"From just after the holidays to some time in April every fellow will be busy trying to make the school team, and will feel aggrieved if he hits only the second team." "Who's going to pitch for the school nine ?" asked Belle.
"Dick Prescott," declared Dave instantly.
"I'd like to," nodded Dick, "but I've several good men against me.

Darrin may take it all away from me.

There are eight men down for pitching, altogether, so it isn't going to be an easy cinch for anyone." "The nine always has more than one pitcher.

Why can't _you_ make the position of pitcher, too ?" asked Belle, looking at Dave.
"Oh, I may make the job of brevet-pitcher on the second nine," Dave laughed goodhumoredly.

"The only reason I put my name down for pitcher was so as to make the fight look bigger." "Who are the other candidates for pitcher ?" asked Laura.
"Well, Ripley's one," replied Dave.
"Ripley?
Oh, _he_!" uttered Miss Bentley, in a tone of scorn.
"I understand he's no fool of a pitcher," Dick remarked.
"I congratulate him, then," smiled Laura.
"On what ?" "Not being a fool in everything," returned Laura.