"But we've got to strengthen our team.

We've got to practice every minute that the commandant will allow us for practice.

We've got to make a front-rank team out of--nearly nothing!" "Aren't there any good players who have been holding back ?" asked Dave Darrin.
"Two that I know of, Darrin," rejoined Hepson, fixing his eyes keenly on Dave.
"Who are they ?" "You and Dalzell." "We haven't backed out, or refused duty," Darrin retorted quickly.
"No; but you haven't pushed yourselves forward any, either." "Well, we're hardly team material," objected Dave modestly.

"However, I'll promise for myself and Dalzell, too, that we'll turn out to all the practice we can, and work like blazes!" "Will you ?" cried Midshipman Hepson delightedly.

He jumped up, grasping each midshipman by the hand in turn.
"But you don't want to bank on us too much," Darrin continued.