And now, let's talk of something serious." "Of what, then ?" inquired Dalzell, as the two started to walk along together.
"Football." "Is that more serious than girls ?" demanded Dan Dalzell, suspicious that his friend was making fun of him.
"It's safer, at any rate, for you.

Why, if a girl happens to say, 'Delighted to meet you, Mr.Dalzell,' you expect her to give up all other thoughts but you, and to be at home every Saturday evening.

No, no, Danny.

The company of the fair is not for you.
Keep to things you understand better---such as football." Dan Dalzell's eyes shot fire.

He was certain, now, that his chum was poking fun at him, and this, in his present temper, Dan could not quite endure.
"So, since we've dropped the subject of girls," Dave continued placidly, "what do you think are our real chances for the balance of this season ?" "They'd be a lot improved," grunted Dan, "if you'd get the grip on yourself that you had at the beginning of the season." "I know I'm not playing in as good form as I had hoped to," Dave nodded.