"You seem much interested in the newspaper, Richard," said his
father, when the young freshman came to table, still holding
'The Blade.'"

"Yes, sir. You know I have set my heart on making the H.S. eleven
just as soon as I strike a higher class. I was afraid the School
Board would abolish the game from our school. Now, I know they
won't."

"Hm! Let me see 'The Blade.'"

Mr. Prescott glanced through the article, a faint twinkle showing
in his eyes.

"The School Board may stop High School football," commented Mr.
Prescott, laying aside the paper. "They _may_, but it would
take a good deal of courage, for that article will start Gridley
on a furor of enthusiasm for the game. I wonder who got up that
hoax."

"Why, Dad, 'The Blade,' hints at some one down at the Business
Men's Club."

"Hm! I wonder who wrote the article."

"Perhaps Len Spencer," replied Dick. "You know, Dad, he's a great
fan for all our H.S. sports."

"I can just see Jason Stone reading that article at _his_ breakfast
table this morning," smiled Mr. Prescott. "Stone is a great