BY

RALPH

Bach

Four

$i.5a

Illustrated.

Motrk.

Your

in

Illustrated

of

Illustrated.

Jimpaon.

$1.50.

of

Book

The

$i.5a

Colon.

Arrivak.!

The

doth.

lamo,

Camp.

in

On

BARBOUR.

HBNRY

School

College

a.nd

Sports*
$1.75

Illustrated.

WesLtherby'e

Ifiniiig.

Illustrated

Behind

in

the
A

$1.50.

Colors.

Line.
of

Story

of

CsLptfiLin

net.

School

and

the

fi.sa

Football

Crew.

ti.Sa

For

the
A

Honor

The

School

of

Story

lastic

of

Sport,

the

School.

Life

Interscho-

and

1.50.

HeLlf-Back.

Story

of

School,

and

Football,

Golf.

"1.50.

D.

APPLETON

AND

COMPANY,

NEW

YORK.

BEHIND

THE

Life

RALPH

and

College
Football

HENRY

llbutTatii

New

D.

of

Story

LINE

Appleton

BARBOUR

bj

C.

M.

Ritjit

York
and

1906

Company

IMS

COFTBIOBT.

bt

Publiihed

d.

September,

and

appubton

190B

COMPAMT

TO

HT

MOTHER

156740

NOTE

PREFATORY

The

Author

takes

to

football

play

Mr.

described

in

pleasure

Lorin

F.

in

Chapter

his

acknowledging

of

Deland,

for

Boston,

XV.

vu

debtedness
in-

the

CONTENTS

PAOB

CBIPTIB

I."
IT.

Hkbois

in

Paul

CHANeEs

"

In

IIL"
IV."

nbw

26

VL^MlLLS,

.86

HEAD

"

"

64

COACH

art

oentle

The

"

47

of

68

punts

handlino

VIII."

"

mettle

his

shows

The

18

iqnd

acquaintances

makes

And

VII."

his

quartbbs

Kul

v."

moleskin

...

75

kidnafino
"

IX."

The

X."

XL"

Neil

makes

the

The

resxtlt

of

On

Xlld

the

"

XIII."

Sydney

XIV."

Makes

XV."

XVII.
XVIIL"

XIX."
XX."
XXL"

A
"

121
180

strategy

141

call

tells

of

AND

149

dream

sends

PLAN

107

fumble

list

otudies

Robinson

XVI."

100

yarsitt

hospital

And

86

tricycle

BROKEN

160

protest

171

CONFESSION
.......

Neil

On

taken

is

the

eye

Cowan
The

184

out

194

battle

of

becomes

205

indignant

"

**

is

antidote

216

administered
.....

XXIL"
XXIIL"

Between
Neil

goes

228

halyes

the

286

in
.

XXIV."

After

the

251

battle

ix

nST

ILLUSTRATIONS

OF

FAonro

PAGE

moment

critical

swayed

Tine

his

Hiding

**l

studied

52

strain

at
every

he

face,

cried

broken

you've

guess

MiUs

28

settled

Getting

The

I^vntitpUa

the

diagram

for

81

help

said

down,"

in

94

Neil

152

silence

xi

LINE

THE

BEHIND

CHAPTEE

blew

his

behind

places
"

"

"

Get

"Block

their

^'

liS!

"

kick

ball

*'

and

struggled;

then,

the

line.

like

through
runner

grand

stand

For
for

and,

an

supporters,

the

St.

scurried

to

Eustace

captain.

their

the
back

the

interference,
of

the

suddenly

already

hoarse

line.

heaved

the

repelled
left

tackle
nailed
A

right

the
ranks

opposing

Eustace

formed

halves

toward

sped

Hillton

St.

the

full,

trio

instant

the

yards

blossomed

the

to

instant

an

avoiding

six

again

huskily.
the

shrieked

and

shot,

backs

quarter

back

interference,
of

crouched

1"

swept

end

other

and

line

scrimmage

kick.

called

through
this

The

for

the

quarter^back

the

center;

though

as

big

"

gainl

to

of

out

Hillton

the

whistle;
the

yards

trotted

referee

The

four

down,

"Thied

MOLESKIN

IN

HEBOBS

attack;
hurtled
ton
Hill-

the
of

square
and

with

blue,

with

cheering
1

St.
and

the
tace's
Eus-

sing-

BEHIND

ingy once

broke

more

into

the

to

triumphant applause.

fifteen minutes

Bcore-board announced
ball went

LINB

THB

blue-clad warriors

plaj, and

to

Hillton's

on

The
the

fortj-

yard line.
and St. Eustace

Hillton

Day

in

With

the

of the game

almost

an

throughthe

had

placedthe pigskinon

the Hillton
to

to

advance,but

Then
for when

with
it

avert

of

despair

impendingdefeat.

field,
throwingher heavy

the
line

again and again,until

Hillton's

line.
three-yard

The

the third down

on

delayed pass,

cheeringflaunters

content

half

she

There

playershad held stubbornlyagainsttwo

only touch-down.
the

down

crimson

the second

of the firsthalf St. Eustace

minutes

had battered her way

son.
the Crim-

with
visitors,

doggednessbom

hopelessstruggleto

In the firstfew

backs

the

over

Hillton,outweightedand

over,

with

was

in the ascend-

of the

wearied,with

alreadyhalf

outplayed,
foughton
in

and

Thanksgiving

was

and ominous

5 to 0 in favor

score

playersbattered

her

Eustace's star
dark

anty and defeat hovered

battlingfor

more

the fact that Hillton

spiteof

grounds,St.

own

once

their annual

gridironin

And,

contest.

her

on

the

on

supremacy

were

and

St. Eustace

tempts
at-

tims
had fallen vichad

scored

her

however, and
punt-out had failed,
of blue banners

had

perforceto

be

five points.

was

that Hillton

had

the Blue's warriors had

and beat their way

her opponents,
surprised

againsought to

hammer

throughthe opposingline they found

HEROES

IN

MOLESKIN

that

and

small

weipe
at

had

HiUton

end

an

her

way

to

she

met

defense

that

and

the

over

had

hope
In

the

second

by foot

From

there

Hillton's
fore

right-guard had

fifteen

touched
fallen

on

the

up.
the

Thrice
line

and

Hillton's
But
St.

on

short

her

Eustace

downs, punted

held

downed,
one

and

superb

from
hurdle

the

been

Blue's

been

thrown'beSt. Eustace

minutes

few

the

been
the

Blue's

advance

was

taken

and

safely
the

down

had
there

by

the

the

run

field

it back

it had

gone

fuU-back.

the

into

gained by plunges
ends,

got away

later

on

HiUton

more

goaL

tried,but Gale,

Fletcher,

once

for

shadow

into
ten

six
But

yards.

twenty
of her

bravely, and, securing

it far

territory. Fletcher

of

the

on

struggled

ball.

eight-yard line,under
had

it,had

the

about

runs

half, had

left

of

ball

the

the

had

distance

the

secured

leather, and

once

waved

had

hearts.

had

to

perate
des-

most

the

pigskin

thirty-three yards, and

her

to

shrieking supporters

yards

placement

fought

opponent's goal,

right half-back, had

and

returned

fumble

had

was

ing
thrice, hav-

Crimson

their

to

HiUton

from

had

Hillton's

half

by inch

of her

tluit the

returned

within

captain

inch

losing possession

never

kick

his foot

almost

was

of

half

to

it

heads

again

kick*K"ff,
and,
foot

Then

the

ere

impregnable

was

their gains

kick, and

to

scoring distance

within

assaidts.

madly

and

work

daze^ and

times

forced

was

hardest

the

her

Four

infrequent.

St. Eustace

by

from

awakened

her

the

goal,

ball

on

opponent's
he

yards

ere

yards

further

St. Eustace

was

by
had

^^^k

IN

HEROES

MOLESKIN
r

of

proved

have

sighed^and
teams^
"

and

five

Crozier

beside

yards

must

him.

He

"

Best

"

heard
"

What

goal.
said

moment/'

of the

abreast

Beck,

voice

the trainer
"

he has put up, eh?

game

"

quarter in years," he answered.

of

note

in

He

nodded.

considerably,but

was

keep

to find Professor

turned

substituted.

the Hillton
out

come

those

line to

the

nearer

physicaldirector.
Gardiner

us

down

moved

now

than

value

more

it's

suppose

interrogationin

the

It'll weaken

necessary.'^ There

and
last,

the

professor

it.

Yes,

legs."

quite,"he replied.

yes,

Gardiner

turned

the

to

"

The

his last

boy's on

behind

line of substitutes

them.
"

The
the

1"

Decker
call

taken

was

instant

next

while

feet

again, Gardiner

Decker's
"

the

nearest

at

of

referee's

hand, and
ing
peel-

was

whistle

blew,

squirming players found

walked

toward

them,

their

his hand

on

shoulder.

Play

slow

"Use

outside

of

chance

to

your

The

sweater.

mound

and

those

by

short, stockily-built
youth

off his crimson

up

and

steady your

Young

Fletcher

and

tackle,especiallyon
hit

plays

well.

of

again,and
2

the

course

line

And,
you

team. Decker," he

now

my

the

for

runs;

right.
then

and

boy,

if you

get

will,donH

let it

try them

Give

and

go!

seled.
coun-

Gale

diversify
that
Give

ball
up

THB

BEHIND

he

Then

of

face

led

with

stand

of

comfort

not

But

Then

the

he

was

testing
pro-

off, and

laid

from

went

game

foot

one

thundered

that

pale

was

and

flowing slowly, steadily,toward

battle

and

back

boy

against being

him

him.

The

limply.

eyes

for

the

on

weariness,

other

his

in
cheers

hearty

did

tide

the

to

on

deposed quarter-back,

Beck.

with

the

after

tears

the

Professor

by

trembling

itself

the

encouragingly

Crozier,

off

and

dragged

even

him

thumped

forward.

him

being

was

only hang

"

leather!

sped

if necessary,

yards

twenty

your

LINB

the
the

on,

son's
Crim-

the

goal.
"If

only they

"That's

the

don't

best

again

score

we

can

out

worse

"

for,"

hope

Gardiner.

said

said

Professor

Beck.
"

it's turned

Yes;

"

Well,

you

comfort

can

that

they've played

ever

expect

say
"

die

yet;

there's

still

"That's
told

him

to

see,"

about

eight

runs

anxiously.
stolid

face, watched

St.

wings.

Eustace
Time

as

was

and

yourself

plucky

answered

there's

good;

than

still"

"

expected."
with

the

knowledge

against

game

"

And

the

other.

^he

looked

at

will

remember

odds

won't

we

his

as

watch"

minutes."

Decker

hope
outside

Then

he

what

right tackle," muttered

diner
Gar-

relighted his pipe and,

with

events.

still

again

hammering
the

Blue's

Hillton's

big

line at

full-back

the

plunged

HEROES

through
on

between

that,and

guard

Hillton's

and

MOLESKIN

IN

tackle,now

this

on

side,now

and

ly,
back, slow-

referee.

"Five

yards

lay just midway

between

line

ever

back

gave

stubbornly,but surely.
"First

down,"

the

cried

to

gam."
The

pigskin now

and

ten-

danced
"Now
"

Get

through !

the

once

they went,

more

terrific

the

the

it up,

through 1

line

men

plunges

there

six-yardline,placed

ter-back,
quar-

of

by

fellows!"

he

powerless

to

"

were

the

yet again, and

and

substitute

goal-posts.

break

Get

crimson-clad

the

withstand

the

under

about

get through and

shouted.
But

Decker,

lines.
fifteen-yard

BSllton^s

foe,

and

the ball

plunges

two

back
on

was

at

right

tackle.

"First
Then
For

on

half

the

"

downl

cried the referee

Hillton's
the

play

next

distance

of

cup

the

the

to

seemed

sorrow

umpire's

goal-linewas

penalized for holding,and

was

again.

whistle

paced

the ball

was

overflowing.
and
shrilled,
off.
on

Hillton

her three

yards1
From

the

section

flagswaved

teeth

on

at

hand,

the stem

grand

stand where

the

son
crim-

gan:
steady,entreating,the wailing slo-

came

''Hold,Hillton!
ITear

of the

Hold,
on

the

of his

Hillton!

HoU,

Gardiner
side-line,

pipe and

watched

Hillton!''

ground
with

his

expres-

BEHIND

Professor

face.

sionlesa

THE

LINE

Beck,

side, frowned

his

at

anx*

iouslj.
"Put

"

Tear

them

The

and

whistle

signal, the
sounded.

The

yard.

St. Eustace

the

captaixu

1"

the

gave

the

cried

fellows

up,

quarter

than

less

now!"

it over,

The

gether,
to-

advanced

had

ball

cheered

stand

Ilillton

smashed

lines

two

hoarsely,

madly.
"

Line

upl

Line

"

up I

cried

Blue's

the

"

quarter.

nal!
Sig-

"

Then

it

the

With
Eustace

ball

strained.

the

end

out

was

shot

fatal

mind,

in

mistake.

had

which

pass

tte

the

throng,

view,

the

left, and

St.

Decker, just how

single interferer,and

lost to
to

line

of

her

St.

won

the

Hillton

lines

heaved

he

reached

watch.

back,

Decker

delayed

touch-down

the

on

the

of

stomach.
the

was

went

and

plunging

the

previous

quarter-back

made

St. Eustace

of

memory

her

The

that

was

Eustace
the
he

left

ball

as

half-back

came

snuggled againat

his

knew, squirmed past

never

tackled

the

the

firmly about

runner

"

the

hips.

The

two

went

down

together

the

on

seven

yards, the blue-stockinged youth vainly striving to squirm

to

nearer

Then

the
head
The

Hillton

the

line, Decker
left end

Hillton

and

grand

the

whistle

stand

filled the

air.

was

holding
sat

down

for

all he

suddenly

was

on

worth.
the

ner's
run-

blew.
in

Gardiner

an

uproar,

turned

and
away

cheers

for

calmly and

HEEOES

knocked

the

ashes

through

his

gold-rimmed glasses.

up

and
"

back

sped

think

just

Nothing.

The

eye

fear

and

won't

Decker

signaled the cap;^

Hillton

nose-

swollen

lip.

"

nodded

"The
a

rule

for

against coaching

cried

and

he

sprang

he

cried.

the

the

had

full

he

muttered,

"

from

the

I guess

but

us."

sounded

his hands

and

good one,"

Decker

"

tenderly nursing

Then

the

youth, taking

Gardiner

down,"

now

that

back.

whistle

Signal 1

''16"

hold.

trotted

be

may

of the way.

stretched

Gale's

line can't

Our

Gale

!"

it's lost this game

The

"

but

blocked, and

it'll be

got your

ruefully.

"

called

You've

smiled

and

player

Gale.

now

First

himself

Only fightit out.

chance

"

there

do,

to

and

hesitated.

The

picked

Gardiner.

panted

his mouth

from

side-lines

Decker

St. Eustace

from

caught

is it?"

Gardiner
"

He

Beck

side-line.

the

"What

guard

thing

one

of it."
to

kick

beamed

Professor

piped again.

again," said

they'llscore
There's

But

whistle

tries

pipe.

position.

cried.

he

Decker

"If

his

to

the

and

for time

tain

^'

Signal!

his

from

MOLESKIN

IN

back

stood

formed

again.

referee, jumping nimbly

been

"

lines

in conference
to

his

with

out

the fullback,

place.

U"7"S1

just inside

"

the

goal-lineand

out.

8 r'
center

passed

the

pigskin straight and

true

to

the

10

THE

BEHIND

latter, instead

the

full-back^ but

though bewildered
the

through
The

next

with

the

while

EUllton

he

safe

Hillton's

had

ruse

the

moment

Blue's

ball

was

left

half

as

plunged

been

of

his

Gardiner,

staffs.

hurdled

On

the

paper.

goal-line

on

the

up

on

line,
side-

frantic

her

won

half, dropped
and

"

Hillton

The

once

to

yarda) through

the

took

pigskin, and
Hillton's

banners
up

into

on

full-back

Fletcher,

crimson

said

play,"

his

on

Eustace's

"

back

goaL

flags drooped

lost
1

more

hope surged

minutes

four

but

in another

downed

was

St.

! Ball

and

St. Eustace

crimson

play

it.

voices

the

netted

the

Ball

upon

Hilltonians, while
"Five

toward

yards,

two

kick,

it, but

next

of

free

secured

the

cries

the

"

arching

for

line

"Line

Decker.

left-guard, and

Hillton's

again,

and

first attack

The

forty yards.

left

yards, fellows

twenty

amid

forwards

behind

thrown

arms,

kicking it, stood

it had

though

as

cried

"Touch-back,"

their

of

St. Eustace

was

in his

smiling contentedly.

was

The

the

line

moment

ball

LINE

the

waved

of

refrain

loyal hearts.

Professor

Beck.

diner
Gar-

nodded.
"

Time

enough

Decker
Hillton

yard
"

to

crouched

full

plunged

win

in," he

again,
at

the

answered.

chanted

his

blue-clad

signal, and

line.

But

the

only

resulted.

Signal!

The

ball

"

came

cried

back

the

quarter.

into

Us

"

"

8"51"16"5!

waiting hands,

was

thrown

HEBOES

at

short

the

cleared

way

and

full-back

the

line

through
and

right tackle

full-back

The

left behind

were

advance,
Gale.

only

the

ran

the

them

St.

Gardiner,

One

The

remained

to

and

white-faced
to

"To

St.

the

left I

the

line
The

and
stands

"

and

the

two

Fletcher,

little in

right half-back, Paul

and

away,

behind

them

dangerous.

professor

and

the

along

head

the

little army

line.
coach.

under

Then

"They

the

that

went

Fletcher
of

two

yards

Twenty

waiting quarter-back,
them.

upon

weary

knew

player

back

of the

feet

Gale

But

was

panted.

with

looking

the

falling behind.

was

he

obeyed

Eustace

moment

half

Hill-

wildly.

but

desperate, was

emergency.

without

shrieked

remained,

went

covered.

the

Fletcher

right

tace's
Eus-

the

forty yards

raced

another

pursuit
be

and

sounded

the

by

St.

"

after

line

players.

equal

ing
show-

goal, now

it," muttered

make

stop him

can't

the

quarter

privileged spectators,
"He'll

and

the

of

field while

feet

captain

followed

outside

Beside

pounding footsteps that

came

of

the

turf.

and

Eustace

down

their

Hillton

Between

gap

St. Eustace

the

on

wide

to

the

met

right half

charging along beside, Fletcher

sped

leaped

supporters

ton

11

MOLESKIN

left half^ and, with

the

to

pass

IN

was

the

emptied

and

limbs
he

was

down

lying,

leaden

safe.

together,
faint

but

feet,

Gale
and

and
in

happy,

other
an-

over

goal I

themselves

on

the

instant

of their

CHAPTER

PAUL

Two

boys

New

will

the

the

seat

diagonally

the

of

the

the

struck

just

study

comer

have

said
the

nearer

blue

merry
and

the

the

color

the

light

cushions

and

which

four
of

life
the

of

town

the

as

the

of

after

interested

were

the

seven

of

the

occupants

"

in

or

tower

"

half

ioned
cush-

the

court-house

the

in

from

compass

the

about

dence
resi-

large

of

occupant

bell

Hillton,

Streets,

Village

points

study

comer

other

things

than

view.
I

be

and

To-night

had

hall

town

Center

signs

across.

the

know

the

to

occasional

first-floor

Haewood's

of
look

may

for

watch

who

of

comer

MIND

the

in

remember

bow-window

big

HIS

sitting
Those

York,
at

0HANGE8

were

Haewood's.

in

that

for

truth;
and

eyes

of
fell

one

much-scarred

the

silk

raw

upon

end

one,

that

it,
of
hands

was

the

boy

of

flushed

day's
took

with
of

his

two

health
hair

amid

His
13

the

tanned,

strong,

knees.

just
where

gold

cross-legged

couch,

clasping

glint

with

years,
with

ruddily

perched

big

eighteen

excitement,
on

would

Lounging

sitting.

were

cheeks

of

afterglow

at

they

com-

BEHIND

his

and

panion

much

and

cut

of the

end

limb,

with

friends

the

and

of

next

two

years.

fall

they

The

at

the

and

badly
other

of

color

This

the

at

last
their

begin

to

stared

been

their

was

were

that

had

They

of

long

dark-complexioned

back

his

was

chest, and

warmth

the

at

palm.

one

physical condition.
for

to

on

in

and

eyes,

together.

lazily

lip,lay sprawled
buried

careless,

which

on

feature

built, broad

room-mates

life

college
rolled

of

best

Hillton, and

at

year

lower

bright, clear

betokened

face,

plexioned
dark-com-

and

ejes

noticeable

most

well

were

and

wilful

his chin

couch,

months^

two

hair

rather

swollen

lads

Both

black

the

moment

present

with

but

good-natured,

but

junior bj

youth

LINE

THB

youth
ceiling.

Then"
"

I suppose

The
gaze

They

was

was

and

the

the

get the captaincy, Neil."

nodded

light hair

little flames

discussed

had

the

beginning

to work

the

watch

from

them

upon

closed
the

flames
his

town

in

time

to

just close

barge

and

Neil

and

At

team,
cheered

his

in

the

eyes

"

start

which
a

He

"

to

at, but
and

his

fireplace.
had

finish,and
had

eaten

spell of dormancy.

eight
was

to

they

Fletcher,

and

"

eyes.

victorious

removing

day's happenings thoroughly,

awfully jolly,thought

of

danced

that

St. Eustace

with

game

without

big Thanksgiving dinner

and
rest

with

the

from

relived
now

boy

will

Crozier

to

just lie

sighed

o'clock

drawn

be

meanwhile

forget
"

It

there

ably
comfortwith

the

about

the

he,

there

everything

was

PAUL

There
"

was

Go

"Oh,
removing

knock

a
"

'way!

CHANGES

in,"

his

drowsy

door.

study

Neil.

granted

come

the

at

15

MIND

HIS

called

Paul
from

gaze

Gale, without, however,

the

ceiling or

his

changing

position.
"I

beg

Mr.

looking for

am

Gale,

''

and
Paul

dropped

up,

blinking

sat

The

his

legs

at

the

caller

side

of

ITeil

visitor.

was

Paul

shoulder.

the

over

taller

than

recognized

the

dressed

Neil,

him,

and

couch

followed

carefully

thirty-five,
scarcely

about

of

pardon.

your

his

ample.
ex-

of

man

broader

but

shook

and, rising,

hands.
"

do

How
won't

down,
asleep

when

the

sleep, and
and

hat

"By
you've

you?

the
met

Brill?

Glad

we

guess

responded

work

did

you

else you

into

sank

you.

Sit

pretty

nigh

see

both

the

friend,

Brill, of Kobinson;

one

the

visitor

this

afternoon

want."

He

chair

Neil

deserve

laid aside his coat

proffered.

latter, "I

Fletcher.

of their

affably.

you

Paul

which
the

continued

way,"
my

to

were

wonder,"

anything

and

Mr.

knocked."

you

"Small
"After

do,

you

coaches."

don't

think

Neil,

this

is Mr.

The

two

shook

hands.
"Pm
of
was

the

delighted
heroes

"

of

splendid; the

to

the
way

meet

the

day,"
in which

hero

said

"

Mr.

you

two

^I should
Brill.
fellows

"

say
That

one

run

got your

%
16

BEHIND

speed

before

up

here

over
"

to

discussed

heartilywished

Mr.

Brill
"

this

by

17

fall,"he

"Wait

"

fellows
can't

that,"

of
at

little

time

from

off.

to

there,

presently

But

in football

victory

"

we're

We

from

won

feeling

the

selves
our-

Erskine

rather

stuck

up

institution

smaller

College,
He

visitor.
but
the
of

and

the

I've
"

at

Perhaps
least you

athletic

learning

of honor

with

some

Paul,

on

his

matters

know

world,
it is in
certain
of the

and
the

big

who

we

about
you

front
it

ones.

at
was

knuckles.

clearly,"

more

of you

lines

if

see

engagingly

at

neither

two

you

to

smiled

the

to

me

want

here

scars

explained

brings
we

I'm

and

paused

colleges; in fact, in

place

"

to-night. Frankly,

until

in

himself, "and

to

coach,

the

examining

CoUegetown,
stands

Neil

said

glanced surprisedly

Neil

decide
on

continued

you."

boys.

went

year,"

Robinson

have

Don't

the

utes,
min-

few

visitor wanted

the

saying.

was

call

my

thoughtfully

an

NeiL

it.'^

over

And

object

to

for

contest

himself

take

had

till next

you'll get

"

answered

it."

over

the

day's

what

week, and

last

to

coming

business.

to

we've

know

pace,"

glanced uneasily

he'd

got down

You

the

Neil

and

worth

was

was."

clock, wondered

the

at

line

the

pretty good

which

during
time

set

visitor

The

reallyit

see,

Paul

Yes,

reached

you

LINE

THE

have
where

know
rank

been
inson
Rob-

that

as

of the

might dispute

PAUL

the

"To
and

learn

there

bom

football

that

such

could

never

mean

to

regarding standing

say

that

it holds

the

at

happens

belong

is

baseball,

always

death

football

underhand

"

tapped
you,

Mr.
next

will

I do
lege
col-

simply

eleven

or

who

will work

But

she

is

the
a

which

though

speaker

forefinger
Gale,

and

guarantee

you

the

you,

September,

meet

the

"

you
to

doesn't

She

there

in

believes

she

no

hiring

of

are

plenty

of

^none

of that sort

half-way.
make

is

The

briefly

forward, smiling frankly, and

leaned
on

to

authorized

am

and

material.

for them

willing

ball,
first-class foot-

for

understand;

you

those

proposition
"

methods,

"

thing.

this

such

to

free scholarships

players, no
for

material,

rowing

or

lookout

the

on

offering encouragement

them

faculty is

i^-

Robinson

favor

iron.
grid-

subject of

to

man

the

to

the

on

the

the

on

hound

stringent

lectures,but

at

views
not

to

Eobinson

attendance

or

does

anything

simply

such

crew.
"

of

that

conmion-sense

and
athletics,
he

to

I do

where

would

by

some

as

"

of you,

down

amount

say

lax

tied

names

no

either

be

well

as

can

recommend

to

know

you

give

can

bound

mention
as

would

he

I don't

because

"

player,

he

because

colleges

are

lost; where

rules

this

he

time,

he

where

college

same

MIND

athletics,Kobinson's

to

that

be

wants

the

at

I mention

itself.

who

fellow

where,

attention

HIS

CHANGES

palm

Mr.
"

of

his

Fletpher,
ah

positions on

"

the
the

other
will

athletic

^^

hand
enter

"

If

son
Eobin-

authorities

varsity eleven.

Be-

18

BEHIND

Bides thisy
you will be
and

examS;

THE

LIKE

for
givenfree tutoring

so longas
afterward,

you

in any studies with which you may

there' is

trust

we're
to

have

will accept. We

you

do all that

to
willing

Now,

get you.

During
he
regard,

we

in

on

which

one

you

had

knuckles and

Paul

both,and
is"

"

say?

under

speakerhad

the other's

looked up

before
eyed Neil furtively

smiling

his face

in keepingfrom
difficulty

of his emotions.

I sincerely

that
honesty,

this recital Neil's dislike of the

now,

the team,

Now,
difficulty.

want

can"

do you

what

and
steadily
increased,

show

remain

and
fair,honest proposition,

the entrance

from

some

his scarred

he turned to the

coach.
"

"

Of

he said, this is rather unexpected."

course,"

coach's eyes flickered for

The

"For
due in

part,"Neil

my

broke

The

since

ment.
amuse-

"I'm
angrily,

in almost

September at Erskine,and

his mind

instant with

an

unless Paul's

changed

yesterdayso's he."

Bobinson

coach raised his

eyebrowsin simulated

surprise.

"

Ah,"

"

Yes,Erskine,"answered

he said

faint flush of

but he smiled
"

And
career

as

"

slowly, Erskine?

"

Neil rather

displeasure
crept into
as
pleasantly

your friend has

in the

same

discourteously.

Mr. Brill's cheeks,

ever.

ruininghis
contemplated

manner,

has he?

"

ball
foot-

he asked po-

CHANGES

PAUL

his

litely,turning

spoke

looked

and

chair

his

fidgeted in

lie

as

gaze

19

MIND

HIS

latter

defiantly at

trifle

over

The

Paul.

on

his room-mate.
"I
"

In

had
"

fact

^but,of

"

"

But,

"

Well,

For

in

glad

much

too

better

the

on

be

simply

fellow

studies," said

about

None

Neil
"

team;

Brill.

have

doesn't

Paul

of

waste

your

Gale."

haltingly,

there

can't

the

coach.

stared

You're

^^I
"

all," responded

at

suppose
he

be

^^

to

bother

he

can

do

question

any

to

have

the

his peace.

also?

use

no
"

he

to

right

spite his room-mate,

to

realized

in

said.

fit of stubbornness, of

only

flushed

Paul

growled.

Mr.

realizing that Paul

Then,

he

Neil

there's
us

indignantly.
and

angrily.

demanded.

I fear

come

his chum

talking rot,"

effort,held
^

at

his look

returned

to

if

definitely."

Neil.

Mr.
abilities,

"

course,

settled

But

so.

that, I guess."

"

an

of

work

about

it would

ah

"

do

to

his

at

that," interrupted Mr.

hear

to

arranged

been

exclaimed

opinion
and

wide-eyed surprise

has

nothing
^"

Fm

my

Well,

Neil's

answered.

he

Erskine,"

to

fact, I.had

in

Paul

opportunities
"

"
"

course,

"

going

observing

"

of words

choice

of

thought

was

Brill

manage

turned

shook

to

to

Neil

used

to

his head

enter

guile.

fairs!
af-

him.

persuade

quite capable,

promising

own

and, with

his mistake

attempting
Neil

my

in

you

silently.
his

Bobinson

ent
pres-

if

PAUL

"but"

^with

"

for

smart

CHANGES

slight

he

his

reached

excited

the

wanted

the

through

way

with

who

faces

Gale

and

deal

good

elevens

have

much

as

returned
the

to

cheers

Paul

had

and

bed,

he

Paul
I

In

their

chap

too

was

the

just

sort

we

the

did

the

this

on

at

Gardiner's

began

look

to

added

he

8
.

room

this

band

but

ing
noth-

flared

and

Neil

ears.

toward

his resentment

proposition.

But

preparing

were

for

charge.
Brill ?

morning;

defiantly.

to

faculty, and

in their

echoing

fellow

sulky again.

and

out

have

occasion.

they
the

Hillton

village and
bonfires

Brill's

of

that

they

o'clock,tired,happy,

ten

still

to

formed
in-

the

Victorious

by players

matter

meet

hours,

two

and

past years,

songs

flags
that

over

demand

next

through

doggedly
you

and

this narrative.

room

and

emphasis.

in the

made

shouting youths

caps

which

to

bow
el-

obliged to

was

of

over

presently, when

returned

think,"

sky

happened

whole

hadn't, and

"

waving

apparently forgotten

the

When

in

been

and

Neil

"

and

hauled

times

speeches

all very

throng

discordant

to

he

solid

happened

been

have

field many

Neil

he's

him,

Fletcher,

that is pertinent

with

other

entrance

starlightwinter

lent hearty if rather

Paul

"the

"

And, confound

me.

When

and

smile

21

MIND

"

need!

the

HIS

"

Neil

he

Seems

"

he

asked.

introduced
a

us."

decent

sort,

the

lenge.
chal-

accepted

22

BBHIND

"

"

His

"

What's

"

You

Paul.

decent

order

not
No, they doft't;

but

they're not

one

knows

what

papers

have

the

and

team,

free.
have

You

decent

been

get

it for

want

to

that

says

play

things like

on

that

do, I know;
go

two

he

to

in;

are

Their

years.

there

play

on

got his tuition

like that

team

about

Every

to.

athletics

fall,Marden, justwent

everybody

say

to

cares

Bobinson

of

full

Some

ones.

fellow

shape

rotten

don't

people

to

do," growled Paul.

collegesa

this

heard

"

team?

"

of them

his

I that

as

collegeofferingfree tutoringin

Lots

rush

well

as

ever

for its football

center

know

Who

"

the

suspiciously.

say the least.

it's shady,to
^well,

"

fellows

only

"

his errand?

with

wrong

Everything,

There's

errand."

offer is
of

questioned Paul

that?"

"What's

**

carelessly.

got against him."

I've

thing

one

LINE

answered

say," he

I dare

THB

you.

I'm

and
I

sure

don't."
"

and

Oh, you!
crankier

Brill didn't
Neil

"

sneered

every

ask you

day.

I'll bet

don't

You're

getting crankier

you'rejusthuffybecause

first."

flushed,but kept

"You

"

Paul.

think

his

temper.

anything

of the

sort, Paul.

sides
Be-

"

"

It looks that

"Besides,"

way,"

continued

muttered
Neil

Paul.

calmly, "what's

'".

the

ad-

CHANGES

PAUL

in

vantage

going

we've

of

and

its class
Erskine

the
hint

that

our

for

and

the

on

on

football

there's

Erskine

varsity

"They've
I won't

stand

I don't

want

to."

"

Huh!

Well,

him

as

all the
the

I'm

going.

said,

time

about

thoughtfully
had

one

angry

team

feel

more

his
into
card

decent

of
way

hard

work;

make

is,I

the

anything
so

So

far
turned

and

you

dozen

others."

make

the

team.

faculty

the
do
in

wrong

about

He

play.

to

can't

to-morrow

flames.

has

he

angrily.

Erskine,

at

want

fellow

Paul

than

show

bath-robe

to

won't

guarantee

you'll

answered

studies
see

the

on

scholarshipsor

by good,

players

that

if

I'll tell Brill

drew

Neil

good

do;

I don't

play

folks

one

that

best

Brill

team.

only

doubting

better

any

"

Besides,

on

of

and

Brill's

that's

is, too,"

lots

got

there's

there

is the

If you

eleven."

there

"Yes,

and

for

reason

no

for

as

and

team,

college

free

or

money

why,

team,

the

thing;
every-

Erskine;

at

somebody,

And

it.

doing

out

honest.

are

be

you'll

you're receiving

place
get

its athletics

arranged

WeVe

know;

we

23

MIND

picked

rooms

there

team

something

to

Eobinson?

to

lots of fellows

are

got

HIS

decent

it,and

after
work

"

and

"

him,
he

had

and

looked

lost,but

and

faced

and

play

he

Paul's

countenance.

"Well,

if I

under

the

disgraced."

should

go

conditions

to

Robinson

offered

by

that

"

on

^by Brill

her

I'd

24

BEHIND

You'd

^'I

better

wouldn't

other

"Oh,

trying

of

you

would?"

And

you?
with

if I met

or

Paul

ar"und

EQUton
'

Wheels

hotly.

Fd

take

street.''
cried
out

I'm

suppose

I?

his

good

not

if

Well,

fluffyangel,*aren't

little

"You're

room-mate.

enough

that's

it,

all

associate

to

I've

to

got

^"

"

But," continued

Paul
Then

paused

his eyes

his

he

followed.

at

the
more

out

the

Humph
into

born
stub1"

he

room.
bed-

the

and, finding
said.

was

than

more

put

flames

with

usual

and

Paul
bled
tum-

study light

and

suit.

"

Good-night,"

"

Good-night," growled

It had
to

disappeared

even

Neil

bed.

"

chum.

his

at

himself

Nothing

about

water

stared

muttered

smiled

and

silentlyinto

went

accept Brill's

if you

busied

and

clothing

turned

splashed the

followed

"

and

with

Finally,

apparel,

own

and

dropped

up

Neil

equably,

open-mouthed

stocking.

gathered

Neil

I."

will

offer,so

been

sleep

It seemed

twenty

minutes,
called.

he

said.

He

as

that

he
up

soon

an

exciting

as

his

later,though

hours

sat

Paul.

day and

hard

almost

pillow.

name

face

my

Gardiner

yourself

am

you,

say

his

the

make

to

show

to

side

LIKE

then," answered

away,

want

and

afterward,
the

stay

THE

was

awakened

quickly.

head
in

and

Neil

touched

the

one,

reality but

sol

by hearing

his

*'

up/'

"Shut

"

say

to

tell

EobinsonI

"

he

you

"

were

^that

that
you

"

25

MIND

shouted.

Paul

answered

know

didn't

"

''

What?

Hello

HIS

CHANGES

PAUL

from

asleep.
I've

in

across

decided

only
not

the

ness.
dark-

wanted

to

to

go

to

CHAPTER

IN

AxMOST
benefit

the

of the

it with
other
tell

few

who
or

New

shaded

distant.

youths

and

deeds

green
but

than

school

everywhere; in

lines

an

at

it's greener

in smaller

who

in

go,

26

with

its

tennial
cen-

own

share

big elm

in the

planted until
later

to

still in its

it has its
the

some

well

be

may

1812

have

years

it has

by good

themselves

of the last century, when

academy,

it was

Centerport."
than

ever.

serried

detachments

along the

or

found
con-

to

mater.

the middle

little more

not

they

Bowdoin

great accomplishments endeared

country and alma

In

But

although

was

lest

College is

universities

England

campus

many

or

For

College.

not, and

Erskine

and
associations,

of the

center

have

Dartmouth

it.

yet eight years

of historic

of Erskine

England neighbors,it
about

something

QUABTESS

has heard

Williams

of its New

infancy, as

NEW

one

every

river and

ranks

Erskine

often called "the

It

is not

so

the

little

little now,

Wide-spreadingelms
within

was

grow

collegegroun4s,

throughout the village,in picket

out

into the

country. The

grass

IN

lush

grows
with

wherever
its

having

d-ed

warm

on

the

of

by ivy, which, too,

where

neither

In

the

in

hundred

six
the

all

well-nigh

are

And

expansionist.

subjugate, soft, velvety

can

is the

departmentis

students.

for

case

1901, which

year

enrolment

past,

years

many

at

are

we

the

at

two,

present

when

moment

fourth

day
busily

were

of

house

It

at

at

work

and

work

wall.

the

Fletcher

drove

Paul

Gale

nails
sat

good imitation

a
"

That'll

do

for

bit to the left and

in

side

Old

to

on

Abe

the

twenty-

mentioned

in the

to
an

side

at

already

leather

'; now

underneath."

say

"

boarding-

that

small

hospitable

of green

of

these

^which, to

his

recting.
di-

which

every

ment,
move-

much

nodded

hang The

and

table,

armchair
and

was

one

busily advising

was

stood

into

his-

the

Street.

other

perilously from
and

study

been

and

only two;

above

year

to

of this number

evening

truthful

more

in

"

the

Elm

had

chapter begins

first-floor

on

perhaps

Neil

swayed

in

in

the

of
in

September

Curtis

Mrs.

were

busily

of

largest

180; but

this

close

was

class, as
the

was

chiefly interested

exact, is eight o'clock

be

Erskine

at

freshman

The

of this story, the

period

tory of the college. It numbered

The

reigns humbly.

moss

in

ever
is for-

road.

and

buildings

ardent

an

ivy

nor

grass

is

content

not

campus^

path

coUege

hidden

and

green

conquest

of

bricks

gain hold, and^

can

way

the

27

QUARTERS

it

own

attempting

NEW

mutilated

upholstered
approval.
First

Snow

IN

only

find

us

like

towel
"

it we'd

on

think
"

Neil.

that
"

The

screw

sort

that

beach.

bath

and

judged

rather

awfully

want

we

could
"

twice

have

as

tanned

there

was

three

pretty

weeks; and

good

I
near

look

Yes,

brown

your

always lying

red

down
to

Next

me.

can't

give

time

"

cried

I don't
all
us

go

"

Paul.
see

how
and

I'm

see

for

us

home,

and
but

same."

summer

and
I

bathing,

you

was

summer

and
sea

you

when

just the

am.

at

there, Paul;

Hampshire

Indian

"We
It

Seabright?

at

New

yourself!
as

at

through

was

as

You're

paper," interpolated Neil.

it.

stayed just

you

white

nearly

did

you

^"

paper
"

Indian

Red

we

like

it

bath-room

Neil, smiling.

we,

me

good

to

up

course,

look

won't

you

ask

mighty

come

Of

while.

didn't

to

you

were

to

you

of

towel

answered

good time,

nice

the

no

reach."

of

out

remember,"

folks

your

just

for

of

they're terribly

got

you

floor,

they're

in the

one

the

to

on

course,

When

round

groped

fairs
nickel-platedaf-

towels

Of

had

we

Bemember?

"Yes,
had

know

string," answered

towel-racks, but

as

chap put

luxury."

those

the

might.

we

rate
sepa-

wall."

always dump

Yes,

floor

the

the

into

You

the

in

with

of

one

twelve

time

every

thing

might buy

practicalvalue

on

fix that

you

ornamental.

puzzle

fall into

simply reveling

can

we

mean?

you

be

Or

that* didn't

Chinese

29

QUARTERS

towel-rack

pieces

NEW

as

sheet

of

30

BEHIND

And

hard

complexionlike

grinned,then

football after

"

"

"

By the way," he said,

did I tellyou

Fd

heard from

"

Crozierf
^

LINE

game."

Neil
"

have

you

THB

Billyand

About

back

And

the ducks?

to Hill tout

Gordon's

that at the

Yes, you got

not

ing
go-

member?
beach; re-

"

"

So I did.

Old

pretty soon, won't

awfullyglad.
it into St

he?

Eustace

will be up to his

I'm

I think he

^'Yes; and
smiled

'

Cro

glad they made

turn

can

againjustas

Gardiner's

out

him

coach

to

not

to be

after

suppose

going back
while

to

fellow

here, but justat present

"

old

it does

seem

Hillton,doesn't it?

'11 get to
He

"

year."

again." Paul

reminiscently.Then, ^^By Jove,

funny

captain,

that'll rub

team

did last

you

going

in trouble

ears

feelingat

sighed and

home

shook

his

head.
"Wait

work;

we

until
won't

collegeopens

have

much

and

to-morrow

time to feel much

of

I guess.

Practise is called for four o'clock.

I wonder

if we'll make
not?"

"Why
wouldn't
"

"

You

He

pitchit

grinned across

heap

more

anything,

I wonder

"

and

"

thought

^and go to Robinson!

his chum.

get
stay here and you'll

that's

"If

all up
at

to

get

"

the team?

objected Paul.

