“Strike!” called Moulton, as the ball lodged in Tom Richards’ hands.
“That’s the way, Dan!” called Walter from his position of short-stop.
Ignoring the encouragement of his friend Dan sent in a slow ball, at which the batter lunged heavily, but failed to hit. A laugh arose from the Rodman supporters at the ludicrous attempt of the batter. Before the latter had fully recovered, Dan sent a swift ball directly over the plate and Moulton called the third strike.
“That fellow’s out!” Walter heard the harness-maker shout gleefully.
“You’re right, Si!” responded another Rodman supporter. “Better give that fellow a pine log for a bat!”
“Barn door’d be better!” roared Silas. “They can’t touch Dan!” Walter turned to look at Dan, who now was facing the second member of the opposing nine. The pitcher’s manner still was as quiet as if he was unaware of the noisy approval of his supporters. “Keep it up, Dan,” said Walter in a low voice.
Swinging his long arms, Dan for an instant turned his back to the batter, and then in a moment resuming his position he sent the ball in with all his strength. So sudden was his movement that the Benson player was unable to dodge the ball and was struck with its full force upon his left shoulder. Howling with pain he clapped one hand upon the wounded spot and began to dance excitedly about the home plate. “Ou-u-ch!” he cried. “Jiminy! that hurt!”
“Take your base!” ordered Moulton.
“Can’t ye give a feller a chance t’ git his breath?” demanded the unfortunate batsman indignantly.
“Take your base,” said Moulton again in a low voice.