Summary

Chapter 8: The Charivaris, a family of trapeze artists, were the stars of the show before Colonel Kearney signed Fevvers. Their family has performed before kings and emperors, and they resent Fevvers, believing she is not only a fake (and hence, a cheat), but that her size and lack of speed is a disgrace to their profession. They also believe Fevvers poisoned their children with the jam pies, which does nothing to gain their sympathies.

Many gather to watch Fevvers rehearse including Walser and the extended Charivari family (sans children.) During her rehearsal, the rope of the trapeze breaks and drops Fevvers a dozen feet. The orchestra stops as Fevvers swings back and forth like a pendulum. After a bit of time, she swings to the other trapeze and sits high above the ground with spectators below: she sulks angrily.

Lizzie points her finger at...