I think I'd

we

chance

to go

satisfactory."

inson;
at Rob-

I'm

"Well,
set

mj

heart

do

sometimes

looked

"

what

I wonder
I've

"Well,
about

good

as

he's

guess

boimd
him

made

have

"He's

take

pity

he?

played only

right

to

as

is?

he's

that

know

we

"

college to-day; and

is in

sort

they wouldn't

or

get
two

on

the

on

"

two

next

year.

there.

team

but

ambitious

and

years,

School

Law

Yale

the

he'll

course

the

be

to

certain

captain."

he's

into

going

there

as

senior, isn't

"Yes;

end

an

"

seel

and

this Devoe

but

him,

ing
play-

on:

fellow

seen

never

went

not

about

wait

quite

to

I'm

do.

You

I've

mind

my

tricks

not

was

Paul

of

sort

few

eyes.

he

nothing, and

said

but

their

though

as

up

generally

them

I'll show

make

31

Neil.

varsity,

what

always

that'll open

haH-back
Neil

and

most

boy;

the

make

to

that,

on

troubling, my

that,

going

QUARTEES

NBW

IN

he's

they

say

If he

does,

Well,

unprotected

hope

of

he'll

freshmen

"

and
There

twenty-one

I'm

I hit it
"I'm
Won't

"My

or

threw

it

open.

of

for

Gale

and

Mr.

door

study

years

age

Mr.

and

tall

stood

in

Paul

youth
the

Fletcher.

of

way.
door-

Have

"

Gale,"
you

the

at

twenty-two

looking

right?

knock
and

forward

jumped

"

was

come

name's

Paul,

answered
in?"

Devoe,"

The
he

visitor

"and

that's

Fletcher.

entered.

explained smilingly.

"I'm

82

BEHIND

of

are,

we'd

football

of the

captain

better

he'd

thought

made

in that

move

no

ought

take

to

shake

to

squeaky
hat.

straw

but

retired

thought

the

his

hands,

he

direction

team,

lows
fel-

two

you

accepted

Paul

allowed

rocking-chair and
Neil

He

as

the

try for

to

acquainted."

get

and

this year,

team

going

course,

LINE

THE

Devoe

as

another

to

seat

grinned hospitably instead.

and
"

heard

I've

and

last year,

ton

Gardiner

that

"

You

"

No, I've
knows

you

were

"

coming

Gardiner?

"

he

is.

coming,

and

I'd

asked

He

an

So

get lost in the shuffle.

didn't

He

anything

say

on

eye

Hill-

I learned

when

course

from

in the

me

that
and

you

football

every

intimated

rather

keep

to

wrote

for

Neil.
of

but

did

here."

up

him,

met

never

business

didn't

were

chaps

you

mighty glad

was

you

who

work

good

the
I

know

man

my

of

spring that
if I

knew

that

see

you

I am."

here

having written,"

about

dered
pon-

Neil.
"

like

you

he

Oh,

us

"We
think

far

it looks

"Yes,

as

"

wish

in

seen

rather
"

the

us?

er

"

jolly

historic

it when

how

Well,

do

"

of

sort

"I

Paul.

place; awfully

^historic."

country,

wasn't

"

Devoe.

yesterday," replied

here

and

like

answered

you've

it is pretty;

You'll
I

like

know,

college

young

well

as

only got

pretty, you

so

wouldn't,"

you

going

too;
bar

and

none,"

get used
to

leave

to

it's the

finest

answered

voe.
De-

it,

it in

the

I like

it

spring.

IN

Very
the

They'll do,"

couldnH

get

the
"

here."

He

looked

about

whole

and

"

Yes."

''

What's

In

in

we

the

have

you

fixed

Of

course

and

Yard,
The

we

liked

this

view's

rather

as

good

it

the

common

is

good."
"

Neil.

on

and

pretty much

Devoe

You

his

brought
left

played

half,

"

this

weighed

spring

"Good.

"

weight?

your

haven't

the

"

modestly.

outside.

saw

know;

you?

"

Neil

college in sight; it

back

didn't

answered

windows."

Yes,

gaze

was

We

hundred

need

and

Neil.

sixty-two."
backs.

heavy

some

answered

summer,"

about

How

Gale?"

you.
"

About

"

Of

hundred

bit

light,take

see;

Kobinson

heavy

backs.

Neil
He

saw

"but

and

broad
rumor

sharp

and

sixty."

seen

last

the

the

had

an

unusually

tall and

football

men

He

credited

him

steady

in their

looked
with

line

with

quite

being,

and

us,

and

you

rather

interest.

well-set

fast
his

regard, suggested

trouble."

some

with
as

are

beat

without

us

fairly heavy youth,

shoulders.

have

what

heavy

captain

yet," continued

we

That's

They plowed through

the

material

new

year's

all around.

them

studied
a

and

I haven't

course

Devoe,

as

have

you

rooms

anything

as

from

the

83

QUARTERS

study.

well

"

quarters

cozy

"

we

NEW

on

his feet

dark

both

head

eyes,

courage

IN

"

about

of

think

"

Well,

conceited,

should

he

Funny

him,

NEW

have

it?

wasn't

35

QUABTEBS

come

"

Neil

just

when

pursued.

we

"

ing
talk-

were

What

do

you

him?"

if

you

stuck-up

ask

Paul

me,"

prig!

"

answered,

"

think

he's

CHAPTEE

KEIL

Neil's

and

MAKES

Paul's

IV

ACQUAINTANCES

college life began early

morning when, sittingside by

chapel,they
divine
and

aid

and

and

rose

head

and

From

where

the

shoulders

Neil

own.

there
which

could

branch

of

several

than

the elm-arched

his

back
nave

clear

resolutions

And

he

bowed

on

an

aisles.
dow
win-

open

and

purple

the

across

that almost

of which

sincerelymeant.

there

through

and

good

chapel,some

ask for them

of greenery

elm

an

sweet

sang

made

look

next

dim, hushed

flecks of

and

shafts

world

morning

thrush

all the way

Garrison

here

in

lay

or

he sat Neil

in the
he

Dr.

golden lightrested

swaying

casement

white-haired

the

in

guidance. Splashes and

into the

out

On

heard

side

the

sunlight.

brushed

of his

matin
that

morning

profitedby,
Paul,

even

far

the

all of

pressiona
less im-

ful
friend,looked uncommonly thought-

to their room,

of

College Place

way

that led

and

across

through
the

com-

"

mon

with

its broad

simple granite shaft

civil war.
36

expanses

of sun-flecked sward

commemorating

the

heroes

and
of

its
the

At

again

in their ears,

their

hearts

with

What

recitation.

quickly enough, and

dressed

of

granite steps

well-worn

the

College

the

novelty

four

o'clock

togs and

football

in

path

and

Hall

for

their

excitement, they retraced

awaiting

urable
pleas-

mounted
first

their

day passed

of it all the
found

and

arms

with

usual

than

little faster

their

under

bell

pealing

the

of

books

their

with

beating

sound

the

o'clock, with

nine

87

ACQUAINTANCES

MAKES

NEIL

the

lads

two

of

the

beginning

in

sight, boys

practise.
'

There

of them

some

several
their
at

men

gridiron,and
and

not

blue

happy

arms

as

back

run

dozen

so, the

from

edge

with

high

field

ages,

hopelessness

the

and

taken

of

practise

fall

lark.

the
The
turf

yards, he

every

ounce

order

back

of the

afternoon

ing
Punt!N'eil

day, and
was

but

warm,

springy underfoot,

was

the

new

the

supplied

men

efforts,the pigskins bumped

of old

friends, and

catch

one

for which

let himself
of

into

out

strength.

long arching flight,and

scampering

of the

produced.

were

edge,

to

manner

After

opposite sides

on

footballs

in their

in the

several

leather
in

of all sizes and

"

were

was

work.

at

of amusement

his

into

the

half

busily

was

plenty

go

placed

were

uncomfortably

sky

names

catching punts

soon

was

years

"

began.
candidates

The

as

candidates

glance revealing

The

ambitions.

Erskine

far

as

first

the

at

sixty

some

were

the

sent

and
The

several

Neil

he

had

men

grand stand for

to

the

booted
ball

was

saUed
across

it.

38

BEHIND

"

I giiess

him.

face

blue

him

Yes," answered

"

good spirits

"

reply.

But

you're

man,
fresh-

Neil, turning
settle

gridiron

his

into

let

to

drive

low

''And

arms.

from

guess

not."

you're
"

and

fun

I have."

the

was

answered

the

with

round, smiling

"

you?

Yes,"

"

Neil,

thought so,"

across

with

beside

voice

shrewdly.

"

aren't

twinkled

that

eyes

observing

"

before," said

that

done

you've

LINE

youth
short, stockily-built

and

was

THE

this

No,

two."

He

third

is my

paused

send

to

perspiration from

his

I've

year.

ball

and

back,
"

forehead.

been

the

on

then

team

last

quarter

was

the

wiped

year."
"

**

then
^

said

Oh,"

That's

What

me.

"Half-back.
"

Of

about

"I'm

Gale

he

our

was
"

over

looked

fellow

I think

good

interest,

Bob

he

there,
at

across

thing

the

Hillton."

Devoe

said

talking

was

there

two

were

at

last
Paul

"I'm

Neil.

fellow

Hillton

he's

"

of

"

evidently comparing

It's

with

for?
at

years

one," laughed

captain

Foster

He

other

three

the

you?

are

trying

you

played

them;

one

the

That's
was

of

one

Which

you.

are

you're

course;
or

"

neighbor

"

Foster?

you're

his

Neil, observing

in

the

Fletcher.

old

red

shirt;

year."
and

them.

got dark

then
He

back

shook

hair

and

at

Neil.

his head.

you've got

NEIL

MAKES

lie said.

light,"

"Otherwise

"

No.

But

half

the

intervals

acquaintance
of

an

trainer

high
of

twice

about

exclaimed
and

finely; I

weight,

height

and

weigh

two

I'm

glad

Neil

youth

bother

haven't

baths

saw,

being

whose

name,

the

back
in

This

the

trot, Neil

is

I lived

taking

melting

me,"

the

it out

off.

It

"

samel

locker-

green-roofed

yard together, Paul,

with

companionship

according

too

panted Neil;

around, just the

little

close

and

added.

about

to

on

I guess

he

any,"

last time

ters
three-quar-

quit

to

pounds

flesh

in

walked

two

whole

much

"

weight.

you

this is the

their

the

feel

of

him.

latter.

on

end

gridiron

beside

the

returning punts

order

the

the

put

can

to

seem

No,

house

same

I think

the

at

the

ambling along

summer

After

as

them

last

but

When,
gave

I"

doesn't

'^

build, and

the

and

catching

Devoe

Phew

"

much

taller,and

hour,

sent

me

of

ripened.

Foster

"

selves
your-

more."

pounds

found

inch

an

know

"

pretty

are

and

height

related?

you

we

He's

weight.

In

Are

wouldn't

you

apart; you're just of

too, I guess.

39

ACQUAINTANCES

Foster,

to

big

Tom

was

Cowan.
"He
^

He's
"

"

played
a

soph; this

Third

Oh,

year

Cowan

fiaid Foster

with

last

right-guard

1"
was

is his third
exclaimed
too

grin.

"

So

said

Foster.

year."
Neil.

busy

year,"

to

pass

they

"

But

his

exams

let him

''

how
last

stay

year,"
a

soph.

40

BEHIND

doesn't

lie

Cowan."

His

"Is
"

circle

tone

friends

of

with

Cowan
he

way,"

it

airy

an

Neil

No,"

"

replied.

you

By

the

for

the

I haven't

heard

about

anything

yet."
then

"Good;
He's

Mathias;

mine,

you

like

you'll

used

see;

He's

him.

manly, straightforward chap, just the

The

election

about

"Gale?

don't

Thanks

round

you

to

will

you?"

candidate

promised

McLean

going

up

him

for

fellow

at

good,

awfully

an

want

And

to

the

place.
How

evening.

made

his

room

The

and

two

Neil

will

an

view.

him

you?

I'm

win.

Can't

first of the

the

in

one

too."

see

meanwhile

and

any

him,

week?

just talk

him

appointment

following Saturday

Hall.
to

it to

evening

him.

the

has

his vote,

on

and

some

meet

Neil

he

;*justmention

Livingston,
come

think

count

can

you

"

know

to

Thursday

next

Livingston.

friend?"

your

guess

off

comes

*Fan'

for

vote

can

you

of

protege

St.

in

missed
dis-

"

candidate

any

he

Then
hand.

one

select

"

class?

of your

of

and

small

circle."

wave

"have

among

small

very

continued,

presidency
"

bothers

never

contemptuous.

popular

very

"

that

asked.

Xeil

he's

yes;

like

thing

rather

was

liked?"

he

Oh,

little

care;

LINE

THE

night

parted

at

at

to

ing
boom-

I'd

traversing the

up

meet

Foster's

the

you

gate,
campus

like

bit,

the
room

Foster
and

NEIL

the

his

to

common

MAKES

door

he

new

acquaintance^ Tom

on

surprised

was

hear

to

he

within.

voices

Cowan^

were

the

opened
Paul

study

and

his

sittingside by

side

the window-seat.

times, wasn't

it?

has

Cowan

"How'd

former.
I want

Neil,

been

it

Like

Mr.

an.
Cow-

He's

here.

telling each

go?

meet

to

you

up-stairs

quarters

we've

and

player,

the

greeted

"Hello,"
old

As

quarters.

own

41

ACQUAINTANCES

other

old

an

how

good

we

are."
Cowan

the

appreciate
he

for

looked

latter

hands

shook

with

Neil

last game

to

be

of

Cowan

about

handsome

in

that

After

they

six

of

which

not

never

former

words,

of

eloquence

Cowan

and

His

face

pounds.

narrator

and

traordinari
ex-

and

his

being

to

apparently
rather

was

his

Later,

hands,

Neil

covered
dis-

were.

football

prominent

clean.

plied
re-

looked

owned

two,

his

on

always

hearty.

feet

as

Neil

fancy,

and

quite

him

didn't

heavy-featured style,and

were

the

was

old,

listening politely for

tales

his

hundred

coarse,

observed,

Neil

of

years

fully

was

two

and

He

quite

smile

St. Eustace.

he

persons

instant

was

He

weighed

all

to

fully twenty-three

twenty-one.

as

with

didn't
a

complimented

extraordinary politeness.
polite

dislike

summoned

but

and

he

though

as

remark,

with

in Hillton's

playing

instant

an

part,
told

moments

some

triumphs

and

defeats,

played, according
Neil

Paul

broke

of

into
his

an's
Cow-

to

the

to

in

his

stream

meeting

with

Neil

freshmen

we're

*'Well,

ourselves,

for

moment.

Then"

"

"

Oh,

but

"

of

Thanks,"

"I'll put

Neil,"

he

Wallace

general

murmured

Neil.

the

and

You

and

give
and

man

hands

your

there

lots of St.

are

not

there's

"

freshmen,

Kiiowles

introductions.

you

Cowan's,

here

They're

Jones.

Agnes

plained.
ex-

danger.

and

fellows

sense.

he

freshmen,"

scented

Paul

several

kjaow

Knowles

of

run

in

campaign
"

can

different; you've got

are

the

said.

they

Agnes

fellows

Jim

speakmg

was

but

said

know,"

you

nonplussed

looked

Cowan

sweetly.

43

ACQUAINTANCES

MAKES

NEIL

is

fellows

St.

in

our

class."
think

"I

"

soberly,
lots

of

for

you're making

and

week.

fellows

and

If

don't

you'd give

wish

supporters,

it up.

had

his

defeated

he's

you're
like

mistake,"

defeated

answered

Neil

Livingstones got
under

campaign
think

way

it'll hurt

candidates

when

"

you;

^when

they're self-appointed candidates."

"

with

Oh,
a

I'm

sure
"

"

you

And

candidates.
fellow

don't

in his

want

voice,

"

to

help,"

I guess

we

cried
can

Paul,
get

on

you."

Cowan.

no

if you

of anger

trace

without
"

of course,

If
that

Well,

if

won't

desert

think

you're

fellow

isn't

you've

makes

cad
made

does
up

your

chum, Fletcher,"

all wrong
a

about

good fight and

other
your

than

honor

said

defeated
is worsted
him."

mind, Paul," answered

'^

.^

44

BEHIND

"

Neil
let

THB

reluctantly, of
of my

out

me
"

I'll do all I

course

promise
1"

Foster

Oh, hang

UKB

to

if Foster will

can

him."

cried

"

Cowan.

He's

little

fool!"
"Is

he?"

Well,

it.

by going
"

asked

to

over

the

And

all I

hadn't

And

can.

Fll

noticed

begin now

him."

see

"

said Paul.

boy,"

Foster

Tell

there's

in the field."

horse
"

innocently. "I

I say, I'll do

as

That's

dark

Neil

tell him

I say

horse will

the dark

win," added

Cowan.
Neil
"I

smiled

don't

Cowan."
much

closed

He

puzzled as

sought

No.

the door
the

to

letter

the

asperatedlyat

justlook

say,

if you
"

can

Find

legs of

him, leaving Cowan

the

Mr.

name,

remark, and

varaityquarterback

small

typewriter,his

his feet

and

kicking ex-

his chair.

greeting.

the floor

on

your

of the last

found

scowls

doorway.

"

Come

in.

there,will

you,

And,
and

see

L."

an

what?

behind

of

means

with

around

find

He

Foster's

Hello," was

mention

meaning

by

heavilycreased
"

better

McLean.

12

writing a
brow

I'd

think

the

politelyfrom

back

"

asked

Neil, searching the carpet

with

his gaze.
"

ago,

An
but

L.
I

I-N-G-L-Y,

There
"

can't
T-E-D

was

one

find

"

'

"

on

this

Ah,

pesky machine
here

it is!

There, that's done.

while

*L-0-V-

bought

this

NEIL

idiotic

this

the

it

on

held

He

up

characters

"

the

Neil

shook

*'

Not

"

"Well, he

I'd

chair

look

dad

and

glared

with

I've

"

strange
'

spelled

will

it

pitch

the result 1

at

covered

how

think

you

to
was

his call.

ance'
allowI

what

know

dubiously.

he's looking for

will

buy

the

fine

he

typewriter

didn't

showed

candidacy,

"

at

half

at

broached

Don't

the

suppose
"

of

subject

when

absolved

once

answered.

price, do you?

amazement

some

but

and

he

word,"

Foster.

be," grinned

sure

Foster

Gale's

head

his

unless

want

Neil

of

Look

erasures.

Do

And

half

paper
"

and

"

fully

spent

cents

his

ters
let-

Well,

pen.

IVe

two

back

pushed

of

I guess

For

typewriter.

sheet

and

with

write

"

mean?

you

He

alliwzcel

"

night,

could

you

it takes

altogether.

window!

vindictively at

said

one

time

last

45

ACQUAINTANCES

some

the

letter

hours

out

half

it in

began
two

because

thing

on

MAKES

learned

he

Neil

from

his

promise.
"

Frankly, Fletcher,

ghost

of

it it's all

to

try

to

you."
During

Paul's
to

show,

the

candidate
where

but,

And

I'm

right.

week

He

made

much
for

hope.
the

Cowan

think

know,

next

success.

give him

you

I don't

Neil

just

Livingston
and

groimd

much

as

early

converts,

some

was

Neil
for

has

if he

course,

worked

presidency,
found

of

friend

your

but

wants

obliged

and

late

easily the

the

for

enough

not

failed

the

to

lar
popu-

stand
under-

encouraging

46

BEHIND

reports
all

the

he

way

through^

of

"

Wait

And

made

that

You

THE

Paul.

to

and

lent

LIKE

Paul

ill

himself

attention

was

to

hopeful
Neil's

failure.

always
until

Neil,

were

Thursday
without

raven^

chum/'

night."
much

hope,

waited.

he

would

exclaim.

dictions
pre-

CHAPTER

AJH)

The

freshman
of

rooms

Grace

to

fiton

be

in

put

was

friends

in

was

eloquent

youth
St.

the

at

as

his

to

that

secured

seconded

duly
who,

Neil

so

by

first

the

of

St.

his

applause,
red-headed

learned,

evil

tent.
por-

ence,
prestime

Fanwell

wide

baseball

Mathias

for

one

tions
elec-

Cowan's

election.

by

of

of

team

the

peared
ap-

livingMathias
and
and

King,

was

the

sidered
con-

freshman

Tom

and

ease,

was

and

of

support

of

sophomores
former

of

lecture

attendance

unnatural

nomination

speech

nomination

of

ill

doubt

in

of

the

of

one

full

heard

the

noticeably

was

was

something

of

in

place

absence

had

as

robbed

Paul,

the

who

Erskine

at

took

There

while

METTLE

HIS

election

those

by

8HOW8

Hall.

class^

entering

the

very

the

tain
cap-

preceding

spring.
"

Are

there
member

South,
of

the

courage

any
of

Hillton
and

the

"

nominations?

more

junior

boy,

ability

arose

for

asked

the

man,
chair-

class.

and

spoke

leadership

at

of

length

some

one

47

of

whom

\'

48

BEHIND

had

they

field of

battle

burst

of

triumphant

that

The
Paul

the

nominee.

but

which

and

He

avoided

had

the

rather

was

effect

told

that

of

the

of

lows,
fel-

good

marred
hall

he

would

to

as

the

had

ere

nomination.
in few

words

possessed pluck,

ability;that
chance,

by

recognition

his classmates
Gale

than

speech

the

secured
seconded

Paul

the

Hillton, and, given

best

for

parts

Neil

was.

executive

wild

nomination

somewhat

was

different

rhetoric,and

and

in

though,
flattering,

was

subsided, and

simple phrases

in

Hillton
St. Eustace

ended

captain, that

it, it

Gale

of

(Two

placed

followed

inquiries from

applause

hosts

"

Gale!

And

the

the

hosts."

Eustace

white-grilled

the

on

derisively.) South

known

in thunder

and

St.

football

Dunlop

had

who

the

applause

several

who

one

flowery eloquence

Paul

LINE

successfully led

howled

graduates

of

had

against

Academy

*^

heard

all

THE

this at

proved
it

prove

eralship,
gen-

again

at

Erskine.
"

Gale

is

"but,

whether

whether

you

stranger

long.

team

to

through
is not

give
A

that

the

the

that

sort

go

to

by.

before

of

him

make

honor

fellow

greatest

of you

many

you

victory against

procession
wager

to

stranger

that

to
can

almost

pilot a

in

comers

No, sir; keep

your

the

he

won't

Hillton

overwhelming
as

Gale

did
and

eye

cluded,
con-

president or

class

another,

difficulties

sit around

fellows," he

on

be

football
odds

and

last year
watch

the

him.

PU

year's out you'llbe prouder

of him

AND

of any

than

lead

1905

look

like

where

to
so

Keil

battered

amid

down

totally

presidency,

which

the

you're
that'll

man

will

classes

other

told

I've

golf-balls,why,

veritable

unembarrassed
"

"

That

you

and

acclaim,

right, chum,"

all
them

got

and

applause,

praise

was

we've

guess

of

roar

the

by

satisfaction.

with

whispered.

he

beside

if

And^ meanwhile,

for the

man

renown

many

sat

smiled

right

49

METTLE

look."

to

Paul,

the

HIS

class.

in your

man

for

looking

SHOWS

the

on

run,

eh?"
But

Neil

shook

"

Vote!

and

arose,

While

this

that

the

the

evening

When

the

of

"

of

Paul,

after

silent

in

scowl

"Come

of

on

the

his

held

October

Monday,

on

7th.

had

this information

Livingston, 97; Gale,

by

majority

of

chair

the

sided
sub-

he
45.

nounced,
an-

Mr.

52."

until

some

president-electwas
of

with

his face.

stilled

not

were

glance

on;

be

Livingston! Livingston! Speech! Speech!

that
a

would

gan.
be-

made

was

balloting, gentlemen,"

follows:

air, and

announced

by

Vote!

balloting

announcement

Dinner

"

of

arose.

is elected

Shouts

as

following

the

two

or

Class

occasioned

result

Livingston

and

the

chairman

"is

moment

Cries

doubtfully.

proceeding

was

cheers

"The

filled the

in

Freshman

annual

the

his head

bewilderment

something

Now

let's get

he
out

at

between

jumped

up.

of

here,"

arose

one

in

not

Neil,
a

he

"

the
had

sneer

hall.
sat

and

muttered*

AND

SHOWS

HIS

throng of sophomores,

the

in

FreshI
donH

Why

cheers
his

"

'04

door

for

the

janitor

The

key's

if those
follow

will

all

But

for

risk.

we'll

let you

out

"That's

for

rest

in

other

turned

His
from

"Don't

going

of

If

and

by

faced

"

cried

those

dubs

and

tell

sit down

added

some

gestion
sugdown

stories;

scathingly.
"Fresh

one.

gibe had

the

kidi

"

desired

signifiedtheir willingnessto
climbed

on

the

to

you

may

Good

the

signal

sophomores.

fly, fellows!

window.

said, with

manage

share

to

he

the

to

you

ence*
audi-

the

forward

was

sonny;

the

of

chum,"

the

think

right."

reappearance

jump,

three

or

boy!

he

too

I'll unlock

the

But

watching

to

minute,"

Neil

that's

his way

can

have

to

lock.

and

came

can

of you

want

the

two

it all

you,

We

donH

we

ivy,

none

freshmen

class,and

their

"

"Plucky

angrily.

Four

outburst

do

Gale," whispered

another

dowHsilL

"He's

followed

sophs there;

me.

pushed

swagger.
The

the

let

with

go

alone.

outside

"

Paul

Fll

the

moment

there

die

down?"

come

were

Neil

those

can

"

of

effect.

in

we

you

Then

Here,

added

gibes

with

will

I guess

for

"

to

groans.

right by

sophs

"Bully

the

These

loud

and

"Want

"

jump?

get down

can

Freshl''

here, fellows,"he said,

babyish.
I

visible

just

classmates.

Look

yell

to

O
you

"

for

angry
"

faces

upturned

darkness.

"O
**

their

61

METTLE

hurt
little

broad
for

win-

another

yourself."

Freshie's

got

52

BEHIND

^*

wings!

"

Say,

we'll

THS

let you

LINE

in the

out

night!
Good-

morning!

"

when

But

The

hall

third

laid

hold

where

floor, and

the
the

to

the

meeting

when

Neil

old,

ages

quite strong enough

did

not

place

could

its

remained

to

lower
the

drop
above
and

from

tear

himself

black

was

the

black

be

fifteen

void,

sat

ivy

long

it

as

it would

hold

that

if he

he

could
The

easily
window

his

journey,

his feet

hanging
waited

and

ledge

narrow

The

as

began

Paul,

on.

the'

on

wrist, and

judged

he

away.

window-all

his

injury.

as

the

big ivy

ground.

Whether

without

him
on

the

Neil

watchers

the

the

feet by its aid

distance

shoes,

was

weight just

seen.

cheered

from

large. as

fastenings.

with

voices

many

over

of the

rest

from

his

of

held

been

as

bear

to

and

coat

wall, the jeers died

stepped

almost

was

of

largest

had

hung fully twenty-fivefeet

branch,

in

of

that climg there

branches

he

and

out

swung

Neil, divesting himself

his turn.
"

grip.
"

Go

I'll wait
All
of

arm's
but

fast, chum,'^

the

From

hand
fast

In

the group

Neil.

Then,

thick-growing leaves, he

lengths.

he
His
of

The

vine

below
went.

don*t

but

lose your

you're down."

right," answered

held.

under

until

counseled, "

he

swayed

came

The

the

and
sound

oblong

with

lowered
at

gave
of

the

great

of faint

vine
into

by

strain,

every

Hand

light above

clapping grew

tling
rus-

himself

clapping.

stockinged feet gripped the

sophomores

ceded
re-

tightly.
cheers.

AND

"

Good

and

the

with

"

Freshie!

work,

Then,

HIS

SHOWS

bed

above

applauded wildly.

group

of

"

And

Let

him

Neil

sprang

And

he

as

from

dropped

of the

unlocking
"

Five

right !

We've

had

wiser

the

representatives

counsels

"

Kush

cry.

the

each

rival

and

foe.

of cheering

by

steps and

the

"

his descent

released

freshmen,
to

fun !

out
building with-

sound

enemy

our

friend

from

came

on

the

making

was

prevailed and,
of

the

into

there

the

was

of
back.

the

"

But

near-by

at

Several

door, emerged

this way!

the

applause

building, and

the

glance

called

earth

to

fellows

Paul

of

let go

The

steps and

his meed

feet, Keil

were

Meanwhile

receiving

his

"

right!

shrubbery.

ran.

all

the

up

molestation.

and

He's

go !

of

but

intercept him,

to

all

at

With

Neil

sophomores,

You're

almost

ground

dropped lightlyinto

started

"

53

METTLE

the

the

path.

sophs!

"

ly,
cheering loudtook

classes

selves
them-

off.
Neil

and

Paul

since

they had

their

shoes

and

been

well
"

he

We

said.

satisfied
showed
"

And

about

their

kids, any

the

had

leave

to

the

to

return

forgotten

building,

the

for

room

of his disappointme

some

proceedings, and

appeared

himself.

with

what

I'll bet
Pm

to

later

Hillton

chaps

do, chum,"

can

they'llregret electing that

through

old presidency!

way.
0

Paul

them

before

Livingston

last

obliged

coats.

during
very

the

were

Let's go

with

They're

to bed."

them!
a

pack

Much
of

fellow
I

care

sillylittle

VI

CHAPTER

"TO

OOACH

HEAD

lOLLSy

OP

IN-PANTS

THB

1905;

"GREETING!

""

of

The

has,

sen-ti-ments,

thought,
guid-ance
of

of

fond

the

guard

to

with

from

you

the

1.
of

one

off

take
their

child-hood's

pres-ence
"

2.

are

Tall

hat

most

to

hats

and

ex-treme-ly

strict-ly pro-hib-it-ed.
64

tender

of

hard

the

these

your
love

of

ab^nce

stand

care,

ever

knocks.

and

in

those

main-tain

canes

as

un-be-com-ing,

There-for

and

def-er-en-tial

of

art-i-cles

and

is

auth-or-ity

traits.

charm-ing

SOPH-0-MORES,

all

al-ways

to

the

in

out-set

INFANTS!

eld-ers

for

Re-spect

your

which,

world's

the

and

friends,

your

thought-ful,

this

ad-mi-ra-tion

the

you

the

for

RULES
at

and

time

ad-her-ence

strict

of

re-spect

"ATTEND,

"

foot-steps

CLASS,

rel-at-ives, will,

much

fol-low-ing

in-sure

of

kind-li-est

the

by

ex-pen-"e

the

SOPH-0-MORE

the

to

an

car-eers.

will

par-ents,

by

at

todd-ling

your

col-lege

ypur

an-i-mat-ed

1904,

form-u-lat-ed

PRE-CEPTS

of

OF

class

sil-ence.

child-ren's

are

in

when

tire
at-

there-for

HEAD

MILLS,

the

Btiinta

tel-lect.

fare

and

growth

Child-ren,
A

"4.

the

cig-ar-ettes,
of

dev-el-op-ment

in-

be- ware!

"

Avoid

"

5.

late

That

and

sleep

you

plain,

whole-some

has
which
The

the

and

you

this

lam-ent-able

OF

CLASS

here-by

are

of

best

that
will

cust-om

has

stamp-ed

ruin-ed

any

To

out.

down

bring

up^n

this

ef-forts,
re-vive

to

at-tempt

so

din-ners

its strong-est

will ex-ert

wam-ed

pro-hib-itthe

to

hold-ing these

be

must

1904

trans-gress the

to

pre-vi-ousyears

hab-it

and

per-nic-ious one

tempt-ed

thought

in

wise.

food, es-pec-ial-ly
fudge.

be

been

rise

to

healthy and

rich

not

may

lives.

end

early

and

hours

Din-ner,
young

and

little Freshie

pre-ceed-ingrule, it
Freshman

bed

to

Makes

re-tards

of
suf-fic-ien-cy

"Early

is

pipes, cig-ars,or

strong-lyre-com-mend-ed.

are

many

of

either

Smok-ing,

3.

55

COACH

aev-

you

chast-ise-ment.

ere

''We
Pause

"

Heed

and

that you
those

who

be

must

aifd

cruel

only

grow

sub-scribe

to

up

be

are

be

dined.

dear

PRE-CEPTS,
great and

noble

ren,
child-

men

Pa-ter-nal-lyyours,
"

You

kind;

them-selves,
"

be

would

reflect,who

prof-it by these

may

to

ad-ver-tis-ed

by

your

The

Class

of

1904.

lov-ing friends."

like

HEAD

MILLS,

suggested

^Eing
printed

in

blue

pasting

one

on

with

small

some
*

hear

I think

of it.

them, and

on

said

soph's window,"

every

'

'05

posters

"but

Paul,

it would

be

good

"

eh?
"

getting

our

just the figures

Livingston wouldn't
game,

57

COACH

Faculty'd

kick

haven't

heard

of

end

no

up

said

rumpus,"

South.
"I

things," answered

these

around

things
"

the

that

You'd

better

ask

who's

that

chap?

They

had

entered

steps of the

referred

medium-sized

looking,

albeit

lay

trousers,

and

watched
the

building

he

"

and

Wow

looked

very

"

brown

whom

to

and

hand,

purple,

good

deal

and
while

pair

was

with

warm,

good-

he

of
ried
car-

his

over

of

on

Neil

He

gate.

years,

quite

was

canvas

shoes.
who

As

as

he

them

he

passed

over

light blue

is!"

he

newcomer

muttered

face,

Erskine

know

steps.

the

thirty

very

one

worn

the

lo,
Hel-

standing

were

person

through

about

of

if I

reached

sharp

in

and

The

afternoon

two

"

Neil.

suggested

grounds

freckled

very

sweater

"Blessed

They

of

hat

his straw
arm

the

locker-house.

The

stick

can

"

man

hair.

sandy

Dean,"

just coming

was

sophs

"

we?

the

the

about

much

doing

are

"If

Paul.

can't

why

they

murmured

the path and

traversed
them

keenly

entered

and

with

South.

pair

of

the
very

eyes.

Paul.

"

He

looked

as

though he

58

BEHIND

trying

was

LINE

I would

whether

fried

better

taste

baked."

or

"

wonder

"I

Cowan

Tom

came

"The
"

decide

to

THE

That,

i^g

ten

'

of

Oh,"

"

He

the

teach

can

Oh,
the

into

He
the

even

found

business^

head

coach,

is he?

And

as

something

"

muttered

"

be

to

I guess

one

you'll see
I dare

team.

about

thunder

used

he

the

make

passed

Mills

remember

hands.
the

fellows
that

hereabouts

known

country,

you

playing

say

tion."
posi-

your

on.

being introduced
as

were

him

Neil, following

and

"And

captain,

played

fine

run

last

year."

in the

this
"and
at

last
is

by Devoe

to

such

of

hand.

on

Cowan,

played right-guard

shook

Some

your

and

to

stand-

you

know

grinned

candidates

You

**He

the

in the

you

have

minutes.

twenty

friend.

before

will

if you

Cowan.

building.

new
"

go

he's

half-backs

Cowan
"

"

young

of him

who

him.

to

Mills."

Mister

as

moment

repeated

popularly

was

To-day,

Neil,

is,my

something
he

him

said

finest

he

ago

that

at

in?"

came

about

just

Mills.

you'lladdress
"

in

years

Whitey

just

gentleman

head

your

eight or

is

boy,

my

on

as

that

But

put the question

Paul

and

up

fellow

Neil.

began

guess," Devoe
Mills

year."

Fletcher,

new

and

St. Eustace

It

was

game.

Fletcher
Gale

Cowan

man,"

Gale, too; they're both

half.

saying.

was

Hill ton

that
was

tinued
con-

the

made
tain
cap-

HEAD

ICILLS,

Mills

of his head

and

he

"

!N'eil.

"

Doesn't

But

in

good
be

though

few

he

answered

his business.

His

said

Paul.

strength,though,"
later. Mills

togs, Paul
and

as

were

he

of

could

his

muscle,
render

stiffest line

the

the

on

alter

to

mass

though

against

appeared

forced

was

legs

looked

of himself

clothes.

talking,"

knew

coach

gimlets."

nunutes

arms,

the

when,

their

himself

for

much

coach

account

could

that

put together.
The

ball.

The

and

Neil
ball.

candidates

Paul

in front

after

about

on

rather

ball, and
if he

the
and

the

went

the

turf

prided
at

of the

leaped

it at

as

first

as

an

on

old

commendation

his

in another.

from

or

found

selves
them-

flung

seized

so

with

fall
he

none.

the

line, and

not, and

as

ability to

stager,

their

rolled

the
and

often

he

held

line, he

forward

the

strings across

Mills

though suddenly

himself

it like

expected

latter,and

end

falling on

material

new

slightly away

men

of

in two

out

the

the

xight

it,missing

upon

Keil

in one,

of

another

lined

among

at

minutes

ten

were

men

were

Standing

pigskin
one

with

practise began

the field,the old

But

as

football

head

the

nod

short

you," displayed no

Paul

changing

were

looks

beyond

meet

commented

hurt

Chest,

opinion.

to

doesn't

look

when,

gridiron

and

Glad

like little blue-steel

are

eyes

he

But

but

each^

fame.

hearing, they

"Well,

"

chap,"

Grouchy

of

out

with

brief

of their

knowledge
"

hands

shook

59

COACH

on

ing
rollfits.

the

thought.
When

60

BEHIND

last

the
Mills

went

rolled

had

man

the

to

THE

LINE

around

other

end

after

of the

the

elusive

and

line

did

pigskin,

it all

over

again.
When

it

Neil's

came

ball nicely, and

when
to

his breast.

against

Mills

left

his

again,"

he

said.

arose

found

plunged out,

To

his

walked

and

place

the
prise
sur-

out

him.
^

Let's
and

ball

the

others,
if he

back

could
oil

after

or

that

ball

have

to

his

was

when

yards

to

it,"he

and,

amid

the

it

they got

the

it

and

had

sent

dryly.

Neil

of

smiles

decide

to

ing
boil-

perish by

the

But

clung

men

were

the

whether,

quartered.

that

though

as

him

flash Mills

said

and

fact

noticeable

the

away.

should

coach

him

bis hip,

on

of his hand

blow

being drawn

by merely
it

Like

place trying

his way,

to

dropped

arm.

turf

on

cheeks

reddening

went

the

across

get it,hold

you

with

quick

nodded

Neil

right

his

with

bobbing

When

arose

under

him.

tossed

Neil

Mills

place.

toward

him, and

leather
"

ball

his

to

pigskin

over

was

back

went

securing

the

try that

the

rolled

the

it

snuggled

he

he

turn

dearly

to

loved

friend.

Later, passing
head

the
after

drop
he

coach

another
where

landed.

purging hi9

down

the

threw
of

the

stood

he
When

ball

swiftly

candidates, and
and

Mills

resentment,

from

line in front

the

have
came

and

the
to

his

at

each

was

in his

ball

Neil

the

the

cheeks

end
feet

of

one

obliged

to

when

arms

latter

still

end,

to

was

still

proclaimed

HEAD

MILLS,

it back

tossed

had

coach's

Neil

smile; but
could
but

boy,

coach
he

cheeks;

from

tizan

Alfred

that

Next

the

men

each, and

between

space
and

shot

see

what

the

they

of

ahead

faUing

could

them.
a

on

football

in violent

anatomy

others
"

I've

mourned
"

front

the

by

time

got bones

faded

almost

that

little

the

sped

it is

line
to

away

possible in

portion
and
and

of

the

this fact
all

the

end.

an

the

knew

was

opportunity

an

ground,

at

par-

'05.

Neil, Paul,

was

at

and

behind

every

the

secret

coach

there

pigskin

to

work

never

had

Mills

right;

shared

passed

Neil's

from

all

was

until

they

with

feel, my

you

management

home

the

how

plainly as

as

Fletcher,

out

with

contact

forcibly brought

was

It

coach

bring

to

flush

Neil

careful

By

him

to

of

ghost

admirer

the

do

the

devoted

through, and

ball

In

football

spread

were

met.

Mills, head

than

moment

and

very

though they

more

no

ball

while."

the

as

the

on

eyes

just

little.

almost

was

College, had

Erskine

of

existence

before,"

Neil.

Me

too," growled

teeth

ground;
send

It
them.

between

and

on

smiled

even

know

it after

over

passed

understood.

it said

it, and
said, "I

have

their

twinkle,

merest

saw

dropped

coach

the

the

you'llget

The

had

boy

to

just

was

words

the

After

fact.

that

61

COACH

the

are

Paul.

aching

I think

dentist's

from

they're
bill to

"

And

trying

all loose.

the

dozen

of

my

bite

holes

in

the

half
to

If

they

management*"

come

out

I'll

62

BEHIND

A
in

few

minutes

advancing the
the ball

and

and

eleven

from

went

squad

practised

for end

after another

briefly
squad,criticizing

to

succinctly.
"Don't

who

"

round

your

fault.

Paul

and

Neil

the

Quarter,

that

hand

your

When

itself out.

back

put your
And

it's

in the

runner

there.

Don't

fear

that

that he'll be

mind

and

Now

once

just as
as

quick

center

rise

to

him;

things going

ball to left half

for

ly,
quick-

have

dence
confi-

faith in you.
don't

doubt

Keep that

there at the right instant.

have

tilt

weight

your

have

for

get

you

it won't

for you
to

hand

then

throw

and

it is for him
too

had

your

that

see

end;

one

again."

though

as

and

necessary

you'llbe

run

"

ball

against guard,

you'llsoon
more;

more

got the ball from

you

and

full-back

the

limber

the belly of the ball in it,not

that

Try
and

once

hold

don't

frozen; keep

was

left end

toes

your

Paul,

quarter. If the ball isn't

it's not

when

And

"On

Neil.

told

pass," he

to

quarter

in your

confidence

for you

plowed

the

playing beside
Have

ready

for

wait

was

hard.

but

left half

ordinaryformation,

in

back

one

at

each that

men

lined up

They

passed to

was

Mills

runs.

ball.

himself

found

Neil

later

squads of

of the six

one

UNE

THE

in

like clock-work.

around

run

right

end."
When

practisewas

were

unanimous

more

that afternoon

in

over

the

that

opinion

under

Mills

day
that

than

the

new

they

candidates
had

they had

learned
learned

HEAD

MILLS,

during

the

walked

back

"

whole

nice

he

when

once

Robinson's

for

line

hanging

team

here

played

and

his

to

had

he

thought

and

Cowan

felt

legs, and

some

They

say

got the

half

said

that
on

the

field

the

Bobinson

him

at

and

that
"

him,

ball

aft^ward

tugging

one

on

down

with

and

frills

no

he

walked

"

Cowan,

pluck.

half-back

at

touch-down

on

him;

full of

plumb

forty yards

the

over

he's

know

to

get

you

And

know.

you

great little coach/* said

when

chap

Neil, Paul,

college together.

to

he's

Yes,

week.

previous

63

COACH

he

Neil

laughed.
"

"

"

Cowan.

him

Erstham

look
he

Besides,

below

puU

to

I guess

Well,

weight

doesn't

he

But

his

awfully strong," he objected.

so

in better

was

he's

built

well,

when

waist;

got through

see

that

last year

their

tackle

on

^most

"

way

in the
a

of

his

it's hard
with

game

guard-back play,

^"

and
But

and

so

had

Neil
lent

reached

Main

they

The

heard

window

Erskine

bought

**

Cowan.

