“Why doesn’t he go without asking leave?” asked Braxton.
“But no other club in the big leagues would take him if he broke his contract with the Giants,” said Mabel, a little bewildered.
“I’ve heard there was a new league forming,” said Braxton, carelessly. “Let’s see, what is it they call it? The All-Star League. There would be no trouble with Matson’s getting an engagement with them. They’d welcome him with open arms.”
“They’ve already tried to get him,” cried Mabel, proudly.
“Is that so? I suppose they made him a pretty good offer. I’ve heard they’re doing things on a big scale.”
“It was a wonderful offer,” said Mabel.
“It certainly was, ’pon honor,” chimed in Reggie.
“Would it be indiscreet to ask the amount?” said Braxton.
“I don’t think there’s any bally secret ’bout it,” complied Reggie. “They offered him twenty thousand dollars to sign a contract and fifteen thousand dollars a year for a three years’ term. Many a bank or railroad president doesn’t get that much, don’t you know.”