CHAPTER VIII
DISCOURAGEMENT
The sting of defeat lasted for some time with the students of the Kingswood High. The friends of the Stars crowed loudly over their victory; and Tom Clifton, whose boasting previous to the game had annoyed so many, received a generous share of sarcastic flings.
The disquieting rumors which resulted from Mr. Barry's remarks hovered over the school with unpleasant persistency.
"Honest, Bob, it wasn't fair of him to pitch into the crowd at the very first crack of the bat," exclaimed Tom, morosely, in the gym a few days later.
"Nobody seems to know just what he did say," chuckled Bob.
"Don't worry, Tom, old boy," said Dave. "Athletes should keep their minds free from care."
"Wonder if I hadn't better go and see him?" mused Tom.
"Goodness, no!"