"I've a good mind not to let you play, you sneaking sulker," hissed Bart, as his rival came up to him.
"Sulker nothing! I had to show my father's lawyer where to find Charlie Gibbs so they could arrest him," retorted Fred.
At the words, spoken low so that only he should hear them, for even in his joy Fred was considerate of his rival's feelings, the bully's face went white, and he staggered as though struck.
"Oh! Oh! I'm sick! I'm sick!" Bart gasped, and sank to the ground in utter collapse.
Quickly the officials gathered round, while doctors, masters and grads ran out from the side lines.
"He's done for!" declared Sandow. "Mr. Vining, name Fred acting captain. He may save the day."
This the headmaster quickly did.
"Bronson, take Bart's place at full back," ordered Fred. "Come on, now, boys. This is Baxter's year. Show 'em how we can get the ball."
The boy's words put new life into the Team, and when the Landon centre put the ball in play, Fred was put through an opening made by Tompkins and on top of the full back, who was ready to kick, knocking the ball from him, while Taffy fell on it.
"Well done, Baxter!" roared their supporters.