He gathered them about him and led the cheer, which was hearty enough.
The Elks were taken by surprise. Some of them had started to leave the field. The manager realized he had been outdone in politeness, and he hastened after his players, hustling together those he could assemble. Then they cheered, but it lacked the vigor of the cheer from the Merries.
This little piece of business on the part of the visitors caught the fancy of the crowd. The spectators realized now that Frank and his comrades had made a game fight.
“You’re all right, blue boys!” shouted a man. “You can play the game!”
“That’s right,” agreed another. “You’re dandies, boys!”
Others followed their example. The crowd could afford to be generous. It was perfectly satisfied.
CHAPTER XXX
THE STING OF DEFEAT.
In their hotel at Elkton the boys had one room which was used exclusively as a “dressing room.” In it was kept all the paraphernalia which they carried on the tour.
After the game they hurried silently to the hotel, few words passing on the way.