When silence was restored, Dick rose and was recognized by the chairman.
“Gentlemen,” he said quietly, “I think it will be far better to select on that committee those who are not too closely connected with the eleven. For that reason I must beg you to excuse me from serving.”
“No, no, no!” roared the cadets.
“Merriwell! Merriwell!” they stormed.
The Arlington crowd seemed silent. Chester had not failed to note that Dick had not openly entered into the contest against him, although he had expected something of the sort. However, he did not wish to see Dick on that platform.
The outcries showed that the meeting insisted on having Dick serve as chairman of the committee to count the votes.
“Mr. Merriwell,” said Dow, “I think you had better reconsider. You can plainly see that you are wanted on this committee, and you will do a favor to the meeting by serving.”
“Merriwell, Merriwell!” came from every side of the room.
“All right,” smiled Dick. “If I am chosen, I will serve, Mr. Chairman.”
Dow put the vote at once.