But it was a good hit, and served to encourage Frank's team. To such advantage did they play that they won the game and the elder Racer lad had the satisfaction of crowing over his brother.
"Well, you wouldn't have won if you hadn't slipped in a cracker-jack batter on me," complained Andy.
"Get out! I would so. Why, Jim isn't any better than Billy Chase."
"That shows how much you know about it. Jim is one of the best in the school, and it's a pity he wasn't on the main team last year. He will be this season. Billy is a good player, but he can't bat. What made him chase off that way?"
"I don't know," answered Frank. "And did you see that lame man, with the black beard?"
"I sure did. He looked like the villain in some Western drama. Did he speak to Billy?"
"No, but Billy seemed to move off as soon as he laid eyes on the fellow."
The two brothers conversed as they walked off the diamond, speculating as to what the mystery might be concerning the Freshman. Following the game the players went to the gymnasium for a shower bath. Neither Billy Chase nor the lame man were in sight when Frank and Andy came out.
The Racer boys gave an impromptu spread in their room that night, and there was a gathering of happy lads who talked baseball from all standpoints. It was agreed that the chances for Riverview Hall to win the pennant that season were very good.
"But we've got to have lots of practice," insisted Andy. "We ought to have the regular team about picked by this time."