Here's
"

an

That's

story of heroic

deeds,

When

they

boasting.

full of the

Purple,

copies.

building they opened

glanced through

that

Cowan's

to

ear

Street

in and

went

already

deaf

college weekly,

and

then," answered

you

chap's

I remember

over.

trim

the

first issue
their

met

On

the

of the

sight, and

steps of the

oratory
lab-

inky-smelling journals

them.

account

of

quick work,

last

night's election,"

isn't it?

And

you

can

said

read

MILLS,

And

Hello

"

He

with

dark

swung

an

the

see

without

after

nodding

steps, and

the

on

called

Cowan

not

Fanwell

Cowan

to

He

evidently in deep

had

reverie,

slimly built,
features.

was

group

speaking
his

rather

clean-cut
and

approaching

was

years

Livingston
Neil, turned

and

have

can

you

soon

he's

as

Cowan.

mine."

added

mine,"
as

congratulations," said

want

you

"

Neil.

And

Gale

here

properly introduced.

will

tend
ex-

Gale

Mr.

"

Livingston."
"

Victory

^Defeat," added

"

candidates

two

Paul

without

for

the

Cowan

freshman

Congratulations, of course,"

"

Thank

you,"
After

for

have

fellows

had

than

Gale."

answered

all,I
the

chosen

I shall.

dare

you

you

However,

forced

to

return

the

the

president.

say

youVe

satisfaction

Livingston's smile
was

shook

murmured

of

would
I
was

it.

hope

"

hands,

have
we'll

done
be

t^^^^^^"^"
former.

You're

got the

knowing

The

grin.

presidency

"

you'll

with

enthusiasm, Livingston heartily.

generous.

Paul

of

talk

gate.

And
his

to

from

and,

and

hand,

one

failed

suppose

Well,

Mr.

"

his voice

height,

hair,

in

passed

up,

the

"

and

he

for

nineteen

moderate

Housed

glanced

"

of

eyes

him.

"I

apparently

was

have

would

at

said, dropping

he

note-book

thought,

in

of

youth

thenL

to

"

65

COACH

"

angell
A

HEAD

very
of

best
that

if

much

it,
the

ter
bet-

friends, Mr.

undeniably winning,

and

1
66

BEHIND

"

Tou're

hope
turned
^'

this

to

with

"

it

do

best

our

Cowan
"

don't

give

began

Cowan.

up

the

Fm

Why,
dinner

told you

Who

Then

plan

that rot?

paused

he
"

"

but

way,"

he asked

answered

nonsense," said Cowan.

keep

to

He

to

fellows

you

shrugged

him

ston.
Living-

his

it.

for

gu^s

eating

big shoulders.

shrewdly, began
the

from

"I

ston,
Livingfirst time

the

supposed projecthad reached

But

he

to

keep

too

laughed carelesslyas

him
he

away.

have

"Oh, well, we

"I

councils?

sophomore

roundabout

freshman

give credence

course,

Cowan.

say it's just talk."

of
intelligence

turned

"

"

in

observing

to

"

hear

came

I dare

"Some

since

the

on

confusion.

Oh,

much,

desperate

laugh.

we'll

in for

are

said.

freshmen

you

some

"

again, and

smiled

kidnaped."

How'd

with

quite affably.

fellows

you

asked

in

you

if the

be

me

year," he

Aren't

"

tell

that?"

that

I'm

"

answered

Cowan.

to

"How's

told

UNB

Livingston nodded,

Well, they

deeds

"

good," he

very

will."

we

THE

and

if you

wish

the

turned

Well,

if

like to try

sophs would

to

fellows

amused, of

kidnaping you may.*'

try it,"said Neil

warmly.

him.

they

Ceed," he drawled.

you

did

"

if they

did

"

^I guess

they^d sue*

"

if

WeU,

"

You'd

stop

hundred

"

There's

no

it's

Unless

"

Oh,

"

That's

"

Of

Neil

all,"
course,"

was

silent.

agreed

in

order

to

Neil

sophomore,"

interposed,

said

for

freshman

week-old

third-year

Paul

well,"

are

portance,"
self-im-

laughing

said,

"there

sweetly;

you."

like

one

Cowan

"

of

Cowan.

sneered

smiling

Neil,

so

or

"

perhaps?

us,

answered

"Easily,"
only

I'U

succeed."

won't

they

bet

"

Neil,

answered

do,"

i'/ they

do"

they

67

COACH

HEAD

MILLS,

Livingston.
Cowan.

"

it's

all

his

hide

tion.
vexa-

retorted.

poppycock,

how."
any-

Vn

CHAPTER

Life

Much

down

just
for

bed-room

of

^^

the

was

hung,

the

objectionable

but

less

Mills

afternoon

was

the

The

new

taught

and

the

gymnasium
68

tations
reci-

adjoining

in

Snow

place,

to

and

smaller

catch,

start

still

in
in

daily
fall

on

and

on,

the
the

to

but

days^

survived

the

run

the

the

inspired

ten

had

along

to

that

some

who

quickly,
went

of

Field.

Erskine

on

one

result

well

coached

and

to

as

were

were

punt

fumbling,

and

First

way

boys

but

candidates

process

men

to

The

was

two

taskmaster,

hundred

half

weeding-out

in

hard

the

saw

confidence,

utmost

the

"

given

they

undergrads

and

suit;

and

affair.

erratic

Every

lectures

study

had

off,

Erskine

and

invested

first

at

of

to

towel-rack

!N'eil

both

worn

wash-stand

the

for

rug

had

been

furnished

last

at

were

for

had

The

week.

work

routine

had

they

PUITTB

that

daily

though

instead

years

hard

interest

the

to

as

HANBLIKa

novelty

exhilarating

an

settled

had

OF

with

the

of

with

study

filled

was

now

Paul.

AST

GENTLE

THE

the

rudiments;
ball,

to

first

football.

of

art

ing
teach-

were

pass

hard.

original

out
with-

Exercise

twenty-

THE

Paul,

with

daily

instructed

throng

in

favor

victory

was

of

to

with

this end

for

Erskine
her

the

lifelongrival.

that,
and

whatever

brawn

didnH

who

and

to

retirement

simply

search,

the

One

wanting.

Browning,

two

learned

On
were

left

wonderful

with

turning
the

himself
5th

formed,
and

of

Neil

and

at

at

the

had

phenomenal
a

and

varsity
Paul

respectivelyon

weight

and

named

found
the

colossal

gridiron,

every

ally,
usu-

rewarded

the

guard

men

and,

with

gave

beef

hauled

sophomore
start

teams

Erskine

duly tried

pound

means

were

they

year

through

goal-post were

because

square

out

power,

things pertaining to

October

and

to

turned

so

rapidity,and

into

right half
6

all

secure

lucky find,however,

who, handicapped

ignorance regarding

were

hundred

And

college

important

one

playing

from

ers.
play-

previous

through

right.

football

the

might

the

always

their

promised strength, and

found

of

be

left end

know

studious

from

Kobinson

might

from

As

by

the

to

determined

searched

college was

heavy material, for

of

grimly

ence.
interfer-

watched

was

that

defeat

was

forming

throughout

undone

The

back-field,were

incentive

strong sentiment

[(Teil and

ten.

applaud good work,

to

constant

Robinson.

rankled, and

and

quick

were

was

to

practise

leaving nothing

over

accounts

who

presence

There

the

69

PUNTS

for the

catching punts

afternoon

of students

whose

candidates

other

certain

Every

in

HANDLING

OP

period had gradually diminislied

minute

and

ART

GENTLE

or

second

promise
tackle.

squad

themselves
latter.

Cowan

at

70

BEHIND

back

was

the

already made

discovery that

experience, not

ton

made

Paul

pride,and
rather
^

That

to

Neil

no

one
^

accepted the

dub

Devoe

You

Don't

t'other

is

"

"

be

intend

thinks

that

me

captain

stick up

for

answered

the best

"

Neil.
to

chump

And

I"

captain and

it into

ever
when-

us

do is to take

to

us

**

Paul.

One's

rub

thing for

his chum.

of football."

deal

him," growled

idiot,"said

an

confided

it all and

knows

he

way,"

good

to

have to take

the bench

if

I know

that.

lick Devoe's

boots

us

whenever

on

it,"Paul

they

want

objected.

to and

But, justthe
or

rub

my

keep
same,

head

"

us

They
there

I don't

in the

dirt

Mills looks at me."

Well,
head

"

and

weary," he

freckle-faced
^white-haired,

it;we

all the season;

your

of coach

his

look cheerful."

put

discovery wounded

coach, and they'regoing

That's

can

abont

set

discovery,but,

same

very

He

he does know

they please,and
it and

me

strike

always

Mills,too
"

he

sense."

any

doesn't

I think

"

Hill-

had, despitehis

criticisms

makes

afternoon.

one

He

had

Neil

ill grace.

else has

And

for

he

he

the

the

unfortunately for himself,

before.

year

learn, and

little to

learning it eagerly.

with

varsity^a positionwhich

the

right-guardon

at

LINK

the
played satisfactorily

had

he

THK

Connor

it looks
in the

to

dirt

stepped

you'd been rubbing

tJiou^h
already^'^
laughed Neil.
me

on

as

me

there," muttered

Paul, wip-

THB

ing
is

of mud

clump

yelling for
And

the

his

pairs of

two

stood

hands,

back

went

ball

The

ends

the

ends, like

The

head

trousers

and

cinder

the
to

coach,
faded

ends

"Spread
line

kicks; you
them.
the

out

man

form

Now

then

The

ball

ball

it

the

sent

over

the

formed
off before

well
them

upon

the

kick,

another

were

backs

other

two

and

were

signal, the

sturdy figure

back

fellows,
You've

field.

expect
as

soon

Then

as

play

inteiEference

in

to

and

the

made

had

and

learn

to

edge

of

critical
field

the
eye.

with

the

heard:

all stand
to

now

in

judge

yourself just under

find

decided

the

in worn-out

himself
don't

and

you've

the

with

over

got

always

to

on

work

the

trotted

Play quick
was

but

viewed

out.

into

short

more,

can't

yell

three

him

outstretched

under

Neil

hands,

proceeding, he

Fletcher,
ball

and

cyclones, were

had

the

the

across

he

down

the

and

purple shirt,stood

and

repeat

of

earth.

to

track

When
ball

miniature

Paul

dragged

gave

pass,

came

and

speedy interference,

width

the

with

him,

Neil, Paul,

Paul's

into

thumped

behind

long

suppose."

Beside

pigskin.

Foster

where

waiting.

were

on

toward

gridiron

the

over

Foster.

him

Mills

on;

two-hundred-and-thirty-pound

rushes, and

Ted

to

the

Come

Across

correct.

was

Graham,

end

catching punts,

supposition

71

PUNTS

HANDLING

his forehead.

More

rush, stooped

center

OP

from

us.

field

sunlit

AET

GENTLE

who

runner;

get

him

is to
every

up

the

take
other
field.

! ^'

flight again, and

once

more

the

ends

-what

off for
in

the

matter,

didn't

"It

"I

care,"

got orders

would

as

himself
to

Soon

mind
the

second

not

was,

time

end

he

termed

went

they

were

minutes

ten

his

place

managed

day,
Pearse

sponged

to

might

fumbled

they
was

and

at

were

given

called, and
off.

Then

still

half

hold

the

the

those

the

on

his

spot.

and

threw

tented
con-

the

skin
pig-

place.
for

away

under

ten-

in

what

relegated

was

up

taken

being

taken

by

down

varsity

ball

the

cheer

by

trotted

to

who

had

not

to
over

varsity's three

hearty
they

to

the

that

grace,

he

as

smarting

right

on

Knowing

feared

bad

with

called

half

have

over

his

indignity, played poorly, and

cruel
was

it

bring

mutiny

back

glass!

"

if 1

words

and

Now

and

anger

muttered

line-up. Paul,

benches,

that

with

broken

on

was

ball.
"

evident

in

Paul,

discipline,he

directed, though

afterward

minute

to

angrily.

apprehensively.

chum

way

waiting

on

"

his

give

did

Paul

fall

"

it

the

on

impatience under

Paul's

latter

fall

Mills

patience.
disgust, of tragic im-

of

cried, "if

he

and

watched

Neil

ere

it been

"

baU?

motion

to

it down

here, put

well

made

Mills

that

on

cried

Gale?''

cinders," answered

the

on

don't

You've

fall

you

was

surprise.

own

had

touch-down

game.

Why

But

been

have

73

PUNTS

HANDLING

OF

would

"What's
"

ART

GENTLE

THE

the

the

to

Kirk.
one

The
score

itself had

yards.
watchers

As

when

bucket

to

already

been

the

it

be

in

74

the

BEHIND

line-up

second

watchful

trainer,

completed
the

for

sent

eye

keeping
their

locker-house,

the

given

were

were

THE

of

gridiron,
four

trot

^^Baldy''
them

task

baths,

times

and

had

and

rub-downs.

varsity
the

Erskine's

surveillance

trailed

the

around

Simson,

under

and

LINE

the

field,

the

veteran

imtil

out

and

they
gate

had

toward

CHAPTER

Vm

THE

Faistwell
Ids

to

front

Livingston
his

room,

find

light
in

raining

outlook
his

raised
road

the

with

Livingston's

liked

it

he

family

.Saunders,
to

have

because

had

from

it

quiet,

was

house

the

his

landlady,

his

comfort

in

wasn't

room

to

was

his

the

from

because

itself

own

on

tractive
unat-

Main

central,

and

goodness
as

weed-

aside

himself,

almost

bare,

sense

because

he

empty

shops

any

field.

an

to

two-storied

and

and

When

saw

westward

stretched

one-

he

that

beyond

Oak
and

inspiriting.
him

of

front

of

campus

was

were

the

on

comer

before

pages

that

the

of

the

it

heavens

the

were

from

water;

field

sodden

Street.

far

from

eyes

at

Outside

and

in

striving

pane,

study.

equidistant
was

bleared

quarters

house

to-day

backs

he

way,

about

running

grown,

desultory

lemon-yellow

Streets,

The

to

window-seat

the

in

the

to

which

Livingston's

big

King

close

by

weary,

curled

was

book

enough

leaden-hued.
that

EIDNAPINa

and

mother

but

the
Mrs.
istered
adminwould

done.
The

freshman

president

laid

aside

lus

book,
TO

grimaced

76

BEHIND

the

at

and

dreary prospect,
after

minutes

beastly

dark

long.

Too

day
bad

took

I'll have

we've

to

thence

where

to

For

couch.

it

himself

tear

from

the

his

affair."

out

Freshman

door, and

from
the

on

Class

Din-

wherewith

energy

and

soft cushions

outside

sounded

find

striving to

was

lay spread

of the

evening

the

for

before

gas-fixture,and

the

clothes

evening
the

was

he

While

ner.

his

what

get dressed

to

weather

such

got

"Ten

watch.

"Heavens,

start

glanced irresolutely toward

He

his

out

murmured.

he

five,"

LINE

THE

make

some

to

steps
light,foot-

demanded

one

admission.
"Come

door

The

again,

and

rather

like

from

his

and

his

had

"

going

dark
to be
as

steadily
coat

no

condition.
his head

from

looked

he

as

hair

it

soaking wet;

looked

were

though

as

water-bucket, and

of felt

tossed

golf stockings

His

softly

thing

^was

"

and

He

room.

misshapen

much-darned

They're coming

was

the

wore

swiftly

in
he

his face

excitement.

intense

soon

and

better

as

minute
dark.

nearly

I got

after
"

whisper.

locker-room
it

he

"

was

dripped

water

sweater

just taken

bespoke

an

the

crossed

his hat

tramp;

closed

was

open,

Fletcher

Neil

trousers

scarcely

called.

he

swung

which

aside;

"

in!

on

to

you,

I heard
ago;

Cowan

they

They've got
a

dozen
Oak

of

Street.

he

Livingston,"

telling Carey

didn't
a

cried

know

them.

There

ran

there

all the

wasn't

in the

there;

was

carriage, and

in

time

way
to

are

as

get

THE

of

any

the

here.

You

room

saw

You

can't

"

asked

heaven's

Neil, gasping

I do

mean.

nodded

^'You

on

their

all

you

nosed

get

to

day.

chap

out

as

breath,

do

want

me

could

railroad?

right

away;

subsided

about

mean

you

to

believe

to

the

"

that

"

me?
on
^

vigorously.

doubt

no

it

window-

That's
friend.

it,my

what

just

Didn't

^"

was

Pike's

to

There's

soon

I've
as

and
wheels

doesn't

you

with

out

all in earnest.

Carey

stable

carriage,

there.

meet

that

thoughtfully

''It

think

you

the

by

what

off with

run

Cowan

but

Livingston,

carriage

round

eh?

1"

way

are

I don't

maybe

or

our

there,

you

but

^to

"

they're coming

don't

his head

Cowan

know,

others

for

I heard

"0h.
^

to

There's

I tell you

him;

sake, Fletcher,

they're really going

and

for

over

'*

livingston.

seat

look

double

and

right

somewhere

"

watching,

stay here, because

For

go

won't

corner

way

said

Cowan

and

settle with

can

back

the

out

get

just sneaked

so

now

the

at

and

me,

out

library. They

fellow

together,

get

can

the

or

There's
he

fellows

17

KIDNAPING

of

one

can

his
the

had

They've
at

the

comer

in class.

seen

the

for

seem

the
to

he
and

are

the

watching
tall,long-

"

get your

things

and

move."
hands

his

in

window,

Neil

listening apprehensively
down

fellows
now

So

and

pockets,

watching
for

the

stared

him

patiently
im-

sound

of

street.
me

that

they

could

be

idiots

78

BEHIND

enough
**

last.

that

to

weren't

They

didn't
^

^-and

began
a

bit

in

went

there!
Mills

loud

mistaken

"

Keil

in

"

dark

the

for

when

comer

alley and

next

after

hear

to

me

asperation.
ex-

kicks

blocking

us

in

whispering, but

were

enough

cried

had

into

over

they

weren't

at

"

things over

my

first

At

talked

they

you

was

in late"

and

talk.

to

know

I went

hurried

they

sure

stringing you!

changing

was

LIKB

aillytrick/' said livingston

you're quite

"

they
^

such

attempt

You

THE

every

word."

anyhow

"Well,
Fletcher
the

lock
"

^I don't

"

get tired and

"And

clever

want

Just

to

that?

He

this

they

you'll go

and

Now

few

FU

sophs.

let them

hammer."

of

house.

From

an

can't

get in they'll

get nabbed
"

think!

listen to me,

put your

glad

the

at

cried

Neil

tense
in inWhat

Livingston.
in

rags

comer

bag and

"

"

to

his

shelter

they

I don't

you

is to

do

leaped

within

find

his feet

range

and

elm-tree
it

peered

of vision

dripping, sorry-looking nags,

the

one

and

out

program,
"

What's

from

obliged,

away."

go

scorn.

you

and

when

"Nonsense;

run

to

much

awfully

''

But

That's

intend

door

front

Fm

and

"

about

drew

under

up

fifty yards

whom

window.

carriage, drawn

emerged eight fellows

tall,long-nosed watcher

of the

out

in

Neil

by

the

slight

from

away

two

the

rain-coats,while
had

seen

at

the

THE

looked

toward

"

If

too

^'Look

he

softly as
down

and
"

late

now,"

bit

damp,

peered

lock

the

field?"
"

I told

"You're
scowled

pulled

the

the
"

cried.

to

I'm

"

Yes,

are

our

sophomore

you,

or

I'll go

what
"

But

"

you

and

I'll go

do

you

^into the

"

behind

lock

the

and

sneak

around

by

run

leave
thrust

them,"

from

away

mind."

my

answered

Neil.

He

of the

then

quickly and

turned
"

I've

I tell
you

as

man
fresh-

"
got it 1

he

do

If

you

room," objected Livingston.

one.

and

Now

the

about

countenance

next

you;

that; they

finely."

of this

out

after
How

windows.

fool them

off and

I'm

you
the
door

to

And

going

ahead.

go

be

eaten

you're going
to

look

Do

as

alive!

"

after
I

tell

Neil,

unwilling Livingston
and

hear, keep quiet and

''

"

dark!

"

assl

callers.

Now

are."

they

shoulder.

changed

smiling

will

grinning deUghtedly,
him.

to

the

at

we'll

door

going
I haven't

and

here,

you

the

so

there

moment,

back.

dodged

There

I'll look

out

get

obstinate

going

not

it wasn't

and

shades

you

"

lock

"

calm

Look

promise

"

Neil.

I wasn't

president

said

you

an

at

"

other's

the

over

I wish

host,

Neil

they," laughed Livingston

you

his

repKed

and

group

door."

Can't

way?

don't

The

report.

whispered.

he

out

the

get you.

back

his

Livingston's window

No, stay here,"

might

made

and

them

joined

comer

79

KIDNAPING

keep quiet.
stay in there."

No

fore
be-

ter
mat-

Hiding

his

face, he

cried

for

help.

THE

president

of the

doubted

stant

found

Neil
With

a
"

freshman

that

up,

out, I tell you!

Then

he

DonH

door,

stairs.

When

the

front

alarmed

to

enough

for

for

help.

robe
the

find

best

he

It worked
thrown

steps,

vehicle

which

the

inside,

Neil

had

Neil

Egypt.

threats

sighed

from

his

and

chest

others

three

he

up

mistake.

and

before

the

was

relief,muttered

with

holding

fellow

his

down

the waiting

house.

Once

hack, the
as

few

uncomfortable
one

cries

carriage

the

windows,

the

in loud

into

for

light

Hiding

hurried

was

was

still

Instantly

and

the

ill-smellingrobe, and,

the

charm.

the

Neil

was

his voice

detection,

behind

from

lifted

driven

before

up

their

it

most,
fore-

down

open

dark

sidewalk,

muddy

safe

drawn

and

hall

thrown

discover
he

kicking, feet

the

almost

his head

been

was

was

like

over

across

door

could,

Look

'^

into

to

arms.

"

remonstrated.

he

out

although

his captors

as

was

shades

that

by strong

struggled feebly.

borne, protesting and

was

the

face

'^

that!

do

through

his

seized

surprise, he

fellows?

in-

an

him.

captured

suddenly

simulated

what's

Here,

had

they

for

by sight,never

class

himself

of

cry

81

KIDNAPING

dark

tory
perfuncfolds

sitting on

legs,felt

the

as

of
his

carriage

start.

Despite
hear

enveloping

quite well;

the mud
the

the

shriek

hear

of

hear

the
a

the

horses'

carriage

distant

folds

creak

locomotive

about
feet
on

as

his
go

its

head

he

could

squish-squcishin

aged hinges ; hear

they approached

the

"*

83

His

railroad.
the

Easier

"

tell

that

last week

others

third

is

to

kidnap Atm,

at

ease.

side

he'd

about

had

probably
little fool

covld

the

of

for
to

nerve

prevent

hundred

was

of his mouth

He

guessed he

I guess

eh?

By

we'd

of

breath

chesty

"

Maybe

ears.

conceited

that

think?

only

the

at

trouble; Livingston

other

you
he

were

speaker.

him

on

naping,
kid-

sophs!

us

"

laughed.

he

Well,

do

and

one^

try it that

of the

out

that

there

as

The

his

no

I guess

it.

What

now.

have

wouldn't

we

will talk

me

"

we'd

all about

forgotten
Fletcher

be/' said

it'd

thought

I knew

Pshaw,

while

congratulatiiigthemselves

were

pricked up
figuratively

cock-sure

so

than

Neil

reply

captors

LINE

of their venture.

success
^

THE

BEHIND

it's
the

just

friend

don't

want

asked

didn't

we

get off of him

We

"

isn't he?

well

as

our

way,

better

air.

kid,

young

here

seems

now

and

have
ill

give

on

corpse

our

hands."
The

sophomores
from

light.

be

he

all the

one

found

Neil's

of his
it hard

gibes of

that

to

had

language imaginable, failed

."

make

to

discovered

was

to

wound
un-

youth's

de-

in

elicit

the

But

quite the
a

reply.

best

such
he
most

of

an
Cow-

Tom

filled with

keep silent

his captors, uttered

that

was

ahd, grinning enjoy-

himself

abductors, he
work

to

breath

he

robe

the

much

head,

darkness, settled
Now

and

seats

good long

predicament.
to

that

took

in the

ably
his

He

about

found

glee

did, and
polite

Beautiful

I trust

late
You

road

would

you

foiburbs

"

first

him

make

You

are

you

eh?

FU

or

"

speaker coldly.

is that

one.

freshman

fear

shall

we

Let's

What

his

twist

thick

your

I dislike

lovely

our

Cowan.

was

arm

head,"

about

that

forget

to

who

fourth,

punch

able

never

of

part

any

particular

any

"

growled

speak,

sit still

For

asked

the

Is there

drive?

to

visit?

to

brute!"

"Surly
Let's

like

care

you

another.

comfortable?

quite

are

attend

to

"

it not?

home."

reaching

in

drive^ is

planned

not

asked

to-night?

^^

'^

had
"

dinner
be

eyening for

you

83

KIDNAPING

THE

you.

you're

bit."
said

the

Cowan,
mucker.

Cowan
"

"

but
"

one

the

the

I think

Don't

fancy you're

you

let it trouble

of the

hack
the

and

box.

motion

horses'

curtain

you,"
Then

was

lulling,and
and

reached

there

to

feel

so

nous."
monoto-

said,

he

been, lowered

reply.

the

for

of the

well-

rather

outside

driver

drowsy himself;

they

had

crossed

turnpike along the

the

It

nearest

Neil

the

could

was

Some

save

silence

was

of

that

now

smoothly.

through

calm

the

was

feet,the complaining

!N'eil began

and
had

it's

wit. Baker,"

occasional^oice

the

carriage traveled
now,

"

laughed un^rtainly,

instant; then

an

laughed drowsily.
sound

wearily,

you're mighty tiresome."

railroad-track
the

silent

was

I suppose

worn

on

continued

you'd try," he

wish

black

river,

night
which

window

at

see

nothing

the

save

side
out-

the
an

BEHIND

light in

occasional

being

was

by

loud

ones

at
"

take

Far

as

the

car

so.

Before
which

"

told

Neil

door

Neil

the

was

that

grinning

flood

the

journey

of

to

took

shelter

abductors

had
not

were

steps and

the

will

have

house
farm-

It

hospitably.
on

the

was

lenged;
unchal-

porch
him

got

five

some

The

attentive.

so

led

carriage was

his

follow.

of

door

open

and

here

out

politely invited

streamed

the

All

said

Baker,

with

low

which,

while

the

kindness

obeisance,

far

from

away

accepted
found

the

himself

set

for

from

ear

in

supper.
to

ear

best

silently,and

invitation

well-lightedroom

The
in

others

"

enter

to

he

find

will

cellency'
Ex-

befitting your

dignity,are, unfortunately, the

was

later

two

the

was

Excellency

your

accommodations

table

the

barn.

house,"

doorway,

time

down,

opened,

was

light

Neil

the

up

the

Neil

rolled

contentment

moment

one.

some

Centerport, they

came

If

he

which

slowed

"

said

him

that

from

toward

their

carriage
and

where

They

care.

proclaimed

the

"

out, and

now

others

know

longer, during

window

ahead!

drizzling,and

miles

hour

awakened,

go,"

we

from
still

much

Then

got

did

He

didn't

an

the

didn't

He

end.

an

captors

LINE

house.

captors

were

light entering

was

the

his

of

snoring.

sleeping
of

half

for

least

at

and

taken,

steadily on
two

some

THB

at

our

entering the
wherein

followed.

anticipation

of

mand."
com-

the

Cowan

victim's

In

discomfiture.

sight

of

back^

abnost

"

^N'eil's

made

"

Eh

their

What

The

smilingly.
who

"

"You

ril

ie
"

hundred

turned

see,

isn't

Baker

such

big

stared

cried

the

stupidly

sprang

them

faced

It

bewilderment.

in

wheeled

and

and

turned

latter.

Neil.

at

forward

Neil

stared

was

words.

hanged

placidly
Cowan,"

catch

to

he

surprise

"

you?

sprang

light.

found

"

Neil

but

four

first

Well^

with

'^

the

into

of

first

Baker.

matter

the

was

howl

answer,

no

victim

Baker

With

upsetting
the

he

eagerness

face.

What^s

Cowan

his

86

KIDNAPING

THE

to

"

the

he

said

odds,

after

he

murmured.

discomfited

Cowan.

"one

sweetly,
all,

is

it?

"

against

BROKEN

THE

of

pearance
more

than

across

the

each

other
of

at

ever

what

the

And

had

the

be

five miles

and

feast

imder

with
made

the

by

asked

to

law

was

siding
pre-

wildest

the

to

cess
suc-

vent
pre-

every

country,

his audience

moving

and

supposed

who

in the

out

were

awning

an

attempt

no

Livingston,

now

scene^

thirty of them,

or

Content

abduction, they

should

at

twenty

the

on

stood

They

it meant.

dinner.

nature

president

loss.

street, some

the
of

freshman

the

87

TRICYCLE

applause.
"

and

But

helped put

"

hack!

in the

Carey cried

over

over.
"

And

"And

rain

dinner

jacket

"

and

marveled

the

bewildered

shirt

ton,
Mor-

And

rest.

all
the

through
them

gave

Livingston,

white

other.
an-

Baker, and

window-shade

"Fan''

of

1"

him

asked

gazed

raised

glimpses

Dyer?

and

heads

where

to

off with

Livingston, whereas

and

Cowan,

their

shook

it drive

saw

if that's

and

in

him

fine

bosom,

casional
oc-

figure

leading

the

Fletcher

cheering.
"

Rakrrah-rdh^ Bah-rahrrdhy Rah-rah-rahy

The

"

asked.

was

But

over

perhaps,

awning

What

Fletcher?

"Who's
for?

the

turned

puzzled

looks

other.

each

upon

imder

group

^^

but

in the

would

But
hall

could

none

it

have

are

was

been

they cheering

Fletcher

answer.

different.

glad

to

Not

have

lad there,

exchanged

83

with

places
who

the

LINE

confounder

gallant

pictured in

was

minds

most

of

starving

as

plots,

sophomore
death

to

where
some-

of

rain, a captive in the ungentle hands

in the

out

the

THE

BEHIND

enemy.

However,

seated

moment,

very

he

Hutchins,
and

second

fourteen

himself
after

the
had

the

to

first

and

biscuits

soda

and

admire

to

Of

the

alone

to

doubt

but

Hutchins

false.

youth's
be

influence

themselves

join in

the

cleverness

and

he

not

than

he

would

For

the

cold

only able

their

The

the

to

witting.
out-

laughter

supremely

was

chicken

selves
laugh against them-

Cowan's

Neil

sentiments.

enjoyed

vanced
ad-

tion
mortifica-

displayed in

sophomores
But

had

guest.

of

others

thoroughly good fellows,

that
more

to

the

four

rang

that

but

the

philosophicallyaccepted

benign

found

biscuit,

for

Neil

honored

Farmer

admiring

teacup

prisoner
of

position

the

display equanimity,

to

of

passed, his captors

under

praise

role

fill his

consternation, bewilderment,

situation, and
hot

to

that

at

hot

and

red-cheeked

of

fifth

his

to

years,
the

From

time.

For

not.

hospitable board

himself

Hutchins,

Miss

of

lady

certainlywas

the

at

helping

was

allowing

young

Neil

starving

and

he

have

enjoyed

back

to

that*

they

ent
indiffer-

the

covered
dis-

soon

there

hospitality of

and

is

no

Farmer
freshman

class dinner.
At
and

as

nine
the
home

o'clock
horses
the

the
soon

drive
found

Centerport began,
were

headed

ward
to-

journey occupied surprisinglylittle time,

";

THE

and

Neil

at ten

of Paul.

BROKEN

back

was

Neil's

To

89

TRICYCLE

in his

awaiting the

room

surprisethat gentleman

return

first

at

was

decidedlygrumpy.
"

You

Neil

But

it from
"

first to

"

1905

was

degree by
accepted

the

that

Neil

way

viewed

him

claim

to

with

the Dean, when

almost

returned

he

approaching

the

slightest
generally

result

collegenotable.

each
ones

other

miring
in ad-

went

out

of

him; sophomores

brilliant

passed Neil

the

bow, allowing

upper-

college career.
noon
followingafter-

himself

something
bore

his

while acknowledging to himself

the

grin.

modestly even

benefit

of them.

certain

society,
membership

ambitions,had

when

Another
a

to

out

the

passing interest,and

him

honors

He

and

influential

than

his

^f
ace

"

established their

recognition from

predicted for

Even

to be

had

hero

him

more

mor^

men

appeared

cl .ss

pointed

class

and

it

in

molestation.
alj.

older and

awe;

their

became

choked;

that the Class

was

bothered

freshmen

the

from

freshmen

Younger

night'sadventure

that

all about

he shrieked.

sophomores;

verdict

length

at

he

until

Cowan's

seen

"

until

tell Paul

to

laughed

thereafter

never

right to immunity
was

"

result of that

had

Paul

I had

out!

"

One

of

wish

"

apologized

he

last,and

^found it

^he

"

Then

it,"he grumbled.

into

me

explained and

^I justwish

"

let

restored.

was

peace

have

might

learned

been

more

Neil, however,

that his chances

in which

than

was

one

of making
of his

doubled,and

was

est
high-

glad

r-

90

BEHIND

accordingly.(He
initiation
The

duly

was

Mills

looked

elected and

and

Devoe

and

Simson,

the

head

quitea personalinterest

with

tackled
became

of the

invention

the

dummy

affair l^eil

the

the rest

with

dummy

from

hook

of this number.

one

its breast

the brown

of

it without

"

Mills

went

^You're
crewel-work
as

to

snap

throwl
The

at

erly
prop-

player

to the soft loam

on

But

the

this.

bring

to

fiercest

of

Neil

To-day

dummy, bearingupon
had

Neil

As

the

the

thrown

he

on

away

its

himself

after the

arose

soil from

his

trousers

for him."
very

ladylike,Fletcher, but

crochet

or

you'llobligeme

bring that dummy

into it!

the

down.

brushed

ated
appropri-

when

Robinson, had sped

bringingit

attempt and

second

fell

being.

failed

twice

practise

Robinson

necessitated

Twice

twenty-footflight,and
upon

human

sequent
days sub-

had

that

effigyof

fellows

many

Mills

played
dis-

trainer,rigging

its cable and

the

Several

eye-bolt,so

of

thereafter

taking dummy

eleven.

canvas

manner

from

tackling,and
was

ous
rigor-

trainer^spoke

coach

Harvard

and

the Btuffed

after the

the

of

the

in him.

was

second

hook

detached

much

underwent

affected his football stand-

even

applausCiwhile

to

LINE

proudly and joyfully.)

kidnaping affair

ingy for
or

THE

Get

your

Just

imagine

roar

of

off.

Now,

hold,find
it's a

once

your

as

this

by being so
more;

put

purchase,and

isn't
rude
some

then

sophomore, please."

laughter that followed

restored

some

of

THB

BBOESK

the

finely,brought
sat

afternoon, and
their

Greatly

lough

took

his

to

his

place

in

not

be

to

the

his

portion, for

and

umphantl
tri-

the

not

get into

sat

McCul-

the

on

But

fray.

bench

off their

peeling

ones

idleness

later Mills

moment

teams

did

Neil

that

second

disappointment

lucky

for

preparation

and

dummy

and

varsity

half, and

left

watched

aggrievedly

sweaters

surprise
at

tackled

he

hook^

the

at

daily line-up. Neil, however,

this.

and

work

all the

last of

the

into

B.

letter

followed

Signal practise

himself

sophomore,

figure from

canvas

the

on

deceived

he

thinking the dummy

momentarily

had

whether

confidence, and,

Neil's

91

TBICTCLB

was

called

to

Mm:

^'Here,

this

take

down

ball, go

there

yard line, and

try drop-kicking. Keep

let

how

know

me

times

you

Neil

put it
took

the

over

the

tries

many

ball

line didn't

and

resolved

to

had

cross-bar
critical

he
been

At

moment.

his head

had

way

to

and
difficult,

he

But

became
somewhat

the

absorbed
of

and
in

being

first it

watch

how

the
from

very

of

and

Kicking goals

accomplishments,
a

off to

trotted

distiuguishhimself.

Neil's

among

sound

strict count,

had

you

fifteenand

many

goal."

labors,greatly comforted.

yard

the

to

in
success

drop-kicks were

not

hard

his
at

fifteen-

the

work

he

progress

his

to

the

was

of

scene

of
work.

found

soon

the

that

place

wrong
to

set

from

keep
game,

As

Hillton, but

but

the
the

at

ing
turn-

ently
pres-

punter

he

drop-kick-

92

BEHIKD

ing had

unaccustomed
the

work.
four

next

The

next

He

goal.
ground
stood

The

pieces by

to

and

by

watched

render

long acquaintance

with

dispelledNeil's
determined

came

Neil

was

and

one

being

wjiile he

its first touchdown,

he

would

he

up,

returned

he
And

score.

him

on

their

able

to

report

by
was

his

had

footballs

them, and

of

awe

better

to

trotted

teams

and

make

report

goal.

from

keep

to

was

have

to

Mills.

to

But

varsity
the

the

tries

struggling teams,
the

sadly

of

ten

in order

upon

ruminated

then

was

way

the

wide

it

low^ and

went

cross-bar, and

the

count

of the

out

got

cleared

tries

but

high enough

barely

one

consequently

first five

The

went

tickled.

hugely

full-back,and

left to the

been

LINE

THE

way
38

thoroughly
his labor

to

the

did, for when

he

off the

field

and

tries,of

which

Mills

12

were

goals.
"

But

do

Not

whenever
vdth

there's

from

drop

your

heart

got backs

need

find

you

them

no

or

and

brain

buck

can

can

be

be^rtt l^iUs had

shouldn't
Take

muscle

into

and

depended

before
trotted

you

to

my

for

to-day.

know

what

is very
learn

advice

kick

run,
a

we

to

good,
kick

to

and

it,for, while
and

hurdle
on

don't

punting

well.

as

and

Tour

do

That'll

football,and

why

reason

"

coach.

placement

that

that

Neil

the

it,try drop-kicking.

and

many

said

bad,"

put

we've
haven't

goal, and

we'll

long."
out
as

to

the

good

as

locker-house

promised

him

with
his

throbbing
place.

That

THE

he

is,if

he

learn, he

wild

the

effects

the

before

"

Mills's advice
the

it,"

the

off.

and

alone.

the

something

rider.

first like

at

But

distance

short

as

cluster

the

rider

view

he

house

Street

he

ahead

that

of

into

almost

to

take

that
had

toward

ing,
even-

already

the

campus

glanced

up

with

Neil

single

soon

and
him.

puzzled

bicycles

motionless

was

muscle

personally

King

follow

to

was

as

back

thought

and

leaving the
knew

practising

vigorously and

towel

started
of

comer

brain

nodded

the

he

fellows

departure, he

Near

It,looked

with

moment

and

do

to

and

panted

maturer

upon

and

Neil

late in

was

all the

as

their

taken

hard

He

heart

said.

so

but

he

as

For

hours

only thing

your

had

himself

skin

saw

Put

coach

rubbed

the

No,

shower-bath.

him,

didn't

drop-kick

to

exultantly

unchristian

to

condition

learn

himself

rising at

up.

could

cold

occurred

chapel

given

was

of

idea

of

The

goals.

he

told

93?

TRICYCLE

kick

to

Neil, however;

would

under

learn

could

trouble

BROKEN

came

up

to him.

On

nearer

tricycle,and
which

lay

the

it held

in supports

made

was

feet, and

that

to

who

sat

second

to

rider

served

as

on

of

the

of

pair

one

hands

realitya

of crutches

side.

The

instead

steering apparatus.
the

seat

that

was

years,

he

was

of

chine
ma-

the

fitted around

which

steel

eighteen

tell Neil

in

object was

the

with

work

motionless

glance

the

lengthwise along

faced, frail-looking lad

no

beside

bow-shaped piece

operator's knee

youth

that

saw

rather

and

The

pale-

it needed

crippledfrom

"1

guess

you've

broken

down,"

said

Neil.

BROKEN

THE

"

said

Come

to

Neil.

"

for

had

here

use

much

*'

"Oh,

harder

being

that

fancy

answered

did

not
"

down

the

"Oh,
them

down

there
"Pshaw

send, it

smile

made

it

As

for

up

it for

with

I that's

will be

no

was

the

accompanied
and

home

it.

very

said

Neil,

than

the

behind

him

the

the

depot, eh

wouldn't

have

thing
i

"

I'll

"I'll"

other.

the

he

words.
wheel

then

cycle's,
tri-

you

way

go

anything."
walk; besides,

time

some

was

weak,"

fault

Neil

indeed," protested

send

ago

this."

my

bicycle repair-shop near

no,

now.

months

two

I had

like

more

boy.

you

only

me

down

was

that

I'll take

Well,
to

have

the

see

the

day

every

manage."

to

broken

have

it

last machine

light has

so

worked

roads

pretty good muscle

for

The

smooth

on

on

"

times?

at

But

there,"

you

get around

work

I've

got

made

one

and

I guess

I've

seen

can

you

know.

you

Erskine.

at

it wouldn't

or

that

this

heavier
^

how

Isn't it hard

grades,

long

I've

believe

easily; besides,

so

father

My

it,I

do.

you

on

very

almost

to

as

Rather,

it goes

of

It's wonderful

this machine
^'

think

95

TRIC7CLE

if you

before

afternoon

to-morrow

them

have

you

get it back."^
'*

sha'n't

really need

it before

then,"

answered

the

lad earnestly.
"

You

finalityin
for

an

might,"
the

instant

said

reply
drew

that

There

Neil.
the

his face

boy
into

on

was

the

pucker

such
seat

of

tone

of

yielded, but
perplexity.

