Question

A solid in which atoms are arranged in repeating patterns

Answer 1

appears that a carnival of sorts has rolled into town. The author describes the affair as ''all sorts of fun and gambling and side-shows,'' brought to town by ''a showman owning an institution called the Gaiety Land.'' Gaiety means happiness or excitement.

And, it's certainly exciting for the narrator, who finds himself the lucky winner of a road engine. The narrator had purchased tickets for a type of raffle drawing. His ticket was drawn, and he was an instant winner.