"And I say you're not going to do it," warned Dick.
"He's too fresh, Hen is."
"No committee of citizens has asked you to reform any one, Ben," Dick went on good-humoredly. "You've got a few faults of your own that you might remedy, and I guess we all have."
"Come on, fellows, and rush Dutcher," called Ben Alvord. Ross, Allen and others moved as though to help, but Dick was flanked by Tom and Greg. In the distance Dave Darrin could be seen skating back.
"All right, if you fellows insist on it," partly agreed Dick. "But if trouble starts Hen is going to have some backing on his side, too."
"I guess that's right," nodded Tom Reade.
"Now, who's fresh?" challenged Ben Alvord hotly. "You, Dick Prescott."
"Well, if I am," sighed Dick, "I'm ready to take my punishment for it. At all events, I'll look after myself."
"Yah, you will!" growled Ben angrily. "I notice that, just as soon as anything starts, your gang always jump in on the scene!"
"Dick will fight you, all alone, I know, Ben, if you want him to," proposed Dave Darrin, coming slowly into the circle. "But perhaps you don't want to fight Dick. You tried it once before, and got most beautifully pounded."