the chance that Tom would square himself with the Office and return to his duties, and so the Scrub sent word to Tom to appoint a temporary leader and Tom's choice was Johnny Thayer, the fullback. That afternoon the First had very little trouble with the Scrub, and scored three times, holding its own goal-line inviolate. Tom's absence, both as halfback and captain, was felt. With a game against Minster High School two days off the Scrub's showing that Thursday afternoon wasn't encouraging.
Loring returned to East after the day's practice was over, a little disappointed. Not because of the Scrub's rather sorry exhibition, but because he had hoped that Mr. Babcock would try out his forward-pass play in practice, and Mr. Babcock hadn't done it. Loring supposed that Tom's absence from the team had prevented, and concluded that he would have to wait until next season for a test of the play.
Loring was still eating supper when Clif, looking much disturbed, was admitted by Wattles. "He wasn't in dining hall," announced the visitor, "and I've looked all over the place for him! He hasn't been here, has he?"
"Tom? No, I haven't seen him since noon. He's around somewhere, though, of course!"
"Yes," agreed Clif but without conviction. "Just the same, it's not like him to miss a meal. He's never done it before."
"Have you tried the library? You know, he might be working on that theme."
