Phil and Dave remained with the girls until it was time to return to the school. Then they learned that Roger had gone to Oak Hall in company with Chip Macklin.
"It's queer he didn't wait for the crowd," was Dave's comment.
"He's acted queer half a dozen times lately," returned the shipowner's son. "I don't understand it myself."
The next game was to take place on the following Saturday, and the students practiced several times during the week. Dave noticed that Roger took but little interest, yet he said nothing, until he felt it his duty to speak up.
"Roger, what's wrong?" he asked, very much in the way he had put that question to Jessie.
"Nothing, that I know of," grumbled the senator's son.
"You're not catching as well as you did."
"Perhaps you think the club ought to have another catcher!" flared up the other, suddenly. "If you do, say the word, and I'll step down and out."
"Now, Roger, I know something is wrong——" began Dave.
"Of course you know—and I know, too!" cried the senator's son, and now his cheeks grew crimson. "I guess I'll resign from the club—and then you can run things to suit yourself," and to Dave's amazement he walked out of the room, banging the door after him.