“Pete made a rotten pass, though,” said Gerald. “Simms had to scramble for it. It’s a wonder they got the kick off at all. There’s the whistle. Half’s over.”
As the players seized their blankets and trotted off the field Davis hurried up to the trio beside the rope.
“What did you do with him?” he asked in a hoarse whisper.
“Do with him? With who?” asked The Duke innocently.
“Gibson.”
“Perky, you jump to conclusions,” returned The Duke calmly. “If anything has been done to Mr. Gibson you shouldn’t lay it to me. I have nothing but the kindest, sweetest sentiments toward the gentleman.”
“Oh, chop it! Is he—is he safe?”
“Oh, I do hope so!” replied The Duke. “Don’t tell me that anything has happened to him, Perky!”
“Quit kidding,” begged Davis. “I want to know. Can we go ahead with the new plays, Duke? Will he be back?”