"They cut third base," said Si Voup. "I saw them do it." But the runners had done nothing of the sort, and some spectators began to hiss at the pitcher. Then the umpire told them to play ball, and in a bad humor the Excelsiors did so. When at last the first half of the ninth inning came to a close the score stood Excelsiors 10, Lakeports 13.
"I hope that proves a lucky thirteen," said Harry, as his club walked out into the field well satisfied with their score.
"If we could only shut them out this last inning!" came from Link.
If the Excelsiors had been anxious to score before, they were doubly anxious now, and Voup cautioned the first man up to do his very best. As a result the fellow made a safe hit and reached first.
"That's the way to start 'em up!" cried Sidney Yates, who was on the coaching line. "Show 'em how we have been fooling 'em, boys!" And then he continued to make all sorts of remarks, in an endeavor to rattle Joe.
The next player went out on a sacrifice hit, which he made contrary to Voup's orders. This took the man on first to second. The next batter hit the ball to left field, but only managed to reach first, while the other runner came home.
"Eleven to thirteen!" was the cry. "Now, Excelsiors, make those other two runs, and one over!"
Joe's heart was thumping wildly, but he did his best to steady himself. He pitched with all the speed left in his arm, and as a result the next man was struck out in quick order. At this the Excelsiors looked glum once more.
"One more out and the game will be over."
"It doesn't look as if the Excelsiors would make those runs now, does it?"