When the inning came to an end the score stood: Excelsiors 1, Lakeports 8.
"Shall I pitch any more?" asked Link.
"Certainly," said Joe. "I don't call one run much."
The Excelsiors were doing a great amount of talking among themselves, and presently another pitcher was put up in Si Voup's place, while another catcher took Boardman's place.
"Hullo, they are sick of Voup and Boardman!" cried Harry. "Well, I don't blame them."
Strange as it may seem, everybody on the Lakeport Club but Harry had scored a run. Harry had gotten to first twice, and second base once, but nothing had been done to help him get home.
The new pitcher for the Excelsiors meant business. He was fresh and had a good delivery, and he retired the Lakeports with nothing more that inning than one-base hit.
The ninth inning opened with the score still standing Excelsiors 1, Lakeports 8. By a combination of circumstances two runs were quickly scored, and then, by a fumble of the ball at second base, another run came in and two players remained at first and third.
There was only one man out, and the spirits of the Excelsiors rose wonderfully. Their friends yelled themselves hoarse.
"You've got 'em a-going! Keep at 'em!"