Jamie ignores him. “A very important passenger named Mr. Stewart might bring Valora to America as a member of the circus if we can impress him. He arranged things with the captain so we can perform for him tomorrow.”

The men exchange surprised glances, and a murmuring starts up. Drummer gives an appreciative drumroll against Ming Lai’s solid arm.

Jamie holds up his hands, and the men quiet. “That’s where you all come in. We need each of you to help us, if you are willing.” He bows to the elders.

So that’s what Jamie’s up to. I guess he has his moments. We are auditioning for the Greatest Show on Earth, after all. Now is the time to pitch all the coal into the fire. The other seamen can help us make sure the show goes smoothly, even add drama.

Tao interlaces his hands and shakes them twice, a gesture of appreciation. “Tell us what you have in mind.”

Jamie glances at me, and I pick up the thread as easily as if we were sharing a brain. “Yesterday, I did some juggling and made more than two pounds off those upper-class passengers.”

“Two pounds?” Fong coughs out.

That’s right, old man. “Wink and Olly helped me, catching coins in their hats while I took my bow.” I throw the lads a smile. “We’ll need you to do it again, if you’re willing.”

“Count me in,” says Olly.

“Me, too,” says Wink heavily, as though the words have to be dragged out of his mouth. Is it my imagination or is he dodging my eyes?

“Also, spread a ‘rumor,’” I add. “Those tend to travel faster than ‘news.’”

Jamie plunks his elbows on Wink’s kneecaps and grins up at him, but Wink still doesn’t smile. “Yeah, and make sure to use words like death-defying and shocking.”

“Drummer and Ming Lai, you’ll be our barkers, letting people know of the show. Ming Lai, you’ll also introduce us. Olly and Wink can help you with the words.”

“I am honored, but why me?” Ming Lai asks.

“You’ve got the best face and a good voice on you,” I reply.

“At least that’s what Russian girls say,” Drummer wisecracks. “Oh, Ming Lai, do you like my apples?” He mimics a girl’s soft voice, batting at his friend with his fingers.

Ming Lai kicks him. “I’ll show you my apples, if you stop shaking your rabbit legs.” All the men laugh.

“Rabbit Legs, I mean, Drummer”—I duck when he pretends to throw his cap at me—“I’ve seen you rouse a crowd. We’re going to need some beats, if you can find a big drum.”

“It would be my pleasure, Little Sister.”

“Val tells me you have some connections to the men working downstairs,” Jamie chimes in. “We’ll need a space to practice, somewhere private. Could you ask around?”