South's left fielder had to run in for the leather, which struck the ground, then rolled to one side.

Thump! The ball landed neatly in the first baseman's hands, but Tom had kicked the bag a second before.
"Runner safe," drawled Tozier.
Spoff Henderson came next to bat.

Ted, with great care, struck him out.

Toby Ross met with similar disaster, nor did Reade have any chance to steal up to second.

Then Greg advanced to the plate.
He had his own favorite stick, which he swung with great confidence.
"Now, just see what I'll do to you!" was what Ted Teall's impudent smile meant.
Crack! Holmes hit the first ball, reaching first and pushing Tom to second.
"Danny Grin, don't fail us," begged Prescott, as Dan started for the plate.