“Better go slow,” advised Roger. He, too, felt that Job Haskers might become very vindictive.
Spring was now at hand, and a week later came the first baseball game of the season. It was a contest with Esmore Academy from Daytonville and held on the Oak Hall grounds. Quite a crowd was present, including some of the town folks. Gus Plum was in the pitcher’s box for the 100 Hall, and Sam Day was on first base, and Chip Macklin on third.
“I hope we win!” cried Dave.
“I hope you do,” answered Vera Rockwell, who was present with some other girls. “But why are you not playing?” she went on.
“Not this term,” said our hero, with a smile, and then he spoke of his studies.
“I suppose it is noble of you to give up this way,” she said. “But—I’d like to see you play.”
The contest proved a well-fought one, and was won by Oak Hall by a score of eight runs to five. At the conclusion there was a great cheering for the victors.
“This means bonfires to-night!” cried Roger, as the gathering broke up.
“Yes, and a grand good time!” added Buster Beggs.