"That’s all. I thought you didn’t mean it. It’s all I want to know. I am satisfied."
"I’m glad you’re satisfied," said Steve, walking away in anything but a pleasant temper.
Immediately Jabez Lynch approached Hal.
"It’s silly of you to waste your time in the attempt," said the fellow, with curling lip.
Hal surveyed him from his head to his feet, without speaking.
"Oh, you ought to know it’s silly!" said Jabez. "If you can play fast football, so much the worse. Merriwell doesn’t like you. I happen to know why, and——"
"You know too much!" said Hal meaningly. "It would be better if you did not take such an interest in other persons’ affairs."
"Don’t throw it into me like that!" snapped Lynch. "I’m your friend."
"Not if I know it!"
"You may need me some time."