96

BEHIND

"

60

Thank

much
''

LINE

he said; " it's awfully nice

you,"

of you

to take

trouble."

I can't

could

do

don't

mind

"

THE

less.

any

Neil
the

By

'^

replied*
what's

way,

I don't

if you

name,

your

how

see

"

Burr."

Sydney

That's

"Burr

that,"

see

why

Neil.

road," laughed

you

were

"We're

in

there

stuck
the

the

up

class,aren't

same

we?"
"

Yes."

At

middle

the

Burr

the steps had

"

up

done.

"

do

"

Of

Three,

you

said?

blacksmith's

now

him

I'll

right off

stable
"

day.

My

obliged

to

and

come

think

assisted

All

right.

and

him

you

"

helped
him

back

for

up

what
time

get

can

this

on

some

floor,

you've
"

^No. 3.

"

heartily,

"

I'll be

this nag

I'll take

get him

bring

room's

me

see

could?

you

answered

Neil

janitor takes

not

here

you

wouldn't
"ril

have

Neil

reshod.
with

If

down

they
Where

me.

glad
to
can

to.

the
fix

do you

"

him?
The

would

Hall

said, flushingslightly.

much

you'd

course,"
you

he

it every

awfully

I wish

you

I do

Walton

objected.

not

don't,"

right;
I'm

too.

Do

he

Please

all

crutches, and

his

to

on

of

entrance

just give

ride

bother

him

it down-stairs

it to
about

somewhere.

him, please.
bringing

back," laughed

If I'm

Vish, though,

it back."
Neil.

"Good-night."

THE

"

Burr

Sydney

astonishing

bom

of

limbs,

slender

and

the

to

duffer!"

lower

side, mere

to

his

saw

started

then

quaintance
ac-

new

errand

his

on

round

creep

looks

I mustn't

hasn't
he'd

be

forget

friends.

many

pull

or

He

to

himself

call

to

yet he

But

happy.

stilts

on

"And

muttered.

he

and

enough,

contrivance!

and

sight, and

of

he

as

His

tricycle.

"Poor
cheerful

sighed

Neil

side

steps

dexterity

them.

from

me/*

see

the

with

upon

frail, swung

appendages.
out

with

his crutches

using

ease,

to

climbed

and^ turnings

years' dependence

many

useless

forget you're coming

smiled

with

he

DonH

Good-night.

97

TBICYCLE

BROKEN

on

seems

frightfully good-looking

seems

think

ing
of hav-

about

on

this

him;

I dare

nice

chap, too;

if

say

wasn't

he

so

white."
It

headed
"

"

man,

fix

All

here

something;
that

owns

it won't

fixed.
your

bonnet."

Now

I'm

have

take

go

go

repair-shop
little bald-

home.

going

missed

chain
five

to

your
link

protested shrilly.

wheel

can't

welded

ahead,

like

go
a

this

thing

guess," said

out

the

until

good chap

Neil.

glued

or

And

minutes.

and

cripple

the

morning."

you've

is to

it is

to

to-night,"he

think

to-morrow

reached

he

proprietor, a wizened

in the

if you

it needs

the

anything

late; come

"Well,

when

preparing

was

Can't

It's too

back

dark

railroad,and

the

near

almost

was

or

fellow

this

chine's
ma-

; I'll hold

98

BEHIND

''

Eh

''

I meant

"

Help

I'd
I

let's

Well,

grumbling

apart with
"

just

answered

it."

all

the

it

Lot's
He

of

be

plexedly.
per-

the

his

like

one

any

tricycle,

head

angrily.

demanded

he

looks

to

inspected

shaking

broke?"

stared

man

]!Teil unabashed.

and

and

break;

little

help youM

knelt

while

was

of

The

presently.
link

the

you'd pried

cold-chisel."

Well,
told

help/'

see

kind

''Queer

Huh

said

^^Who

"

LINB

bonnet

What

THB

didn't; nor

with

it didn't

belong

you

hot

to

chisel.

Besides,
I look

Do

me.

I've

like

"

cripple?
''More

like

answered

the

man,"

said Neil

father

I'd

spank you."

words,

and

fool,"

other

with

chuckle.
"

"

and

You're
if you
too

naughty

were

my

angry

to

bending

back

the

choking

sounds

was

of

pushed
"

grin

damaged

which

the

machine
it and

Take

"Cheap

sorrowfully,

contented
and

When

the

repair

angrily

toward

the

with

himself

emitting

rightly judged

other

The

series

be

to

sions
expres-

finished

was

of

he

boy.

said.

much?"

How

the

was

chuckle.

twenty-five cents

link

get out," he

Fifty cents,"
and

Neil

displeasure.

"Thanks.
"

find

old

for

enough,"

"

reply, given

Twenty-five

working
answered

after

cents

with

toothless

for

the

job

and

hours."

Neil, laying

quarter

THE

on

bench.

the

BROKEN

"That's

99

TBICTCLE

for the

job;

the firstcomer

the

Til

owe

the

you

rest."

When

he reached

him
still calling

repair-shopwas

of
proprietor
and

names

the

shaking his

fist in the air.

'^

justlike

Looked

Neil, as

he

^
a

propelledhis

I"e he

will put

wither

up and

curse

I won't

he-witch

or

something/'chuckled

steed toward
upon

me

and

be able to kick

the campus.
my

^^

May-

right foot

will

"

goals!

NEIL

Woodby

almost

was

her

outweighted

the

through
of

tackle

several
line

and

brilliant

case,

was

the
after

her

runners

were

man,

per

the

it was,

outside

runs

though,
nailed

was

as

back

of her

The

Qraham

men

were

were

as

from

glaring exception

his eye, took

him

the

the

of

yards

touch-down,
8

and

the

Foster

Tucker

Er-

of

score.

several
with

Once,

audience
called

on

failed

kick

to

left

well

tackle,

in

work

Neil

the

for

wrath

eleven

proved

on

in

man.

braced
the

best

ten-yard

ball

the

second

the

Erskine

five- and

at

with

runs

Woodby's

shouting vehemently
Paul

her

Woodby

at

against her,

to

free

right-guard, Foster

whose

to

made

end.

sides,but

put in Bell, a second

fought doggedly

right

best

slipshod that Mills, with

11

ground-gainer, and

the

gave

right end, played

and

score

at

Cowan,

so

out

began

team.

Cowan
at

especially was

half

far

fimible

which, luckily,she

on

Devoe

had

both

on

Erskine

individually

rule

Stone's

costly.

center.

and

many

second

veterans
at

quarter,

yet utterly lacking in the

the

the

goal.

twelve

that

cards, even

most

touch-down,

around

As

not

infrequent gains

best

Fumbles

were

soon

and

and

small

her

as

second

up

time.

every

Erskine

pounds

decidedly promising, Woodby

or

skine's

With

five

shortlyfound

very

though

it there.

half

but

were

the

play

eleven,

kick

made

had

and

losses.

Team

of

end

times

for

to kick

101

VARSITY

some

her

line,and

or

line

the

in

purple-clad backs

THE

equally strong^

forced

have

would

MAKES

for

plunge through

102

BEHIND

lost the

made

fumble

bally a

line and

yard
to

Paul

tackle.

right

THE

that

in

put Erskine

her

sent

yards^ but

two

that

LINE

of

hopes

back

fifty-

her

on

the

tying

manner

some

down

score

zero.

second

The

and

fully

took

up

the

half
of

ten

her

the

managed

to

and

slower

Neil

eight yards,

which

had

was

to

home

11

and

after

the

was

made

before
events.

promised

"

For

them

ball

for

favor.

the

his

score.

of

interference,
and

The

punt-out
the

score

from'

away

subduedly

back

anticipations of

its

field

left the

Woodby

the

half

victors,which, practically,they

unpleasant

after

twenty-

of the

rest

to

players trotted

men

try outside

"

effort
of

lighter

goal, making

For

tune
For-

positions

comer.

kicked

just

got safely away

up,

the

just at

hui^

time

Woodby's

on

keep Woodby

with

them

pigskin

to

Erskine

locker-house

the

their

satisfied
no

fashion

the

finding

Devoe

in Erskine's

team

and

line

Mason,

downs.

three

Woodby's

badly tangled

the

over

success

goal,

while

and

after

time

by brilliantlyleaving

become

staggered

and

in the

the

Erskine

when

goal again.

in

given

was

right tackle, and

12

with

pile-up. Then,

long,

plunging, buddng,

sent

distance

minutes

by

Woodby's

were

their

gain

fifteen
gone

enemy's breastworks,

slower

each

Neil

but

had

favoring Erskine,

was

were

toward

journey

dling at

fifteen

the

full-back,and

be

to

was

were,

to

what

the
was

anticipations fully justifiedby subsequent

Mills

that

tore

if

them

they

were

up

eloquently,

very

scored

on

by

the

and

second

MAKES

NEIL

before

eleven

the

of them

man

Neil

walked

that

that

and

be

back

Cowan

accompanying
Neil

he

saw

or

Sydney

On

liked
of

the

the

him,

he

usually
for

Burr
that

way

discussion

into

fell back

youth

and

and

of

the

levers

always

the

field^and

less

the

Ted

it

Neil

surprised

of

either

on

To-day

criticism

ing
insist-

the

habit

from
less

company.

bridge.
Cam-

to

from

the

return

big sophomore

every

Sydney Burr,

his hands

got
his

on

second

the

take

take

had

Paul

pushed.

as

should

send

he'd

college beside

to

youth

Harvard

and

benches

103

VARSITY

with

game

the

to

THE

Foster

Sydney.

was

his

by

gent
intelli-

had

he

game

more

just

watched.
"

How
"

football?
"

Do

"

liked

play, but

"
"

the

You

talk

like

game,

and

all

Of

of

varsity coach."

it

believe

quite

course,

and
I'm

that

"

bit

times"
Some-

he

tated
hesi-

playing,

put myself, in imagination, in the place of

team.

To-day

"

to-day I

was

you,"

he

^I

"

never

can

of it.

out

momentarily

make

about

pleasure.

enjoyment

returned

shyness

much

so

studied

I've

could.
deal

good

sometimes

know;

you

know

the
it

^his

"

Neil.

to

get

you

Sydney, flushing with

I get

"

did

said

watched

and

asked

I?

always

of

earth

on

added

one

with

deprecatory laugh.
"

struck
love

You

don't

him

and

and

say?
he

longing

"

was

for

cried

Neil.

silent

Then
moment.

sport in which

he

the

pathos
The

could

never

of

it

cripple's
hope

104

to

BEHIND

join Beemed

THB

terriblysad

LINE

and

"

If

I had

been

other

like

"

quite cheerfully,

sen-

"

I've

give" anything

I should

have
tennis

comer."

with

He

'^

Then,
around

My,
as

run

from

to

before

brightness
and

run

here

him
gone.

was

walk

to

and

jump

to," he sighed.
"but

Neil,

made

you

good

want

you

muttered

"Yes,"

then

be

I'd

everything!

"

just run

usual

ney,
Syd-

played everything

minute, looking

the

which

it must

just

little

silent

was

from

eyes

if I could

got"

continued

fellows,"

football, baseball, hockey,

the

choking

in his throat

Bation

"

him

gave

^but

"

to-day."

that

was

looked

Sydney

good

puzzled,

laughed.
"In

made

the

touch-down

afraid

at

going

nab

to

field like

gravely.

that

awfully

was

quarter-back

Woodby

I made

why

game.

for

the

was

of the

comer

that."

Then

that

the

was

their

friend

"Your

Sydney

the

And

it?

wasn't

Yes,

won

that

that's

me;

fancied

"I

and

time

one

mean?

you

game,

eyes

Gale

and

met

didn't

Neil

presently.

reason,"

they laughed together.

play

shook

Neil

answered

so

well

head

his

to-day,"
with

said

bled
trou-

air.
"

No,

know

he

what's

whether

he

Cowan.

He

played

got into him

pleases

ball, and

rotten

Mills

tells Paul

of late.
or

that

that's

He

doesn't

not.

think

Mills

and

Devoe

fact.
seem

I don't
to

it's that
are

care

chap

imposing

MAKES

NEIL

that

of stuff.

sort
"

he

and

him

on

isn't

he

"

deal

good

Just

and

all that

know

to

care

him;

^"

^like

"

fair show

Fd

think

"

Neil.

so," laughed

''

I don't
like

106

VABSITT

getting

Cowan

Know

Only by sight.

looks

THE

That's

the

he

way

strikes

me."
dinner

After
called
then

ill luck.

his

trouble

nothing
that

was

keep

miserable

head

that

good
doesn't

patiently for

while;

with

honestly

drop

he

it.

The

and

the

even

sure.

was

though
Cowan's

fate

by

was

and

that
of that

thing

Mills
kind.

do

to

so

are

is to

plain speaking, and

this

up-stairsto Cowan's
of his

Cowan
he

you

best."

off

For

best

ing
fill-

been

that

poppycock

the

your

deal

he's

blame;

practise,

to

that

how

work

It's that

scrub.

telling you

himself

he

the

to

you

insulted

good

shilly-

been

just doing good enough

lots of

do

you

shape; you've

that's to

and

worried.

wonder

it, and
in

and

and

took

spent

getting

be

know

chum,

deeply

was

was

college

with

have

you,

work

to

promptly
late

rot

nonsense;

don't

you

dare

Paul

such

Cowan

I'll tell
you,

Now,

To

he

what

talk

dropping

idiot Tom

your

Of

bewailed

he^said, "don't

weren't

of late

from

Mills

do

to

you

around

shaUying

very

listened

Neil

here, Paul,"

had

Luck

go

Paul

evening

"

"Look

to

that

was

managed
taking but

didn't

bother

and

there

time

notably
keep

to
a

Neil

room.

an

Neil

idler,

himself

in

partial course.
a

bit, but

he

106

BEHIND

afraid

was

greatly

his

roommate,
Neil

study.
striying
hold

greatly

Harvard,

him

found

Neil

on

gentleman's

there.

The

training-table
Elm

now

Street,
but

nine

by

teams,

that

day

and

days

the

their

good

his

on

the

to

Cowan,

and

with

in

problenou

and

team,

the

ready

for

bewilderment

two

In

taken

being

second

the

stronger

made

rewarded

was

game

and

of

solution

Cowan's

latter.

the

volume,

the

of

book,

growing

to

by

fond

too

weakening

daily
ill

followed

unopened

an

of

was

down

remained

that

to

over

work

to

Woodby

Paul

varsity.

on

that

Monday

the

in

showing

to

hold

be

none

was

method

having

following

best,

evening

some

tossed

without

The

house

^a

sighed,

bed

went

of

that

threatened

Neil

joined

think

"

which

end

long

would

example

the

at

sat

Paul

on

and

for

to

his

that

who,

LINE

THE

wrath,

substitutes,

Pearson's

boarding-

preparation

for

the

distant,

began

in

game

earnest.

with

CHAPTER

THE

Sydney

fence

divides

view.

It

clouds

drifted

the

players

shone
all

that

in

there
while

and

the

low

The

sky.

But

overcoats.

in

north

that

whispered

white

few

sparkle
the

their

uninterrupted

blue

light

at

and

lean

an

warm

wooden
stand

benches

from

breeze

to

grand

had

field

the

out

Overhead

October

an

tiny

field

yellowing

he

mocked

was

the

on

against

and

brightly

the

afternoon.

about

to

up

from

there

From

lazily

FUMBLE

close

gridiron

perfect

himself

tricycle

the

was

OF

trundled

the

backs.

blanketed

once

his

which

against

for

had

drawn

that

sun

BESULT

Bubb

had

and

XI

air^ and

the

came

winter

across

far

not

was

behind.
had

Sydney
wore

dash

of

flashed

color
with

I^ear

at

through
gasps

white

warm

for

in

the

woolen

his

panting

signals,

breath,

as

then

the

his

over

pale

cheeks^

watched

he

group

quarter

passing

the

lower

There

sweater.

usually

interest

hand

thrown

rug

the
of

was

his

men

at

fellows

were

his

crying
ball

and

limbs

to

half-

numbers

or

107

and

quite
blue

eyes

practise.
going
with

full-back

RESULT

THE

era.

There

the

crimson

aleeves; and

and

he

was

saying,
of the

captain

sullen

impatience.

Another

Sydney
eleven

that

he

his

gave

quarter,

attention
his

sang

to

his

himself, wiped

In

at

one

palms

of

the

he

cried.

but

halves,

and

took

of

in that

the

and

second

shrill
he

Sydney

stained

tude
atti-

the

nigh,

queer,

he

what

and

drew

of

front
his

on

head

his

in

Eeardon,

in

ners
cor-

Foster.

hear

not

face;

it.

signals

funny.
irresistibly

was

could

signal practise

at

group

and

nodding

exasperation,

was

all

in

forciblyto Gale;

and

Gale's

see

there

law

the

Sydney

could

nor

tall but

Gillam,

his hands

mandarin.

Chinese

like

and

fellow

heavy

equally

laying down

be

to

rather

Mason,
Smith,

109

FUMBLE

tall and

gesticulatingwith

was

Gale

and

angles;

seemed

Devoe

the

Gale,

was

OF

voice
raised

trousers,

maced
gri-

deep

breath.

fell in

behind

Then"
"

Signall

Right
and

took

trotted
But

half

the

away

bounded

from

line

to

the

toward

well

knowing

rash

enough

the

dashed

again

the

take

burriedly donned,

even.

The

Simson

awaited

them

was

their

from

and

rounded
sur-

mouths,
they

Sweaters
out

field.

players

should

swallow.

dealing

up

the

water-pail
out

group

the

broke

called

rinsed

that

the

down

goal

Mills

field.

one

yards

east

and

reprimand

after, and

ten

the

at

benches,
of

full-back

thirstyplayers

the
to

up

"

7"8"i"6!

by him,

lines

the

all parts

and

"

ball, left half

presently

trotted
in

''

be

were

the

pile

110

BEHIND

Neil
he

heard

his

shook

Neil

don't

^'I

Neil
head

laughed,

Neil

other

second

second

keep

their

at

equally
the

his

get

halves;

fit

which

and

if

of the

two

trotted

teams

didn't
was

But

honors

off with

trainer,and

one

by

while

the

big, dripping

sponge

four

laps around

the field

were

began,

was

again
the

men

Mills

in

scoring

facing

as

vard
Har-

desperately,

stentorian

the

one

that

even.

the

was

The

varsity, being

fact, played quite

the

sweaters

the

varsity

deal.

good

of

of

all the

the

they succeeded

from

Then

of

true

honor

was

goal-line in

score,
a

his

person

convinced

the

off, everybody!"

head.

also

with

Sydney

^in the

"

was

that

give them

convinced

and

cripple.

fitted

second's

the

over

following Wednesday.

"Sponge

the

place.

he

for

if she

But

bay,

his

to

promise and,

opponents,

the

over

answered

played desperately, being

would

and

short

out

proved,

^failed to

"

of the

the

feeling so

not

hurrying off, was

trotted

vanity players.

kept

that; you're

matter,"

and

events

as

Fletcher

either

on

and

harness

mistaken,

ney.
to-day," said Syd-

me."

just watch

You

until

head, smiling:

doesn't

that

"Oh,

fence

line-up.

touch-down

about

know

the

the

over

benches.

the

to

on

him

to

from

make

his

sank

know."

to-day, you

"

I shall

I think

talked

called

name

UNB

fellows

the

and

Sydney,

saw

"

and

ground,

the

on

THB

mand
com-

players leaned
to

face

and

the

applied
donned

trottingby

twos

RESULT

THE

and

threes,

in

or,

the

case

OF

of

the

111

FUMBLE

injured

trailing

ones,

along behind.
The

Dexter.

played

of

way

previous
On
a

the
line

no

day, Wednesday,

next

Dexter

turning

strong

as

forced

was

had

goal, and
The

Erskine

In

in her

changes

guard, Keardon
had

Ifeil, who

It

youth got

it

the

to

half

had

touch-down
took

Cowan
for

lined

plunge
up

Erskine

ritory.
ter-

missing
further

place

in

of

Neil

to

yards, and

by

right-

at

Bajjey, and
the

from

greedily

But

hand.

Cowan

through

behind

him

the

to

take

fine

this

at

there

"With
he

was

fully

it.

That

it

point

was

vanced
ad-

back

of

half

given

another

and

Fate

right

it

ran

forty yards,

field to

the

taken

ball

dodging

Erskine's

to

was

tackle.

sent

From

line.

procession down

begun.

in tandem

defending

Witter's

called

eighteen-yard

that

to

made

she

his ten

it seemed

first half

points, Devoe

kick-off,and

by straightline-plunging
and

by

the

into

first half

with

back-field

place

in

Erskine.

game

Erskine

took

the

Reardon
on

17

up

has

left half.

in at

forty yards.

the

attention

in at quarter

Dexter's

was

which

and

incursions

Cowan

watched

side-line,went

for

second

went

of

many

into

went

all her

college ran

team.

that

possible. During

time

the

school

fightsagainst

of substitutes

give

no

elevens,

excellent

as

to

home

goal.

back

up

largely composed

Dexter

one

put

occasion

present

means

her

strong

Erskine

16th,

preparatory

out

had

years

is

October

the

the
and

Tom
line
full

ball and

112

BEHIND

through easily for

shot

of

with

weight
for

there,
Dexter

and

and

quickly

yards
took

the

to

another

taken

the

But

changed

from

Erskine

kick-off,and

line

between

sea

of

once

Dexter
In

was

the

of

to

an

end

the

goal, and
with

the

locker-house

after

the

didn't

hesitate

to

say,

and

work

waded
for

yards

Erskine

sharp things

not

was

kick

it

cripple

for
her

final

after

through

touch-down.

five

that

Dexter's

punctured

and

and

happy

nicely
it

to

ball from

had

tackle

at

ball
when

was

in

yelling

failed

offensive

took

twelve

and
Dexter

were

and

Neil

6.

her

and

failed

more

came

game

foes

fifteen
and

the

have

left-end

until Xeil

it

left-guard

clutching

could

promptly

kept

happened

Devoe

goal,

west

5 to

end

the

was

the

on

melee

was

runner

placed

Dexter's
a

had

side-line

the

cripple

As

afternoon.

Devoe

of

the

of crimson-adorned

on

The

was

hopeless task,

quarter

center

but

the

was

little band

cross-bar.

that

it

Dexter

very
none

score

that

of

It

goal.

and

pigskin.

end

right

pursuit began.

substitutes

The

out

before

the

and

the

the

force

him,

at

stop Cowan,

to

Erskine's

chase, but

mad.

behind

the

in

skirted

toward

dragging
the

support

sheer

by

more

dropped

unexpectedly

minute

supporters

the

backs

cause,

had

good

the

up

her

yards

his

Then,

yards.

five

Dexter

apparent

no

racing

was

over

for

on

two

twinkling,

like

several

quarter-back, running

it in

so

staggered

he

gone,

LINE

THE

minutes
score

22

later
to

6.

disgruntled.
Mills

game
to

say

had
them

some

in his

RESULT

THE

best
he

There

manner.

began

at

then

dropped

way,

and

was

back

ended

policy for

went

left

half^ took

in

full.

with

coach

line and

and

them;

among

so

endanger

to

slighted. And

when

when

the

easier,thinking

Some

all

the

on

Neil

easy;

it is not

good

over

no

passed, it

one

breathe

beginning to

had

storm

quarter

all

was

were

other^

captain'sauthority

it

shown;

the

to

got off

Devoe, for

was

by public criticism;but
felt

favoritism

of the
to

up

113

FUMBLE

absolutelyno

was

end

one

OP

forth

burst

anew.
"

Cowan,

said

I don't
fresh

Mills, in
there

man,

was

no

schoolboystugging

at

There's

nook

cozy

Or

"

haven't

except

What

the

on

second

of
?

the matter

learned

you

couple

was

playing, to hang

waiting on

great Scott,

Why,

you

legs1

your

of football

years

touching

one

drop that ball,"

to

came

you

exasperation.

Paralysis? Vertigo?
two

how

see

yet, after

to

scrub

ball?

the

lows
for fel-

like you ! "

his

Cowan,
last too
"

much

No

one

If I did
Lots

me.

without
years,

pride already sorely wounded, found

for his temper.

can

help

of

fellows

I guess

fellow is singledout
"That

will

no

fumbled
I've

I know
a

"

why

reason

have
on.

as

accident,"he blurted.

occasional

an

fumble, there's

being walked
and

the

before

played my

how

to

do

scapegoat

do. Cowan,"

you

should
and

insult

got off

positionfor
it.

But

when

two
a

"

interruptedMills

quietly.

114

"

BEHIND

You've

lost your

Criticism I "

"

don't

We

temper.

can't stand

who

team

LINE

THE

men

this

on

"

criticism

sneered

want

and

red

Cowan, looking very

ngly.
"

Yes, criticism!
friend.

too, my
from

win
when

it's necessary,
I've

But

I've had

will.

Cowan, and

passed muster;

we

I'm

going

to

tell you

me

your

cater

hard

and

never

practisebegan,

since

haven't

that you

"vanity;

some

say

fellow

any

ever

one's

any

at

time

any

and
been slovenly,
careless,
playing's
soldiered

You've

get along without

can

to

that will

team

to scold and

insulted
you

out

ing,
scold-

and

sharply,

to turn

not

on

"

Mills

and

eye

generallymean.
I think

here

never

my

let

answered
I'm

Robinson

things.

"

half

you

the

And

time.

for the rest

of the

and

Stow-

season."

Mills,his blue
ell and
to

who

White,

check

eyes

Cowan's

sparkling,turned

for

minute

utterances,

now

away,

past had

been

managed

striving
drag

to

him

away.
"
up I

"Shut
a

fooll

Come

where, on
until
He
much

they left
slouched
to

Neil's

on
position

White

whispered

"

out

of here!

the

porch,he

him

And
gave

hoarsely. "Don't
they
vent

hauled

see

Paul

impatience,and taking up
of the

that

after dinner
a

wrath

evening,

commanding

recited
study-table,

with great eloquence. Paul, who

injustice

to his

anew

side,
out-

finallyin disgust.

in to

comer

him

be

had

his tale of

spent the

RESULT

THE

full

of
"

It's

Drops

from

me

But

swells

you're
the

dropped

whose

two

ball.

have

either."

The

Cowan

Devoe,
that

private
boots

fall
a

was

last

and

if I

say
tell

ever

was

down

angrily.

instruction

"

in

lots

dear,

no;

the

line-up

played

just

go

the

on

because

play football

to

got

I could

all.

everything
at

bother

guard

called

willing

the

pike,

Maybe

then

have

his

way

the

and

saw

to

Mills

finest football

it would
Mills

goal-kicking and

be

here,
face,
it.
and
ers
lead-

different,"

would
let

and

Neil's

to

toady

to

They

I do

as

to

gone

tackle,

or

smile

here.

wanted.

studies

with

everybody they're

came

here;

injustice!

had

remark

I've

off

I've

to

in

fumble

Oh,

well

"

Cowan.

I make

look

glad

finel

was

off!

you

now

position

needed

I'm

exclaimed

here

off,that's
and

And

so's Fletcher

unfortunately glanced

dare

sneered

thinks

away

me

wouldn't

he

this

guaranteed

he

It's rank

he's

does

Kobinson

"

and

But

and

years,

It

because

will

names

"

lay

game!

I suppose

If he

and

snake

doesn't

he

did.

you

training just

Bobinson

for

team

"

way

white-haired

times.

for

the

Mills

into

you've fimibled, Paul,

Why,
of

benches,

"

said.

he

dirty shame, Tom,"

"Little
^^

the

on

sympathy.

waded

you

115

FUMBLE

unfortunates

other

with

afternoon

OF

give
black

me

me

his

for him."

ISTeil closed
little disk

of red

his

book

in each

and
cheek.

leaned

back

in

his

chair,

RESULT

THE

*'0f

course
"

sneered.

that

dare

he

say
"

friend.
but

Neil

"

And

I will
out

I say

shop

was

looked

Paul's,

but

"

and

defiantlyover

for

with

quarrel

his

at

Paul,

down.

back

"

declared.

stay," he

the

after

room

and

Paul

you're

"

get!

he

But

I did

it.

his," said Paul,

as

He

sha'n't

you

leave

"

out?

me

asked

toward

glanced

Cowan

with

door

the

as

show

he

spoke.

nodded.

Neil
"

"

Cowan's

He'll
Paul

used

I"

Paul

to

being

humored

of

war

Tour

friend's

Neil, and

his

breath

to

let you

He

so

tion
declara-

laughed

Cowan

away.

you

was

this

that

roommate

And

!"

and

fight him

wonderment.

in

by

I sha'n't

if I have

"

Paul.

with

of

me

bit

chesty, Paul,"

he

said.

"

Perhaps

him."

humor

No, stay
boss

stared

cried

nonchalance.

better
"

!"

out, and

him

here,

his

took

attempted

we'd

of

out

grimly.

Neil

guest,

my

go

answered

will," he

right to put

no

too,

"

Maybe

you've

he's

the

mine

to

you'll put

of bravado.

to

proprietorship of

Now

Maybe

glad

he

room,"

your

Fm

bargained

not

you

the

settle

of it.
"

had

incensed

too

was

much

as

of

out

you."

stay in it."

to

you

humor

to

room's

The

want

has

of

part

117

FUMBLE

me

matter,

that

think, though,

put

can

you

For

OP

where
he's

yet with

you

are,"

mistaken."
a

trifle of

said
He

Paul.

"

If he

thinks

glared wrathfully

uneasiness.

Paul

was

at
no

118

physical conflict

coward,

but

contrary

to

removed

the

gorgeous

the

evenings,

in

wore

for

the

defiantly.

"

Come

we're
such

to

and

Paul

bits.

There's

let him

he

"All
we'll

You

to

"I'd

"

Tour

"

let's get

pleasure

laid his

avoid

this

conflict
in
to

staying

Come

up

of

sort

and

FU

fond

as

with

he

with

to

my

"
"

who

Cowan,

in

deep

was,

his chunL

voice

Neil

rooming

so

before

out

in

follow

to

Angry

answered

your

you're

turned

door.

this room,

friend's

Paul

halL

to

with

suggest
since

He

portal.

indifference

said,
no

turning

"

up

have

"

he

"

; but

put

can

Neil,

he

then

the

glad

was

right,"
go

sion
expres-

off."

cool

hesitated, and

his heart

going

the

seek

simulated

with

chap,"

strollingtoward

was

and

door.

his gaze

in NeiPs

something

he

that

study

returned

disagreeable fire-eater,anyhow.

room,

the

so

Neil

him.

jacket

open

gentleman

drop

to

eyes

appalled

velvet

threw

But

old

on,

torn

it

something

waa

shoulder.

Paul's

on

that

That

laughed uneasily, and

hand

and

moment

his

Neil

bottle-green

Cowan.

caused

LINE

with

order

natural

he faced

Then

"

THE

BEHIND

that

if you

trembled,
think

thing, you're

Fm

mistaken.

get another."
with

answered

Cowan,"

of him.'^

jealous," laughed

joined him, slamming

the

from

Cowan
door

loudly

the
as

he

went.

Neil

steps

as

heard

Cowan's

they climbed

laughter
the

stairs.

and

For

the

sound

several

of

moments

their
he

^
THE

RESULT

OP

stood

motionless,staringat

heady

donned

it

with

Cowan,

with

Paul

at

he

done,

was

was

something

was

this time

under

tending to

foster

for

work

that

about

he

three

told

years,

After

But

as

the

that Cowan

was

take

One

Cowan's

Neil

the remainder

monosyllables.

Paul

said

nothing

in that fact found

and

get

soon

been

more

showed

no

his

over

friends

firm

something

Paul

again, Neil began

that left to himself

room

when

ago.
at

thing there
absence

the first in Paul's

from

to

his power

doing all in

grievance long

in Cowan's

dull hours.

it would

days passed and

felt certain
his

that

had

two

anything

and
repellent,

in

would

all,Paul

was

than

for
the

estrange them.

to

friends

make

find

to

himself;the

and

present affair

glad

change of quarters,

encouragement.
anger,

cold* and

Neil's attempts at conversation

was

breach

unfortunate.

Paul

was

quarrel

Paul

ill.

of tempe;r, and

he

that

open

When

further

from

an

his

something which, just

friendshipwas

returned

Now

the

evening passedmiserably en^igh.

Neil, however,

him.

for

of the

answered

time

As

domination

his burst

shook

he

again.

all ; but

and

new

Cowan's

their

ashamed, too, of

and

at

especially,might

far

was

not

Then

down

sat

intenselysorry.

that troubled

already so

to

jacket,and

his

door.

the

119

FUMBLE

was,

He

despair.

Paul
and

would

spent
Neil

however,

the field worked

knew

the breach

to widen

Paul

home,

disposition

have

gotten
for-

of his

most

passedmany

which
a

pleased

difference

playing,and the latter

was

now

/^
/

120

BEHIND

evidentlj
a

good

the

the

to

half

little

into

the

Wednesday

against
of

army

Cambridge

heart

between

showing

following

right

his

putting

THE

on

that

Harvard,
players
that

day

day.

and
and

LIKE

his
of

he

was

work.

Cowan's

consequently

supporters

and

dismissal

scheduled

was

such

made

He

that

to

play

among

journeyed

Xn

CHAPTER

Habvabd's

good

down

and

well,

could

she

hold

she

would

be

she,

would

she

far

scores

could

that

goal-line

that

five

to

thus

showing

Erskine

convinced

LIST

HOSPITAL

THE

ON

be

by

the

riors
war-

remarkably
Harvard's

cross

The

victorious.

practically

season

crimson

doing

miracle,

any

the

during

team
"

that

up

journeyed
as

October

on

23d

made

was

follows:
L

Stone,
Witter,

r.

Fletcher,

thirty

White,
b.

h.

Burr

the

together,

crippled
in

There

eight

"

and

In

making

the

is

contest

Devoe,
b.

h.

"

to

Foster,

e.;

c;

b.;

q.

b.

Among

care

Soldiers

the

taken

Sydney

had
and

was

brought

readily

Field

some

latter

had

Neil

had

and

along

went

Livingston.

Livingston's

Stowell,

g.;

Livingston

trip

r.

Mason,

substitutes

Fan

1.

Carey,

followed.

and

youth.

and

r.

students

Sydney

t.;

t.;

r.

Gale,

these,

patriotic

two

1.

Tucker,

e.;

g.;

Besides

Erskine

Cambridge

to

the

to

no

back

culty
diffi-

fortably
com-

safely.
no

need
Those

to

tell
who

in

saw

detaU

here

it will

of

give

the
Erskine
131

Harvardcredit

122

BEHIND

plucky struggle against

for

and

much

superior

times, and

three

half both

teams

Browning

went

half

this

of

most

for the

egg

On

of

that
the

pigskin

without

in

being

ever

mad

with

silent.

that

Robinson

was

understand

he

so

her

could

the
goose-

to

the
the

be

coaches

supporters

stand

have

final

in

ten

from

improvement

was

fully
rue-

utes
min-

few
of

score

team's

the

was

yielded that

taken

the

34

"

5.

five

points,

the

larger

defense, and
necessary

if

defeated.

Erskine
next

than

touch-down

Erskine

Harvard

with

have

for

not

accident

by

difficult goal and

wonderful

fumbled,

The

the

gladly

day

glory they thought they

assistant

more

changed

field for

danger.

disappointed

was

realized

And

In

bounce, and, skirting

the

up

ended

would

doing
He

score.

Foster.

made

Harvard

the

on

missed

game

Mills,however,
so

for

Erskine

iN'eil,
more

delight,and

Devoe

the

and

day,

went

by

Erskine,

goal-line three

good luck, and

opposing right end,

if

For

Bailey

Erskine's

Purple's forty yards

the

later

and

second

the

for Stowell, Hurst

while
difficulty,
rare

In

0.

"

scored

Harvard

figure 5.

design, got

went

first half
17

advanced,

more

substitutes.

for Mason,

much

first time

the

the

Carey, Graham

crossed

stroke

heavier,

figures were

in for

Harvard

LINE

put in several

without

times

In

team.

the

Witter, Pearse

for

THE

put

in

players
that
had.
an

they
The

plainly given

were

had

acquired

not

advance

appearance

in

guard
the

to

all the
of

shape

the

of

THE

ON

Preston, both

and

Jones

HOSPITAL

took hold with

vim.

old Erskine

Jones,a

them

wing and made

taken

were

in

fast

out

hand

drop

by Preston, and

and

of

the line of material

that if Cowan

and determined
second.

had

simplybeen

Devoe's

message,

visit to Mills.

known;

but

and
right-guard,
in the game
was

good

other

no

to

was

soon

head

The

stand
under-

given to

was

fied
satis-

wanted

went

his

into the

frequentavowals,

than

to

play football,

and, upon
dismissal,
off his

he said and

What

back

Saturdaywas

with Erstham.

and
highlypleased,
"

far from

he could go back

purpose

eagerlycame

on

promised

trio,and

Devoe

work

lost since his

Cowan

Paul

kicking

expressedhimself decentlyregretful

to do

collegefor

in

the art of

reinstated.

bigsophomore, who, by

The

was

Cowan

and
ultimatelyrelented,

coach

daily put

disposal.He

at his

the center

Mills to have

pleadingwith

several others

were

learned,was

soon

in
weight,especially

more

his

choice.

one

every

under

men

punting and kicking. Neil

placement, while

fair second

Jones, as
with

line

in
acquiringspeed and certainty

goals from
turn

the

and

men,

guard, a big man

Paul, and
jump. IfTeil,

through a vigorouscourse
was

football

former

black hair,took
bristling

mth

123

LIST

results of the Erstham

and

important.

second

given a try

Mills found

The

Mills said is not

into the

He

and made

high horse

what

did

hearing

so

team

at that

tion
posi-

well that Jones

it in his heart
game

at

were

both

giveto forpected
unex-

THE

ON

aide to side

with

and
trouble

called

and

"

without

for the

the

with

dripping

"

pull

to"^ard

Then

Neil

fainted.

When

he

regained

from

and

house

the
to

went

had

pain
Neil

hold

with

shoulder

face

being

was

said

was

fellows.

was

laid

and

only

Prentiss

your

hands

being

borne

1"

Now

he

of his

Dr.

here; put

steadily.

four

"Not

subsided,

At

bare,

and

the

locker-

the

doctor

with

operations

queer

soreness

interest,his

mained.
re-

fjp^ce

its color.
is it?

much,

"Nothing

Take

consciousness

watched

regaining

blade

white

the

injury quickly

Neil's

probed

instant

an

the

stretched
out-

work.

The

fast

in

latter's

shoulder

injured

and

lay

arm

sponge.

you

field between

the

right

dislocated,Jim,''

trainer.

here,

the

the

quietly to

His

examined

doctor, who

shoulder's

Sight

closed.

Simson

125

LIST

moyement,

fingers,while

knowing

sopped

half

eyes

found.

was

HOSPITAL

great deal.

bit,and

maybe

"

asked.

he

smashed

You've
torn

ligament.

your

shoulder-

I'll fix you

up

in

minute."
"

"

Will

it

Yes,

for

keep

Bandage
shoulder,
to

possible.

and
be

from

me

while,

after
the
the

my

playing?
boy."

bandage
arm

most

"

was

swathed

was

fixed

unnatural

and

in

what

awkward

about

the

Neil

ceived
con-

position

126

BEHIND

''How

"

"

Can't

tell yet.

Well,

LIKE

going

doctor

the

But

anxiously.
"

is this

long

THS

shook

We'll

lay

to

his head.
how

see

asked

he

up?"

me

get along."

you

week?"

Maybe."

"Two?"
"

Possibly."

"But"
door

but

and

opened

"he

mustn't!"

entered.

keep

laid

me

Fletcher.

else it may

or

"

he

Simson/'
for

up

The

cried.

he

called,
It

weeks.

two

But

back

go

on

you

get

it well

Don't

worry

must

you

again.

''

about
''

only

Don't
a

"

the

his

as

soon

soon

as

it

as

can

to

make

the

do

is to

take

The

doc

possible.
be

best

of

It's hard

it.

of

care

will

keeping

yourself

get you

done, but you'll have

part, Fletcher, and

your

game's

soothingly.

arm

must

we

only thing

get well
as

patted

but

know,

But, great Scott, the Bobinson

"

off!

trainer

lines,but

again

worry

month

The

and

Simson

hope not,

healed,

It

"

it?

will

"I

can't!

this may

says

won't,

it

to

be

out

ing
do-

quiet

and

ful
cheer-

fixed

and

I'll go

"

"

Cheerful!

"

And

"

All

groaned

getting strong.

to your

over

"

room

with

you.

Neil.

Now
How

you're
do

you

right,I suppose," replied Neil

feel?

"

hopelessly.

ON

walked

Simson
the

beside

and

campus

installed

in

HOSPITAL

TBB

the

back

him

easy-chair with

an

college and

to

his

to

common

and

room,

behind

pillow

127

LIST

across

him

saw

injured

the

shoulder.
"

There

this

in

keep indoors
meals

yourself

sent

see

"

trainer.
in

you

few

days,

Don't

Prentiss

the

You'd

morning.

I'll have

know.

you

this,but

about

worry

will look

keep

"

and
his head

leaned

Neil

for

over.

cheerful

the

I'll

and

evening

better
your

are," said

you

and

against the pillow

his

closed

eyes.
"

Oh,

Paul

When

staring
on

'way,"

go

muttered

he

in half

came

motionless

of

out

miserably.
hour

an

the

later

found

he

settled

window,

Neil

melancholy

his face.

"How
called

bad

Neil

it, chum?"

is

"chum"

for

asked

over

Paul.

week

their

since

^not

"

hadn't

He

quarrel.
"Bad

enough
answered

game,"

spoil

to

Neil

chances

my

for

bitterly. Paul

gave

the

Robinson

vent

to

low

whistle.
"

it?

By
What

Neil
in

Jove

!I

does
told

fervid

he

admitting

am

sorry,

and

gained

protestation against
held

the

Simson

chap.

some

his

doctor

to

to

occasional

an

beastly,isn't

That's

say? '^

Prentiss

him

old

account

degree
fate.
for
share

of

For

animation

want

of

other,
an-

everything, only
in

the

blame.

