"Pence," Kingdon found time to say while the slaughter was proceeding, "do you think you can hold your own out there on the mound for five innings?"
"Give me a chance to try," requested the black-eyed chap.
"Will you work with me, and follow my signals?"
"If I cross you on signals, you can drop me."
"Good! No flashy stuff. Use all your speed only when you have to. A change of pace bothers most batters. I can send Applejack in, but——"
"Try me!" begged Horace, his eyes flashing.
"Be it so," Kingdon agreed with mock solemnity. "This day, then, shalt thou be tried."
He sent Horace off to one side to warm up with Kirby. The latter brightened at once.
"Is that yellow-haired chap going to put you where you belong?" Harry cried. "Well, there's hopes for him yet!"
"But how about me?" drawled Horace.