Page:Nid and Nod (IA nidnod00barb).pdf/291

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and get to know each other? There's a lot in the pitcher and catcher being used to each other's ways. Then, perhaps, I can give you both a whack at a couple of innings some day. I'd do that, I think. You look after Proudtree, Turner. Make him work. Keep his nose to the grindstone. Remember that there's another year coming, eh?"

"I'll make him work," laughed Laurie.

"Then do I—do I get on the team?" asked Kewpie anxiously.

"You get on the squad," was the answer. "Report to-morrow afternoon. There's a game on, and you won't get much work, but you can pitch to Turner a while and learn the ropes. Let's get back now." Coach Mulford arose. "Turner, I suspected that you were going to waste my time this morning, but I was wrong. Your dark horse looks to me well worth the grooming!"

He set off across the field toward the gridiron on a short cut to the village, and the two boys walked back to school. For the first dozen paces nothing was said. Then Kewpie laughed and turned to his companion. "Told you I'd do it!"