He looked the bully squarely in the face. Behind Peaches came Teeter, George Bland and several of the subs.
“What—what do you mean?” stammered Hiram.
“I mean that it’s either you or us,” went on Peaches.
“Either you get out as manager or we get out as players,” added Teeter. “We’re tired of playing on a nine that can’t win a game. We can play ball, and we know it. But not with you, Hiram. What’s it going to be—you or us?”
“Say!” burst out the bully. “I’ll have you know that——”
A hand was placed on his shoulder. He wheeled about to confront Dr. Rudden.
“I think something must be done,” said the coach quietly. “Call a meeting of the Athletic Committee, Shell.”
“What for?” asked the bully.
“To discuss the situation. There has got to be a change if Excelsior Hall is to have a chance for the Blue Banner. If you don’t call the meeting, Shell, I will.”
It was perhaps the best thing that could have happened, and to save friction among the students, many of whom were still for the manager, Hiram knew he had to give in to Dr. Rudden.