Water for Elephants

The train arrives in Joliet to find the remains of the failed Fox Brothers Circus. While Al negotiates the sale of what’s left of the performers and animals, August, Jacob, and Marlena go into town for breakfast. Marlena is still upset over Silver Star, but August is unsympathetic and is rude to the server. Al holds auditions but turns away most of the performers. Temperatures are soaring, and Jacob is concerned about the animals. August won’t let him go inside the tent to examine them until Al finishes his negotiations. Jacob argues with Pete about overworking the horses. The resupply wagons finally arrive with food for the humans and animals. Jacob befriends an orangutan. During dinner, several Fox Brothers workers beg for food, but August refuses them. Marlena gives them her food, and August storms off after her. Walter’s dog, Queenie, has diarrhea, and Jacob suggests honey as a remedy, trying to mend his relationship with his roommate. Jacob checks on the animals and finds that the heat is causing them to suffer. Marlena and August are still arguing, but Jacob worries because the big cats haven’t been fed. Al arrives with big news. They didn’t procure the man with a twin, but they’ve gotten an elephant.