Chapter 9 Summary

The train arrives at its destination after another night of tense travel for Jacob. The circus has arrived at the site of the bankrupt show and is greeted by a couple officials from the city. August finds Jacob and invites him to breakfast in town, along with Marlena. Marlena is angry, and Jacob discovers that she is upset because August fed her dead horse to the cats when the cats' meat became spoiled. August is rude and unconcerned with Marlena's anger, showing Jacob yet another side to his character.

Back at the train, Uncle Al spends the day hiring abandoned workmen and performers from the bankrupt show. Uncle Al deals with the animals last, hoping the city will lower their price the longer the animals go without care. Jacob is unhappy about the situation because the tent in which the animals are housed...