bull, the buttons of his checked waistcoat straining to contain his paunch. As always, his trousers were neatly pressed and he was the only man in the troupe who never rolled up his sleeves. Summer or winter, his silk top hat was his badge of identity.
    Along with the others Clytie drew as close as possible to pick up on their conversation without appearing to be obviously eavesdropping.The young man’s voice rang out clear and true, driven by enthusiasm and confidence, yet he listened politely to Gourlay’s questions.
    â€˜I saw you perform in Bendigo. You were splendid – far beyond your reputation. But the weather was dead against you – gale force winds would keep any audience home in their beds.’
    Gourlay grunted in agreement. ‘Ain’t that the truth!’
    â€˜You deserve to perform for audiences who value your true worth. As I do,’ he bowed, repeating his name for the benefit of the impromptu gathering. ‘Rom Delaney at your service. I have been sent by the Mayor of Hoffnung to offer you a special invitation – which will make history!’ He gestured to the clustered groups, now alert to his every word. ‘Ladies and Gentlemen of the circus, I ask you, are you going to deny my town the experience of a lifetime – the magic of Wildebrand Circus?’
    Standing at the rear of the gathering but close enough to catch his every expression, Clytie eyed him speculatively. No backwoods hick, this one. He’s a born spruiker. There’s a fair chance Gourlay will fall for his blarney.
    Rom Delaney’s face was shining, his eyes gleaming. His voice was dark, strong and rich with excitement. Startled, she realised that for once their positions were reversed. It was the circus troupe that was the audience – ready to soak up a performance they wanted to believe.
    Gourlay, half cautious, half attracted to the bait, asked the question with narrowed eyes. ‘Where exactly would we perform? We need plenty of space for our Big Top, wagons and animals – and a ready supply of water.’
    â€˜Aah!’ Rom paused for dramatic effect but Clytie suspected he was mentally grasping for a solution.
    â€˜We can offer you the perfect venue to erect your Big Top situated by the river. I ask you, Sir, why press on to Melbourne, when you can make a killing right there among the gold miners and property owners of Hoffnung?’
    Rom Delaney gestured dramatically as if the town was simply to be found on the other side of the adjacent hill.
    â€˜Hoffnung is hungry for entertainment. No circus has ever played there since the Gold Rush. They’ve got money in their pockets ready to burn. Imagine what a sensation Wildebrand Circus will be! Just look at this map, Sir.’
    He presented a document to Gourlay and spoke directly to the circus troupe. ‘Hoffnung is only seven and a half miles along the next turn-off road from the highway. You’ll have your whole troupe set up before nightfall!’
    Boss Gourlay examined the map. ‘Where’s Hoffnung? I can’t see it marked.’
    â€˜It’s