“No,” answered Tony. “My telegram reads, ‘Arnold unwell in fourth inning—changed places with Cross.’ Cross, you know, is their substitute pitcher, and plays right field.”
“Then of course it doesn’t amount to much,” said Bennett. “The game was no doubt virtually won in the first four innings, and so Arnold changed positions in order to avoid all chances of straining his arm.”
“I suppose he was bent on taking things as easily as possible, and saving up his strength for you next Monday,” added Slade with a smile.
“That is more like the real truth of the matter,” answered Ray. “Arnold no doubt felt confident of the Dean game, and didn’t want to overwork himself. I told the fellows not to put any faith in rumors of sickness.”
“What were you thinking of doing this evening?” asked Slade, looking at his watch, and changing the subject.
“Nothing in particular,” answered Ray.
“Well, our dramatic club gives an amateur performance in the college hall, and I came over here especially to invite you all to attend. Of course it doesn’t amount to much as a dramatic treat, but we always have lots of fun. What do you say?”
A chorus of assent greeted this proposition.
“Come on then,” said Slade. “I have complimentary tickets for the whole crowd. The performance begins at eight o’clock, so there is no time to lose.”