The Rover boys soon learned that not only Gif but also Spouter, Ned Lowe, Walt Baxter, and Slugger Brown were on the regular eleven. The scrub team was made up largely from the freshmen class, although Dan Soppinger and a few others of the older cadets who had never played on the first team were also included.
"Now, I want all of you to do your very best," said Gif, at the close of a long talk to the boys on what was required of them. "We'll have nothing but squad work first, and then a game or two just to find out how matters are shaping themselves."
As an aid Gif had Mr. Crews, the gymnasium instructor, who in his younger days had been quite a football player. Between the pair matters took shape rapidly, and by the end of the week the scrub was in shape to play a game against the regulars.
As was to be expected, this opening contest was a decidedly ragged one, even the regular team making many plays which caused hearty laughter.
"You fellows have all got to do better if we want to win any matches," declared Gif. "Now then, go at it as if you meant it and see that you mind the rules." And after that the playing showed gradual improvement.
Colonel Colby had not forgotten his own football days, and one afternoon he came down to the field to see what progress his pupils were making.
"Be on the alert when the signals are given," he said. "The signals," he added, "count for a good deal."
With the master of the school present, the cadets put forth renewed efforts and the playing became actually snappy. There were several well-earned runs, and once Jack managed to kick a goal from the field which brought forth considerable applause.
"Keep it up, Jack! You're doing fine!" were Gif's encouraging words.
"Thanks. I'll do the best I know how," was the rejoinder.