kite." His first effort against the new batsman was a ball that Laurie only stopped by leaping two feet from the ground. Laurie walked halfway to the pitcher's box, amid the exultant howls of a joyous foe, shook the ball in Nate's face, and savagely told him to take his time. Laurie was angry just then. Nate was snappy and told Laurie to "go on back and quit beefing! I'll get him!" Laurie signaled for a high ball; the batter "ate up" low ones. Nate hesitated, shook his head. Laurie called for one close in then. Nate wound up and stepped forward. The result was a wide one that made the score two balls and no strikes. On the bench Mr. Mulford was watching with sharp eyes. Nate followed with a fast ball that was struck at too late. Laurie's heart retreated down his throat again. Once more he signaled a high one. This time Nate made no demur, but the ball failed to go over. A substitute detached himself from the group on the bench and sped around the stand. Laurie, holding the ball, glanced toward the coach. He got the expected sign. Nate, too, saw, and began to pull at his glove. Captain Dave joined him at the mound. Nate looked gloomy and mu-