128

BEHIND

looked

Paul

remarks
"

"

alL"

and

to him.

thinL"

LINE

in denunciation

joininghim
genuinelydistressed,

of Prentiss

occurred

THE

utteringsuch

bits of consolation

generallyconsisted

These

''Perhaps it won't

as

I don't believe doctors

Mills will make

them

be

as

of such

inal
orig-

bad

they

as

everything,after

know

around

get you

as

before

two

weeks, I'll bet."

After

gloom
"

at

dinner

Every

one's

information

report a

and look you

come

had

to

keep

your

given out,

study,taking up

the

to

awfullysorry imd

to tell you

me

returned

state of

general

training-table.

Mills says he'll

told

Paul

book

cut

up in the
courage

Paul

walked

after book

again,and behaving generallylike

Neil,gratefulfor
at the

the other's

healing of

the

about

up

it,chum.

morning, and
After

up."

about
restlessly

only to lay it
a

his

down

of water.

fish out

lighted
sympathy,and secretlyde-

breach, could afford

be

to

generous.
"I

Paul,

say,

immortal

Livy, will you?

that tray out

lighta
you

bit

run
"

I'll be

Kun

of the way
That's

nearer.

all

right.

Just

give

Thanks.

And

you

somewhere

and

shove

better.

I'll be all

the

me

might put
the

drop-

rightnow;

along."
along where

"Well,

?"

asked Paul.

thought maybe

you

were

going

out

or

"

somewhere."
Paul's face

expressedastonishment.

He

took

up

ON

and

book

settled

THE

HOSPITAL

himself

129

LIST

firmly

in

wicker

the

rocking-

chair.

"

he

No,"

Neil

studied

book.

and

while,

Then

Paul

turned

Paul

footsteps

hailed

voice

anywhere."

going

not

sounded

from

eral
sev-

on

beyond

the

the

door.

closed

"

Paul,

Paul

which

his

I'm

silence

Cowan's

and

stairs

in

of

pages

**

said,

are

glanced

was

"No,"

bent

he

you

coming

irresolutely
calmly
called

over

gruffly,

"

along?
from

his

the

book.

door

to

Then
"

''not

to-night

"

Neil's

face,

CHAPTER

fiYDiraiY

Neil
couch

him.

with

Sydney

Burr

crutches

beside

the

of

his

the

leisure
of

society

with

the

grown

to

with
about

as

he

of

"Doc

be

his

upon

believed,

of

able

mean,"
to

and

injury

rescued

he

while

Paul

latter

shoulder

is

had

Neil

spent

much

cultivated

still

ever,
how-

Neil,

gradual

lessening

and

had

He

idleness

it enforced

since
and

to

of

encouraged.
the

him

and

intervals.

was

the

he

Paul

feet.

at

cheerfulness

between*

his

while

yet

steadily

grinned

it

his

some

had

brought
and,

roommate,
from

extent

the

Cowan.

says

may

discern

Cowan,

reconciliation

influence

that

could

degree

some

chum,

big sophomore

for

look

his

and

figured
dis-

much

swung

for

room,

time

he

regard

and

sat

difference,

believed
Paul's

he

his

rocker,

countenance

plaster,

surgeon's

their

up

his

armchair.

wicker

protesting

Cowan's

in

Paul's

in

the

shared

Livingston

South,

where

table,

made

quite

of

strips

up-stairs

was

and

him,

r-

reclined

the

in

STKATBGY

levee.

Foster

sat

by
from

STUDIES

holding

was

Xra

get
180

the

Neil
back

was

to

saying,

light

work

doing
"

and

next

nicely,'
that

week."

whatever
will

The

likely
an-

SYDNEY

didn't

noiincement

the
"

"

week

'^

It

"

"

of

evening

next

"

long

the

way

off to

him.

seem

"

Can't," replied South.

been

said

Livingston.

him

they

asked

that

grinned

on.

like

looking

days,"
up

if

genuine

more

South.
answered

me,"

to

only

now

Neil,

you'd stop grinning

ear."

to

"He's

said

was

accident, and

since

dear

very

it

day

luck, old man,"

sympathy's

ear

joyful,for

very

131

STRATEGY

fourth

seemed

it would

from

sound

the

hard

was

Your

but

STUDIES

if he

"

be

could

He

gets credit

get

plaster."

Cheshire

the

You

when

see,

show

that

his

face

for

being

he

was

and

had

the

natured

he
fore
be-

hero, and

better

two

they patched
agony,

straight they
much

for

cat

suffering much

was

just to

way

It's the

plaster
than

he

really is."
"

'

Credit

as
"

bis

saw

mad
But

said

grinning

me

as

March

did

how

"

South.

hare

it

him

at

; said

happen?

get

"

class

in

was

asked

than

worse

that.

yesterday

and

ul.'
deesrespectf

Neil, struggling

"

with

laughter.
"

over

That's
"

and

his

stick

trying

was

and

"

South.

Lacrosse," replied

goal

you

"

'

Sandy

got

to

get the

banged

Murdoch
ball

face

my

by

tending

was

him.

against

tripped

goal-iron.

all."
Seems

to

me

do to Murdoch

surprise.

it's
t

"

enough,"
South

said

opened

Foster.
his

eyes

"

What

did

in innocent

STUDIES

SYDNEY

and

you

does

so

forward

the

the

class is

touch-downs

in the

son
Robin-

and

if

the/U

^I'm

afraid

Bemember

team.

win

seeing you

to

133

STRATEGY

few

looking

game."
"

let

ni

Oh,

into the

me

I'll be

not

"That's

accusingly.
Besides,
can

on,

he

I don't

wants

it's correct

wither

stale your

nor

I'm

not

particular;Fll

send

slid to

avoid

the

things while

two

great load
he

and

don't

the

Mr

of

"

Farewell, Fletcher;
affliction.

gets his medicine

let him

sleep

with

Monday;

he

here

bear

up

Hold
But
as

little

sorrowfully,
evil

ciations.'
asso-

breaking

am

under

your

Kindly

Burr.

regularly every
in

Custom

continued,

he

said

Good-night,

two.

you

^idleness and

college

it up.

interests.'

him

on

South,'

.^

in

be,

Dean,"

I called
*

; it should

along

South

said
made

promised, fellows, and

promise.

that

cuts;

"

variety.'

he

various

walk

meet
"

floor.

many

that

don't

we

infinite

think

to

us

"*Age

heartily.

somebody,"

"

think

age

affair of too
*

"^Fan'

not

fortune

from

"

again."

stale your

quotation

"

Only

Livingston

custom

nor

Neil,

best.

my

I get out

declared

you,"
wither

do

Fll

game

bit stale when

"Not
can

right,"answered

all

be

see

minutes,

seven

draft; pajamas

are

much

warmer."
"

Come

When

placed
chair

on,
the

you

door

his crutches

beside
10

grinning idiot,"said
had
under

the couch.

closed
his

arms

upon

and

the

Foster.

three, Sydney

moved

over

to

the

134

BEHIND

you'llhave

makes

trouble

any

will be Greek
It's

bunched

''

new

And

right up

idleness

besides,I'm losinga

close-formation

the

to

that Mills is

the full

line,the halfs

justbehind

lot of

teaching

I don't

passedit

to

and then

looked

folded

the

other.
up

^^

on

The

backs

are

side of

each

him."

''

see

Wait," interruptedSydney, "

drew

of

"

to me."

Well, but

He

weeks

two

course

that

you,

placeI

into your

simple enough," said Sydney.

quarter, and
"

Of

big difference.

practise.This

^'

gettingback

know.

hardly
a

LINE

here^Neil,you don't reallythink,do

Look

'^I

THE

sheet

I'll show

of paper

Neil

you."

from

his

over

it

scowled

pocket and
a

moment,

helplessly.

"
HT

-*.

"

SYDNEY

"What

"

is it?

STUDIES

"

asked.

he

136

STRATEGY

weird

Something

in geometry?

'^

"

I drew
"

Oh,"

"

it this

said

it; where

the

do

Why,

"

Pshaw

we'll

you

won't;

teaching

it.

You

through;

there

much

stands

Full

back.

crowd

quarter, behind

left of

"

See?

that," said Neil,

like

for

play begins

it

it; and

before

the

course,

it

line-men

toes, and

kick.

only

then,
other
all

to

gives

if

the

side
on

holes.

you've got

to

hole's
has

knife

the

of

one

the

fraction

You've

of

the

off them

is

handof

except,
line

when

second

their

got

most
al-

to

you're through

there

and

not

backs

at

the

to

up

backs

and

of

ball

the

you

are

hole, and

up

opened

speed

get

Devoe

passing done;

right

you

and

speak

to

play

long

takes

to

open

in

Being

depends
make

well

no

is

plunging

Quarter

there's

always;

idea

forwards

ball's

squirming through.

course,

any

Mills

way

the

see,

The

the

the

not

isn't

hurdUng.
before

hit

Here, explain

"

get all tied up."

"No

pass,

the

at

get into

we

what

see;

little farther

quarter.

! if

tion.
close-forma-

play from

"

position is

center-guard, and

"

Let's

in?

come

your

it's

morning."

Neil.

directly behind

"

"

No," laughed Sydney,

Of

eyes.

ability
to

be

like

of

on

streak

the
your

of

lightning."
"Well,

maybe

it's aU

right," said

Neil

doubtfully,

186

it looks

but

like

BEHIND

THE

LINE

mix-up.

Who

gets the ball in this play

here?"
^

Right

half.

Left

and

center

to

guard

who

carries

can

be

of

the

make

ball.

end

diversion.

and

end

of

ahead

instead.

left-

between

Full-back

Of

follows.

Quarter

around

made

plunges through

left tackle

between

through

half

right half,
the

course

do

What

goes

play
think

you

it?^'
**A11

but

right;

"

Fd

think

ought

the

have

to

ball."

"You

would

"The

laughed Sydney.
hasn't

been

know

whether

hand

at

used.

and

no

I think.

"

the

But

Oh,

no;

hills;I

nowadays

exclaimed
draw

of got

I'm

no

fly.

And

authority on

I dare

don't

say
it is.

it's

try my

know."

you

smart.

are

you

and

little cakes
it

it

"

this

don't

I sometimes

"Well,
nice

pies

^looksplausible,
of

sort

thing.

Are

"

it to Devoe?

in football
you

Neil.

particular play

myself.

it up

good.

any

all those

I could

suppose

good thing.

"Oh,

be

show

to

I'll show

it would

than

going

"But

sort

this

"

right,"

the

to

went

is, I

fact

more

things

you

play

inventing plays, just for fun,

"Really?"
I could

the

when

It may

use.

no

It's hard

to

find

be

as

old

anything

as

new

plays."
know,"

I'll tell you,

said

Syd,

you

Neil.
let

"Maybe
me

have

it's

this, and

it to Mills."

I'd

rather

not," protested Sydney, reddening.

SYDNEY

''Of

of it

thought
"

me

it doesn't

course

he's

But

"Well

amount

say

"

persuaded.

let

Come,

good chap."

couldn't

But

"

dare

anything;

to

long ago."

him, like

it to

137

STRATEGY

he hasn't," Neil

maybe

show

STUDIES

let

you

him

think

did

you

it?"

''No; I'd
But

don't

and

see

be

up

afraid

be

you

Mills; he's

of

fine

where

to

"

By

"

He's

the

and

looked

didn't
"

laid

himself

he's

he'd

Mills

Neil's

bit

the
he

after

him, and

the

two

Neil

likened

Mills

to

shell.

Neil

To-day,

to-night?

Neil.
to

something

say

courage.

stay in his

room

that

now

Don't

made

you're

himself,but
was

getting

after Neil

humored

duty

"

rather

under

had

the

him

Ever

well

you

too

since

inquire daily

to

crusty

all right when

right,

night."

forenoon.

getting very

crab

all

to-morrow

it his

were

I've

forget

following

had

"Paul's

Neil.

I guess

careless.

"

called

told

"

Paul

wanted

found

does," answered

accident

he

where's

he

he

the

across

said.

Good-night.

much.

"

answered

though

Finally

think

he

"Oh,

only

he

asked,

Come

chap.

lay.

cap

Cowan,"

as

dare.

I should

up,"

he

way,"

callingon

Sydney

and

his coat

it.

"

Sydney agreed, and, arising,swung

study

explain

to

me

night, will you?

to-morrow

me

asked

if he

tree

acquainted.
on

the

got under

side,
out-

the

shell.

reported

on

his state

of health

138

BEHIND

spirits,he

and

it

nodded
Not

bad;

"

No,

I couldn't

time.

some

amined
ex-

he

Then

clever.

rather

if I

you've

Maybe

did

Who

killed.

be

to

was

seen

him.

the

boy.

"

it; you?

Burr

Sydney

around

cripple;goes

tricycle."

I've

"Yes,

played?
"

seen

he's

been

if that's

But

here,

He's

will.

life."

he

^has

"

opened

Mills

And

so

wonder

has
that

gathered

about

gridiron

tactics

take

be

to

never

the
and

said

Mills

him

try again.

gether.
alto-

course.

I'll

see

"

Neil.

Jones

want

to

see

kicked

Mills

got
ball!

"

and

Neil

big study-tableand
and

by

up

the

and

talked
art

and

crippled

Sydney

long
of

it.

Mills^

diagrams," laughed
was

haps
Per-

"

praised Sydney's production

plays.

again."

this; I

strategy

is, of

encouraged.

moment?

this

evening

it

evening,"

at

tell him

to

who

this

in for

me

concerned

ought

It's

original; that is,not

try his hand

look

he's

it's not

here

wonderful.

is rather

Burr's

as

to

Let

want

freshman

to

all his

crip

this

but

fellow

coming

thinks

"and

the

could

you
"I

far

as

tell him

and
"

so

good play, Fletcher,

him

he

in astonishment.

"Well,

Look

does

But

"

Never;

his eyes

He

Mills

Sydney's diagram.

out

head.

his

it.

LINE

carefully, silently, for

"

did
on

brought

THE

about

inventing

encouraged

"

let

But

head

the

coach,
Our

after.

into

come

the

behind

play

field

about

it.

Her

him
backs

two

the

other

of

means

but

If we're

defensive;
end

goal

run

found
to

we've

got

and

now

distance.

close-formation

jab

we

the

point

"

runner

So

the

and

lots of

offense

we're
of

The

of attack.

think, plays covering

For
every

find

found

that

trying;

is to
our

heavier

close-formation

phase.

And

think,
quickly

and

their

or

call it

^is,
we
holes

open

run

^we'U

"

an

on

within

us

quick

"

the

on

rely
get

up

name

concentrate

the

to

by

score

better

before

can

can

still

and

working

idea

through
opponents

trio,
line

got to play

punting

is to

play

our

put

want.

we

we've

game

we're

stop tackle-back

to

find.

things;

play

that

and

our

we

haven't

we

men,

that

is, unless

far

several

for want
can

slower

then

Then

field-goal.The

best

win

that

it

When

quarter, hits

the

and

of those

center-guard hole,

and

it.

eleven

hundred

one

fashion.

play

to

second

one

take

pounds

going

the

about

will

our

half

tried

haven't

we
^

and

of

stopping

We've

means.

the

front

about

ten

she's

taught

weigh

She

going right through

some

will

him, tandem

with

joined by
it's

in

up

we've

and

line

but

enough,

each.

will

Eobinson

light.

the

in

bad

tackles

we're

what

twenty-third weighing

man

way

just

see

but

good

the

will

jou

the

on

to

more

eighty-fivepounds
range

is

it. That's

tackle-back
to

that

material

eight poimds
more

^^so

situated," said

we're

first how

tell you

me

139

STRATEGY

STUDIES

SYDNEY

sarily
neces-

weight
we

so, while

have,
a

at

good

CHAPTER

XIV

MAKES

Neil's

Despite

the

for

swelled

day
of

were

in

looked

wonderfully

up

what

and

of

Devoe

with

their
The

now

was

in

half

after

which

wise

and

Woodby,

hour

an

the

had

changed
and

was

still

of

some

stood

to

"

clothes
and

stay

to

well

again,

and
took

tarried

merely

most

themselves

preliminary

the
of

the

Mills

pleased

practise

being

Each

little

day
closed

behind

make-up
since

changed.

had

complicated

of

the

the

game

Some
141

there

gates,

looking

emerged

coaches

season

more

game."

"big

The

not

were

merely

store

away

favor

secret

solemn.

coaches

mater.

during

assistant

very

the

with

on

alumni,

came

went

alma

the

of

**

unburdened

in
for

prepared

eleven

use

discarded

been

system

to

the

whom

their

but

advice,

devotion

of

tion
prepara-

went

year

of

Some

Tillage,

having

signals

others

wise.

Field,

patriotic

called

much

the

ranks

by

help,

the

.and,

overnight,

day

to

Devoe

in

quarters

Erskine
of

The

real

around

from

conflict

enthusiasm.
from

whom

absence

crowning

and

vigor

CALL

very

varsity
with

positions

143

BEHIND

however, permanentlj filled.

werei

had
while

firmly established

the

him

to

right tackle.

at

the

Stone

team.

Foster

left half in
Paul

effective.

erratic.

was

as
listlessly

His
he

to

One
cause

good

as

chief

although light, was

that

afraid

was

of

of

the

coaches

line

hard

nothing.

excellingPaul

by

and

by

sure

his

on

as

to

be

desired,but

and

yet

as

Gillam,
a

In

fact

he

the

time

the Eobinson

gave

so

heads.

their

Neil.

line-bucker

that

next

shake

save

liant
bril-

was

to

any

feet,

often

him

with

his

style of

Paul's

was

ing
mov-

giving

played finely,the

he

side

fault

day

in that

solved

line-plungingwas

goal-kickingleft something
was

He

position of

the

substitute.

his

The

for

other

Neil's.

to

and

fast runner,

and
he

similar

very

hard,

last year

tackle, Devoe

fixtures.

finallybeen

the

from

second

the

to

left

were

man

for

first choice

over

at

quarter,

had

Neil

there

place to Gillam,

went

finding a

of

place of

over

at

eminently suited

became

Tucker

end,

plaj left-guard,

to

role

Graham

left

at

problem

play was

found

ing
instance,Brown-

For

right

Stowell

veteran

rightend, and
The

his

deposed Carey

center, and

at

LIKE

THS

hurdler
cation
indi-

every

game

arrived.
One
he

was.

cause

of Paul's

worried

about

requiredcourses,
of sixteen
were

seven

hours

his studies.
in

He

all,making

each

the

playing was

uneven

week;

and
stumbling-blocks,

but
he

was

that

taking only

necessary

Greek
was

fact

an

and
in

the

ance
attendmatics
mathe-

daily

fear

MAKES

well

where

enough
time

enough

forbidden

himself

find

lest he

absorbing subject of making

and

things that

one
"

for

give

grinding

much

so

In

of

There

no

was

he

the

his

time^ the

hours

few.

wondered

He

the

give
all-

hundred
ing
remainhow

himself, managed

as

to

books.

to

his

with

varsity and

busy

as

didnH

simply
what

knew

the

all too

quite

had

MiUs

men

up

were

time

one

took

"

seemed

who

Neil,

lay;

study. But^ somehow^

to

He

plaj football.

to

trouble

the

143

CALL

talks

weekly evening
counseled

strongly

had

he

excuse,

attention

asserted, for

football

the

to

study.

to

of

any

the

didates
can-

shirking lessons.
"

On

that

fresh

does
I

who

captain
and

that

without
the
go
to

but

did

to

in hand

hand

that

I do

say

this matter,

say,

stand

not

scholars.

every
that
And
none

of

to

study

students
Healthful

with

of you

that

need

get into difficulties with

has

feel

the

sensible

been

has

any

class;
almost

athletics

each

mean

athlete,.

an

been

are

living

I don't

understand

we

that,

attainment.

athlete

every

in his

me

and

football

one

for

in

go

student

successful

now

to

ence,
experi-

my

first few

exercise

scholarly

almost

not

proved
who

sleep, good

In

better.

the

has

for

training,

physical work, should

known

among

in

are

you

regard

hard

have

experience

same

f ul student.

you

able

you

that

proper

plenty

exception,

best

say

air, and

glad

am

vrtth

Kving

make

fact

the

contrary,

are

you

food,
and

the

success^

other

in

surprise if,should

faculty over

your

'

studies,

144

BEHIND

I ref use,

deal

to

men

as

THE

shall, to intercede

with

who

honest, hard-working

and

that

that

proves

other

sacrifices class
a

while,

but

And

on

afternoon

end

for
is

top of that

which

his

Paitl

Dejib

You

November

and
as

obeyed

left the
with
to

bowing

requested

Yours

that
about
to

the

office it
resolve

mandate

November

J^ 190 L

was

with

regular

himself

acquaintance.

And

he

less than

forced

to

too

showed

that

time,

frequently.

was

for
as

he
a

result

he

well

Dean,

office hours,

Dean,^^

trifle
confer
an

and

When

intense

relief

his

studies

the

merest

to
on

had

week

heart.

far, Uving

thus

was,

also

so

of

thereafter

self-gratulationwas

Cowan

sinking

sensation

Dean

as

the

on

Levett,

with

the

himself

text-books, and

less

there

respectfully,

and

his

one

and

here

call

to

the

5th, during

resolution; but

his

received

College,

apply

keep

for

do

may

had

filled in

follows

to

who

man

work

Paul

"Ephbaim

he

crew

losing investment."

as

are

"

Paul

talked,

have

Gale.
Sib:

Tuesday,

or

athletic

''Ebsuni

*^Mb.

plajer

warning

was

I want

experience

own

whom

printed postal card,

pen,

behalf.

My

with

football

standing

in the

the

with

students.

coachers

the brUliant

in jour

honest, hard-working athletes^

are

and

of

LINE

gone

early.
with
unusual

Paul

saw

It
the

up

by,

to

haps
perbe

may
Dean

at

application
each

other

MAKES

November

On

just

Gth,

weeks

two

prior

of

and

in

and

town

rather

of

bad

Yale

the

get

New

at

coaches

that

formations
of the

none

up

her

need

But

persuade

only expect

the

tackle-back

line

play

material.

year

and
"

If

steady
''we

had

might hope

they'llget
before

three

it

the

to

jump

her

Cowan,
get
on

gets agoing."

us,

going

to

Perhaps
ries.
emissa-

way

it

in

and

our

having
theless,
never-

the

of

Purple

breaking

up

Robinson's

altogether

of

last

well-nigh impregnable,

good

line

as

Carey,"

tear

up

men.

heavy

said

through; but,

fear, and

nary
ordi-

displayed

enough,

reckoned

backs

our

to

with

that

all

almost

were

men

more

Two

used

team

saw

some

found

backs

Browning,

as

and

composed

Artmouth's

we

her

party

unless

Artmouth

game

eager

of the Erskine

speedily discovered.

was

heavy, and

was

was

credited

one

defeat,

were

tackle-back, and

Erskine

them

all

reticent.

was

rumor

the

had

against the

it

been,

of

which

College-

to

Devoe

Robinson

that

have

may

journeyed

following Saturday.

presence

instead

tricks

sleeve.
to

the

invitation

the

at

Artmouth.

Robinson

But

ever,
Neil, how-

0.

"

party, and

plays

discovered

However

the

Erskine

game,

11

nursing

was

the

he

play

also of the

of

her

Devoe,

and

Erskine.

on

Robinson

contest, for,

Haven

were

inkling

an

the

Robinson

knee,

coaches

spring
her

watched

with

with

company

after

and

accident

Nell's

week

defeated
that

witness

not

to

and

played Arrowden,
did

one

145

GALL

our

and

Devoe,
as

it

is,

offense

146

BEHIND

'^

to

only course,"answered

The

get

perfectthe

to

the

so

vigorthe
back

styleof

its distance time

running.
concealing

team, playingtackle-

was
warriors,

varsitycould put
The

after time.

renewed

with

much

too

and

up,

got
and

evolved

coaches

playsdesignedto stop it,but

tried several

we

and it's justpossible

work

to

Robinson's

that the

defense

went

the second

But

day.

next

after the

for any

and Mills

Jones

way,

of

as

them."

to fool

that we'll manage

well

as

has the merit

is

ooaches,

kicking and

at

until it's under

pointof attack

And

backs

close-formation

Luckilythat

''

of the

one

and put starch into the line

to work

and

can,

LINE

THE

proved

none

reallysuccessful.
Neil

returned

shoulder

to

practisethat afternoon,his right

protectedby

which

was

didn't

get

the

take part in

of

cause

the

near

coat

gain some
USeH.

and

try

work

kick

to

of the

was

over

had

been

to
trying,he declared,

met

with

enough success

for
minus

one
practise,

to

then

was

set to

accuracy

as

barrassed
em-

though

kick left-handed.

demonstrate

But

he
he

that,givenopportunity

learn
eventually

may

right

which
difficulty
he felt

to

kicking

his

ball with

He

allowed

was

the reader will button

slightidea
When

contrivance

good-naturedfun.

and
signalpractise,

inside his

he will

much

leather

line-up,
however, but

goalsfrom placement.If
arm

wonderful

to

kick

goals

anythingexcept feet.

That

happened to

be

one

of Paul's ^^off days,"and

MAKES

Tvay lie

the
him.

He

played exasperatedthe

could

that Gillam
the

positionof

back

several

Neil, Paul

second

to be

the

in turn

eleven.

himself
five

days a

the Yale

fact
With
the

from

worried

him

be sent

or

safe,however,

was

for

still laughed at Neil's demand

he

he would

game

week.

Oillam
displace
He

alarmed

evident

be ousted

and
put into the line-up,

that before

the

questionthat

for Simson

days more,

coaches and

expected to

half,and

he would

the

to

from

outplayinghim

left

whether

was

hide

not

was

of

return

147

CALL

determined

was

himself

prove

rior
supe-

to Gillam.

The
desk

the

in his

the

priorto the
the

the

between

agreement

requiredto

were

making

room

in
participate

to

were

to

followingmorning, Friday,Mills

be

He

him.

morning

had

strange sounds

the

collegessuch

almost

merely

was

his

in obedience

open

the door and swung

boy'sface

to

was

in his

an

the listbefore

in

alightwith

usuallypale cheeks.

forward

to recopy

work

when

followed

request, Sydney Burr

sparkledwith excitement;there
Mills

upon

assembly,and

Then

himself

weeks

two

decided

been

lists

in

completedthe

outside his door.

According

later than

all the coaches

and,

The

game.

rival

at

playerswho

Eobinson

playershad

The

evening before by

list of

exchangednot

contest.

his task this

out

seated

was

on

knock,

pushed

his crutches.

eagerness,

was

he heard

even

jumped

and his eyes

dash

up

and

But Sydney paid no

easy-chair.

of color

wheeled

heed to it.

CHAPTER

TELLS

AND

Millb's

face

XV

OF

lighted

DBEAH

and

up,

stretched

he

forth

an

hand.

eager

''Good

for
sit

though;
There

we

Now

are.

If

here

down

don't

you

first, before

Let's

Burr!

you,

give

sticks.

those

me

on,

ahead."

fire

Fd

mind,

show

and

first

Hold

it.

see

like

the

you

tell

to

you
said

diagram,"

all

it

about

his

Sydney,

dancing.

eyes

"All

let's

right;

hear

head

coach

puzzler.

After

the

replied

it,"

smiling.
"

I'd

Well,"
the

seen

of

hopes
^

'

"

tried

stopped

all

whole

all

time;

'

of

sorts

realized
it would
11

commented

have

the

if

that

to

be

about

gave

up

Mills^ laughingly,

drawing

paper

had

continued

notions,"

of

reams

been

antidote."

an

"

good,"

nonsense.

it's

tackle-back

playing

finding

Antidote's

spoiled
was

second

ever

"

Sydney,

began

that

tandem

before

was

though,
going
it hit
149

"

and

But

diagrams.
idea,

right

stopped

Sydney,

our

all

to

it
the

be

line."

150

BEHIKD

And

had

the

sat

all

at

^'And

in

the

much

more

we

were

that

instead
And

of

She

to

was

It

that

nobody
was

so

covered

big ball, the

Dean

is," said Sydney

There

was

side, and

the

got into

Mr.

attention
with

that

sweaters

whistled

and

doubtfully,

others,

and
at

*'

it

Neil

least

we

was

gridiron.

and

and

he

ing
say-

was

distinctly
But

sweater.

one

time,

likely I

leas

rules

and

"

the

all
the

after
was

sort

Fletcher

bit, when
like

round,
line

got into
of

like

and

the

mother.

my

me

on

And

him.

to

like

about

only

wear

grass

was

Preston

to

last

I couldn't

there

football

the

that

the

It seemed

there, and

was

get

Thafs

President

the

I had

more

up
saw

to

it'll be

out

on

Devoe

fair;

time

head.

all marked

sweaters

more

used

I dreamed.

and

guess;

went

bed

awful

awfully funny

was

things imtil

Jones, and

President

all the

had

I guess

arms

there, I

players should

paid aily

and

Hall, only

wad

Mr.

when

then

and

Grace

night

an

it

apply

playing footbalL

was

my

And

it wasn't

had

sweaters

said, the

she

And

it

and

get hurt.

that
said

as

when

so

place and

was

kept sewing

because,

and

move

in

mother.

my

eleven

in

than

you

after

played it,and

floor,and

and

until

dream

up

everybody

Dean,

last

last I did.

ever

all done

was

do

couldn't

stood

the

But

but

saj^

things

had,

sleep.

as

up

over

the first time

way

paper

diagrams

idea,

I had

all the

to

the

that's
bed.

to

LIKE

nodded.

Mills
''I

THE

thirty of them,

"

^that

line.

on

one

on

the

TELLS

AND

didn't

It

other.

fear

object for

**

other

side

got

ball, either.

Then

started

for

and

Proxy

"

lifted

me,

right

me

round

I'

Down
the

"

and

Mills.

and

there

was

up

and

till I

awful

an

lungs

and

hurled

of

air,
I'd

thought

woke

was

me

the

bump,

and

"

'

it

flying through

round,

hold

took

"

any

see

I think

least

potatoes,

I went

round

'em

they
weren't

I didn't

Smash

at

"

knew

they

And
^

course

President

of

bag

top of my

the

Neil
the

mean

crowd.

At

laughed,

the

tackle-back
That?

Sydney

yelled
I

up.

was

occurred
!

the
up,

back

and
to

breath.

took

what

know

dream,

all

had
on

that

me

sudden,

that

was

Then

happened.
like

flash

the

way

to

"

"

What?

jumped
went

and

first I didn't

"Why,
*'I

of

yelled

that

like

and

lightning,it

"

^I

"

Then

at

remembered

stop

to

floor."

Mills

of

bunch, and

together.
one

At

us.

other

stop.

never

some

up

the

at

turning

on

into

stood

really; they just all

Neil

like

said

nightmare,"

the

playing tackle-back, although

were

they

didn't

afraid."

was

have

what?"

Then
"The

'

they'd say
did

151

DREAM

quite fair^ but

seem

you

"Well,

OF

bag

asked
of

bed

act," laughed

potatoes

lighted the
to

Mills, looking puzzled.

and

pencil

got

gas,

worked

it

out.

Sydney.

and

And

paper

here

it is."

He

drew

carefully folded

slip

of

paper

from

his

153

B"HIKD

handed

pocket and
as

the

coach

head

"

Mills

the end
"I
think

it

he

once

think

"

Ttie diagram, jnrt

minute

him

the

on

you've got it, Burr,"

boy.

nightmare

will

at Erskine

for

pardon

beg

myself.''

your

He

in

wonderinglj

looked

you^regot it,my

here

Mills.

it,is reproduced here.

for

laid it beside

should, yoto

up

to

"

he

happened

LINE

across

received

studied

grunted;

it

THE

his

at

up

be

; I
own

the

he

once

In

Sydney.

desk.

said

he

If this works

several

placed

silence;

forgot.
chair

the way

out

luckiest

years.

quietly, **I

thing

Draw
FU

your

do

beside

the

it

thaf

diair
ing
mov-

Sydney's

Mills

stiiditil

tlie

iliu^rn

"

fcl
I-

".

"

".

TELLS

AND

handed

and

the
tell

will yonj

"Fve
that

our

from

second

team

back

other,

into

goes
ball

tackle,

to

through

About

"Well,

now

place

we

and

guard

our

behind

him,

making

stands

almost

back

here.

When

at

jump

the

and

their

In

words,

can

get imder

up,

and,

line.''

ball

we

way.
I'm
is

linel

our

left

of
and

guard,

in

the

they

the

get through

on

quarter
off

stop

on

on

in

put

plunge
if

do

we

grimly.

the

full-back

our

other
our

Quarter

ball

to

to

them

half

tandem

tandem

tween
be-

line

our

own.

our

play

opposing

passes

to

passes

Mills

half

tandem

away

ball

"

and

Our

the

as

would

answered

tackle,

the

going

and

they

the

behind

one

Quarter

our

is put

quarter

unless

tackle^tandem

of

hits

moment

other

positions

"

indeed,"

yards through

ten

the

Now,

right half,
what

lessly:
breath-

tackle-tandem.

the

starts.

That's

would,

"They

for

rather

in

right half,

stop them, isn't it ?

couldn't

began

players

occupies

maybe

or

line.

our

pocket, and

tandem

their

this,

over

is."

guard-tackle hole.

their

play

just go

night's happenings, drew

the

tackle, and

of

Now

idea

Kobinson

the

left

"

your

153

DBEAM

him.

over

his

placed

Full-back,

to

just what

me

ready pencil

"

diagram

still excited

Sydney,

OF

starts

just
their

over

runner.

before

they
follow

and

right

my

calculations, that

its

own

half

the

at

side

of

the

AXD

''But

TELLS

he

thought

OF

was

155

DBEAM

friend

of

yours," laughed

him

to

get it; he

Mills.
"

So

ask

is; that's why

he

better.

anything

speed.

fellow

The

quick, and
And
"

goal

before

However,

the

"

got the

undertakes
have

and

weight

it has

got

and

weight

be

to

the

mighty
of

plenty

be

able

is over,

if I'm

man

for that

find

must

we

grit.

need

place, I've

two

at

get

field-

mistaken.

greatly

not

to

doubt.

no

will

least,for

one

chance

it,"said

through."

game

I suppose

kick,

him

want

we'll

for

to

find

matter,

I don't

But

too.

game

can

last the

never

to

so

not

we

that

For

think

and

up

that

he's

won't

NeiL"

Yes,

used

And

he's got

that's

I want

not.

"

^I wish

I had

at

Sydney longingly.
"

I wish

all the

feel
the

punishment

Robinson

that

can't

badly
rest

had," said

you

of

Sydney

you

the

us

would

play;

with

I think

give
long

as

pleasure, and

you'd

you.

as

honor

you've got

game

flushed

"

Mills.

you

stand

But

don't

can

teach

enough."
Mills

took

work

cut

up

the

out

for

diagram again.
^

Guard

and

he

said.

them,"
be

brought

Bobinson's
it's

into

tackle
''

And

it,too.

will

have

I'm

not

sure

There's

one

formation, and

coming

as

they'llhave

to

long

as

it's

that
a

their

is

we

tandem.

that

left

end

good feature
imagine

can

If

about
where

stop them

we

try the ends, and I don't think

can't

they'llmake
"

166

BEHIND

much

there.
how

see

get about

can

to

pretty well

Yes," Sydney

Good.

Then

Do

Sydney's
how
^

voice

smiled

gently

*^I

don't

better

than

attend

it, we

I'm

You

afternoon

with

hand

"

MiUs

want

to

see

in

answered

right," he

quite steady,

not

^if

use."

any

other's

the

certain.

pleasure, for

And

wheel

and

I'll

if

and

he

see

that

the

time

weak

place

But

it.

can

you

there's

we'll

there

out

it

play;
a

remedy

play

want

you

find

we

yourself
what

me

how

after

then,

together

tell

know

look

this

know

You

you

and

out

try and

to

of

it's yours;

do;

us

out

answered:

all get

can

"

coming

time?

the

didn't

all

guessed

come

day.

every
each

be

can

he

as

you

on,

his eyes.

time

the players.

to

oughtn't

think;

You

go.

for

the

giving

afford

he

to

were

Mills

Perhaps

in

could

you

tears

really think

to

and

that, despite his efforts,was

you

"

went

from

prevent you

to

dropped;

afford

can

he

crutches, can't yout

your

afternoons

eyes

the

near

on

and

try to-morrow,

Burr,"

way,

what's

think

you

this

answered,

field in the

this?

LINB

give

the

By

"

the

we'll

Well,

it works.

THB

you

and

back

be

ready

buggy

waiting

you."
"Oh,

not!

I
at
"

no,
can

all

Well,

really!"

get

to

tired;
if

the
in

you're

Sydney
field and

protested.
back

easily,without

fact, I

need

certain

of that," answered

the

"Fd

rather

ting
get-

exercise."
the

coach.

AND

^Bnt

tiine

any
let

bad,

again

Sydney

himself

to

you

come

and

Devoe

the

'

antidote

door, followed

the

to

other

the

over

by Mills,

legs worth

the

whole

of

rest

believe, and

if he

I'm

added,

mistaken, he's

list and

then

That

for

talked

over

And

put

some

his

and

silent

Now

feature

chair
at

and
ten

his

discussed

in
called

of his discovery, sat

with

o'clock

went

"

less
un-

this

many

back

and

it from

start

it to

pieces

end

the

for

to

mail

coaches

tore

on

listened

others

desk,
to

assembled

the

when

"

Sydney's play,

save

him

to

show

can

to-day.

room

any

contented,

it

'I

hasn't

can't get about

to

antidote

street.

it up

returned

together again, and

Sydney,
of

beside

it

If he

he

finish,objected, explained, argued,

and

"Still, I'm

more

he

football

done

in Mills's

night

captain

the

as

then:

If he

great deal

play

the

made

Almighty

down

pity.

lot of brains.

can't

he

And,"

to.

the

he's

us

of

object

an

mentioning,

by giving him

And

and

door

the

at

slowly

muttered.

he

he's

that

sure

so

"

chap!

it.Burr,"

make

can

stood

trundled

he

as

if you

He

"Good-by."

"Poor

to

like

thiB

"

weather's

the

or

I'll have

this

talk

eight this evening,

Mills.

watched

how

I'd

can,

evening.

we'll

swung

About

said

like

this

you

mind,

got into his tricycle.

^

not

jour

157

DREAM

Well, good-by."

again.

and

change
If

here, and

coaches

OF

know.

me

here

around

you

TELLS

indorsed
an

tion
explana-

his crutches

complimentary
to

Walton

it.

and

marks;
re-

bed,

158

only

midnight,

Had

UNB

until

long

after

at

would
the

have

shouted

day

and

at

been

and

the

with

the

it and
for

the

predicted. Every

to

from
and
teach

and

after

it, and

each

day

the

new

the

Day
the

terest
bit-

of coaches

and

after

day

struggling, panting

happier

had

than

he had

almost

resulted

for

candidate

end

the

the

the
every

position

half

faith

in confusion.

up

just

play, but

the

The

call

or

had

of

Sydney
had

faird been

more

down

narrowed
it

that

Mason,

and

these

of

the

attack, emerging

brunt

weeks
Mills

confidentlyto work,

time

as

pile-up beaten, breathless, scarred,

Two

varsity

front

the

at

it.

in

varsity honors

dozen

choice

it, had

call

to

come

hammered

team

had

two

some

bore

triumphant.
a

like

its inventor's

thankless

Neil, Paul, Gillam, and

day

fought

the

they

as

piled it

x"i

tandem

in

scene.

scolded;

followed

second

had

But

and

vindicated

little

tried.

busy

little army

and
criticizing,

the

for

the

tackle-tandem, and

volunteers

begged

second

day

get behind

to

very

the

during

in his memory.

had

varsity stopped
for

had

town-clock

time

any

managed

the

after

antidote,"

afternoon

Every
line

time

the

tried

had

crutches

on

any

For

at

witneesed

lines,instructingand
been

Erskine

fumed, pleaded

youth

happy.

varsity and

enemies; day

the

and

and

weeks

two

fence, you
day

excited

been

you

following

after

THB

lie awake

to

struck

BEHINI)

and

is short

and

the

others

it seemed

in

time

went

that

was

but

happy

which

to

bravely

success

was

AND

to

the

justify

the

game
the

new

play^

TELLS

for

attempt;

the

three

had

varsity
and

OF

days
last

at

159

DREAM

at

son
Robin-

the

attained

dared

coaches

before

perfection
last

to

in

for

hope

victory.
But

had

witnessed

meanwhile

happened,

other

and

the

we

inception

things,
must

of

return

Sydney

and

pleasant
to

the

Burr's

unpleasant,

day

which

"antidote/*

had

XVI

CHAPTER

BOBIN80N

Sydney

When
himself

of

that

wide

were

sills, and

from

clouds

dust.

of

court-house

and

half-past

of

College

and

ten,

study.
foot

his

tall

The

but

there

the

door

was

still

was

left

crutches

building

that

under

and

ajar

tricycle
his

down

and

arms,

the

he

thrust

by
ters,
shut-

vehicle

lined

the

recitation

minutes

twenty
clock

the

Lane,

his

had

appointment
dis-

in

green

leaves

He

dingy-faced

he

and

of

dead

and

broom

wheels

Walton.

to

So

his

the

back

the

the

over

Elm

pillars

foi^

study

about

through

white

of

the

tricycle

path,

good

out

of

hope

front

floor

sound

his

Street,
drifts

to

Hall.

putting
into

his

so

according

leisure

retraced

the

through

sidewalks,
at

turned

Washington

across

rustling

Sydney

his

hanging

the

the

in

of

first

were

came

its

him

the

curtains

with

lodgings

telling

trundled

he

morning

Keil's

to

of

within

PBOTE8T

that

and

the

and

the

Street

windows

open,

Mills

youth

the

But

tune.

left

Elm

along

finding

BENDS

on

the

by

the

of

tower

steps,
self
him-

swung

corridor

it

to

open

his

with

ROBINSON

^Please

Toice,

lie

for

on

you?
Neil

and

place
the

dragged

sat

'First
And

head

in

they
the
minds

the
But

Tis

the

decided

faculty
and

eh?

"

of

hour

an

history
there,

go

to

of

decided

!"

up?

with
the

take

Come,

be

Tour

face

How

dare

it.

when

joy

express

shall

alL

"

what's

to

kidnaped?
to

That's

football.'

ahead;

abolish

been

crack.

to

Rome

over

back,

your

you'd polished

nutshell," he

mad.

