The first team lined up for scrimmage with Rudolph in the fullback position. Blackwell, wrapping himself in a blanket, came over to sit down beside Billings.
"Well, Judd, I hear you've been placed on the first squad," said
Blackwell. There was the trace of chumminess in his voice.
Judd nodded his head, not knowing what to say.
"Looks like we'll need you, too. I understand you've developed into quite a kicker." Blackwell was trying to draw him out.
"Oh, I don't know…" said Judd, hesitatingly.
Blackwell lowered his voice.
"Say … I've never told this to anyone and I wouldn't want you to repeat it. This is my last year in high school … same as it is yours. It's my third year on the football team. When I first started in I was so afraid of myself that I'd worry myself sick over things that never happened. I could never quite figure you out until that time when I tackled you. I know what it means to stick it out the way you have. But you'll come out on top if you hang on. Nothing bothers me any more…"
Judd could hardly believe his ears. Could it be possible that a player like Blackwell had experienced the same feelings? Judd thrilled with the thought. It was good news to hear that another person had overcome something similar to that which he was struggling to conquer.
"How … how long did it take you to … to get the best of it?" Judd asked, interestedly.
"I still have to fight it … at times…" replied Blackwell, gazing down at his bandaged ankle. "But the old feeling doesn't stay with me long. I soon get the upper hand … The reason I'm speaking about this to you is partly a selfish one. It's been my ambition to see Canton High defeated. For two years I've played on the losing team. This year we counted on turning the trick … until I was injured. Between you and me, Rudolph can't make the grade. He is fast but too small. We'll be outweighed at least ten pounds to the man. Rudolph will play for all there is in him but there isn't enough. If I get in I won't last long. You saw me out there … kicking. It's about all I can do to put the weight of my body on this left foot, to say nothing of booting the ball at the same time … I don't know whether the coach will give you a chance unless it's to make a kick. But if you could get a grip on yourself and let loose once … say, I'M not even trying to guess what might happen!"