As Merriwell came out, Bob Singleton walked off the field, which made it plain that Dick would take big Bob’s place as full-back. Getting into position, Dick began to swing his right leg in a very suggestive manner.
"He’s going to kick, that’s all," was the general opinion.
This caused the excitement to subside somewhat, for a kick meant that Fardale had given up the last hope of winning, and was simply trying to keep Hudsonville from securing further points.
Everything was ready, and the two lines faced each other, Captain Nunn having a last word with one or two of his men.
No signal was given, but, of a sudden, the ball was snapped, and Shannock passed it cleanly and handsomely to Merriwell.
The Hudsonville tigers charged and tried to break through, but now Fardale stood firm, not yielding an inch, and the two lines crushed together, rigid and motionless for a moment.
In that moment the most amazing thing ever seen on Fardale field happened.
With a whirlwindlike dash, Dick Merriwell ran straight toward the line, the ball hugged under his arm. Then up into the air he shot like a bird, and, with the grace of a fawn, he passed directly over the heads of his friends and antagonists in the line!
CHAPTER XVII.
GLORY FOR THE VICTOR.
Those who saw the feat could scarcely believe they were not dreaming.