Down

countenance

length

full

at

thud.

upon

play

to

reading.

was

Hello,

though

as

to-morrow?
iti

he

listen

comfortable

more

it is in

* *

to

way

Here

begin

whistle.

you're bubbling

Haven

with

your

quarter

see

ribs

your

into

is in the

jumps

one

Hear

bright

other

War?

room

your

Say, Syd,

"

stretched

paper

face

your

Pretty good,

allow

to

over

been

signal,then

And

you

"

the

Some

as

had

He

up.

wasn't

pillow

window-seat.

big

'^

looks

surprise.

just been

Sorry

continued, waving

**

"Fve

said;

paint/' expostulated

the

in

161

PROTEST

you."

"Have

this."

of

Sydney paused

"Well,"

looking

careful

be

and

SENDS

struggling

during

language?

Have

they
with

can

Have

news.

Latin

little

Punic

yourself.

delightful

an-

my

over

second

the

unbosom

me

in

Or

has

changed

their

'em

New

Bright

to

Eyes,

out

ROBINSON

and

Mills

Devoe

SENDS

to

anytlxing without

do

to

expect

163

PROTEST

his

(Neil's) services.
"If
for

hope

that

will

they

could
would

have
I'm

helpful.

very

disaster?

have

not

inspired
the

Of

but

played,

sure

what

behind, Syd,

me

and

rout

save

side-line

leave

course,

realize
the

my

presence

and

have

been

very,

would

have

been

quite

them

score

they

can

on

different, Syd."
"Yes,"

the

laughed

"Tour

and

levity

"say

other;

fifty

ing."
noth-

to

mourned

disrespect pains me,"

Neil.
But
Mills
to

despite the
and

them.

defensive

new

her

make

steady
backs

and

Devoe

encourage

the

and

had

borne

had

gained ground

under

^themselves

punts,
been

was

said, the
Ted

had

quite

and

The

quick
several

been

and

Foster, Erskine's

nobly.
in

Blue's

the

the
of

back-field

had

ends

down

getting

whose

end

around

But,

contest

plucky quarter,

Gillam

wings, and

The

tries

bud.

the

form,

Yale's

speedy

nipped ingloriouslyin
principal honors

best

to

Yale

the

Purple's

through

fought

of

of

try

proved

had

line

in his

to

managed

battering

severe

often

had

The

times.

much

made

been

Erskine

injury.

full-back,had

had

to

Paul

but

defeat.

found

coaches

had

attempt

the

serious

played well;

proved

No

the

of

nature

associate

several

had

at

the

play,

distance

without

Mason,

overwhelming

when

had

all

fallen

handling

164

of

BEHIND

the

back

running
of

tide

been

had

team

of

THE

wonderful^ and
had

punts

battle.

On

the

had

and

turned

the

had

put

up

displayed plenty

advanced

well

catching

once

Erskine

game;

herself

shghvn

whose

than

more

whole,

goody fast, well-balanced

grit, had

LINE

in

team-play,

of

and

""

had

practicallyunscathed

emerged

from

hard-fought

contest

On

Neil

Monday

minutes, displacing Paul

of

one

the

heroic

deal

good
warmed

for

threaten
Neil
in

coaches,
and

take

to

of

trotted

who

was

Simson

was

out.

obliged
On

the

goal

up

the

field he

hobbling blithely

the

almost

knd

yards

twenty

delight of

When
ran

the

about

banged

placement, anjl,

from

bar.

the

over

had

he

remonstrate

to

to

him

after

second's

and

form

not

it and

about

few

bothered
but

two,

forgot

at

leather

back

shoulder
or

right shoulder,

the

sent

he

chance

his

work

him

given

was

spite

that

so

His

first minute

the

to

up

it around

the

did

left-half,but

at

tandem.

line-up for

the

into

went

turned

he
over

the

Sydney,

gridiron

on

his

crutches.
"

"

Whoal

Strategy;
"That

cried

how
was

do

"

Neil.

you

find

fine, Neil,"

Back

upl

yourself?
said

Hello, Board

of

*'

Sydney.

"What?"
"

That

goal."

"Glad

laughed.

you
"

Had

liked
no

it.
idea

was

I could

beastly nervous,"
do

it.

It's

so

he

different

ROBINSON

trying goals in
doesn't
"

he?"

whether

he
Mills

shook

his

afraid
for

sometimes

he'd

only

"I

don't

game,"

"

si'^e-line.

He

slops around

by playing.

back

me,

I'm

know'

Have
"

you

Sydney

he's

going

and
I

to

know

over,

with

campus

called him

was

careful
an

13

"

the

real

and
Neil

Sydney

to

never

act

crip," but

of

say

likes

consideration

just sort

he

him

never

favor

wcill;I

so

he's

Maybe

riotous

found
and

half-hour

himself
Paul.

for
in

anything

the

well."

the

when

Bobinson

doing

was

different.

him

ended

was

Neil

so

again."

^but you

"

time

he

Paul.

toward

himself

the

though

why

he's

half

because

about

the

into

get
took

do;

as

see

you

he

in

me

worried

good player, but

looks

can't

will

as

boxed," continued

lining up

are

half-contemptuous liking

he

"

because

you

it?

about

they'll let

goal, but

Gale

seems

locker-house

feelings

Do

game?

both

us

suppose

practise was

the

got

Sydney

when

sort

the

anything

Gillam's

it's because

to

for

show

say

believe

of

the

bear

sorry.

Farewell, they

tell what

After

"I'm

good

kick

"

can

better

Neil.

thought

suppose

like

growling
"

Devoe

or

"As

can

is

head.

"I'm
Neil.

you."
Gale

asked
stands

heard

you're just off practisingit

out."

him

took

"Is

If

bother

to

seem

165

PROTEST

when

game;

Oh, you'lldo.

they

SENDS

in

walking

Paul

tained
enter-

Sydney.

To

Sydney's

presence

to

rather

wound

the

remarkable

Neil

boy's
for

166

BBHIND

while

Paul; who,
careless
Paul

about

THB

kind

really

the

LINB

sensibilities

of

evidently downcast,

was

heart,

at

oftentiines

was

This

others.

downcast

too

afternoon
be

to

even

cross.
"

I guess

Well,

passed through

college.

see

finish."

is

putting

the

few

next

But
and

his

game,

heart
Neil

make

of

he

had

the

game

far

fault
small

it all

but

the

team;

back

but

down

for

silent

for

Bobinson

the

He

idea

of

possibilityof
that

now

of
not

had

he

When

going
Paul

the

felt,

for

responsible

ambition.

had

Paul

how

himself.

measure

Paul's, and

can

fact;

remained

and

worried

appearance

buckle

rarsity

and

to-morrow.

that's

Knowing

the

Street

right."

comforted

the

they

as

to

the
vailed
preinson,
Bob-

failing to

possibilitywas

probability.

his; but

the

tainly
Cer-

thought

comfort.

day's practise, in preparation for Erskine's

before

from

was

Williams

if you

and

relinquish

the

rapidly assuming

Next

in

derided

Erskine

down

and

game,

rather

be

friend's
to

he

you'll be

home.

way

to

*'

make

be

to

course,

his

Paul

contained

you,

making

began

on

the

help

upon

unnecessarily of
crowning

star

all the

gloomy

set

refused

said

me,**

glad you're back, chum,

days you'll

Paul

with

started

Neil,

up

will

weight

your

I'm

said

"Nonsense,"
Gillam

gate and

the

toward
my

it's all up

Robinson

groundless.

contest,

Gillam, Neil,

proved
and

Paul's

Mason

last

fears
started

BOBINSON

when

work

the

line-up
from

heart-brokenly
had

failed

Oillam

and

out

he

been

well

hammered

Paul

secured

friend

played

had

running
formance
missed

and
at
even

no

and

another
a

drop-kick by
the

lay
longer

only

in

the

found

exercise

left him

in

the
But

deserted

He

tandem
taken

and
listless,
been

he

the

worked

captain,
sent

frame

his

per^

He

had

yards

for

that

and

of
of

his
mind

was

off

were

of

stupid
had

the

head

thereby
Sim-

himself.

trotting about

him

some

end-

him

his

himself, and

told

his

couldnH

He

remind

to

the

twenty

bandages

the

up

only succeeded

had

worried

simply

that

that

the

on

and

remained

knew

miserable.

one

playing;

ders
shoul-

that

wander;

to

his

tied

twice

injured shoulder,

fairly cheerful

dinner

him.

his

coaches,

locker-house
at

his

had

that

Neil

was

about

had

almost

presently and

him

Neil

barest^of margins.

pad

troubles,

field, an

up

he

No,

Paul's

the

factor
leather

he

twenty-seven,

on

on

until

second's

events.

placement,

blame

disappointed
son

the

on

the
Then

upon

thoughts

slow,

tries from

two

looked

and
field-goals,

blanket

goal-kicking had

at

incident.
over

been

not

at

by

that

poorly;
his

was

once

gray

ruefully

play by allowing

Paul

in.

frayed

and

It

chance.

put

reflected

had

bench.

succeeded

wrapped

and

the

and

his

Neil

formed,

was

167

PROTEST

twice

had

plays, that

SENDS

gloom

the

off and

he

when

ran

steps..
he

Simson

found

that

observed

his

appetite had

him

gravely,

and

almost

after

168

THE

BEHIND

meal

the

he

early to-night

bettet

be

walk

bed

to

You'll

afternoon;

shoulder?
there's

"No,

No

lay

And

you

some

off

to-morrow.

take

might

the

country

to

one

trouble

trouble

no

and

off into

go

find

can't

if you

see

the

Monday.

by

to-morrow

How's

increased;

uneasiness

said:

only

"Go

trainer's

the

answered

Kefl

questioned closely.

over

irritably, and

rather
but

was

LINE

where;
some-

with

go

you.

is there?"

there,

anywhere;

just

wasn't

hungry."
"

Well,

do

you

appetite back,

away

frowning

angry

with

lodging, feeling
to

him

keep

off

But*

Neil

athletics

general

air

had

Mills

of

been

coaches

present

in

of

spite
had

had
On

nodded

had

been

that

exploded

to

front
each

in

than

your

he

too

that

but

cause
be-

usual;

in

with

night.

the

three
and

other

Simson,
ful,
cheer-

conversation

the

dinner-table.

the

bothered

was

landed

Mills's

other,

going

was

concerned

sorts

the

keep

had

steps Neil

his

to

himself

plainly worried,
to

attempts

he

with

person

pervaded

silenter

even

because

of

out

had

gloom

himself

took

angry

only

was

bomb-shell

the

you'llget

was.

the

who

showed
A

and

his

Simson

he

not

was

Erskine

and

you

and

field, and

the

because

oh, just

"

told

I've

boy."

my

turned

Neil

what

about
Erskine

thing.
some-

camp

quarters.

met

Cowan.

to-night Neil's

The
curt

two

always

salutation

ROBINSON

unheeded.

went

and

him

''

Even

one's

Cowan

from

Collegetown.

her

"

It

football

In

team,

just means,"
Neil

tidings to

had

L.

wailed

Paul,***that

and

Erskine

and

that

of

nounced
an-

on

alism.
profession-

had

it's all

noon
after-

right-guard

score

who

They

Robinson

Cowan,

Foster,

shot."

session.

letter

the

on

Neil.
be

to

arrived

the

protest of Thomas

Erskine

the

of

extraordinary
which

by

rooms.

going

was

authorities

in

letter

Mills's

he

though

met

hurried

face,

to-night," muttered

athletic

were

considering

were

toward

street

as

the

coaches

troubled

grouchy

looks

Meanwhile
the

the

up

169

PROTEST

with

Cowan,

went

"Every

SENDS

brought the
with

over

us.
.

don't
bet

know

with

Cowan

haven't

play

in his

light.

too

Burr's

place

is

Was

the

**But
"Don't

only

he's

^I'll

"

And

wel

are

fellow

We

they

c^

that

Not

does;

he

luck?

such

ever

right.

pygmy.

position, for

double-action,

he's

but

good

What

is

self-inking, cylindrical,
.

luck,
the

I'll bet

Robinson's

The

Witter, and

if

together long enough

And

but

say,

^that

"

show.

there

defense

it's rotten

to

right-guard,where

know

patent,

switch-back

of

ghost

doesn't

Witter

from

gone

the

has

typewriter!

new

my

Cowan

what

haven't

we

for

that's

us

what

to

got
get

line

oflf

that

our

will hold

toes?

It

"

it is."

varsity quarter-back groaned dolorously.

what
ask

does

me,"

Cowan
said

say?"
Foster.

asked
"I

Neil.

don't

know

what

XVn

CHAPTEB

Eobinson's
three

of

services.

of

the

the

nor

the

athletic

other

title

received

particulars

and

address

Altogether,
and

convincing,

football

the

to

had

and

the

on

right

had^

the

neither

officers

the

the

captain

letter

dis-

was

the

coaches,

doubted

really

ally
liber-

were

of

of

money

"

name

given.

were

couragingly

whose

and

the

tackle

"

questioned

and

team

left

Cowan

that

succinctly

played

Dates

supplied,

forth

academy

often

was

his

for

certain

CONFESSION

set

previous,

academy

AND

protest

years

team

PLAN

the

tain,
capof

truth

charge.
Professor

ITast,

blinked
about

the
^

gravely

sent

**Yes,*'

the

chairman

his

through

Athletic

the

of

mittee,
Com-

and

glasses

looked

room.

YouVe

minute.

the

Mills

How

for

"he

answered;
in

the

"

Cowan?

Mr.

world

he

asked.

ought
he

was

to

allowed

be

here

to

get

in

to

on

teap?"
"

Well,

thoroughly

his

year

record
before

was

gone

last,"

over,

said

as

we

Professor

believed,
Nast;
171

very

"and

172

BEHIND

found

we

nothing against
that

probable
can

ah

"

far

it

from

his

think

misled

evident

soon

was

^ah

"

it

"

Beems

he

Perhaps

us.

him

awaited

him, and

when

purpose

in

stormed

before

purported

them

while

to

and

impatiently

what

their
dis-

only

He

indignation.

authorities

Robinson

their

prove

the

explained
Cowan

honest
the

violently against

defied

Nast

were

surmise

to

them,

be

to

grave-

before

enough

him

Professor

of

group

explanations

heard

enable

to

him

calling

the
that

had

He

thoughts.

what

faced

Cowan

reached

summons

and

him.

unintentionally

however,

men

played

LINE

explain."

"

When,
faced

he

THB

then

tened
lis-

Mills

charge.

interrupted

him

abruptly.
"Do

he

Let

to

get

refuse
them

think

them.
me

to

charge. Cowan,

to

go

and

refused.

And

Professor
looked

to

what

to

it,"

they

them

here's
Nast

don't

or

you?"

to

tried

They
offered
the

i)ositionon

to

free

me

team.

result."

brightened

righteousness,

"Never

angrily.
responsible

not

else.

September;

me

the

Cowan

to; I^m

want

last

But

answered

nothing

guaranteed

relieved.

Cowan's

want

reply

It's all revenge,

coaching,

we

the

asked.
"I

"

deny

you

Mills
and

mind

what

know

is this: Did

and

refused
asked

their

to

of those
be

present

touched

by

brusquely:
What

is. Cowan.

motive

you

few

or

did

you

not

accept

PLAN

for

money

"

Yes

instant

the

the

One

show

ah

"

to

the

broad

his

ders
shoul-

with

in

fact,

you

answered

ethics

me

now;

fessor
Pro-

Milk.

be

could

question?

are

eligible

the

in.

Unless

charge

consider

you

to

be

your

only

admitted

follow

to

here

to

decide

represent

true,
un-

terms

gible.
ineli-

is

to

to

to
as

the

any

think

you

connection

not

is

play against

don't

Now,

of

Cowan

the

are

to

are

Mr.

obliged, under

not

you

course;

we

not, of course,

would

We

think

that

Robinson,

for

course

of your

I don't

athletics.

university

in

athletics,"

on

you."

position

shall

we

you

you

told

satisfaction

case,

best

academy

no

nism
antago-

or

down

all

you,"

straightforward explanation

or

glanced

He

doubt

shrugged

on

the

that

of

branch

"

only

Mills.

"

our

agreement

Kobinson;

ah

read

if I

me

Mr.

Cowan,

In

"

only

interrupted.

the

Mr.

that

faltered.

You're

all down

moment,

can

our

gaze

He

good?

not

understands

of

there.

believe

ISast

you

"Why,

replied sneeringly:

We're

"

have

us

Mills.

and

room

faces

wouldn't
"

hotly.

said

Cowan's

the

"What's
you

Cowan

please,"

no,

about

and

Let

"

an

in

team?

games

or

For

swiftly

said

absurd,"

three

played

that

on

that, please."

to

"It's

173

CONFESSION

left tackle

playing

answer

an

AND

make

with

the

judge

the

to

whether

college

in

174

Cowan

his

buttoned

spoke, facing

he

appeared quite
"

down
rid

of

'No

me.

I'm

Whether
You

now.

You'll

I sha'n't

walked

He
^It's

"

he

"

Quite,"

"

All

did

And

games

crime

and

and
I'm

you'd

and

guess,

I'd

think

that

I'm

get

right

with

you
of

out

it

If

affair.

your

it.

I've

Mills

once

resigned

from

more.

mind

with

that

tellingyou

of it,although

committed

team.

murder.

to

that

played
isn't

It

time.

every

money

ashamed

not

done

to

dryly:

playing
took

wasn't

opened

I don't

now

for

paid

get

three

talk

door
I

it

can;

been

it."

over

the latter

right

rest,

have

you

could

that's

but

asked, facing

said

the

you

did,

^ifyou

"

weep
the

to

place

beaten;

understood,

team?

the

fill my
be

everything

ineligible,I'm

eligibleor

may

of

"

said,

he

what

matter

probably

are,

you

done

have

and

me

on

heedless

when

cool.

practisebegan/'

since

Ever

blacky but

was

and

coach

head

the

he

brow

His

overcoat

trembling fingers

with

and

his seat

from

arose

LINE

THE

BEHIND

hear

you

Good-night,

gentlemen."
He

passed

"Dear

he

me,"

Nast

Professor

out.

murmured,

blinked

"dear

nervously.
how

me,

pleasant!
un-

"

Mills
"I

long.

smiled

think
I

grimly, and, rising, stretched

what

hardly

we

think

have
that

left

to

do

it ia necessary

his

won't
for

take
me

to

limbs.
very

reply

PLAN

to

the

just

accusations

let's

propose

that

end

the

of

think

of

The

out

brought by

hear

no

the

reply

we

without

reply

who

gentleman

has

the

we'll

added

and

have

have

an

plenty

to

grimly.

and

forwarded

following

the

announcement

day

next

given

was

Erskine:

at

Athletic

is not

Committee

has
the

eligible to represent
with

game

Robinson, and
received

protest was

he

the

from

made

once

wiU

with

greatly

has

decision

is

and

policy

weaken

the

guard.
player,

As
was

football

been

of the

in

withdrawn.

student

for

several

coaches

The

it is

loss

Foster

light

had
for

at

Cowan

that

committee.

fact
The

by the coaches, the captain,

have

W.

Erskine's
the

instant

Chwrman.

natural, brought

days

drilled

Nast,

football

the

and
in

said,Witter,
the

of

feared, but
the

was

Witter

and

ties
authori-

body.

as

gloom.

investigationwas

stated.

in

athletic

officials,
and, being in line with

and

the

the

influence

to

announcement,

by

college in

an

H.

steeped

Cowan

purity in athletics,should

indorsement

The

that

Robinson

team,

heartily concurred

all

of

result

allowed

been

not

the

decided

has

yesterday afternoon, and

upon

"I

Preston.

to-night

To-morrow

written

was

said

it,"

Robinson

to

this," he

and

Robinson,

of

more

business.

The

v/dA

175

CX)NFBSSION

left us."

"No,

to

AND

Hurst
the
while

situation

seized

were

tactics of
he

was

sternation,
con-

righta

good

position. Hurst, against whom

176

BEHIND

objection could

no

lacked
and

be

Hurst

the

practically certain

was

sounded

whistle

for

Meanwhile
the

to

of

withdrawal

was

couldn't

gloom

the

When

it

Paul

took

the

once

but, try

game;

backs

took

was

less

of

Cowan's

Erskine

the
the

that

from

game

left-half,played

declared

honors

the

lent
excelOillam.
but

even,

would

and

view

optimistic

he
the

an

outdo

not

it

that

contest

might, could

of

point

declared

Foster
of

The

right-guard.

the

saw

at

Neil

over

conquered

news

at

turns

Neil

he

as

and

saw

the

from

more

the

before

game

through Witter, Hurst,

last half

backs.

Paul,

and

deepened.

during

see

bench, and

whom

he

time.

came

encouraging

the

thick

so

last

piling their

not

view, and

the

the

choice,

that

knowledge

into

get

weight,

first

proved

the

0, profiting by

"

all of

was

game

and

Brown,

and

to

of

ground

Witter

with

Artmouth

tune

the

on

end

comforted

was

LINE

brought

In

experience.

THE

be

not

comforted.
All

the

upstairs

went

his fate

into

find

Neil's

himself

himself,
"

"I

"No,

Gillam's

and

so

the
wish
you

The

ears.

predicted

in

What's

for

save

sympathize

to

and

him,

it

evening,

his

good
I'd

latter

tried his best

gone

don't," said

to

he

But

decent?

"

fort
com-

would

scarcely

believed

not

were

to

Paul

Monday

on

prophecies
being

bewailed

he

Cowan,

that

lie

when

with

place.

of

period

short

convincing.

asked

Paul

fully.
dole-

Robinson."

Neil.

"You'd

rather

sit

on

jr

side-line at

the

AND

PLAN

Erskine

177

CONFESSION

than

with

play

lot of hired

sluggers."
"Much
don't

about

know

you

the

get into

it," Paul

Bobinson

"

col-

^I'U leave

I'll

game

"If

growled.

lege."
"

But

"

Fd

what

somewhere

go

Bobinson

to

"

or

but

game,

one?

hard

It'U be

three

certain

luck

Fd

show.

idiotic

as

if you

go

the

big

What's

yet.

kind

best

the

that,"

as

miss

years

more

stand

to

Neil.

places."

you'd do anything

you've got

You're

asked

I'd stand

smaller

of the

"

Neil.

do ? "

that

where

one

I don't think

answered

would

good

of

show

year."

next

"I

don't

Gillam

how.

see

doesn't

graduate

until

1903."
"But
All

year.

it two

at
a

need

you

years

is

here.

him

Don't

Besides,it

the

be

"They've
"That's
could
"

do

"And

what

Cowan

him

next

Gillam's

been

sillyto

leave

play

and

ball
the foot-

on

football's

think

for."

here

comes

be

place

pretty shabbily,"said Paul.

Cowan

thinks.

I don't

how

see

they

anything else."

He's

says

used

the

would

couldn't

you

like

only thing a chap

for

out

experience.

more

good collegejust because

team.

He

beat

can

you

awfully cut

he's

going

to

he's been

up.

pack

I'm

and

up

trying

downright sorry

to

for him.

leave."

make

you

do

the

same,

PLAN

AND

er's instructions,went

accompanying

the

tricycle
it

miles

bright,

the

after

chief

all, he

it

of

that

was

rival

that

the

healthy

is not
hence

years

the

him

disappointment

his

for

played

to

but

remembered

from

on

suggested

bitter

cold
any

ten

he

pelled
pro-

several

football

that

looked

or

to

and

whether

for

was

that

boy;

him

thought

Paul

sparing

still

her

river

of his worries

some

little to

matter

the

pleasure

youth

Sydney

afternoon

was

oflE from

That

while

it

college life,and

university against
And

The

was

in

begged

alternately pushing

followed

country.

thing

it would

beside

two

forgot

Neil

so,

walking
the

Paul

sought Sydney.

and

being outdoors

Neil

walk.

Neil

go,

and

the

and

person.

that,

to

himself,

into

and

him,

delighted

was

for

179

CONFESSION

bench.

means

he

that

dreaded.
The

seemed

plan

wondered
sure,

it involved

own;

but

to-day, out

with

the

clear
the

bringing
paltry

and

self, glad
which
that

not

thought

of

here

blue

sky

color

have

perhaps

to

he

had

Sydney,

the
but

no

To

be

ambition

of

his

the

breeze

sacrifice

seemed

He

smiled

solution

of

Paul's

suddenly
to

do

it occurred
what

puzzling, and
had

been

beeches,

eager

the

all.

at

right

were

who

it before.

pines and

and

cheeks,

sacrifice

found

ethics

overhead

he

feasible, and

an

the

among

his

to

also his own;

was

The

turned

and

sacrificing of

the

scarcely a
to

simple

had

he

why

both

he

to

him-

trouble,
to

him

plated.
contem-

presently

silently and

he

content-

ISO

LINS

THB

BEHIND

the

edij wheelinglumself along across

road,and sought

hiflcounsel.
"

Give

me

valuable

your

^it'sa

"

here,Syd,you'rea level-headed

Look

and

each

B,

has

Now, supposing A
fallen

behind;

"Eh?"

and

asked

Syd?
"

"

cog
"

^here

"

trying for

the

just about

reached

same

has

the

is,and

he

prize as

of it.

use

that

Do

that
you

"

is

^that

follow^

"

"

^yes, I think

Well,

the

now,

or

so,"answered
questionI

Slip a cog?

"

want

your
for A

get the plum?

"Well,"

well,slip

to"

off

of the fellows to suspect,and

any

bit,but
so

let B

"

answered

That's what

maybe
How

is

queried Sydney,puzzled.

"it sounds

"But

opinion on

"

know

two, you

the other doubtfully.

fair
perfectly

it be

enough for

"

^prize.

"

it and

knows

"Yes; that is,"explainedNeil, "play

not

er

"

lows,
fel-

two

are

^^

Supposing A

A.

equally as good

this: Wouldn't
a

Now

Sydney.

justas deservingof
he'll make

know

supposing I

I meant

"Yes,

you

chump.

this,will you?

opinion on

supposititious
case,

of

sort

they require that

fair
I

about

Sydney, after

are

Neil
not

the conditions
each

man

eration,
consid-

"

enough

think,"said
and

moment's

eagerly.

the

only

ones

of the contest?

shall do

his best?

ested.
inter-

Don't
Isn't it

the

Oh, well, in
silent

was

"

Hadn't

into

his

Neil's
"

really is

who

one

earnestly.

him

readily.

other

the

here?"
rather

was

the

When

town

gling
strug-

was

have

to

more

once

came

Sydney interrupted

road

in the

bend

Neil

silent.

Sydney, too, seemed

and

problem,

than

supposititiouscase,

answered

his mind.

on

puzzling

more

only

He

Neil.

answered

thoughts.

Say, Neil,

cheeks

were

"A

looked

he

him

in

You

haven't

to

His

make."

extremely

rassed.
embar-

the

Dean,

surprise.
murdered

it
"

won't,"
you
from

"Of

course.

''

18

will

make

any

difference

in

don't

diflferent.

rather

^it's something

"

that

"Well,
way

^aconf ession

"

"

friendship,but
"It

and

viewed

It

"No.

got

red

confession?

liave you?

believe

I've

very

Neil

and

the

was

assured

he

turn

back

around

view

it's

course,"

journey

something

ethics

course,

better

we

with

the

The

"Of

of

Oh,

The

to

go

maybe,"

manner,

understand, Syd,"

you

**

moment.

Then:

ever.

shall

prize

181

CONFESSION

"

best?
"

the

that

intended

AND

PLAN

our

"

our

^itmight."
said

"

Neil.

the

recollect
the

field

Your

Now,

and

old

day

fire ahead."

found

you

pushed

ice-wagon

me

had

back

broken

me

to

on

lege?"
col-

down

182

BEHIND

^That's

"

^It

laugh.
hadn't?

What

machine;

"But

little

em-

"

what?

it hadn't

down."

broken

exclaimed

it,"

saw

with

hadn't."
Hadn't

^^The

do

"What

Neil.

you

"

Syd?

mean,

LINE

it/' interrupted Sydnej^

barrafised
"

THK

"I

mean

the

truth

that

it

is I

had

hadn't

really

pried

of

one

links

the

NeiL

down,

broken

with

up

screw-driver."
stared

Neil
"But"

what

"Don't

tiy

asked.

he

stared

clapped

the

"

to

he

Oh,

there

had

told
"

"

of

course

glad

you

Sydney

in

It

and

have

it

"

was

last.

Then

he

laughed

roariousl
up-

foxy!

so

it if any

believed

you'd

the

at

surprise.

shoulder

thought

busted

guilelesslittle Syd being

wouldn't

said

Sydney,

laughter,
"

Mind?

and

**

else

one

Syd."

me,

the

muttered

the

on

you,

acquaintance.

your

faced.
shame-

Sydney,

machine

my

moment

of

think

Well,"
in

for

know

to

with

I'd make

other

"

cried.

asked

I wanted

awfully dishonest,I know,"

Neil

way.

understand?"

me

it; and

fix

puzzled

for?"

Because

found

to

you

"

if you

in

I
did

echoed
don't.

"

you

very

red

don't

in

What

is there

it, awfully glad."

serious
to

He

face,

but

ing
join-

"

mind?

Neil, becoming

the

again,

mind, Syd?
laid

his

arm

"

why
I'm
over

shoulders

the

push

wonder

^^o

what

was

^but

^'Here^

seat.

should

but

183

CONFESSION

the

on

you

me;

eared

have

I'm

glad."

"

let

he

cold-chisels,

queer

was

old

that

sort

of

didn't

break,"

about

talking
he?

fossil

"

after

in

he

the

Suddenly

village

his

all

when

thought
"

shouted.

he

He

'

me

much

that

returned.

laughter

it

lad

Queer

knowing

about

the

of

while.

AND

PLAN

knew

suggested

XVm

CHAPTER

NSIL

The

and

The

wet.

leafless

by

beneath
hard

heads

and

the

defiantly
had

mist,

the

oilnskin

issued

hat,

marched

hundred

five

little

commands

bobbing

of

army

president,

his

ing
travel-

found

and

cheering

alternately

senior-class

and

marching

was

and

the

and

almost

Sydney,

strode

the

at

through

big

megaphone.

eleven

of

slippery.

mackintoshes,

with

field, trampled

the

and

every

everything

to

him

raw

from

drip-dripped
covered

classes,

dawned

contest

road

of

by

line

Erskine

machine

Ahead

Dana,

of

purple

rain-coat

flapping

singing.
head

soft

marshaled

students,

yard

The

was

work.

final

mist

moisture.

feet,

hidden

the

fine

OUT

the

in

and

of

many

but

elms

twig

beads

tiny

before

Tuesday

TAKES

18

practise

to

at

the

soon

slipping

left

badly
but

procession,

turned

in
184

at

the

the

that

songs

the

the

dimly
gate,

mud.
visible
the

field

rubber

cheer

to

be

to

were

started

had

behind,
in

the

to

Sydney

game.

been

out

with

to

monster

him

chanted
his

class,
of

tires

Presently

the

the

through
flag

of

the

head
the

royal

NEIL

its staff.

whispered

TAKEN

its' big white

purple, with
on

IS

They

E, drooping

cheering again

were

behind

accompaniment

an

185

OUT

wet

and

forlorn

now,

and

Sydney

the

of

collar

his

coat:

"Erskinel

Erskine!

rah, rah-rah-rah

Suddenly

turned

Hard

thought

work

send

me

laughed

wheel

my

had

isn't

it?

"

him

"

and

the

volition.

own

blue

eyes

the

coach.

cycle
tri-

ney
Syd-

twinkling

suddenly

turned

into

"like

hands

your

time.

no

should

You

pockets

your

What

beast

mind

"Never

Mills.

in

have

I'll

and

of

day,

Great

it?

so?
gray

about

"Well,

"

Sydney,

I suppose

it is.

But

it."

"Well,

way,

said

you,"

^yes,"answered

like

so

afraid.

"

"

rather

Put
in

I'm

you,
for

trap

there

you

think

for

handles.

get

the

its

automobile.''

those

look

of

Mills's

saw

surprise you?"

Yes,

"

let

and

! Erskine

behind

apparently

quickly

"Did

an

1 Erskine

footsteps sounded

rah-rah-

Eah-rah-rah,

him.

at

"

Erskine

forward

went

down

Erskine!

the

mist

And

the

and

here's

feels
trees

one

of
to

Why?"

good

on

down

there

don't

know,

soft.

this sort
every

Scottl

that

day
his

something

cut

.along

Mills

out

feel

me

of

you

railroad

the

there's

but

makes

taste,"
I

face, don't

your

thing
some-

good."

replied. "By
the

Kobinson

NBIL

funk

blue

tbink

every

until
to

Tes;

you

her

worry

scoring

in

play

know

"Frankly,
don't

as

it.

there's

too

about

more

to

than
of

line, and

players
force

be
four

when

and

brute

in

he

isn't

It

played.

was

behind
team

you

you're

leseening

tbe

begin

to

tbe

element

mistake

take

the
of

in

seven

or

retically
theo-

play

on

the

science

But

long

as

allowed

are

The

one

hard

enough

football.

is, we

that

"as

of

increasing

it

continued,

line.

consists

As

to

would

we

23d.

not

seen.

able

the

it too

keep

be

to

formations
a

surprise

will

and

on

and

force

tackle-back

men

wiser

thing

been

second

be

fact, it

it

it.

it

playing

to

college

with

the

stop

going

we'd

ie, I consider

much

and

do

can

Burr,"

Tbat

If

the

Maybe
best

remains

another

Well

right.

football

back

will

it;

guards-back

it's got

we

though,

like

skill

it

for.

for

one

Wbether

play

with

game
what

that

tackle

heavy

It^s

As

right.

it's

lot,

hope

to

that

winds.

it's the

but

going

were

while.

against

think

the

on

about

quite

deal

good

more

and

and

game;

we

to

firmly

was

tbe

it's all

put np

the

men;

it after

to

and

to

used

game;

that

scattered

tackle-tandem,

can

it is all

and

ight team

from

only

sounded

altogether,

know

whistle

big

vrong,

top BobioBon

n's

try

tbo

going

get used

for

OUT

before

was

pieces

om

fense

That's

tbe

TAKEN

just

year

everTthing

tbat
id

her

IS

allowing

ever

natural

tion
forma-

players

in

of

two

element

of

science.

Kore

the

those

physical
than

188

BEHIND

THE

the

that, you're playing into

people, and
of

them

giving

LINE

hands

further

of

the

anti-football

grounds for

their

charge

brutality.
^'Football's
be

to

got

ai^

the

and

do

and

players

the

our

rules

more

Mills

spectators."

mass-

see

mistake
that

so

Then

played;

of

one

old

guards-back

back.
be

to

and

game

and

players

drawn

meant

was

skilful

more

be

the

the

the

we'll

long

too; revise
not

can

with

away

it's

but

played,

invented

Before

it

as

did

We

those

that's

game

promptly

with

away

football

have
to

then

tackle-back.

rush-line
have

noblest

played right.

evil

play

the

the

we'll
we'll

and

interest

both

and

then

paused

asked:
"

the

By

"Yes,

quite

togetker for

be

See

deal

over
"

in
"

house.
on

listless

All

all

any

yesterday

of

signs
I

recall.
I

know

we

appeared

he
"

worry?

thought

were

afternoon."

whether

notice

you

"We

Sydney.

he

appeared

laughed

to

good

as

they

something."
right, then," answered

through
I had

hours

cheerful.

very
over

"

That's

turned

that

not

feeling

did

And

good spirits?
"No,

three

or

"

of Fletcher?

much

see

you

bit," answered

two

"Indeed?
in

do

vray,

the

begun

his mind

yesterday

right there, is

gate
to

think

practice.

he ?

"

coach

perhaps

him.
How

locker-

the

approached

that

troubled

that
at

and

the

he

had

He

seemed

about

his

thing
some-

bit

studies!

NEIL

TAKEN

IS

189

OUT
.

"Oh,

only

day

going

two

or

start

finely. He

on

he

mention

surprised

was

and

try him

'

in the

that's

he'll

Perhaps

talk

our

worrying,

to

know.

We'll

that

ago

don't

"Well,

you

gets

saying

was

find

to

them

easily."

so

might

Fletcher

yes.

be

him,

to

what

in

don't

we

better

he

please;

want,

to-day.

shape

"

antidote.'

But

showed

no

seemed

to

to

puzzle

"

he

dash

him

him

upon

things

at

go

in

playing

Even

vim.

dickens

the

Neil

once.

nothing;
I'm

"Well,

head

more

than

is the

matter

far

way

the

and

slow,

was

Neil

coach,

he

removed

signals appeared
turned

Foster

once

surprise.

whispered
Why,

the

half-hearted

times, and

at

Say, what

"

His

in

and

of

hopes

improvement.

his usual

from

the

to

contrary

I'm

glad
"for

quarter-back,

showed
all

"

Neil?

you,

surprise.

right."
told

you

I'd

with

me,"
have

never

the

grumbled
guessed

it, my

boy."
Before
over

Neil

even

the

had

Later,

the

gates
found

upon

him

of the

the

on

when

the

closed

were

himself
in

"wthey accused

him

of

make

to

seats

singing
behind

in hot

small

minutes

ten

managed

fellows

it.

Neil

end

the

army,

every

of open

so

many

noticed

and

blunders
remarked

and

cheering

the

last

and
sin

were

marching

The

water.

practise was

coaches

he

stood

in

the

that
upon

over

and

i^reshman,
descended

bewilderedwhile

football

decalogue.

""

190

BBHIND

Devoe

took

if he

didn't

THE

and

hand, too,

UNB

threatened

to

oS

him

put

wake

Play

Neil

as
intelligent,
though

that

harness

painful grin
^I

his

rubbed

he

sha'n't

have

I've

until

"

though
to

been

have

it's settled
to

play

and

and

me

"Simson's

bet

he
a

will

"

Bob
and

dollar.

give

me

He'll

lot

for

the

his neck.
half-

hoped

say

of

as

doing.
been

or

wish

who

others

wrong,

tired of

about

necessary

of

much

done

head

my

all the
so

it's right

the

himself,

place; Fve

been

and

Devoe

they get

on

get plenty of sleep and

will

pression
ex-

bolt

queer,

to

it hadn't

But

me.

Fm

jumping

going
on

me

disgust.

got his eagle eye

me

said

his

Fve

wish

in sheer

out

have

"

tiently
pa-

last

is,save

bothering

what
I

he

Paul

been

have

until

fool

the

stood

the

with

game

together. '^Evidently

give

Whether

just yank

And

me,"

Pve

"

now.

like

for

off to

sighed

decent

so

line-up

hands

forgotten

disgust Mills

and

hurled

the

wet

play

he

"

the

face.

I suppose

already.

it

to

cold,

to

had

defenseless, that

it's settled

guess

face,

it

hang

dripping rain-drops down

off
his

on

liked

you

his

coach

last

was

trotted

he

Then

from

head"

his defenseless

head

it

the

until

by

And,

intelligent by banishing

bewilderment

of

at

look

to

strove

said.

field/'he

get off the

or

look

allyman,

up.

the

me,

on

hospital
^

Fve

gone

stay

outdoors.

nasty medicine.

old

ferret!

list to-morrow,

fine

'

and
And

Well,

tell
the

me

FU
to

doctor

it's all in

NEIL

the

^*

it does

Saturday's

it,and

on

fits.

seven

and

me^

It

game,

doesn't

if he

means

fall will

next

Neil
Who

"

to

more

be

soon

here.

lost

it the

did,"

that

ball ?

"

blood

himself; and

back

again,

it

and

thundered

as

"

it

just

once

the

coach's

you'll find

it hard

get together here I

that

in

plunging right

yards

to

work

mind, please."

yard you'll hear

two

Fletcher,

more,

Now

Stop

gain! "

from

getting

He

Put

called

life

some

If

here!
me!

turned

the

"

Jones, who

referee.

second

came

fighting hard.
down

right.

meet

that

down;

acting

hands.

his

Mills, striding

Bear

gets another

"First

do

And

off!

too.

things!

to

him

bled.
easilyfum-

into

came

Neil, striving

Well,

others.

for

only contempt
slimy

Ted

Even

position.
told

rushed

failing miserably.

did?

you'll go

The

The

ISeil

and

wet

first time

answered
and

and

second

his

to

have

was

"

back-field,pushing players left and

"Tou

into

leaped

given out,

ball

flashing eyes

the

yot^f

angrily.

rest, would

dropped

the

into

he

The

to-morrow.

and

all the

like

him

glaring at

face

wiU

up,

patience had

Foster's

next

have

Wake

was

Neil's

into

was

to

Fletcher!

Foster

to

he'll

in

played

his heart

set

191

OUT

wait."

can

he,

has

team

than

him

Paul

but

the

make

I'd like to have

bargain.

though;

TAKEN

IS

held

at

them

But

again.

the

ately,
again, tackle-back,despervarsity held,

and

on

the

192

BEHIND

"

That's

Use

cried

better,"

back
"

"

lend

to

Center,
him

Into
Ten
**

hushed,

was

"Steady!
^44
Then

73

"

the

lines

shoved
the

against
Down

"

to

Foster

glanced

"i^"

He

had

i""

to

flying

toward

The

he

Neil

play,

pigskin

the

9/"

5^"

forgotten

himself

group;

toward

back

formation.

close

backs

for

and

him
settled

tirades
lines

quickly, kicking it fairlyon

Gil-

reigned;
themselves

gasped

voice

"First

down!"

Mills

anew.

faced

spoke
other.

each

Neil.
It

sang.

his
the

was

of

and

rebound.

he

ball

would

He
hands

the

But

had
that

do
he

from

full-back.

with
role

the

kick

places

moment

center.

into

voice.

and

!Neil

hurled

again

only thought

from

muffled

referee.

changed
the

The

"

smothered

the

"

once.

confusion

the

their

crying:

forward.

heaved;

Then

at

of Mills

and

said

ond's
sec-

another.

through

shrieking

plunged

began

cried

Get

Reardon's

ball!"

the

quarter, Beardon.

came

shrilled.

aside.

Foster

voice

whistle

coaches

time,"

cries

swaying
the

that

them, varsity!

crash;

and

"Varsity's
The

backs

with

them

met

the

Hold

*i/"

"

second's

the

lam

"

64

"

for

Steady!

command.

second's

the

save

the

and

of

one

left-guard fiercelyon

back

him

raving

cried

shrieked

to

Throw
were

"

''

got you

man

coaches

Signal 1

babel

vehemence

your

now

second's

the

coaches, slapping
the

Milk.

