"One, if you please," replied the secretary. "Abram Hurd wishes to become a member with us."
"Has he been adequately examined, as to his qualifications to be numbered with us?"
"He has, your honor, and the result is eminently satisfactory."
"Will the order pass upon the application of Abram Hurd?"
Voted affirmatively.
"The tellers will attend to their duty." Two men came forward; each received a box from the captain. One was empty; the other contained white and black balls. These boxes were passed to every member; that containing the balls first.
"White balls elect; black ones reject," said the captain.
When the voting was over, the result was announced: "All white."
"Abram Hurd is then elected to become a member of our order, and will be initiated at our next regular meeting. Let the brethren bear this in mind. Is there any other business to be transacted?"
"None."