The “Horn and West” circus is back from its tour through the southern and western states. By the end of autumn, the last performances are supposed to take place, and then the cages with tigers, lions, and leopards will be sent to their winter quarters. After that, the circus staff will be paid off and will part with the circus tent until next summer. Tom Cardif, a teenager who performs in the circus under the name “Brown Bear,” dreams of inventing a new act and performing it in the “Big Top.” But as often happens, chance interferes—and everything goes to pieces.