“Yes, but you’re a silly chap if you think I’m going to let you go on to-night.”
“Sorry, but I have to be home in the morning. Topsy gets back and I must be there to meet her. Well, how are you?”
“Bully, thanks. I needn’t ask how you are; you look as strong as an ox; besides, I got news of you from young Craig. By the way, that was a nice letter you wrote to me about him.”
“By Jove, I didn’t, did I? Meant to, but quite forgot it. Have you seen him?”
“Yes, he came around one morning and we had a chat. Nice boy.”
“Yes, he is. Deserving, too. I never saw a chap his age who looked more like a real catcher, John. I want to do something for him; want to get him into college.”
“Hm,” said Mr. Hall. “Can’t you afford it?”
Mr. York laughed ruefully. “Yes, but he won’t let me. At least, not the easy way. I offered to get him a college position and he turned me down; said it wouldn’t be honest.”
“Well--I haven’t any yet. Thought I’d consult you. That reminds me that I invited him to meet us at your office after dinner.”
“My office? Why didn’t you have him come to the club?”
“Well, the office is on my way to the station, for one thing, and I won’t have much time here. Thought you and I could have some dinner together and a quiet smoke and then walk down to the office and see Craig for a few minutes. All right?”
“Surely, but we must get there before eight or we’ll have to climb nine flights of stairs. The elevators stop at eight.”
“I think I told him about eight. By the way, did you hear me having fun with Nick Turner?”
“Why, that fellow who pitched for Lynton.”
“Smith, you mean? So his name is Turner, eh? Was that you who hurled insults at him from the stand?”
“Insults, nothing!” Mr. York chuckled. “I only asked him why he left Shreveport and how much he was getting to-day and a few things like that. Only asked for information, John.”
“Well, you broke up the game, you old schemer! Who is this chap?”
“Nick Turner? Pitched two years ago for Shreveport. Never was much good, though. Knew him the minute I saw him pitch. I dare say those Lynton boys made up a ten-dollar purse to get him to work for them to-day. They ought to be spanked. I was glad you fellows here licked them without any outside assistance.”