On the morning of the circus Tom was seized with a violent chill, which almost shook him out of his shoes.

He tried with might and main to master it; for he well knew that if he did not, his visit to the wonderful show must be postponed indefinitely.

He strove like a hero, and was actually sick several hours before the watchful eyes of his mother and aunt discovered his plight.

The moment came when he could hold out no longer, with his teeth rattling like castanets, and his red face so hot that it was painful to the touch.

Since the performance did not open until two o'clock in the afternoon, he did not as yet abandon all hope.
His mother and aunt sympathized with him; but although he rallied to a great extent from his illness, they could not give consent for him to leave the house.