“That is for Dave Kearney to decide. He is to be referee and judge.”
“You can toss up a cent for it,” said Dave. This was done, and Reff Ritter obtained first chance to show what he could do. Each contestant was to have three chances.
Ritter leaped up on the flying-rings, and amid utter silence gave an exhibition lasting fully five minutes. As my old readers know, he was really quite a gymnast, and what he did brought forth considerable applause.
“Now, Jack, show us what you can do,” said Pepper, as the young major stepped to the front.
Jack leaped up and grasped the rings. He had been feeling very good, but now a strange sleepiness seemed to be overtaking him. He began to swing and to do various acts done by Ritter, but his efforts were, by comparison, awkward and clumsy.
“What’s the matter with Major Ruddy?”
“That isn’t half as good as what Ritter did.”
“Jack doesn’t seem to be on his mettle at all to-night,” whispered Stuffer to Pepper.
“Brace up, Jack, old boy, and show ’em what you can really do!” cried Pepper, encouragingly.
Jack heard the cries and did all he could to throw off that sleepy feeling. By sheer willpower he made a brilliant turn or two which called for hearty applause.