Mr. Talbot followed the players to the dressing-room, worming his way through a crowd of enthusiastic youths, who had gathered to show their approval of the Blues, and Mr. Hall, seeking a way from the field, was suddenly confronted by the gentleman who carried the cane and the grey gloves. Mr. Hall’s face expressed surprise and delight. “Johnny!” he exclaimed. “Where’d you drop from?” Mr. York chuckled as he shook hands. “Hello, old man,” he said. “You look almost as flabbergasted as Sam Craig did when I yelled.” “Was that you bellowing like a bull?” laughed Mr. Hall. “I might have known it. You’re always right there with the advice, Johnny.” “Well, it happened to be good advice this time. It won the game.” “Oh, certainly,” scoffed the other. “Craig and the others had nothing to do with it!” “Craig did what I told him to,” replied Mr. York untroubledly. “If he hadn’t, he’d never have nailed that man at second and the score would have been tied at this minute--unless the other chaps had won. Come on and let’s get out of here.” “When did you arrive?” asked Mr. Hall when they were on the street. “About an hour ago. Ran down to Columbus last night, got there early this morning, and found I could catch a train over here and see you for a few hours and still get back to Mount Placid to-morrow morning. My train goes at nine-something, and I’ll have to change in the middle of the night. I call that a real proof of love and affection, John.” “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.” “Good for him! What’s your plan, then?” “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.”