Page:Stanwood Pier--Harding of St Timothys.djvu/130

104 school eleven to do without its captain and best player!

Herrick avoided talking with any one; he strolled down to one of the goals, where during the intermission two small boys were practicing drop-kicks, and stood there, looking on. They were very proud to have such a distinguished spectator, and did their best to show off; but he was really paying no attention to their efforts.

When the second half began, it was a different Herrick who went into the game. The listlessness and sluggishness which had characterized his playing after Rupert had been hurt had disappeared; and Tom Albree, who during the intermission had been flattered by the Pythians for the way he was standing up against the veteran, was pushed to one side, and foiled and upset until in his chagrin he was almost ready to cry.

"Herrick's playing the game of his life!" one of the Corinthian substitutes said to Harry enthusiastically. "I believe we'll make this a close game yet."