“Thank you, sir. It was good of you to—to——”
“Not at all, Ordway, but I shall expect you to make the most of your chance and become a distinguished member of the team.” The master smiled. “When you slam the ball across the line I shall proudly recall the slight assistance I rendered and partake of the credit. Now then, first kicks off to the second. ‘The trumpet hoarse rings out the bloody signal for the war!’ Well kicked, Trafford!”
CHAPTER XIII
BACK TO THE FOLD
Bert was as surprised as he was delighted when Hugh informed him after practice that Mr. Crowley had virtually promised him a place with the second team. At first Bert insisted that his chum had misunderstood, but, on having the conversation repeated, acknowledged that Hugh had good grounds for encouragement. “I never heard of its being done before, Hugh,” he said. “Tom Hanrihan must have a drag with Dinny, and no mistake. You’ll have to work like the dickens to stay on. Think you can do it?”
“I fancy I can do as well as some of those chaps there now,” answered Hugh placidly.
“Bellows isn’t bad at end, I guess,” mused Bert, “but Forbes oughtn’t to be hard to beat. You’re trying for end, aren’t you?”
“I wanted to play end, but I wasn’t there long enough to get placed more than once or twice. End’s about all I can play, I fancy. I’m not heavy enough for tackle or guard or back.”
“You’d make a good quarter if you had more experience,” said Bert thoughtfully. “And they might use you for a running back. You’re quick, I guess.”