Cinder Path Tales

188 CINDER-PATH TALES There wasnow a great bustle onthe stage, a rush of " supes," anda clamor of orders. The scenerywas pushed back and the drop- scenes hoisted out of the way. Padded posts were set in the floor, ropes strung and pulled taut, making a very satisfactory ring, and the chairs placed in the corners. By the demonstration on the stage and the eagerness of the audience, it was evident that we had now come to the great attraction of the evening. The play-bill read " George Johnson, Heavy-Weight Boxer, Will Knock Out Three Opponents in Three Rounds Each, or Forfeit $50 to the Man Who Stays." Now, although I was fairly well informed concerning the boxing world, I was unable to remember " George Johnson's " name, and wondered why he had not been taken on by some of the well-known men who in­ truded themselves into the papers so fre­ quently. The play-bill said clearly that he had challenged the world, and Tom sug­ gested that Johnson was probably toogood for them to take himon, or perhaps he had not a diligent backer who could wield a vigorous pen. Harry, who stripped at one hundred and thirty, declaredhis willingness to put onthe gloves withMr. Johnson if they would let him stand on a chair. Paddy, to