Mills Bros. Circus

John Herriott was with the Mills Show in the early 60's and he told me a story that we have laughed about for over 40 years. After his first season Jack Mills was so impressed with John's work that he and Mrs. Mills took John and Mary Ruth to Europe the following winter. They stayed at the Savoy Hotel in London and visited the winter circuses that featured the great horse acts of the day. On their return John thought now would be a good time to bring up the subject of a raise in salary for the oncoming season. I don't recall the figures involved but for the sake of the story I'll say the raise was $400. John explained to Mr. Mills that having recently seen all the great horse acts of Europe he should realize that John ranks right up there with these great tainers and merits the increase. Mr. Mills replied "Johnny, I must admit that you are truly great however could you possibly limit your greatness to a $200 raise? Otherwise you are altogether too great for the Mills Bros. Circus. . John said they compromised and he remained for another season. Over the years whenever I would visit John I would ask "Colonel, how are things on this show, are we $400 great or $200?".