What happens
Jerry Dugan and the circus crew work through a tiring morning raising the big tops after the canvas men and stakers have struck. Jerry suggests using the elephants to haul the ropes, which speeds the work, but a rope slip drops canvas on Major Mike, the midget performer, who is shaken though not seriously hurt. Later, Major Mike cannot be roused in his tent just before the first show, and Mr. Randall and Mr. Anton consider putting him on display in his bed. Meanwhile Boris Gabby talks with a worker about the strike and the animal trainers' support, and the strike's effect on the show begins to weigh on everyone.
A traveling circus in the early morning and midday, as crews raise the tents and prepare for the afternoon show.
Characters: Jerry Dugan, Murray, Slats, Major Mike, Mr. Randall, Mr. Anton, Boris, Gabby
Listen for: Listen for the rope slip that drops the canvas on Major Mike, and for the crew's discussion about whether to display him in his bed.
Written from the episode itself; it never gives away the ending. Every recording is remastered for the stream: cleaned of rumble, hiss and mains hum (and the old TV whine where we found it), then levelled in two passes to steady broadcast loudness, so one show is never quieter than the next.