Mr.Luffey, the highest ornament of Dingley Dell, was pitched to bowl against the redoubtable Dumkins, and Mr.Struggles was selected to do the same kind office for the hitherto unconquered Podder.

Several players were stationed, to 'look out,' in different parts of the field, and each fixed himself into the proper attitude by placing one hand on each knee, and stooping very much as if he were 'making a back' for some beginner at leap-frog.

All the regular players do this sort of thing;--indeed it is generally supposed that it is quite impossible to look out properly in any other position.
The umpires were stationed behind the wickets; the scorers were prepared to notch the runs; a breathless silence ensued.

Mr.Luffey retired a few paces behind the wicket of the passive Podder, and applied the ball to his right eye for several seconds.

Dumkins confidently awaited its coming with his eyes fixed on the motions of Luffey.
'Play!' suddenly cried the bowler.