The batter sprang back. He was too late; he saw the ball take a curve and pass over the plate.
“You’re out!” cried the umpire.
The St. Paul players gasped. This was something entirely unexpected.
“Good luck!” breathed the short-stop.
“A-haw! a-haw!” laughed the jay. “That was the time I fooled him fine! A-haw! a-haw! a-haw!”
“A-haw! a-haw! a-haw!” came the echo from the bleachers, and the stammerer was seen holding onto his sides and roaring with laughter.
“How was that, Joe?” cried the pitcher.
“Sus-sus-sus-slick as goose-grease,” came back the reply. “Dud-dud-do it ag’in!”
“Yes, do it again!” grated the next batter, as he came up to the plate. “I’d like to see you!”
“Keep watch,” advised the pitcher. “You won’t need eny spectacles. Here we go!”