Robert Foster was proud of the display of the home eleven, but he could not help feeling a pang of regret that the Australians had not made a better show.
Will Murch was determined to have his revenge for the catch that disposed of him, and said he felt like making a big score. He got his men together, and talked the matter over.
‘I’ll go in first again,’ he said, ‘with Bannman, and we must make a stand somehow. If we can make a big score the other side may be got out without getting the requisite runs, or they may not have time to get them, and we shall make a draw of it.’
Edgar Foster was to go in at the fall of the first wicket, and Murch was very anxious every man should do his level best.
‘They will be very down in the mouth about it at home,’ he said. ‘We can all imagine how they felt when they saw the poor stand we made; we’ll try and change the tune for them. Remember, lads, that every run tells. Run carefully, but run well, and then it is surprising how a few singles tot up and swell the total. Bat carefully until you are set, and when you feel safe don’t spare them. They have given us some leather-hunting, let us return the compliment.’
The cheery words of their captain put heart into the team, and it was with considerable confidence they saw Murch and Bannman walk to the wickets to commence the second innings.
Edgar went over to his father to watch the start, and his heart beat fast as he saw Murch prepare to take the first over.
‘This is better, much better,’ said Robert Foster, as Murch hit a couple of fours in his first over. ‘We can afford to be generous, and wish you all to do well this innings.’
Bannman played a cautious game, and left the bulk of the run-getting to his captain. After half an hour’s play there was a change of bowling. Will Murch treated the new-comer with scant ceremony.
To Edgar’s great delight the Australian captain hit the bowling all over the field. His powerful drives and clean cuts elicited well deserved applause, which was freely bestowed.