An eager crowd of freshmen, juniors, sophomores and seniors flocked at their heels, their faces showing a degree of expectancy which indicated that something was up.
"Mr. Steele," began "Crackers," in deliberate tones, "the event of yesterday must still be fresh in your mind. You saw us play the Engletons, I believe?"
The coach nodded.
"Crackers" calmly paused to wipe his glasses.
"Before I go any further I want it understood that we're not wishing to make any trouble in the school."
"Like fun you're not!" burst out Tom Clifton. "From the very first——"
"Quit it, Tom!" commanded Dave Brandon. "Let's hear what Brown has to say."
"Put a doughnut in his mouth!" cried Benny Wilkins.
"Stop your noise, fellows," insisted Brown. "We came here on serious business. Mr. Steele, the school has been patient; it has given you every chance to make good. What has been the result? Six straight defeats, and a mysterious hurry call from Mr. Barry. We all know how dissatisfied he is."
"He talks like a senator," snickered Victor Collins. "Most of 'em never reach the point."