But not one who had seen the game would agree to that.
While they were talking, the door opened, and Bart Hodge entered, followed by Browning, Ready, Mason, Carson, Morgan, Starbright, Gamp, and Benson.
The principal members of the varsity nine, the ones who had been mainly responsible for the winning of the championship, had come to that room to gather round their captain for the last time before the parting that might break their ranks forever.
Of course, they were surprised, and, of course, there was more hand-shaking and introducing of Mrs. Diamond. The Virginian was showered with congratulations.
Jack Ready stood and looked at Juliet with an expression of regretful sadness on his face.
“It’s too bad!” he finally sighed.
“What’s too bad, Mr. Ready?” she asked, in surprise.
“That we did not meet before this hot-headed young man from the warm and reckless South drifted across your horizon. Alas, you are no longer a lass! It is too late, too late!”
He seemed to heave a great sob from the depths of his bosom.
“Sir!” exclaimed Diamond, “what do you mean? Are you seeking to insult me?”