“How will any one ever find it out?” questioned Fernald. “There’s no evidence that such a bargain was made between us.”
“That sure is correct,” nodded the Texan. “And for that same reason you may go back on me some and refuse to hand the money over after you get your paws on it. I can’t make you give it up. If I tried that I’d be exposing myself. What assurance have I that you will be square with me?”
“My word!” cried Fernald. “I give you my word!”
Brad hunched his broad shoulders.
“Your word!” he exclaimed, with a short laugh. “Why, I don’t opine the word of any galoot who will put up such a job is worth a great deal.”
“Come, come, young man, don’t be insolent!” exclaimed Fernald, in annoyance. “I can’t afford to throw you down after a bargain of that sort. I have a standing to maintain here. I am taking more chances than you. If this thing should become known, and it could be proven that I entered into such a compact, I’d be dropped from the management of the Rockford team.”
“Is that right?”
“Certainly it’s right. Let me whisper something to you that I have never mentioned to any one before. Really I don’t care a rap whether Rockford wins the pennant or not, but for the present I must keep my team at the head of the league. I must do it in order to satisfy the people here who have backed the team. If I can keep Rockford at the front up to within a few days of the finish I will be well satisfied. More than that, I will agree with you now to throw two of our last games in return for this one to-morrow.”
“Why should you do that?” asked Brad, in a puzzled manner. “I don’t see how that would benefit you.”
“I will explain it. I am betting on my own team now, and I risk money for the purpose of making money. If I can keep Rockford ahead till near the finish of the season, there will be plenty of Rockford people ready to back us to win the pennant, and they’ll back us good and heavy. I’ll not let any of them suspect the game I’m playing, but I’ll have some good men ready with my money to bet that Rockford does not win the pennant. I shall bet heavily, too. Then I’ll throw the important games that will cause us to drop into second place. If your team can keep close onto our heels, you will go into first place and get the pennant. It will be a good thing for Fairhaven, as it will create enthusiasm over there and lead the islanders to put a team into the league next year. So you see, my boy, you’re not damaging your own team by entering into this agreement with me about the game to-morrow. The loss of one game now will mean your final advancement.”