“Yes, sir!”
“You’re afraid! That’s what’s the matter! You have made a great reputation, and you’re afraid of being defeated.”
“That is the very least of my fears, sir. We opened in Los Angeles with the Chicago Cubs, defeating them two out of three games. I hardly think we would fear you after that.”
“Oh, I don’t know! If you had lost all three games to the Chicagos it would have been no disgrace. After your triumphant career this season, you might feel sore if you dropped a game to a new team here in Cartersville.”
“As far as possible,” said Merry, “I seek to deal with gentlemen.”
Cameron flushed the least bit, and a wicked look came to his eyes.
“I don’t fancy the insinuation!” he exclaimed. “I have apologized and endeavored to set things straight. If you are looking for further trouble——”
He checked himself, changing his manner in a moment.
“That’s nonsense!” he laughed. “I’m sorry you are afraid. I have heard of you, Mr. Merriwell. You have a reputation for nerve, but it seems that you have very little real nerve. You are challenged to play my team. You dare not play! You know I can defeat you. You’re a squealer!”
“All that sort of talk never drove me into anything I had decided not to do, and never could,” said Frank.