"Sure."
It was almost time to go out on the gridiron now. Dick gave one brief and half-regretful thought to the opportunity he might be missing. Then he murmured:
"Well, the game—from now on!"
He had no idea of wiring his father the news, but he felt that after all it would be better to explain it personally.
"If dad was only where he could make a jump to Hardvale he could clinch the deal," he mused, "but it's impossible."
"Hark! What's that?" cried Paul as they were about to leave their room. It was the sound of a swelling, boisterous cry—a joyful shout—a challenge.
"The Blue team has arrived!" exclaimed Dick. "Come on! Now for the battle!"
Already there was quite a crowd in the grandstands, and more people were arriving every minute. The ticket takers had their hands full, and the ushers were as busy as bees. For rumors of the fierce game that was likely to be played had prevailed for the last two weeks, and there was every indication of a record-breaking crowd.
"Our treasury will be filled!" cried the manager of Kentfield with exultation. "This is a great day for us—even if we don't win."
"We're going to!" declared Dick with conviction.