That practically all the fellows of the first class had voted
for the silence, Greg did not for an instant believe. He was
well aware that Dick had many staunch friends in the class who
would stand out for him in the face of any appearances. But a
vote of the majority in favor of the silence would be enough;
the rest of the class would be bound by the action of the majority.
And all the lower classes would observe and respect any decision
of the first class concerning one of its own members.
Not a word did Greg say to Dick. Yet, under the table, Holmes
employed one of his knees to give Dick's knee a long, firm pressure
that conveyed the hidden message of unfaltering friendship and
loyalty.
For the other cadets at the table the silence imposed more or
less hardship, since they could utter only the most necessary
words. They however, were not objects against whom the silence
was directed, and they could endure the absence of conversation
with far more indifference than was possible for Prescott.
It was a relief to all at the table, none the less, when the rising
order was given. When the corps had marched back to camp, and
had been dismissed, Dick Prescott, head erect, and betraying no
sign of annoyance, walked naturally into A company's Street, drew
out his camp chair and seated himself on it in the open.
Barely had he done so, when Greg arrived.
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