"Next Thursday. Our lot is close to the largest ash heap in the county. I may add, too, that some of the fiercest goats at liberty often chase players off the bases. Bring all your nerve along. You'll need it."
"Good!" cried "Crackers," in high spirits. "Why are we doing this, fellows?"
"For the good of the school!" bawled Lawrence.
CHAPTER XIII
THE CHALLENGE
"A large slice of history made for the Kingswood High."
This is the entry Benny Wilkins jotted down in his note-book at the close of the "Hopes'" game with Engleton. Four boys had actually seen him writing it, and perhaps a hundred others had had it flaunted in their faces.
The score, five to three in favor of the "Hopes," sent through the ranks of Brown's followers a wave of enthusiasm that found vent in the noisiest demonstration the quiet town of Engleton had ever known.
Critical observers of the High's new team noted that the fire and dash with which the big lads played seemed to impress their opponents greatly.