Still, to most of the boys the game seemed lost, for the second team had a lead of three runs.
"It's our last chance, fellows," said Dale gravely. "No fooling now. No sacrificing. We've got to hit the ball."
Barely had he uttered these words when an inspiration came to him. He called his players about him.
"Fellows," he said, "neither Scrogg nor Higgins are swift in handling bunts. We won't try sacrificing, but we'll try bunting, with the idea of bothering them. Don't bunt the ball where Hodge can handle it. Drop it toward first or third. Lead off, Crowfoot."
Young Joe stepped out and bunted handsomely, dropping his bat and scooting down the base line like a flash. Scrogg was seconds too late in securing the ball and sending it to Higgins. Crowfoot was safe.
Thad Barking followed with an equally successful bunt.
Hodge called Higgins and Scrogg in a bit.
"Look out for those tricks," he warned.
Bubbs glanced toward Sparkfair inquiringly. Dale nodded.
Bubbs followed with the third bunt, while Crowfoot and Barking moved up. Nevertheless, Scrogg managed to secure the ball and throw Towser out.