Page:Stanwood Pier--Crashaw brothers.djvu/135

Rh appearance was that of one better qualified for the hospital than the rink. His face was gory, his blue jersey was smeared with blood; his  swollen nose and bruised, discolored cheek  gave him a desperate look. He swung round once or twice cautiously, then took a half-dozen long confident strokes.

“All right,” he said; and the game proceeded.

Within a few seconds Edward realized that St. Timothy’s had singled out Charles now as  the vulnerable point, and were directing at  him their most severe attack—just as in the  football game Charles had singled out Edward. The understanding came to Edward in a flash when Durant wheeled with the puck  and charged clear across the rink at Charles.

He did not get by; there was a momentary scrimmage, and then the puck was hit wildly  out into the centre, where Sheldon secured it. He pivoted an instant, hesitating; then shot it to Durant, who this time approached Charles  with tempting deliberation. Charles made a rush; Durant flicked the puck out of his reach,