The Trumpet of the Swan

By the end of his first week in Boston, Louis has firmly established himself as the Swan Boat’s musical accompanist and main attraction. After his first night at the Ritz, the Boatman agrees to have Louis sleep on the lake, and the rest of the fall season passes smoothly. He takes care of his trumpet and learns new songs, such as “Beautiful Dreamer, Wake Unto Me” and “Now the Day Is Over” (139). For the most part, passengers are appreciative and respectful, and the Swan Boat becomes more popular than ever.

As the season draws to a close, Louis receives a Western Union telegram from a nightclub promoter in Philadelphia. The promoter, Abe “Lucky” Lucas, offers to pay $500 a week for a 10-week engagement. Louis quickly determines the $5000 will cover his father’s debt and writes a message on his slate for the telegram messenger accepting the offer. For his last performance in Boston, Louis plays a medley of his favorite songs. Although it signals the end of his time in Boston, Louis is at peace and ready for his next adventure.

The next morning, Louis flies south with his belongings and easily lands at the Philadelphia Zoo’s Bird Lake in time for his appointment with Mr.