Page:The Rival Pitchers.djvu/290

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274
THE RIVAL PITCHERS

for——" He did not know whether or not to mention his rival's name. But she understood.

"So am I—I'm very sorry for him. It's all his horrid money that's doing it. He wants to be what the boys call a 'sport.' But he isn't. He's unfair to himself—to me. But I'm done with him! I shall never speak to him again."

Tom was both glad and sorry.

"Do you think you will win from Fairview?" asked the girl after a pause.

"I think so."

"I hope you do. I want to see that game, but I don't——"

"Won't you let me take you?" asked Tom quickly. "We are going in a number of autos and there'll be lots of room."

"Oh, I didn't mean to hint so broadly," she exclaimed, and her face crimsoned.

"I was going to ask you, anyhow," declared Tom. "Will you go?"

"Yes," she replied softly.

"And help me to pitch to win," added Tom, and he tried to look into her face, but she averted her eyes.

There was great celebrating in Randall that night. Some of the boys wanted to light historic bonfires along the river, which blazes were always kindled on great occasions, but Mr. Lighton reminded the lads that they had still to win the con-