"Why, did we do so rotten?" asked Innis.
"Had we ought to have piled up a bigger score?" inquired George Hall.
"We did make a few fumbles—at least I did, and once I didn't take care of my man," admitted Jim Watkins. "But——"
"No, I haven't a bit of fault to find," went on Mr. Martin. "I was just wondering whether you felt more confident of your playing ability than you did before we came. I want to get a sort of line on my ability."
"Yes," put in Mr. Spencer, "we are far from finding fault with you, for, on the contrary I think you did exceptionally well. We couldn't ask for any better results, but what Mr. Martin means is whether or not you yourselves feel satisfied."
There was a moment's hesitation. The boys did not know exactly how to take the questions.
"I wish we could beat Blue Hill to a standstill," murmured Captain Dick.
"And then wallop Mooretown," added Ray Dutton.
"Say, can't we challenge Blue Hill now?" asked John Stiver eagerly.
"Yes, let's do it!" came a chorus of voices.