"That's mighty queer," Neil said to Ned Stillson. "I can't understand it. If he doesn't come we'll have to play Campbell in his place—and somehow I haven't much faith in Campbell. I'm going to call up Mr. Holbrook at the Hamilton station and find out if he knows anything about Teeny-bits."
In answer to Neil's call, Mr. Holbrook's assistant reported that Mr. Holbrook had gone home to dinner and was not coming back till late in the afternoon; he was going to the game.
"The Holbrooks haven't a 'phone in their house, have they?" asked Neil.
"No, they haven't," came the reply.
"Well, do you know where Teeny-bits is?"
"Why, up at the school, I suppose; I haven't seen him," was the answer.
It was evident that Mr. Holbrook's assistant had no information; Neil hung up the receiver and said to himself:
"Well, if his father is coming that's a good sign. When Teeny-bits shows up, I'll give him a lecture that'll make his hair stand on end."
At quarter-past one, when the Ridgley team ran out on the field for warming-up practice, Coach Murray looked over the squad and yelled sharply:
"Campbell, get out there in left-half and let me see you show some pep."