“Regular or substitute?” demanded Sam.
“Practically a regular,” replied Darrell. “We can’t count on Oswald any more, now that his busy season has begun.”
Every member of the Silver Stars save Sam had shaken hands with Joe. The pitcher now stood facing our hero.
“I want to protest!” suddenly exclaimed Sam, looking Joe full in the face.
“Why?” asked Darrell.
“What business is it of yours, anyhow, Sam?” asked the captain. “Darrell and I have settled this. Matson plays.”
“Then I want my protest noted!” went on Sam angrily. “We’re supposed to be a local team—every one on it belongs in town.”
“So does Joe Matson!” broke in Tom Davis.
“Well, he’s only just moved in, and how do we know but what he’ll move out again?” demanded Sam. “I protest against him being a regular, or even a substitute, member of the Silver Stars!”