human
Why didn't he put you in in the first place?
gpt
I don't know. I suppose he had reasons.
human
Oh, yes, he had reasons! And I rather think I know what they were. I am sure I do.
gpt
What were they?
human
Didn't you expect to pitch the game from the start to-day?
gpt
Yes, I did.
human
I thought so.
gpt
Well, said Frank, a bit sharply,
human
Well, I am glad to see you show some emotion, if it is nothing more than curiosity. I had begun to think you would not show as much as that.
gpt
Naturally I am curious.
human
Do you know that Paul Pierson, manager of the 'Varsity team, went on to see this game?
gpt
Yes.
human
Why do you suppose he did so?
gpt
Oh, he is acquainted with several Harvard fellows, and I presume he went to see them as much as to see the game.
human
He wasn't with any Harvard fellows at the game.
gpt
Well, what are you trying to get at?
human
Don't be in a hurry, said Harry, who was now speaking with unusual calmness.
gpt
You regard Old Put as your friend?
human
I always have.
gpt
But you think he didn't use you just right to-day?
human
I will confess that I don't like to be used to fall back on with the hope that I may pull out a game somebody else has lost.
gpt
I knew you would feel that way, unless you had suddenly grown foolish. It's natural and it's right. There is no reason why you shouldn't be the regular pitcher for our team, but still Gordon is regarded as the pitcher, while you are the change pitcher. Frank, there is a nigger in the woodpile.
human
You will have to make yourself clearer than that.
gpt
Putnam knew that Pierson was going to be present at the game.
human
Well?
gpt
Pierson didn't go on to see any Harvard friends. He couldn't afford the time just at this season with all he has on his hands.
human
Go on.
gpt
Putnam knew Pierson was not there to see any Harvard men.
human
Oh, take your time.