“I hardly think that,” said Merry. “The game to-day could not have frightened them, although it was close until the finish of the ninth inning. They have perfect confidence in themselves. As you are a stranger, it was a surprise to me when you offered to back us in that manner.”
“Oh, we’ve never met, but I’ve seen you pitch. I was out West a short time ago. Have you the same team you had in California and Colorado?”
“Just the same, except that we’re one substitute short. Stretcher has gone home.”
“How did you happen to lose to-day? Was it bad fielding behind you?”
“No, sir. In the ninth I failed to make a hit, with two men on the bags. On the other hand, when their turn came, they did get the hit needed, likewise having two men on the sacks. That’s about how it happened.”
In this manner Frank shouldered the burden. He made no reference to his lame ankle, nor did he explain that he had entered the box after Morgan’s arm gave out.
“That was hard luck!” exclaimed Raybold. “Could you beat them to-morrow?”
“No man can predict what will happen in baseball. Look at the poor showing the Boston Americans made at the opening of the season, just when every one expected great things of them. There are no sure things in baseball that is worth being called baseball.”
“Of course we all realize that. Evidently you are not satisfied to leave Elkton without another try at the team here.”
“Hardly satisfied. Quite the contrary.”