Applause, and a shrill “That’s no joke!” from somewhere at the back of the room. “She has triumphed too long and it is time that we show her that Riverport is still to be reckoned with. And this fall, fellows, you’ll see a turning of the tables. We’re going to give old Adams a drubbing that will make up, more than make up for past defeats!” “So _you_ say!” somebody remarked after the applause had died down. Hopkins turned in the direction of the voice. “I see,” he said, “that we have one or two ‘knockers’ with us. That’s to be expected, however. There are always a few fellows sufficiently lacking in patriotism and school spirit to think it smart to jeer. Well, I guess that’s all I’ve got to say this evening. Except that I hope you will help us all you can. If every one of you will give what he is able to we, on our part, will fulfill our share of the contract. And I’ll tell you right now, fellows, that when the season is done you’ll have no cause to regret your generosity.” Hopkins had made a good speech and even Rob was forced to clap a little as the captain took his seat again. Joe Law arose and demanded “a cheer for Captain Hopkins” and the audience responded fairly well. “Now,” announced Prentiss, taking the platform again, “some of the fellows will pass through the hall and receive your contributions. When it is possible, please give cash. If you haven’t the cash, then write your pledges on the slips of paper.” Law and three other football men arose and started on the rounds. A buzz of conversation dispelled the quiet of the hall. “Guess I ought to give a couple of dollars,” whispered Evan to Rob. Rob frowned. “If you do, you’re an idiot,” he growled. “What are you going to give, Mal?” “Oh, a dollar, I reckon. I’d rather not give them anything, but it seems rather small not to.” “Then I’ll give a dollar, too,” said Evan as he found his pocket-book. “If they got that much from every fellow――” “They won’t, though,” said Rob. “A lot of them won’t give a cent. And some think a half’s enough. If they get a hundred this year they’ll be doing mighty well. The fellows are getting tired of paying for a football team that never delivers the goods.” Law passed the cap along the row and Evan and Malcolm deposited their contributions. Law stared at Rob. “Come on, now, Rob,” he said, “shell out.” “Not me,” answered Rob with a smile. “I have better use for my money, Joe. Go on with your old hat.” “My, but you’re a tight-wad,” said Joe, with a shrug of his big shoulders. Presently the collectors handed their harvest to Prentiss. The audience waited to hear the result announced. Prentiss and Hopkins counted and figured and at last the former came to the front of the platform with a slip in his hand. “Doesn’t look happy, does he?” chuckled Rob.