What if he should be left out? It seemed that he could never bear the disgrace of it. Mason was speaking to him. At first he did not seem to hear, but soon he understood these words:
“Everywhere for you. He’s passed Fairbush and Harrison. They are both looking ill. Too bad! I’m sorry for them. It must be tough on a man who has counted on being chosen. He sees you, Defarge! He is coming this way!”
Yes, it seemed that Frank had seen Bertrand at last. He turned in that direction, and came forward slowly, as became the dignity of a senior on such a grave mission.
Bertrand’s heart leaped for joy. Now there could no longer be a doubt; he was the man, and to Merriwell had fallen the lot of notifying him.
Defarge came near laughing aloud. He did smile. He saw how everybody was watching Merriwell. Many present knew Frank had found in the French youth a persistent foe, but of late it seemed that Merry had discovered a way to hold Bertrand in subjection and submission. But the great mass of students did not dream of the many villainous attempts Defarge had made to injure Frank.
In that moment Bertrand Defarge saw visions of being made a member of Merriwell’s flock. He even vowed that he would do his level best to gain such distinction, as it would give him standing after Merriwell had left college.
Not that he loved Merriwell at all. Not that his treacherous nature had been changed in the least. But “Bones” would bring about the eternal burial of the hatchet, and never could anything cause them to betray a symptom of enmity.
Frank came nearer.
“It’s a sure thing, Defarge!” said Mason, in a whisper. “Congratulations.”