“Because we’ve agreed on a schedule, and unless all managers are satisfied with any changes made there can be no changes. If you want this game to-morrow at Maplewood, Mr. Hammerswell, you will have to accept Fairhaven’s terms and give them the last two games on the island.” In vain Hammerswell argued and pleaded. With difficulty he repressed his annoyance and anger. For once he found it impossible to carry things his own way, and in the end he was compelled to acquiesce to Garrett’s terms. When this final agreement was made, the altered schedule was accepted by vote in the regular manner. “We got the best of that, Garrett,” smiled Dick, as they left Blackington’s office together. “The two last games on the island should be rousers for us. If we are in position to fight for first place, we will have big crowds and make a fat thing out of it.” “That’s right, Dick,” nodded Ray. “You were long-headed in demanding that change. I am sorry we have to return to Fairhaven to-night. That trip across always shakes the team up some and puts it out of condition. We’ll have to return as early as possible to-morrow in order to rest up on the mainland before the game.” “Why not remain here?” suggested Dick. “Hammerswell counts on our making the trip to-morrow, and without doubt he expects his players to be in first-class condition, while we should be somewhat shaken up. Let’s fool him.” “A good suggestion!” cried Garrett. “If they celebrate on the island to-night they will have to do so without us. We’ll stay right here.” Thus it came about that the _Lady May_ returned to Fairhaven without the ball team. That night Dick Merriwell and Bart Hodge sat up until a late hour talking. Of course, Dick was anxious to hear all about his brother, and therefore he plied Hodge with questions. “Why didn’t Frank come himself?” he asked for the third time. “He wanted to,” said Hodge, “but he felt that he couldn’t spare the time just now. His mining interests have kept him busy during the last few weeks.” “Where did you leave him—in Denver?” “No; in Chicago.” “Chicago?” exclaimed Dick. “Why? How was that? I didn’t suppose——” “It was business that took us both to Chicago. We have been negotiating with a syndicate that wants to buy the Phantom Mine in the Mazatzals. They sent an expert to examine the property, and we know he made a favorable report, for they offered us a price on it. We wired our terms, and they urged us to come on to Chicago. When we arrived there, however, they attempted to cut down on us, and the whole deal hung up. Had we put it through, it was our intention to come on here together in time to witness the final games in this league. I have left everything in Frank’s hands. He wished me to come on, and we agreed on our rock-bottom price before I pulled out of Chicago. If the syndicate comes to terms, all right; if they don’t accept our figures, the deal is off.” “Are you anxious to sell your interest in the mine?” asked Dick.