Baker

weight,

your

LINE

THE

his

set
was

best.

dropped

it

the second

NEIL

and

through^

was

hand

and

In

of

the

second

"I

donH

"

do

was

eleven

Neil,

"I

He's
A

began
And

come

was

tackle.

pushing
lost
said

to

his

Brown

by

his

up

minute

second

the

The

turf.

muddy

glared

Mills

smiled

Neil

line

the

of

yards.

tried

weakly

at

he

as

place.

his

Gale

mind

awfully
eyes.

to

put

to

half
in

went

he

more,"

any

the

trotting

his

the

rxm

he

before

three

four

for

him

whether
fell

he

into

word.

later

glad,

but

face

Neil.

groaned

to

knew

never

varsity

not

went

twinkling

try

made

leather

He

in

the

neednH

into

players.

hands."

my

stumbled,

were

Neil,

of

clutched

believe,"

into
the

later

and

Paul

npstretched

an

group

tightly

make

squarely

reached,

but

light

to

really

or

back

went

he

it

against

struggling

to

have

left

had

play

"

of

banged

amidst

193

OUT

eleven.

minutes

outside

ball

came

playing

Five

to

it

moment

Fate^s

the

lost

was

TAKEN

IS

the

glad,

me

ended.

at

left

the

half-back

wished

wearily.

o"E."
When

locker-house,
and

thought

on

told
the

next

the

varsity.

himself

tears

one

that

wouldn't

ON

The

confidence.

share

"We
"

be

of

could

play.

perfectly

has

time

for

It's

just

that

want

with

help

said

to

play

around
aid

to

there's

hands

work

can't

run,

And

if

play

until

mind

to,
a

looking

on.

the

how

that

you

until

every

on

the

long

or

not

wigging,
You're
last whistle

or

another

going

to

to

around

to

the

or

gained.

be

ball's in

best

your

your

inch.

thing

one

you

pulling

the

are;

more,

because

coaches

lot of your

fight

until

another

notch

don't
a

'

Down

stop

do

team.

ball's in play

don't

And,

if you

because

ideal

pulled

there

going

because

stand-

that

the

cry
be

sounds.

you're

neighbor.

man,

as

that

out; 'that's

Saturday standing

tacklers

whistle

think

your

the

rrmner

isn't

many

next

Don't

one.

help

makes

sides; as

there

the

until

tell you

give

for

his

the

crawl, wriggle, roll,or

remember
I

at

you're helping

shoving
Never

man

any

and

ber
Remem-

man

your

he

positions

own

Don't

team-play.

turn

because

other's.

each

going

dreamed

never

your

you've put

eagerness

see

he

as

play

to

it's

that

last

the

top it will be

on

to

about
when

you

to

his

did

players

after

moment

played

and-fall-togetherspirit, that
don't

the

them

to

out

got

then

is done

the

carefully

remained
that

see

for

come

You've

I've

work

your

to

195

BATTLE

Mills

think

do

we

you

and

what

said

don't

If

easy.
one

pains

win,"

but

every

OF

general hopefulness.

may

practise,
to

took

the

EVB

coaches, however,

and

pessimistic
not

THE

fellows

will
are

hardest, fight

blows, fight long afte^

you

can't

196

BEHIND

fight
old

and

Erskine

not

that

fellow

more

than

up

against

And

many

and,

had

if it

the

else

but

good

to

anything
was

that

didn't

any

two

for

him.

Mills

fight,as

do

there

LIKE

you're wearing

followed

match

tarily, and

more,

can't

cheer

The
was

because

more,

any

THE

hand

depended

on

There

that

moment,
could

clenched

player registered his

said, long

after

he

him,

win

"

hear.

Bobinson

men

many

fight1

feel, at

set

involun-

silent

couldn't
the

of

Purple

to

tow

fight

game

any

for

old

in

the

Erskine.
On

and

gymnasium
hard

of

coaches
the

on

failed

and

them
^'I

the

real

should

we

do
does

signals and

them

put

through

Afterward

formations.

several

each

earnestly,touching
where

them

hurt, showing

defects, but

their

remedy

afraid

into

the

to-morrow

have

talked

that

little better

he'll make

final

they

ing
goad-

never

Mr.

Mills

at

any

of power

see

that

when

team

me.

ability to
time

in

the

play
the

during

reserve.

And

almost

all of the

faults

that

to

every

man

of eliminated.
that

the

with

played

amount
to

perfect

was

Preston; "afraid

contest

it has

certain

that

team

they'd disappoint

came

than
a

of
said

game,"

struggle

I expect

in

that

to

be

the

with

drilled

assembled

were

despondency.

little better

season;
so

how

go

men

addressed

should

before

the

in

spot

to

day

were

examination

the

man

afternoon

Friday

means

expect
so

happy, he'll

see

much.

And

make

all the

if

he

other

ON

coaches
and

he'll make

the

unhappy

Then

the

EVE

he'll make

happy^

inson

THE

his

captain

not

was

line-up that

he

that

to

was

he

to

courage

had

when

sighed
"

as

for

'*

on

hard

to

think

all

for

battle

fall, and

the

him

given

once

seemed

impossible.

Stowell, Witter, Carey,

Neil.

whispered

he

Then

"

he

then

faithfully

^you

"

all

want

line-up; I

have, for

so

hard
14

and

wish
so

we

in

Some
that
But

could.

read

softer
of

But

obey

it."

"

put

those

honestly for positions in

Some

worked

only

can't
to

for

have
"

at

rule

tones:

you

matter
we

to

one

enough.

report

is the

bed

every

on

little

meant

to

Neil^s

read.

was

been

Early

disappointment to-day.

the

fact
has

went

disappointed.

are

that

for lunch.

paused;

you

substitutes

name

to-night,and

one

Mills

with

whose

man

to-morrow

every

of

these, but

among

Every

eleven

tried

Paul,"

you,

long string

was

name

in

Paul

Gillam, Mason."

Then

of

that

"

list went

the

glad

supreme

effort

further

Foster, Gale

**Qood

was

than

read.

Foster, heard

was

it

more

"Stone, Tucker, Browning,

Devoe,

He

conscientiously

which

on

go

Bob-

was

game

and

part in the

no

worked
of

thought

Paul

his heart.

at

have

had

happy,

he'll make

the

start

disappointed,but

to

was

which
the

be

to

himself

"

little ache

and

And

collegehappy.

between
Neil, sitting listlessly
it with

197

BATTLE

OP

to

you

who

meet

all
have

to-morrow's

198

BEHIND

and

game,

who
the

only offer
and

of

and

it

better

the

though

even

the

in

do

you

nevertheless

done

though

faced

that

you

counts

had

youVe
I

that

thank

coaches

have

of

the

college.

of

the

varsity
and

And
the

cheered

And

give three

to

lustily

cheered

and

'

on

not

Devoe

with

and

"

on

me,

going

once,

the
and

that

And

for

behalf

on

the

fellows

you

three-times-

"

but

thrice.
and

and

in

and

end!

varsity,

work

of

ask

to

as

behalf

the

Simson

her

season's

long Erskines,

^scrubs

long

given

Mills

myself,

am

have

you

part well.

your

of

now

were

they

done

that

defeating

preparation

associated

been

three

scrub

and

no

tell you

It's the

hard

behalf

on

you

who

three,

long,

share,
have

to

me

toward

much

as

to-morrow.

place

your

let

can

coaches,

your

are

you

But

other

done

out,

play against Robinson,

not

her

that

test.

almost

the

"

final

the

have

You

hard

seems

left

been

and

myself

players.

doubt

share

necessity
of

sympathy

other

no

of

have

LINE

THE

And

then

they

both

all the

coaches

after

one

"

skine
"

are

died

And,

to
to

us

as

one

most

use

at

it

least

of you

to

play

the

them

I want

to

of

render

fellow
game

defense
a

know,

In

good

this

who,

long-drawn

last

faced

heartily.

form

developed by

unable

cheer

more

the

when
Mills

away

you'll give

going

enable

and

had

There's

I think

And

another.

Er-

again.
hear, fellows, and

to-morrow's

game

we

will, I believe,

that
account

defense

"

was

of

ourselves.

thought

out

although unfortunately

himself,

is nevertheless

one

of

THE

ON

finest football

the
a

if

lose

we

he

led

Mills

pity of

The

The
over

of

I ask

for

that

cheer

it

November

the

campus

and

made

the

by

for

and

as

man;

"

was

good

left

the

line-up

his

fate.

But

fact

that

had

one.

joy

had

down

Paul

was

had

he

somewhat

was

failed

it.

sium
gymna-

read

been

his

Neil

the

Curtis's.

to

of

two

any

the^^e to hear

Paul

back

way

it

that

to

already stealing

was

and

Neil

to-morrow

Burrl

wasn't

Sydney

until

of

uncertain

dampened

cheers

due

much

as

himself

their

highly elated, for

been

three

win

we

be

will

done

when

If

college.

twilight

199

BATTLE

have

that

was

OP

credit

the

still will

Fellows,

us.

in

men

share

big

great

EVE

the

make

to

team.

"It

don't

kick
"

are

what

see

for

just right

seem

with

chum,

game,

to

doesn't

Mills

is

go

thinking

of I

Who

into

the

said.

"I

thunder's

in

"

us?

called

you'll be

guess

to

me

side-line,"he

the

on

you

for

on,

Paul,

if any

field-goals

needed."
"I

going
"

and

suppose

play

to

Well,
that

so

so,

so

"

chum,"

But

"

^hang it,Neil,

"

wish

you

were

"

do

I,"

settles

else,Paul,
rotten

but

answered
After

it.

but

let

me

Neil

calmly;

all,they
out.

I've

"

but

couldn't
been

I'm

not,

do

thing
any-

playing

fectly
per-

lately."
^but what's

the

matter?

You

don't

look

stale,

900

BEHIND

I feel

THE

LINE

stale,just the same/' answered

Neil

far from

untruthfully.
"

with
"

But

maybe

the

subs,"

and

Paul
"

few

at

you

don't,"

or

let

I'd

out

'11 get killed

about

believe

said

you

simply

"

off

gone

all

right."

puzzled.
much

very

last.

at

Gillam

they'lltake

I'm

me;

care

and

and

rather

though

as

he

killed

whether

it had

If

into

been

dark

me

comer

died."
"

I'm

"

Thunder

The

it wasn't

glad
1

in

college

The

dismay.

said Fletcher
he

why,
was

trust

in

person

himself

protest

to

cognizant

his

some

way,

he

for

left

even

real

grew

to

had

Neil

that

go

who

of

first he

the

length

to

his
think

it.

"

in the

right

to

that

Paul

ceived.
de-

supposititious
sacrificed

inclined

was

of

There
not

was

purposely

At

situation; but

half-back,

about

was

college, however,

counsel, doubtful

own

Oale

and
if Mills

and

absolute,

all there

was

room-mate.

Neil,
of the

as

deflection

of wonderment

so

or

was

good

as

doubted

for

day

Mills

in

heartily.

Neil's

taken

Burr, recollectingNeil's

Sydney
never

had

first

the

Neil

"

general

wasn't; that

one

case,"

II

wasn't

answered

you,"

So'm

philosophicallyafter

in

you'll get

worry

him

down

while; you're

hopefully.

more

I don't

By Jove,

they'd
and

looked

play

you

Paul

for

in

Maybe

don't

But

on.

said

I will.

Maybe

'U get killed

me

you'll get

making

end

he

interfere.
was

not

to

Mills

kept

his

And,
in

the

THB

ON

sanction
was

knew

he

dark; that

201

BATTLE

plan and
the

fact,

did

this he

In

equally.

in

which

in

conspiracy

OF

Neil's

of

it; that,

to

BVB

both

Paul

lending

was

whole

Keil

his

arrangement

and

shared

Paul

found

he

injustice,as

out

later.
He

went

and

minutes

NeiFs

to

found
of

though
himself

or

bet

Paul.

much

But

Sydney

appearanc
dis-

looked

room

declared,

and

as

Cowan

found.

be

to

done

at

it,Paul

few

the

over

up

Cowan's

struck

for

Friday night

wrought

Cowan.

he's

before

so

him

Tom

nowhere

was

^^FU

said

Paul

cyclone had

that

room

what

said

he
had

seen

and

commons,

he'd

do

him

but

Paul

set

and

left,"
hour

an

out

hunt

to

up.
"I

he's

know

been

mighty

to

be

going

on

his

luck.

back

have

couldn't

big

found
feared
him.

Cowan,

out

At

nine

and

the
work

had

right;
had

it and

o'clock

Neil

Paul

said

he

to

he's

so

**but
seem

down

minutes."

few

he

said;

want

when

now

day.

next

evils,and

Sydney

he

I don't

and

quite cheerful

worse

all about

dozen

in

him,"

and

me,

oppressed

was

center

like

just

back

Neil

been

wouldn't

to

him

on

found

himself

He

decent

I'll be

Sydney
it.

chaps don't

you

by

due

to

feared

He

feared

changed

at

that

nervousness

been

was

marveled

face

inson's
Rob-

the

dote"
"anti-

Eobinson

had

their

offense; he

kept busy comforting

returned

good-night

without

tidings of

ON

Once

stood

he

off

that

Lim

believed

could

the

But

and

the

he

held

going

the

of

the

feeling

and

fact, kept busily

dreamed

He

the

night

refused
them

long

and

causing

not

leaving

him

he

of

see

the

big

after

of

For

its

fallen
of

stream

came

in

asleep.

weird,
all

toss

dawn

the

across

labors; and,

had

and

party

some

rooms

he

turn

possessed

restlesslyacross

their

stop

when

would

readily.

cheers

to

to

merely

that

come

ceaseless

him

He

him.

was

aloofness

to

rest, the

field.

occasional

continually, a

visions

of

returning

at

for

instead

stirring about

the

brain

His

by

He

the

it; he

bench
the

did

Paul

patriotic students

common.

hand

nervousness.

others; only

players'
encircled

little bedroom

the

half

brought

so

in

For

lose

nor

half

heard

by
win.

to

game

thousands

that

he

time.

trousers

business

exciting thoughts

no

the

despite

time

his

sleep, and

untroubled

was

oppressed him, sleep

long

at

him.

from

stand

new

minutes
with

of

win

contest

leg

recollection

was

like

spectator,

one

to

Neil,

neither

whole

gone

at

battle

203

BATTLE

for

on

he

OF

had

Erskine

of

"ve

boot

for

As

long

so

to

him

feared

Neil

back

shying

of

before

blankly

gaze

EVE

THE

pleasant
un-

through

weary

and

unrefreshed.
Out

doors

of
frost.

white
the

naked

by

any

The

the

sky

It

was

sun

elms
an

brushing

was

almost

was

of the

branches
breeze.

early

devoid

reached

ideal

day,

the

clouds, and

of

upward
that

away

unswayed

23d

of

No-

804

BEHIND

bright,

yember,
have

hours,

to

were

thousands

victory"

to

meet

who

or

and

clear,

kinder

been

THE

were

defeat

the

upon

to

LIKE

warriors

the

assemble

conld

Nature

keen.

who,
yellowing
and

in

turf,
cheer

not

few

nor

them

short

to

on

the

to

CHAPTEK

OOWAN

Breakfast

an

hen

Saturday

were

and

through

and

at

Paul.

ended

gridiron

dismissed

field

the

orders

with

to

four

report

free

put

were

Among
around

times
and

work,

they

were

o'clock

twelve

at

there

were

and

practise.

morning's

as

some

signal
trot

of

watchful

who

o'clock

ever
what-

at

signs

For
those

ten

in

as

chickens.

twenty-minute
Neil

were

was

was

showed

Many

trainer

of

morning

loitered

recitations;

the

to

these

the

brood

that

fellows

them.

morning

out

sent

were

the

pleased

with

INDIGNA17T

training-table

which

slumber,

old

the

the

to

best

hour
restless

BECOMES

at

meal,

strange

XX

for

lunch.

Neil,
the

was

to

the

turned

that

in

already

of

showed

dressed

suggested

royal

of

row

symptoms
in

to

of

purple,

there.

here

and

they

their
The

The

excitement.

there

SOS

it

depot

So

made

and

stores

with

the

to

players.

Main

and

together,

down

Robinson

Street
the

back

going

the

of

Poplar

front

walked

Foster

arrival

down

along

were

last

see

and

Paul,

way

village
windows

touch

206

BEHIND

of

brown

many

visitors^ while

box^

empty

keeping

Neil

laugh

In

the

on

front

the

on

his

left

the

invading

Farther
of

the

college

passed

trio

astride

door,

himself

and

ran

and
With

village happenings.

companions

held

already

sidewalk

proprietor, sunning

watch

careful

the

sat

the
were

street.

bicycle repair-shop.

the
an

others

the

across

LINE

Bobinson, and

of the

grounds

THE

the

across

street
'^

looked

"

Momin',"

"

I wanted

he

"

Hey?

it

"Yes,
"

asked
was

the

shrilly,scrambling
Neil

off

was

the station

toward

"

gravely,

did

that

mentor.
tor-

that

it," said

owes

your

Neil.

his

me

As

instant.

little man's

the

features.

weazened
"
quarter 1

Then

he

cried

feet.

his
the

"

talkin'"

you
into

sprang

to

on

his

querulously.

man

what

that

feller

box

all."

little

Say,

light of recognition
"You^re

the

said it was."

you

''Cold-chisel?

on

recognize

to

Neil

cold-chisel

remember

You

said

you,"

the

man

suspiciously.

correct, after

diagnosis was
"

grunted
tell

to

little

The

failed

but

inquiringly

up

said.

he

Good-morning/'

the

three

denunciations

went

on

followed

them:
"

You

I knew
yer

come

yer

name

face, an' I'U

back
I'd

here
have
''

an' pay
ther

law

me

on

that
yer

quarter I
But

I know

If

COWAN

name's

"His

207

INDIGNANT

BECOMES

Ted

called

Legion,"

Foster

his

over

shoulder.

feller

don't

rushed

From

the

and
"

to

"

the
to

you'd
Neil

players

Luckily,

the

and

There

his

there

tingent
con-

twenty-

were

lows,
fel-

Hillton

the

rival

make

and

were

Bobinson

the

The

proprietor

busy looking

over

of

the

out

of
three
of

coach

who

and

tried

college.

shook

most

balance

before

year

for

arrangements

and

taken

Brill."

friend

the

was

coaches, trainers,

against Paul.

elbow
your

at

to

of

army

there's

grinned

hotel.

the

they

accompanying

whispered mischievously,

practise, and

60

like

The

the

to

go

Paul

toward

"

two

But

carriages

discussion,and

baggage-truck

train.

dug

enough,

sure

Paul,"

the

platform.

of

small

said,

If

station

the

them

he

get them

that

report

former, heavily built, strapping-looking

Xeil

visited

had

from

with

Look,"

in upon

players and

supporters.

And

broke

Bobinson

the

and

man.

I'll

but

say,

vantage-point

descend
of

repair

"

the

for

the

watched

the

you

whistle

long

three

eight

what

know

th' authorities!

ter

Then
the

shrieked

I"

"Legion
"I

"

What?

"Hey?

his

the
to

"

now's

coaches

the

strangers

time."

your

tumbled

Field

arrivals

friends

year,

head.

Erskine

the

next

for

started

retraced

into
a

short

on

foot

their

steps.

bicycle repair-shop
that

was

they passed unseen

208

BEHIND

of

an

at

for

loss

letter

and

his

the

better

derision

place,

time.

part

themselves

Foster

finally
dash

that

statement

from

the

the

over

was

others, who,
Butler's

into

went

looked

aimlessly

better

found

they

typewriter,"
of

the

explained airily, ^to

he

as

room,

and

spend

to

way

howls

of

want

remained

lunch-time,

on

with

greeted
for

his

off to

went

off

before

hour

LINE

There

little stream.

the

in

THB

store
book-

and

magazines

papers.

It

find

to

Paul

that

engaged

turned

spoken, and

Mr.

heard

Brill

his

name

smilingly holding

his hand.

out

^I

said

few

I'll wager

after

came

We

"

So

have,"

"It's
The

don't

said

heard.

ceach

beaten, secret

to

Mr.

is
up

friend

your

well

seemed

anct

stood

three

pleased

hear
no

will

regret

he

coming

not

laughed.

to

hear

"I

sleeve."

your

NeO.
the

answered

laughed.

or

the

Brill

over,"

What's

muscle,"

want

isn't that

and

gentlemen

you

to-day's game

coach

Robinson

outlook.

you've got something

"

And

over,

minutes.

football

the
"

'^

hands.

and

heard

for

talked

the

mistaken,"

there?"

over

Neil

wasn't

shook

they

as

with

thought

Fletcher

us

thus

while

was

it.

nature

Neil
"

Of

But

secret, eh?

think
"

"

gravely.

course,

of it?

if it's

you're

secret, I

safe

to

get

COWAN

"

Nonsense

struck
Mr.

"

said

when

you

Brill

BECOMES

"

Paul.

You

won't

with

you."

get through

we

309

INDIGNANT

didn't

but

good-naturedly

laughed

what

know

look

alarmed.
"

the

By

while

ago

"

Where

"

In

Have

your

"

saw

one

of your

we

protested.

fellow

Paul

asked

coaches

foimd

it

wasn't

players
He

there

toward

good

eagerly.

hard

the
for

man

next

comer.

place? "

his

NeiL

fill,"answered

to

it."

got

I don't

Witter?
he's

"No,
later

he ?

yes,

Witter's
"

^the

"

drug-store down

"

sore."

was

"Oh,
**

said,

^Cowan

"

rather

seemed

he

way/'

think

famous

not

I've

of him."

heard

^yet; you'll know

"

him

better

of

Cowan,

on."

Paul

plainly anxious

was

and

so

the

sidewalk

bade

they

the

Neil

to

coach

Robinson

turned

search

in

go

Out

good-by.

troubled

toward

face

on

his

friend.
Cowan

"Say, Paul,

"Why,

do

"

And

"

Of

I suppose

yes,
he

knows

I've

Brill

said

suppose

the

the

antidote,'

been
"

he's

it

seen

signals,too,

wondering

that
he'd

so;

eh?

played."

"

"

Why?

course.

"Well,

you

about

he?"

doesn't

what

all

knows

Cowan
be

mean

was

whether

feeling

enough

to"

heard

You

"

Well,

sore?

to

"

COWAN

"

said

know.

1*11 stay

team

good

"

Well,

said

guess

looked

thing

was

"

shook

me.

academy

and

it seemed

wasn't

demanded,

anything

turning

upon

head.

his

Only,
that

know

it

you'll be
"

silence.

asked

of

you'd ought

course,

disqualifiedyou

here."

as

What

bad

as

does

"

he

said.

Fletcher."
he

The

There

about

say

"

it?

"

carelessly.

Neil?
Paul

doesn't

all,there

Cowan

wasn't.

moment's

answered

let that

money,

you're getting squeamish!

you

"Who,

After

protest

to

Eob-

to

surprised.

but

My,

I went

would

some

sununer.

Paul.

remembered

first

but

"

Paul

there

have

Cowan

I needed

there ?

was

fiercely.

"

you

until

If

enough

sense

it.

it!

no,"

No,

else?

Erskine

I'd had

make

about

N"

Cowan

know

mind.

my

maybe

anyway;

play;

Only

to

way

"

to

You

college.

changed

going anywhere

use

hang!

dishonest

"

recess

couldn't

go

him

until

goodness

to

left

IVe

Well,

on

the

What's

wish

had

you

211

INDIGNANT

might."

you

"I

afraid

was

inson

BECOMES

he

Oh,

the

^he

"Says

vaguely.

think

"

committee

sympathizes
it's
could

with

awfully hard
do

anything

you,"
lines,
else."

"Humph!"
"

met

By
Brill

you."

the

of

way,"

said

Bobinson

Paul, recollecting his errand,

a

while

ago.

He

said

he'd

"

seen

S12

BEHIND

Made

believe

Why

he
it

^whj

"

Robinson;

offered

After

all
of

sorts

^I don't

"

taking

money

He

said

decided
wasn't

shut

And

then

him

up
he

offered

to

"

er

You

to

Robinson

he

mighty
the

"

he

Paul,

what

"

Why,

"

You

academy

his

after

in

the

with

"

you

do

the

you

tune; said

told

started
come

added

Cowan

did

asked

the

of

back

aggrievedly.
would

that

him

to

asked

you?"

Paul,

attention.
Cowan

in
the

down

puzzled

picture

.blood dying his face.

mean

well

knew

protest, and

the
over

anything

great

put

him

by that?

"

tones.

he

held

here,

Look

"

"

why
want

He

"

Paul,

game,

"

to

know

get sympathetic, but I

to

had

let out

anything?

out

faced

about

him

But

any.

all

not, and

old

that

on

changed

if he'd

nose

wouldn't,"

floor

the

do

"What

asked

rr.

tried

who

^you didn't

"

Let

He

ineligible!

was

quick.

his

punch

studying

I refused.

told

to

go

'^

he

one

^help them

"

and

matter

to-day

was

stores; but
"

wouldn't

that

to

me

cad," said Paul."

enough

but

me,

that

but

academy

eligibleor

was

for playing tackle

go

sure

"He's
"

to

not

made

get

loyalty!

some

whether

what

that

wanted, and

off.

being put

about
to

liim.

punch

to

mj

tried

he

got

to

as

know

that

team.

he

fellow's

questions

knew

anything

me

like

over

up

that

September

"

he

was

Last

^I'd

all cut

was

business!

LINE

CowaxL

grunted

^YeSy"

THB

if I

turned

traitor?

gave

\^as

honest

and

Paul

and

his voice

indignationin

old

now,

come

the

regrettedhis suspicionson

"Oh,

he

man,"

There

I"
of

trace

pain,

instant.

began,

"what

^^

meant
"

"

that, eh

like

something

signalsor

our

away

213

INDIGNANT

BECOMES

COWAN

Now

let

I may

and

in

this

"

got beaten

for

He

"

Brill out

right

here

But

you
cad

not

to

we

I want

they'llthrow

I want

I'm

if

care

would, too;

that

that

fellows

of the

I wouldn't
I

out-and-out

you'd put

some

Yes,

hard

so

up

an

think

Mills,and
"

not

for

love

no

that

now

Fletcher

didn't

of there.

and

Devoe

paused.

"obLi.^son to get done

cheat

and

and

you

And

college,nor

Cowan.

sort,but I'm

I've

Jovel

something, Gale," said

as

of your

traitor!

by

me,

nice

so

more

and

rascal
on

be

not

lot

tell you

me

that

understand

enough

sell

to

signals."
"

didn't

beg
think

and

you
"

Oh,

neither

you
it

so

demanded
"No

it of you.

that

said Paul

pardon, Tom,"

your

were

Brill said he'd

Only, when
feelingsore,

Fletcher

was

that

we

more

of

us

than

I,"

answered

Paul

really thought you'd

seen

^"

might thoughtlesslysay something

that, feelingthe

of.

way

stoutly.

turn

you

Cowan

^I

"

it?

"

Cowan.

afraid

use

"

suspected it,was

was

make

earnestly.

you

"We

traitor,but

naturally would,
that

Brill

could

That's all."

looked

doubtful

for

moment,

then

he sniffed.

15

i'

ai4

THB

BEHIND

"

Well,

"

You're

right," he

all

going

said

"

finally.

the

to

out

LINE

aren't

game,

it."

Forget

"

you?

Paul

asked.
I

^Yes,
hud

off?

would.

almost

doesn't

he

don't

"

much;

mantel-shelf

again

bad

satisfaction, he

After

grin.

objecte

the

eyes

turned

the

on

Paul

to

together

"

friend."

got better

rearranged

him.

of

"

I've

with

he

it I "
my

mean?

guess

Cowan

he

his

to

do

"Say,

"

which

during

pause

only

you," responded

than

being

thought

make

to

guess,

you

as

^well,glad of

"

do

What

it

what

got another

that?

"Nothing

mind

quite

he's

You've

How's

to

seem

know

that

seems

"Huhl
"

of

think

Fletcher

"

'^Well,

It

What's

so.

guess

if

I'm

^well,if

"

sure

Well,

think

I'd

chap.

knew

we

and

Fletcher

could,"

you

of

sort

think

you

each

other

answered

like

Only

to

he

get

on

"

better?

Paul

try it.

maybe

could

eagerly.
he's

He"

wouldn't

not

to

care

"
"

er

"Oh,

yes,

he

would,"

answered

"You'll

Paul.

see,

Tom."
"

see

Well, maybe

you

Paul
toward

on

the

hurried

Pearson's

so.

Going?

Good

luck

to

Pll

you.

field."
around

the

long

curve

boarding-house, where

of

the

Elm

Street

players

were

COWAN

already

gathering

for

dragged

him

and

steps

'^It's

all

and

Lim^

really,

"I'm
bit

"

He's

and

"

"

of

mean

"

Look

here, chum,

he

something

you're

Maybe

if

don't

good

But
I

And

Anyhow,
and

"

busy

with

got

game

was
"

and

"

we'll
said

Thanks,"

I've

So

followed

you

the

as

do
his

I,"

him

Paul

that

get

you.

oh, I

"

mean?"
Neil

replied
better

on

thinks

with

could

we

From

he

on

er

"

if

down

to

fully.
thought-

tried

we

the

again.
some

room

"

beans

appetite

^I

"

as

And

let's

now

G"e,

meats.

mean

fly!

"

get

^I wish

the

"

answered

chum

if

that

better?

him

gratefully.

baked

much

with!

over

ask

think

to

"And

Paul.

see."

funeral

about

get

"It

Neil.

on

out

mean,"

we'd

said

him

after
what

you

maybe

Paul,

like

see

what

see

he'd

you

thing.

know.'*

went

like

found

looked

about

up

such

you

you

of

asked

it."

don't
to

cut

the

on

and

him

suspect

while,"

get

and

sort

gate.

feelings,"

to-day

kind

we

"Yes,

night

could

said

know!

"

stay for

to

you

could

suggest

going

tried

^you

to

me

the

awfully

was

his

Neil

found

quite suspect,

hurt

we

sorry

found
to

'^I

He

didn't

down

said.

think

to

He

and

I hadn't.

hurt

Though,

off

215

INDIGNANT

luncheon.

he

right/'

I wish

it; seemed

was

BECOMES

into

Neil,
the

as

house.

with

sigh

he

listlessly

"

XXI

CHAPTER

"antidote"

THE

ADMIKI8TBBED

18

ROBINBOIf

EReiCINlf

"LOOK

"

"

OIVORC;

"ALOOM

"

"

onev

PULTCH

"

""ST

""

MLMn

a"7"

OH)

"

"

O0"
KMUmi

0")

"

"

"

"Ti?

"

"IBST

mice

^hbN
(m^

OM)
UMmrr
UNE

1M

E[iOH

clouds

struck

against

"

the

In

topmost

216

which

the

o'clock,

blue
of

toward

steps.
two

white

over

beacon

fair

banner

great

afar

from

their

up

streamed

center

and

(tit)

and

tower

the

studded

sky

purple

royal
flare

of

the
of

Hall

College

throngs

at

the
of

stream

the

in

bearing

intense
of

branches

fleecy

with

color

visible

eltns,

empty

snjBctators
the

gates^f

its^

old

set

bell

"ANTIDOTB"

THB

faster^swaying and pushing past the ticket*

Field

moved

takers

and

stands

alreadypiledhigh

streamingout
Under

somber

and

black

dripped its dye

the

manity.
laughing^chatteringhu-

seats

turf ribbed

of

bank

purple,

big banner

beneath.

posite,
Op-

pricked out

were

brown, while

colors in almost
smooth

white

with

big

at the

the throngsentered,a smaller

stretched

between

the

multitude

the rich but less briUiant

stand flaunted the two

long

though

as

the

to

on

the

splashedthicklywith

where
end of the enclosure,

hued

with

rival tiers of crowded

with
lavishly

And

the

little distance

field toward

onto

flagstretched

the great

grays

looking from
had

217

ADMINISTERED

IS

equal proportions.
of russet-

expanse

lines that

glaredin

the afternoon

sunlight.
collegeband, augmented for

The

of the

the ranks
twelve

the

trotted

cheeringsections

purple E^s, nice

And

supremacy.

little band
new

of

suddenlyon
in black

men

tending
loudly con-

were

trousers, and

panvas

and

the

mighty chorus

Robinson
that

cheers

swept from

were

Erskine! Er shine! Er shine!

rahy rdhrrah-rah!

north

"
.

out

stand

by

of the structure

Bah-rahrvah.

shine !0Er shine! Ershine!*^

with

the field:

thundeired impressivelyacross

and

this

purple and

blotted

end to end

to

sweaters

^lack stockings;an^ just .as suddenly the

arose

shouted

talked, laughed, or

persons

for vocal
scene

from

occasion

villagemusicians,playedblithely;
some

thousand

and
ceaselessly;

the

"

rah-rahr

V"

"ANTIDOTB"

THE

voices

sturdy

battle,

the

youth

in

of

war

the

had

poised

the

shouted

pigskin

football

"Are

the

Then

clicked, the

ball

sped

brown-clad

long flighttoward

yard

and

line

instead

of

the
was

her

The

Erskine

ten-yard

Devoe
well-

his whistle.

ready,

Robinson?"

timekeeper's watch

the

had

game

leaped

begun.

forward

to

oppose

pigskin,slowly revolving, arched

the

west

wily

goal.

Robinson

the
and

yards long,
line.

this stroke

The

of

half

let

was

back

on

and

north

it

it then

was

If

it go;

but

erratically
the

like

and

his
ball

applauding

Erskine

first

flash,but

Robinson's

was

ten-

near

him

upon

stand

fortune.

to

in

the

near

goal-lineit bumped

almost

were

It struck
left

bobbed

left half

forwards
six

raised

the

and

away,

back.

the

left post

line.

only

shrilled,

rollingover

against the
white

the

the

Stowell

referee,

The

All

skirmishers

invaders, while

position,

goal.

drew

and

coach,

Erskine?

whistle

ground*

the

their

west

caution.

and

player

the

liking

of

ready,

you

his

to

watched

and

forward, and

hurried

and

ball

word

last

known

the

in everyday

man

fall to
took

persons,

stilled.

almost

were

Erskine

the

sunlight and

timekeeper

three
a

plied
re-

preliminary

field

the

of

contesting forces

stands

The

brown, and

in

speedily the
and

the

until

on

in the

lines-men

great

went

middle

the

in

and

volume^

voices,

Kobinson

purpose.

spin upward

coin

Then

lesser

purple, a youth

attire,met
a

in

but

219

ADMINISTBRED

the

answered

they

kind^

in

IS

could

run

on

ciferously
vo-

get

220

BEHIND

of
posfiesaion
her

ball

the

the

only

than

faster
"

the

lined

and

up

taking

behind

back,

who

give

with

hearts

quickly.

Left

managed
who

but

score;

side-line,knew

the

pigskin

beating

first

the

to

little

of

practical test

Together

bined

weight

the

trio

to

weight

them

left-guardand tackle,with
shoulders,
The

forward
divided

Signal!

to

from
the
''

172

scales

at

of

The

pounds.
187,

line.
line-

notable

well

ers
play-

their

while

pounds

twenty

was

the

lighter.

pounds.

525

and

Mason,

whose

stood

Gillam
his hands

Mason,

quarter stared

ready

Then

but

was

opposing formation,

him

was

stood

Erskine

left

and
faced

that

half

from

on

com*

between
the

other's

behind.

close

Kobinson
the

at

Left

the

pounds.

312

was

tandem

the

any

Gillam

were

full-back

oppose

the

tipped

dropped

between

tandem

the

they represented

Opposed

to

around

get

tackle

right.

ready

his

of

member

the

headed

tackle, Balcom,

of

center

on

to

bucker, although

third

position

the

quarter,

full-back

"

could

the

hole

tackle-guard

left

the

from

to

antidote."

right half, formed

The

able

be

might

awaited

usual, they

line,

the

fluke

meanwhile,

Bobinson
the

LINB

intently

veriest

And

Purple.

she

now

coaches, watching

that

THB

he

plunge
the

for

and

across

instant

an

the

with

est
inter-

full-back,crouched

the

little

that

space

opponents' territory, looked

quarter
called.

stooped behind
"

lZ"21"212!

the
"

big

easy.
un-

center,

"ANTIDOTE"

THE

The

ball

the

engaged

two

tandem

shock

side-lines.

of

reenforced

of

half

nearly
inch,

first

center

of

and

the

passed

ball

leader

the

the
Then

the

of

the
then

forward,

of

believe

to

and

the

Then

cleared

tandem
it moved

and

left

side

half

and

in

swaying

that

their

again,

themselves

whistle

play,

of

play

for

inch

by
left

to

for

was

the

ball,

panting, struggling
and

sounded
had

and

Robinson

famous

Robinson

away.

reigned.

moved
the

maelstrom

ously
simultane-

chaos

the

mass

backward,

forward

made

then

were

short.

but

right end;

the

on

stopped

clinging desperately

so

veritable

plainly heard

was

Gillam,

each

minute

players.
battle

and

forces

failure

once

down

forward.

and

the

and

quarter

Mason

refusing

tackle

and

head

enemy,

him

Gillam

collision

quarter

Erskine

entire

the

to

tackle

Gillam

with

moment;

same

instant

an

by

back

The

of

the

at

that

For

the

former

hurling

superior weight told, and

Then

the

and

and

guard

tackle, and

the

instant

same

together.

came

The

hole,

the

Erskine

and

tackle, and

to

quarter

At

presented

him

things happened

from

felt

the

shoulder

steadying

latter

the

forward^

through

padded

him.

to

opposing guard

shot

Mason
and

moved

tandem

the

back

came

221

ADMINISTERED

IS

the

gained

dust

half

yard.
The

north

stand

seen

the

Robinson

not

know

that

cheered

tandem
in

the

delightedly.
stopped

in

its

It

had

tracks, and

struggle just passed

Erskine

only
did
had

223

used

and

new

novel

and

brought surprise
their

and

Jones

and

trotted

Oillam

the

rather

pale,
of

from

Gillam

worked
and

tandem

better,

Six

yards

next

Bobinson's
to

the

test

The

and

she

punted

offensive

the

hurled

was

shock

the

lost

This
the

substitutes

But

Bobinson

went

game

at

of it.

the

Sydney
perhaps,

was,

end.

to

cerned^
uncon-

pleasure.
and

on.

point,

same

time

him

coaches

look

to

whereon

end

from

the

and

defense

half-yard

of

gain

top of that.
said

voiced

such

the

its
to
a

and

fifty yards.
her

bench

gain,"

stand

their

them,

among

Bobinson

from

away

play

to

Erskine

hard

wisely decided

Bobinson

get

and

brought

other^ trying

half-yard on

purple-decked

and

the

had

the

was

all.

met

another
"

it would

extra-padded

side-line

being beaten,

the

Again

Mills

as

His

place.

showing

long grin

one

far

again

each

nevertheless

was

warriors

^'antidote"

the

it^and

in

much

as

any

on

brown-clad

shoulder-pads

the

but

happiest

was

On

softly to

Burr,

faith

known

his

to

heavy

unscathed.

talked

coaches'
the

to

about

back

and

head-harness
forth

her

it had

Sydney

first time

itself hoarse.

shouted

have

If

the

for

dismay

adherents.

and

LIKE

defense

vindicated

fieldshad

football

sat

THB

BEHIND

powers.

close-formation, Oillam

And

the

triumph.

yield possession of

the

ball

On

the

earth

on

dangerous locality.

Paul
Now

score-board.

was

was

On
slashed

brought
the
the
a

time
first
hole

to

for

Erskine

play, using
between

the

THE

center

and

yards.

The

opposing
for

two

in the

before

more

off

her

he

feet;

for

and

guard

side

of

the

netted

cessful,and

for

ball

the

Bobinson

try ended
of

left

the

kick.

bare

the

thrown

Robinson's

was

tackle

not

was

her

on

for

in

for

back

that

on

f eet, and

three

taken

between

line

of

effort

His

for

yards

\i^as

dismally,

try outside

but

pigskin

off four

caught and

Another

the

yard

quick starting and

was

moment

was

another

them

reeled

It

next

Mason

line

back

dropped

the

loss.

and

through

went

given

was

tackle

get through

tackle

two-yard

Paul

the

Mason

netted

downed.

^as

but

to

attempt

an

Then

223

ADMINISTERED

plaj

next

right

running, and

fast

of

outside

IS

right-guard and

place.

same

try

''ANTIDOTE"

Foster
suc-

very

twentynseyen

yards.
Kow

she

of center,

tried

full-back

led

the

defense

up

all

standing.

like
the

with

tandem

right
brown
more

had

Another

for
to

and

disgusted

yards

seven

their feet

surprised
been

tackle

than

he.

the

ball

went

interfering
and

the

brought

tactics.

Bob

Devoe,

Certainly no
The

Robinson

one

for

it

was

left

with
With

full-back, and

to

he

brought

point

same

her

Paul

hole.
was

Erskine's

skirted

of

wearers

shouting wildly. Perhaps

than

circled.

at

side

other

by left half with

Robinson

changed
the

the

on

guard-tackle

try

Robinson

formation,
end

the

at

time, and again

this

results, and

left

tackle-tandem

hurling right tackle, followed

ball, and

the

the

was

more

end

no

one

his

end

the
was

that

thoroughly
had

put him

2S4

BEHIND

the

of

out

veriest

play

and
Robinson

gained

had

now

returned

and

try outside
Tackle-tandem
of

ten

yards

the

ball

The

gained

and

guard
and

the

and

once

Mason

yard.

and

tackle

leather

his

set

In

the

gether,
lips to-

her

brought

to

right

end

he

tackle

found

yard

kicked.

the

at

her

set

It

feet

other
an-

yards.
a

who

try

got

reeled

and

Again

she

Robinson's

Oillam,

went

another

five

on

through right

touch

Then

yards;

two

ball

caught.

into

plays

two

playing.

Erskine's

pigskin

Robinson

more

tackle

Foster

went

been

thirty-fiveyards

yard; again,

was

plunge

her

near

Robinson's
he

had

youth,

of faster

yard;

outside

for

ball

one

tackle, one

before

he

open.

right

again,

away

that

result

of

forty-three yards.
safely

though

tackle-tandem.

the

to

as

up

the

yards, the

two

outside

sized

his eyes

kept

LINE

neatly

as

Devoe

tyro.

