Nick had always shown considerable knack in playing, though he was apt to make himself disagreeable, and want to run things.

Possibly this trait might not show so prominently, now that his conceit had been so heavily bumped in his encounter with Hugh.
Then again, Mr.Leonard was not the only one to let a boy take advantage of him.

He would make sure, if Nick were to get on the nine through his superior playing, to have a substitute handy capable of taking his place; and at the first sign of insubordination, it would be good-by to Nick and farewell to his hopes of playing on the team.
Hugh was surprised not to see Thad Stevens among those present.

Thad had received a summons along with thirty other boys.

Hugh guessed it must be something pretty serious that could keep his chum from turning up.