Winnie clapped her hands and Inza laughed.
“To the bowling-alley!” cried Ready, with a flourish. “I’ll be pin-boy, and every little candle shall be on its post to a fraction of an inch. Forward the Light Brigade! Charge for the pins!”
So down to the alley in the basement of the house they went. The lights were turned on by Phil, and soon everything was ready for this second match between Frank and Dick.
The entire house was heated by steam, and the spectators could look on in comfort. The alley was regulation length, well built, well kept, and handsomely polished.
It fell to Frank to lead off. He examined the balls, finding them all of a size and in fine condition.
“I am going to beat you at this, Merry,” asserted Dick. “I know you are too much for me at billiards, but I’m better at this business.”
“That being the case,” smiled Merry, “I must take care to begin strong and hold out. Here goes.”
He sent the first ball skimming down the alley, and it cracked into the pins, striking them fairly in the center and splitting them, taking out three, which left four standing on one side and three on the other.
“Oh, Laura!” exclaimed Ready, from his position beside the pins. “This doesn’t look much like a strong start. Seven soldiers will be good work for that break.”
“Look out for that hole, Frank,” warned Browning. “Keep away from it.”