THE

off

was

given

and

barely
left-

between

poorly done,

was

twenty-five yards,
toward

the

Erskine

goal.
far

So
her

and

the

coaches

totally

was

playing

unlooked

Their

serious.
tandem
backs
with
of

play
were

their
tackle

to

for,

the

the

opponents.
and

end

both

had

as

been

of

been

be

sure,

-territory

Erskine's

regarded

perfected
almost

consequently
To

in her

confronted

that

neglecting

and

done

anxious.

problem
had

team

heavy

all been

looking

were

effectiveness, and

had

slow
thus

in

defense

style

and

them

was

the

all else.
when
far

successful, but

tackleTheir

compared
runs

the

outside
coaches

"ANTIDOTE"

THE

well

that

knew

be

to

were

Kicking

not

if the

Therefore,
be

to

done?

There

tricks;

Bobinson

while

their

reached

it.

He

tackle

at

the

one

starting

the

the

fully

made
as

been
would

and

after
a

twice

it

have

the

greatly

two

first recoil

bare

time

meant

Had

the

hurl

the

met

or

four.

the

about
was

sometimes

on

by

riors
war-

against

Robinson's
to

the

change

opponents;

of

difference

if the

able

mentum
Mo-

play.

Erskine

two

their

for

gained, and,

of time

it is doubtful

Brown

eighteen inches,

It

possibly reach

themselves

benefited

forces

line,
away

play,

got into

of

weight

hammered

could

instant

to

was

the

tandem

the

an

play.

of heavier

the

three

instant

already

had

silently applauded.

tandem

the

new

conclusion,

nearer

it, and

move,

and

each

on

duty

it was,

line

that

yard

whose
tandem

the

sacrificed

proved,
a

of

charging opponents

was

it

head

teach

this

at

tandem

strengthen

to

way

nearer

it before

as

the

the

it!

tackle-tandem.

quarter-back,

of

was

Make
to

by

arriving

and

what

work

now

fall

or

were

head

Mills, seeing

again.
was

stand

her.

beat

answer:

one

opportunity

captain

the

the

put

only

or

this year;

Robinson

didn't

them.

spoil

undoubtedly

play

plays

such

that

promptly
with

point

was

coaches

placed

found

could

must

the

White,

would

tackle-back

time

no

she

enemy

There

was

And

her

game

Erskine

strong

225

ADMINISTERED

as

soon

as

expected

was

that

at

IS

but,

line,

times
gain, some-

yard,

once

or

THE

and

ately

"ANTIDOTE'*

hurled

whole

back-field

mowed

her

Gillam

and
the

The

and

it back

and

until

left

fifteen

yards.

Again

unable

and

yards,

three

yards

who,

battle

the

along

Bobinson
the

now

fixed
into
the

play

teams

two

The

he

on

had

Erskine

the

watch

dial,

called

on

and

time.
away.

proclaimed:

0, Opponents

6.

other
and

kick-off

the

had

half

each

faced

of

the

nearly

first half

the

defense

continued;

ran

tackle*

the

spent,
dozen

in

place

yard,

one

behind.

almost

The

walked

trotted

score-board

left

impatiently

time

almost

was

at

followed

hand,

in

Erskine's

on

timekeeper

intently

his

side-line.

back

was

advance

were

with

of

van

Bobinson

left

Gillam,

after

glanced

Mills, watching,
timekeeper,

the

for

battering

and

Brown's

the

got

the

it

into

went

but

Gillam,

end

him.

flags and

blue

cheers

teams

tween
be-

over

beneath

Brown's

the

two

Paul

withstand

to

Mason

plays.

the

Bobinson

began,

and

after

Then

feet,

and

Mason,

Bond

snuggled

its

to

waved,

long

threw

and

her

with

literally

and

Paul

close

leaped

the

tandem
were

ball

down,

Bobinson

ball,

her,

the

stand

goal.

again

two

before

fluttered

kicked

of

Foster

air

the

through, sweeping

way

south

the

rent

third

the

on

behind

posts with

streamers

but

back,

227

ADMINISTERED

IS

up,

thirty-fiveyards.
to
ere

The

the

gridiron,

the

ball

lines

his

the
but
But
eyes

again

went

broke

the

up

and

CHAPTEK

XXn

BETWEEir

trotted

Neil
of

substitutes,

the

gate

without

he

stumbled

when
his

shins

the

past

at

raised
and

falling

and

substitutes

an

beef,

raw

him.

coaches

and

looked

brought

voice,
others,,

babel

of
chaffed

upper

mumbled

against

lip

for

the

good-natured
him

by

way

sion
Confu-

hard

were

in

note

world

like

the

to

was

rising
half

first

the

mercilessly.

retorts

Reardon,

of

his

him.

of

other
all

odor

threatening,

Veterans

each

instant.

trainer

commanding,

sound.

barked

squeezed

shrill, imperious

He

strong

about

and

himself

same

He

Rubbers

all

the

dressing-room

supreme.

above

with

the

through

to

came

steps.
at

met

Simson's

work.

conclusion

liniment

of

reigned

only

procession

passed

he

locker-house

the

of

and

group

it, and

the

of

that

thought

knowing

door

witch-hazel

in

up

tail-end

the

at

deep

reached

and

At

along
so

HALVES

THE

ing,
Brown-

the

substitute

of

piece

charges
quarter-

back.
"

saying

Yes,

you

with

really
apparent

ought

be

to

careful,"
"

concern.

If

yofl
'

"

238
.

the
let

latter
those

was

chaps

ER5KINEGQAL

"Pfilhts

o
CO

I
i

IVOO
16

N09Nia0d
229

230

throw

I'll

with

easy

around

you

.broken.

Mmbuble

''

Oh^

speak

was

his

neck

Xeil

examined

him

Paul,

lying

ask

him

be

to

observed

or

more

him

winked

rubber

violently and

was

ently
appar-

He

caught

eye.

S^eil

left ear,

Paul,

discolored

highly

grinned.

just under
been

have

to

while

ered
discov-

he

presently

witch-hazeL

in

one

inch

appear

and

his back

on

Browning.

entreated.

shoulders

and

square

your

does

How

hit.

that

"

grinned

evidently pained
"

and

gravely; Paul
a

doesn't

Paul

for

drown

to

and

There's

happen?

Price

bruised

get

may

that/' Beardon

say

He

trying

that

you

mummum/'

looking

was

pommeling

that

to

blubble

don't

him.

sight of

like

LIKE

you-^'

Neil

on

THK

BEHIND

It's very

"Don't

See

effort

the

him.

of

careless
^'

sternly.

generously, although

more

answered

say/'

must

it is attended

that

worry/'

them,

to

in the

Paul, "it

will

Neit

went

next

half.'^

be."

Neil

smiled.
"

How

are

"Fine,"

you
Paul

feelingf

'*

replied.

he
"I'm

asked.

just getting

limbered

up."
"

time

shape

You

look

it," said

your

silly neck

to

play ball, eh

by

Mills.

Neil

dryly.

is broken
I

"

Simson

you^l

"

be

hurried

suppose
in
up,

by

pretty

the

good

lowed
closely fol-

BETWEEN

"

it had

though

asked.

he

been

driven

into

can

start

"It

Paul.

answered

right now,"

all

"It's

"

neck?

the

HoVs

231

HALVES

THE

my

body

the

next

felt

as

about

for

yard."
"

Do

Mills

think

you

"

half?

asked

anxiously.
I

"Sure;

replied Paul
"

Mills's

cleared.

face

he

muttered,

he

called.

right now/*

all

turned

and

Neil

away.

him.

after

"Mr.

Milk,"
the

annoyed by
"

"

boy!

Fm

through;

it

play

can

gaily.

Good

sped

I
"

*^See

for

Devoe

turned,

coach

you'd

"

Gillam

can't

the

last

nestly.
ear-

game,

^"

let

it," answered

about

Neil

asked

sir?"

while,

feeling fine.

I wish

Paul.

is it?

what

in

get

I'm

head

The

interruption.

Well, Fletcher;

"Can't

nor

you

Mills

shortly.

He
*

hurried

away,

dening

cheeks.

that's

"Well,
he

What's

short.
me

And

on.

his chance

and

the
"

what
"

himself.

told

Neil

leaving

^but

Only

good

with

get

there's

no

have

been

asking Devoe?

I'll try,

just

harm

fed-

disappointing folks,"

needn't

he
of

for

and

mouth

open

the

won't

He

Paul's

same.

in

now

quite so
let
had

looking after Neil

Fletcher."
He

The

found

latter

was

Devoe

with

Foster

lecturing them

and

one

forcibly in

of

the

lowered

coaches.

tones,

232

BEHIND

Xeil

and

hesitated

undecided

Devoe

strode

Neil

glanced

his face

up^

he

while

stood

by

pucker of anxiety.

forward.

to

me

LINE

interrupt; but

to

''Say, Boby get

told

THE

he

you/'

see

this

on

me

half, can't
^'Oive

begged.

Mills

you?

chance,

me

Bobl"
Devoe
^

Can't
to

you

frowned
be

impatiently and

He's

me.

got troubles
"But

Neil.

done,

looking after
of

enough
I

if

Mills

tell

has

sending

business

no

fellows

the

head.

his

himself.

Fve

asked

NeU

own."

my

him

shook

you're willing?"

eagerly.
"I'm

he'll put

they'd

that

knew
no

and

Simson

fact, but
a

he

time

was

bench
a

could
him

take

had

But

the

be

to

make

"The

at

you

antidote's'

all

life

know;

Mills

He

found

looked

two

and

right,"

Mills
he

was

only

There

and

Devoe
that

recognized

engaged
and

if

they only

men.

Neil

use.

no

wanting.

hand

Burr,

was

found

dismally

gathered together,
*

It
his

didn't

happy.

and

near

of

blamed;

him

door

conversation

and

doubtful

test

not

it didn't

were

wants

Neil, for heaven's

me,

game

they

tried

been
to

now

the

Mills, Jones, Sydney

coaches

he

disappointment.

play

on.

were

near

bother

in

away

he

knew

"If

Devoe.

Mills."

to

turned

Neil

Don't

on.

you

Talk

sake.

He

willing," said

not

his

other
was

on.

seat

on

denly
Sud-

attention.

assistant

talking.

saying dedd-

BETWEEN

"

ediy.

If

could

we

the

in

and

you

had

us

times

said

What

take

say

done

as

long

up

"No

and

thinking

hard.

"

of

^I know

"

behind

heavier
What

it.

^antidote'

have

they'd

they'd

have

"The

'antidote's'

fellow

are

scored

make

to

men

Gillam

out.

He's

now.

Let

Pearse

last, and

answered

narrowed

think

"I

weight

pounds

ten

heavier

in

five

or

six

That's

star

his

take

put

right,

it go.

played

then

all

in

game,

place, play

Smith.

How

"

good,"

stopped

Jones.

he'll

as

Fletcher?

about

they're

the

now;

need

we

he's

Gale

but

theirs

us."

Burr.

but

equaled

pounds

imder

"Easy,"

that

Without

expect?

on

why

short;

seven

snowed

HALVES

team

stop them

line

can

had

we

233

THE

his

he'd

be

him

pretty

will

that

Mills.

all

"At
as

eyes,

fight

Mills,"

and

hardest

his

was

right, Mr.
well,

least""

know

when

the

He
when

way

said

Sydney.

he's

the

sort

game's going

wrong."
"I

thought

we'll
"

see.

"

give

him

Mills;

"but

Time's

try.

"

up

^well,
now.

"

coming

Here's

There

too," answered

we'll

Maybe

Devoe!

"Yes,

so,

your
was

"

list.
hurried

Better

get your

donning

of

men

out."

clothing,

renewed

uproar.
"All

ready, fellows,"

shouted

the

captain.

"An-

BETWEEN

what

knows

captain

THE

he's

235

HALVES

about.

talking

Let's

have

cheer

forErskine!"
stood

Neil
in

promised
or

to

field

and

The

feeling

in, and

the

to

over

spectators

settling

cheering

had

begun

had

regained

its

spirit.

the

whistle

last

might

happen

cheered

and

The
and

and

Sim

was

overcoat

into

steady

the

collars

and
From

of

tramp-tramp

their

the

was

the

west

neck-pieces

the

wpst

chilled

tiers

make

to

fluttered.

of

stand,

the

being

were

seats

feet, hinting

what

section

and

of

lost

telling

strove

comer

fur

wasn't

student

tossed

and
stand

north

no

the

flags

seats,

game

heroically

purple
behind

in

there

So

band

almost

place.

and

to

on

happily.

The

all,

that.

the

sang,

back

much

mean

trotted

almost

more.

After

before

heard,

itself

once

blew,

He

hope.

benches

were

the

until

for

might

half

had

Mills

that

cheer

that

into

got

better.

while

ground

was

and

bench

was

him

put
it

nothing

the

He

shape.

great

the

on

up

their

came

gled
snug-

the

owners'

impatience.
The
referee's
half

of

players

took

whistle

blew.

the

battle

their

began.

places,

Bobinson

silence

kicked

fell, and
off, and

the

the
last

CHAPTER

XXm

NEIL

But

what

the

had

taken

misjudged

the

long,

ball

with

one

so

had

and

heady
line.

But

him.

Seizing

the
to

earth.

side

as

down

line

Erskine's

the

kicked

That

settles

Pearse
the

was

leader

tandem

gtands

behind

stopped;
broke

forth

it

the

to

goalbefore

was

to

reach

bore

him

able

was

ball

end

went

the

to

other
first

Robinson's

was

Neil,

muttered

watching

intently

beside

Stone,

he

from

he

the

were

fierce

him,

mouth

of

cries

of
of

onslaught

"

into

Ball

The

cannon.

voices

of
but

play;

crashing

sent

was

'*

Idiots!

the

to

new

bedlam

sudden
there

first

was

and

"

glumly.

that

met

him,
ball

he

his

over

and

right

and

went

back

danger

loudly.

and

tandem,

like

he

who

was

Brown's

Mason
the

it

it

tip

to

turf.

the

it,"

it

yards.

groaned

into

chase

the

holding,

twelve

bench,

angrily

"

for

as

Kobinson

later

moment

half-

right

at

just managed

pigskin,

the

ere

place

hand

the

seen

was

kick,

and

bouncing

penalty

low

turn

had

the

on

from

to

it

Gillam's

outstretched

Mason

ten-yard

119^

beginning

who

Fearse,
back,

dismal

GOES

the

from
! BaD

"

and

NEIL

Witter

flung

and

the

on

himself

pull

him
had

fumbled

skine's

goal

line

The

the
of

out

was
''

up!

for

Eobinson*s

the

Er-

moment

danger.
Ted

shouted

scurried

men

and

pass,

"

team

trying

team

Down

times,

Erskine

the

Robinson
"

faint

few

over

half

all the

and

back, gi-oaned a

tackle

"

rolled

twenty-yard line, with

on

237

IN

through,

striving to pull him

to

GOES

their

to

"

Foster.

Signal!

"

places.

"i9"s5"esr'
Back

toward

his

stand

the

went

left

own

leaped

to

the

runner

though
Brown's

its

and
him

and

supporters

Erskine

"Bully

to

muttered;
much

of
The

and

the

me

"especially
a

wonder.

ends

distance

was

That

one's

bit

said

thrice
the

get

the

left.

lame."

and

knees,

the

though

by

for

the

acclaim.

nodded.

ends,"

he

Bloch

think

is

Pearse."

The

wildly

loud

those

don't

netted,

was

Stone

around

goes

won.

for

cause

worked

cheers

Stone

as

Seider,

yards

Neil.

can

on," protested
a

found

again

3lapping

"Hold

Fifteen

There

were

ecstaticallyand
Neil

we

the

north

moment

But

away.

about

down.

tackle, that,"

"Seems

for

out

dragged fully five yards farther,

was

finally brought
the

The

interfering.

safely
him

circling

was

it looked

for

feet,
was

struggled

Pearse

Paul

end,

right half, got

Pearse

and

ball

the

purple
Erskine

on

two

the

half-backs

banners
thundered

waved
out.

knee.

left end,

"try

the

other.

238

BBHIKD

Isn't Peane
out

was
^

may

get

whack

jab

at

the

'^I

may/'

Mason

get

if I

don't, I
^Oh,

answered

jet/'

Stone.

He

the Brown's

watched
''

left tackle.

Only,

E."

get my

The

and

paused

Artmouth

counts,

game

know."

you
"

I wasn't

That's

it."

in

made

four

Erskine's
cheers

the

Stone
what

first down
the

north

each

other

five minutes

longer

twenty-eight yards

his

chance

field, in

the

hand
to

the
near

again

was

continuous;

their

heads

The

and

Neil

together

wonderful

Erskine's

ball
the

length

at

was

north

make

the

his

confident

brown-stockinged captain

the

signalsheard.

comparatiye

and

on

side-line.

entreatingly toward

sudden

stand, thundered

it

fifty-five-yardline.
were

put

had

Paul

hear

to

said.

continued, and

waving

the

stand

to

"

tackle, and

I think

But

forgotten.
work. Gale!

of

on

obliged

were

For

Good

"

outside

yards

from

I'd

weren't;

so, you

you'llget it,just

for

I wish

but

Oh,

line."

will.

you

it

at

I won't

suppose

yes,

said Neil.

NeiL

sighed

yard through

UNB

''

goes

"

peach?

there

You

There

THB

Robinson's
Foster

From

of

tune
for-

was

seats, begging

of

stillness

slogan

good

across

the

Robinson.

quarter-back

was

the
north
The

shouting

incessantly:
'^

Steady

now,

fellows I Break

through!

Break

through

NEIL

"
up !

'em

Smash

each

thumping
threats

and

He

encouragingly

Foster, red-faced
Stowell

the

on

Mason

to

threw

himself

for every

inch

"Second

to

the

that

gave

of

back

the

the

under

line

gain!

to

for

it

quickly

line, and

the

then

for
nailed
the

left

once

for

line

end.

the

The

saw

present

ball

went

him, and,

for

ready

was

the

shoes.

Foster

danger.

the

at

around

scuffled

and

"

her

to

now

run

to

then,

forward, patted

ball, passed

his torn

attempts

getting by Kendall,

^ISoWj

ears.

1"

plunged

four

Bloch

but

other,

breach, pushing, heaving, fighting

further
a

the

to

back, whispering

hoarse, leaned

awake

for

called

Pearse,

into

was

futilityof

and

here

youth

down;

Eobinso^
the

right

thigh, caught

that

as

the

on

their

and

end

one

into

entreaties

289

IN

from

ran

let's stop 'em

Sobinson,

GOES

prettilyfour yards

runner

triumphant

of

pseans

the

south

stand.
the

When
back

as

though

feat

to

alarmed;

he

had

already

sprung

securing goals
in

hoarse

"Get

thit)ugh1
"

try

considering

was

again lined

had

teams

the

from

on

that

him

captain
team

who

capable

was

angle whatever;

any

cult
diffi-

somewhat

Robinson

believe

to

surprise

one

goal,
The

angle.

ready

was

for

kick

dropped

Foster

up

his

voice

of

arose

entreaty:

through
Get

Signal I

"

block

and

through
cried

this

kick,

fellows I

"

Foster.

"

U"18"SS

''

Get

240

BEHIND

The

breast-high.

had

and
have

the

in

breast,

his

put

for

like

veritable

half.

it

and

fact

the

threatened

that

and

Paul
of

succeeds,

the

yards

distant

that

by

rapidly getting
the

Robinson

touch-down

looked

the

pursuit

two;
seemed
he

had

sustained

at

each

borne

by

the

white

and

not

plunge

than

than

tackle-tandem

far

way

middle

thirty
than
them

them,

goal, sped White,

To
was

the
one

forlorn
share

nized
recog-

more

before

runners;

it

fake

Behind

taking.

spectators
man

But

dangerous.

his

some

now

lines,but

quarter.

more

in

the

in

out

the

left

Robinson

its foundations.

from

and

certain, for

Devoe

Pearse,

Erskine

of

goal,

were

them

was

more

the

stand

desperate

between

captain

over

and

appreciation

Bobinson

they
of

half,

circling well

by

course

handful

the

the

measured

first

friends

their

were

toward

the

streamed

showed

Pearse

field

the

Paul's

to

left end.

prettier play

and

shake

to

the

no

tained
enter-

play, thereby revenging

the

bowled

had

is, perhaps,

when

else, had

one

Brown's

in

treatment

whirlwind,

There

kick,

of

out

never

his limitations

knew

any

as

would

ball

pigskin, fast clutched

The

opponent

who

Foster,

already circling the

was

then

moment,

the

kick

well

as

idea.

such

himself
a

line

kicking
no

had

feet; but

ten

gone

for

it

caught

Foster

plunging through desperately,

came

attempted

Foster

and

held

line

Erskine

warriors

blue-clad

the

LINE

Stowell

from

back

ball flew

The

THE

to

attempt.
of

defense;

the
he

against
Paul
So

it
far

punishment
had

worked

KBIL

hard

offense

on

wearied

and

aching

himself

scarce

able

He

would

able

for

gone

than
streak.
the

So

he

his

before,

of

resonance

and

and

muscle,

he

ball

fixed

eyes

of

twelve

of

Paul

Pearse's

he

footsteps and

far

step slower
white
forth

poured

voices, triumphant,

heard

very

sound.

of

acme

nothing

awful

the

been

too

farthest

field

great

thousand

that

vows

found

he

was

each

the

on

the

had

his breath

despairing, appealing, inciting, the

Yet

Pearse

to

it; but

now,

his interference.

plunged onward,

sides

three

began,

with

pace

take

to

half

bone

every

yielded the

other

From

present

keep

to

speech.

that

in

have

tell the

to

the

since

241

IK

QOBS

the

save

of

poimding

beat

his

own

heart.
On
the

the

fifteen-yardline,just

critical

moment

did

But

so.

on

the

and
up

the
The

Paul
was

at

slipped

Pearse

stand

north

stand

lay unmoving
side in

and

the
fell

hats

the

across

and

sudden
his
the

and

turn

length
pursuit

Paul

last

flags sailed

stretched
out-

squarely

runner

instant

same

goal,

gained, for,

he

his feet

first

the

shoulder,

measured

he

the

met

and

make

to

regained

At

blindly

south

his

had

down.

went

hand

one

striving

what

of

clutching,

Pearse's

him

cost

he

ere

him.

over

both

On
air.

and

turf;

passed

and

his foot

Paul,

evade

to

effort

the

Pearse

dodging
toward

strove

left

with

White,

came.

hands,

the

to

threw

line.

through

the

silent.

was

where

moment.

he

had

Neil,

his

fallen.
heart

Simson

thumping

f
NEIL

sighedcontentedly,and
on

243

IN

looked

him.

about

His

eyes

fell

^eil.
"

in

GOBS

!"

Hello, chum

yet?

he said

"

weakly.

Haven't

you

gone

"

"Not

answered

yet,"

cheerfully. "How

Neil

are

"

feeling?

you
"

Oh,

Fm

ouch I

"

^I'm all

"

right;a

bit

here and

sore

there."
"

Devoe's

The

Ball had

holding

it

The
in

The

going

to

been

directlyin
south

brought out, and

now

front

stand

looked

their

noise.

"

Muckers

I"

hand

blue-clad

stared

the two

at

the

roar.

west

end

the

and

Erskine

the

NO

"What

them,"

said.

he

into

the

field,and

the

Stone

and

From

their eyes

of the

ward,
stepped for-

turned

in doubt.

Then

field and

to

both

sought

the

stands
board
score-

they groaned

GOAL."

muttered

porters,
sup-

grinned.

down, Devoe

leaped

captain.

redoubled

nervousness,

it fell Neil

beastlyluck!"

bar.
cross-

Bobinson

unison.
"

was

of the

center

Stone

Neil.

each other

at

confused

sign of

went

line
As

sped upward.

once,

with

goes

referee's
the

the

rattle

to

groaned

"Everything
The

as

of

Foster

cheering and singingwildly

was

around

taking that

arose

uneasily.

desperate attempt
latter

ball

kick," said Stone

Stone.

in

244

BEHIND

Keil

by

and

silent.

was

Mills

toward

looking

discussing him.

were

heart
the

Warm

the

bench

He

watched

all, but

was

twinkling'he

look

it

Paul

silently applauded.

him

Meanwhile
Twelve

the

Erskine

imagined they
his

toward

racing

was

had

at

and

tackle, right end,

property.

common

and

each

had

full-back.

bulk

but

Reardon
in

put

made

had
of

immense
and

other.

score-board

the

elevens

center,

Robinson

position.

his

tried

he

bench

kindly, grinning

Both

6.

Stowell

the

again faced

remained

In

for.

line, stretching

was

Erskine, Graham,

replaced

asked

of

row

had

play

Neil
the

delight

5, Opponents

For

Foster's

left

he

passed

the

teams

of

minutes

changes.

his

that

he

but

unconcerned,

told

in

near

breathlessly,then

all

was

As

arms.

faces

slow,

Neil

and

trotting along

was

legs and

cramped

said:

standing

were

Fletcher."

up,

That

to

Jones

and

coaches.

two
"

LIKB

suffocating leap and

gave

THE

The

new

was

at

men

"Went

game

on

again.
Devoe
his

thirty yards;

Bell

took

yards
for

his

around

one.

the

kick-off
but

he

ends

the
a

was

and

plunge

being

pigskin

and

for

forced
a

brought

injured
and

Smith

place.

Then
Mason

took

the

got

Pearse
at

try outside

ball

made

each

got through
tackle

three
of

back

thrown

when

Mason

right
back

the

right

and
two

left-guard

resulted

yards,

to

and

tackle.

trously,
disasSmith
He

NEIL

was

stopped easily and

ball

on

her

given

was

good

failed

and

her

silk and

brown

and
fierce

and

Mason

was

from

the

from

the

and

the

Erskine!

strength

him

at

; he

brought

him

worked

to

enthusiasm

17

broke

with

he

or

goal.

the

for
A

line

cheer

into

Fletcher!

"

rather

Neil,
Erskine

with

Pearse

body

and

heart

had

known

than

he

had
The

and

pain.

never

His

the

pent-up

he

were

could

played before,

spiritof battle
every

hind
be-

hearts, for

Neil's
as

the

on

the

Hillton.

field

rahrrah-

All

he

arose

the

perfection again.

played,

in

yards.

Rah-rah-rahj

to

of

first

fast-beatingheart.

Fletcher!

back

side
off-

The

three

shrilled.

it with

for

Purple

youth running

perfectlyhappy,
joy

her

tackle-tandem

the

Erskine
was

anew

off, protesting feebly, and

taken
of

given the opportunity, as

either

was

back

penalized

through

Fletcher!

loose, and

turned
if

and

defense

borne

blossomed

Erskine!

him, brought hope

"

was

was

whistle

and

heard

side-line

was

antidote

into

left tackle

Erskine

under

went

stand

rahy rahrrdhrrah!

"

of the

new

Erskine

tandem

backs

north

plunge

forty-

brought

head

the

stand

almost

the

hurt

^Erskine!

next

Erskine's

to
was

Eobinson's

south

was

of

the

Mason

it back

ran

got the

bunting.

plunge

twain

but

The

ball

the

Eobinson

tackle-tandem

thirty yards

her

On

kicked.

yard by yard

goal.

245

IN

stop it^and

to

Pearse;

to

man,

toward

and

the

more

Smith

play.

Mason

fiftyyards

Once

three.

GOES

knock
chance

and

had

held

bruise
come

246

to

BEHIND

both

to

prove

made

Robinson
line

yard

all she

was

downs
it went

trick

did

on

settled into his

it

That

ready hands.

seats.

Robinson

Pearse

stopped

he

made

on

He
"

the

and

her

the

applause from

and

right arm

turf to think

the whistle and

over

Reardon's

and

Neil

there

no

was

of the

out

north

the

again and

shoulder.

it

earth

fiftyyards.

own

pile-up

radically

discovery that 'something was

his

pigskin

touched

it next

pickedhimself

three

next

He

down

sat

and

closed

his eyes.

voice

above

him:

"Hurt?"
Neil

Simson
He

Neil

that

singleinch, and

Again, and again

it short.

trampled

heard

of

burst

tried tackle-tandem

the

with

wrong

When

possessionon

when

advance; but

in the

ball

twenty^

tackle;but

Neil, dropped back

brought

punt

the

the

gained

of left

outside

advance

in Robinson's

was

one.

occasion,for

that

Erskine.

to

correct

their

that

fellows

the

distance and

play

failed to

she

the

was

her

by

and

the coaches

of him

first estimate

UKE

THE

looked
headed

Keep
don't

but

win,
"

his

Baldy

let him

Reardon
doubt.

'

shook

toward

staggeredto
"

and

up

'

was

followed

feet,Reardon's

away," he

get

looked

Simson

him

his head.

to

at

Reardon,

All

righthere," he

arna

muttered.

gaze

fell

on

the water-carrier.
about
"

I'm

hinL
all

right;

me."
his

almost

did

by

His

white
up

and
cried.

to

face
them.

for

He

second
wanted

in
to

NEIL

Keil
written

all

Neil

the

And

took

leather

cheer

and

struggle

long
get

back

time

around

for

defeat.

Bloch

but

napping.
Cheer

the

Purple

warriors

white

there
that

was

lines
time

no

intervened.

if Erskine
minutes

two

Smith

instant.

But

touch-down

end,

an

left end

remaining

thirty yards
a

fifty-yards.

an

in

six

those

from

might bring

run

its feet

encouraging

the

over

Brown's

the

on

across

way

Eobinson's

on

yards, catching

forth

victory

wrest

to

was

broke

ball

most.
fore-

shoulder

his left

with

around

twenty

stand

fight their

to

Erskine's

sounded.

whistle

the

attack

next

was

retreated, suspicion

place/ Simson

face, and

first try

north

after

it

the
the

The

his

over

met

On

his

to

went

247

IN

GOES

could

again
short

too

was

had

line-bucking; and, besides, Eeardon

his

orders.
On
eye

the

yard

and

left him
the

left

reached

never

to

him

The

Robinson

half
end

teams

goal

to

keeping

was

the

and

the

line

him

careful

called

the

the
up

south

the

ground.

on

the

back

about
side

line.

but

Pearse

set

play,

next

tackle

got

but

through

of his line.

referee,

field-goalas

netted

tackle

right

well

thirty-yard

try for

right

Eobinson

lined

were

of

faintingon
of

stopped

down,*'

just inside
directed

outside

it; like

and

"Third

timekeeper

stop-watch.

try by Neil

oflf for

on

his

upon

side-line the

"five

to

between

the

field,the

ball

half-way
of

the

Seardon
soon

as

gainl "

had
he

been

got inside

248

BEHIND

the

twenty-fivejards.

and

the

angle

in

three

of

was

out

of

don

didn't

its

own

to

blame

making
the

praised
His

the

for

other's

He

the

every

center.

Neil

Get

"

facing

the

him

and

sped

back

the

mouth,

upon

him.

"

their

up

the

on

Steady feUowa;

would

be

had.

we

fraction

met.

eyes

instant.

tii^is;

tvant

his

up

the

line.

to

join

his
"

and

The
the

Smith

the

but

nearly forty yards

on

with

commands

tween
be-

to

shouted

being

little smile

Victory
knelt

straight line

stooped

Graham
a

distance.

Beardon
a

guard

goal-line.

Neil, pale

where

stood

were

repeated.

From

him

from

"

Beardon

his

facing

yards

quarter, whose

position near

measured

almost

right half turned

Bobinson

stop this kick!

and

and

position three

Pearse

and

thirty-five-yardline

the

to

goal.

ball.

his

and

knees, directly behind

through

Signal1

but

made

held

coaches

way

lasted

Keil

be

"

took

lustilyfrom

at

was

cried.

back

his

to

problem

glanced

hard!

trotted

dropped

and

he

was

he

told

face

would

he

Bear-

badly

hold

one

He

and

"

Signal!

it

matters

white, drawn

if it succeeded

coaches,

drop-kick

make

to

failed

attempt

quarter-back'smind
^

over

the

chance

one

injured; just how

good generalship;

minute.

placement;

Moreover,

was

of

thirty yards,

perhaps

was

from

goal

the

consideration

The

"

If

story.

only the

There

but

LIKE

was

question.

know,

by

ThiB

severe.

desperate, Neil

more

of

was

THB

and

to

the

the

about

depended
goal

was

angle

was

NEIL

think

"I
inside

their

for

kick

of

If

and

you

turning
win.
we

aren't

ask.

Now

Neil

took

held,

now,

and

"

was

him,

ball

his mouth

ought

he

and

steady

caught napping,

cocked

through
Smith;

cried

stride,a

when

now,

will

still be
want

to

that's

all

we

can,

level

best,

failed

bore

Neil

short

one,

do

his

He

was

seemed

and

for

true,

at the

over.

go

If

best.

smile

fire,the

on

the

enough

cool

Beardon

confident.

grew

the

Instead

hands

and
but

we

because

hands.

forthcoming.

well

if

He'd

his shoulder

his

"

Signal!

to

deepened

forth

Beardon's

from

Erskine

your

breath.

deep

the

into

end

an

all.

get in there."

although

stretched

best

missed, that's

years

do

and

best.

the

get

to

But

ball

the

think

you

as

youVe

memories,

Once

you

nerves

your

coming

teams.

cool

keep

give

"

in:

him

sent

Fletcher.

us,

will

let

even

football

out

line

for

hundred

beaten.

Just

about

don't

he

ere

placement,

or

world's

the

been

we've

this

miss, why,

you

think

Don't

drop

happens,

you.

told him

win

if lie missed

good;

twenty-five Reardon
from

"Whatever

had

can

you

and

it, well

Mills

what

recalled

He

made

he

severe.

249

IN

GOES

to

and

Graham

and

the

had

big

time;

been
the
and

the

placed

long

one,

and

toe

back

to

line, almost
oval
upon

Brown's

ugly,

signal

no

ball

Bobinson

stepping toward

was

but

the

sped

until

charge

goal. Then
down,

third

had

settled

the

ground

warriors
upon

broke

Pearse

and

the

ball;

and

pigskin came

long

CHAPTER

XXIV

AFTEB

**

You'll

not

oflf

get

THE

BATTLE

so

easily

this

said

time,"

the

doctor.
"

No, sir," repliedNeil, striving to

He

four

been
in

weeks

I canH

other

the

things

was

very

but

meek,

1
fine

of

use

Thank

The

Much

sure

the

arm

you

you,

doctor

you

fellow,

that

idiot

an
"

playing

on

go

is, I'm

that

"

Humph
my

what

to

thinking about,"
after

went

on

you'd

bust

don't

doctor

Neil's

know."

looked

nevertheless

suspiciously.

same,

the

"

about

then.

were

you

had

he

swathed

his shoulder

been

where

again."
sir

"

what

concerned.

again, just

with

it had

as

irritably,

up

him

couch

previous,

see

*'No,
tone

the

on

bandages just
"

at

back

was

look

care,

it'll be

again.

Christmas
That'll

But, just

guess.

give

before
you

you
time

the

have
to

see

were."
sir."

smiled

in

spite

of

himself

and

away.
261

looked

""f

ROBIN(50N(rOAL

^f

"a
"
a
o
o

"

"^^

"

"

IVO-E) 3NI"19d3
253

THE

AFTER

"Doesn't

he

anyhow/'
tray

the

on

"No,

said, glancing

^I tried

"

he

trouble
as

guess

faced

the

with

you

long

doesn't

over

to

well-nigh empty

but

much,

eat

He

do."

couch

again

managed
fool

to

his

up

was

"is

severely,

get

silly old

of

lime

you've

broke

hat;
"

its occupant.

said

streak

much

how

picked

and

he

chaps,"

matter

not

you'll

you've

as

wind-bag

the

at

tite,
appe-

your

Doc."

terribly hungry.

then

with

chair.

sir;

"Oh,

interfered

have

to

seem

253

BATTLE

The
that

leather
think

you

it

yourselves

to

pieces."
it's very

"Yes,
with

deep
"

thoughtless

us," murmured

of

Neil

contriteness.
!

Humph

"

the

growled

"

doctor.

See

the

in

you

morning."
When

the

tray and

bread,

with

much

almost

the

back

against
the

as

He

it.

of

invalidism

and

had

was

the

not

had

departed
whole

was

reached

happy;

he

To

Then

the

end

paid

was

happy;
happy

himself.

maces
gri-

mouth

but

for

Paul

tled
set-

contentedly

sure,

trailing banners;
were

he

several

and
be

the

of Graham

pleasing prospect,

with

college

moved,

satisfied.

And

worse.

left.
without

not

was

toward

piece

thing

pillows,

well

been

Sydney

edible

only

very
was

Neil

buttered
difficulty

have

the

closed

injured shoulder

ate

might

door

all.

the
was

things
inson
Rob-

coaches

happy;
Certainly

254

BEHIND

the

bally

can't

shoulder

have

everything

interrupted
door.
the

by

LINE

^hurt

at

"

times; but^
His

wants.

one

then

one

meditations

voices

and

the

last

morsel

of

Paul

and

Sydney

bolted

He

front

the

footsteps outside
bread

were

awaited

and

callers.
These

proved

"

Rah-rah-rah

"How
to

"

make

well,

"

and

stared

Neil

"

saying

all sorts

I think

he'd

of

Cowan
^I

"

things

about

shake

hands

with

mean

Tom's

mean.

nice

like to

and

inquiries

your

what

Burr

door.

the

slamming

Here's

after

know

you

Paul,

chum?

polite injuries

inquiries

playing,

your
the

been

foot

and

kicked

that

goal."
Neil

took

and

laughed

his hand.

out

put

grinning,

Cowan,

it.
*^It

fine, Fletcher,"

was

"And)
drop
bet

shouted

they coming,

are

that

be

to

Cowan.

Tom

"

ouch!

"

THE

that

back

hundred

"I

game?

knew
to

put

genuine

when
it

saw

you

I'd

over.

thusiasm.
en-

have

confident
have

Strategy,

bet
how

than

was!"

than

more

did

you

thirty
like

the

"

Sydney
"I

of

with

"

more

wouldn't

Board

Well,

cents.

it!

were

you

laughed.

going
on

said

way,

were

you

dollars

"Thunder,
Neil

some

he

shook

wouldn't
"I

had

his
care

all

head
to

gravely.
go

kinds

through
of

heart

it

again,"

disease

he

before

swered.
an-

the

first half
didnH

daze;

and

over^

was

know

that

after

really

256

BATTLE

THE

AFTER

whether

it

in

was

football

was

of

sort

day-night
Fri-

or

lectures."
"You

ought

and

speech,
It

one.

been

made

"We

Paul.

said

have

to

did

so

to-night,chum,"

table

at

howL

and

*Baldy,'

Jones

made

Mills

Home

and

oh,

"

every

fine!"

was

"

"And

"

they

Hear
of the

Dinner

'em

yard

was

"

came

Great

"

Maybe

"If

"

"

game

say

He's
and

know
was

and

the

played
didn't

across

say

how

the

wish

replied

Paul

Neil."

us,

told

secret?"

you

anything."

secret?
at

went

you

way

doubtfully

it's

"

to

'me

announce

he

much."

then

frowning

the

happily.

down,"

you

Mills

way.

wondering

whether

Paul

field with

strap

still

for

ready

were

terribly tickled, is Mills, although

glanced

"What's

the

By

very

"However,
up

to

He's

coming.

doesn't

out

for Erskine.

up.

to-night,"said

try it PU

you

fellows

cheers

tion
direc-

the

will."

indignantly.
his

long volley of
the

^"

From

interrupted.

for

Fletcher

"And

Sydney.

warming

were

times

going

were

you

and

over

celebration; they
"

Cowan

named

fellow

minutes," added

five

nearly

cheered

"

toward
He

the

did," said Sydney.

He

caught himself

Cowan.

appealed

him.

demanded

stale before

Paul.

"I
to

don't

Neil, who

256

BEHIND

but

mind

Don't

are

all

you

and

looked

now

"Oh,
all

you
"

from

guess?
"

"

about?

asked

another.

to

one

forbidden

on

secret,

ground

elaborately ignorant.

going

out

there

is

with

out

be

"

talking

touched

answered

nothing, Paul,"

But

"Now

had

he

that

saw

It may

I, Paul?

youth, staring inquiringly

Sydney

his chum

something,"
What

it.

"When

Neil.

are

field?"

the

to

is

protested warmly.

it.Cowan?

did

What

you

"

Fletcher

about

Why,

get into the game,"

of

didn't

ago,

in thunder

What

that

long

LINE

said Cowan.

me/'

it

guessed

THE

Neil's

answered

wrathful

stale

going

"I

that

could

you

apparently ignorant

Cowan,

grimaces.

so

guessed right

away.

"

Why
"

mind

Oh, shut

up,

won't

you?

"

Sydney, you're

them, Paul; they're crazy.

if you
"

"

Neil's

only
But

No,

I didn't

plain enough
taken

have
"

"

You're
I'm

thought

he

of

now,

the

knew

"

"
"

said

know,"

face.

an

ass,

eyes

on

have

If I had

course.

Sydney.

Paul, quietly,his

^I must

"

began

been
known

blind.

It's

I wouldn't

place."

all
sorry

Don't

it."

knew

averted

"

entreated.

Neil

set

said

of

Neil.

idiots," muttered

anything,"

said

Sydney, genuinely

distressed.
"I'm

glad,"

said

Paul.

"I'm

such

selfish brute

AFTER

that

can't

all IVe

strode

his

shoulders

the

gas

common.

to

see."

all

Erskine,

help

one

putting
feet.

his

to

dark

column

in

the

head

at

lowered
Across

window.

to

and

under

arm

an

the

the

to

me

Sydney

crowded

long

common,

tramped

four

the

Some

him

fellows, they're

"Listen,

side, and

his

to

lifted

and

Neil.

the

I want

Paul

the

cried

across

window.

Chnm,

nose.

mj

say

up,"

marching

before

inch

an

267

BATTLE

^^

to

"Shut

half

see

got

THE

starlight,

the

marched

the

band.
"

Gee,

head

The

and

what

toward

and

in

the

muttered

Cowan.

the

house,

Old

the

Erskine.

and

slow

and

band

song

gate

struck

of

Hundreds

stately

the

up

voices

thundered

up

still around

was

his

its

room-mate;

clasp

little.

chum."

"Say,

"

Well?

muttered

"

Thanks."

"

Oh, don't

of

"

star-sprinkled sky.
arm

tightened

bother

Neil.

me," Neil

"

grumbled.

Let's

get

may

on

this; they're stopping."

Sydney
crutches,
up,

the

procession passed through

of

Elms

Paul's

"

the

toward

the

joined

out

of

turned

'Neath

crowd

had
the

to

sending

stolen,

as

chandelier,

path

of

noiselessly as
and

light across

suddenly
the

street

one

the
and

gas

flared

revealing