National Comics #56 (1946)

In the chaotic world of Colonel Lane’s struggling circus, a brash newcomer known only as the Grifter arrives with a bold claim to know the boss—whom he calls “Stinky Lane.” As the Grifter’s antics stir up tension and confusion among the performers, he quickly finds himself at the center of a series of misadventures, from outwitting a knife-thrower to charming a nervous attraction act, all while evading the wrath of the circus’s gruff crew.

In the 1946 story "The Boy Who Knew All The Answers," young Melvin Delane—famous for his encyclopedic knowledge on a quiz show—finds himself in trouble when a man claiming to be his uncle abducts him, only to be thwarted by Policewoman Sally O'Neil. As the chase unfolds through the city, Melvin’s sharp mind proves key in outwitting the kidnapper, even as the police initially miss the obvious clue: his love of Zingo bars.

In "The Problem of Sophia," Lassie and Laddie pay a visit to Uncle Balty, whose stern sister Sophia proves a challenge until she takes his advice to lighten up—leading to a playful slingshot spree. With a little help from the kids, Sophia’s transformation sparks a surprising new chapter, much to Balty’s relief and delight.