"That's a fact," said Bart. "Strictly speaking, it was his business to keep off the field."
A number of the village folks, including several men, had gathered around to watch the game and all agreed that Bart was right.
"This green is a playground," said one of the men. "The schoolmaster should have kept away from it."
The game was resumed and although Harry had lost much of his interest, he managed to play his position creditably and when the five innings were finished the score stood 11 to 12 in favor of Fred's side. Fred himself had made two of the runs and Harry had made three. By this time it was dark, and the boys lost no time in scattering for their homes.
"We'll certainly have to organize a regular baseball club," said Fred to Link, "and the sooner the better."
"Well, I'm in for it," answered Link. "I'll tell you where we can have our clubroom! On the top floor of my father's carpenter shop. We might have had our quarters up there last winter only it was too cold. But it will make a dandy place during the summer."
"That's worth remembering, Link. Let us tell the other fellows, when we get together again."
As Joe and Harry hurried homeward they talked over the affair of the ruined silk hat.
"How much money have you saved up, Harry?" asked his brother.
"A dollar and fifty cents."