"Yes, I sure do owe a debt of gratitude to baseball," admitted the young pitcher.
"Do you play ball?" suddenly asked the man on the seat beside Joe.
"Yes, I play at it," was the modest answer.
"Amateur or professional?"
"Professional. I am with the Central League."
Was it fancy, or did the man give a sudden start, that might indicate surprise? Joe could not be sure.
"I suppose you'll be at it again this year, Joe," put in Reggie.
"Oh, yes. But I may change my club. I'll tell you about it later. We'll soon be at the house. Is there any special place I can take you to, in Riverside?" asked Joe of the stranger.
"Well, I'm looking for a young fellow named Matson," was the unexpected answer.
"Matson?" cried Joe. "Why, that's my name!"