How we cite our quotes: (Line)
Quote #4
And everywhere thousands of folks flocked to see
And laugh at the elephant up in a tree. (165-166)
The circus crowds abandon Horton too, in a manner of speaking. They are actually present, obviously, but they aren't there to support Horton, or to help him out. No, they too see Horton as a silly joke, something to amuse them. At this point, readers are likely feeling pretty sorry for Horton. The theme of abandonment pushes all our empathy buttons.