We ought to put the Penchurch chaps to bed for once, I fancy." This was the general impression throughout the School; and, as if to make up for the abstinence of the past few weeks, the fervour of the athletic set waxed high as the eventful day drew near.

Yorke had out his men once or twice, practising kicks, and selecting where in the field each player could work to best advantage.
Rollitt, of course, did not attend these practices; but Clapperton and Brinkman did, and soon lost the embarrassment with which they first faced their old rivals and enemies.

Corder was down too; dreadfully afraid lest by _some_ mishap he should discredit himself, and so be knocked out of his coveted place in the team.

Mr Stratton was on the spot also, advising and admonishing--as no one knew better how to do.
Even the doctor showed his interest in the new departure of the clubs by coming down too, and by giving directions to reserve seats in the pavilion for a party of his friends.
The only unenthusiastic person, except Rollitt, was Dangle.

He tried at first to brazen it out, and came down to the field with a sneer on his face to look, so he said, "at the good boys exercising themselves." But the juniors soon routed him out of that attitude.
"Booh, hoo! Rollitt's coming! Wants to hear you call him a thief.
Run--he'll catch you! Put it on, well run, Dangle, you've missed him this time.