"Cadet Corbett," Higgins paused, and then asked almost casually, "did you strike the first blow?"
"No," replied Tom.
"Dismissed," said Higgins suddenly. "Call Roger Manning to the stand, please."
Roger rose, and passing Tom on the way back, took his place on the stand and repeated the oath.
Alfie looked at Roger calmly and in a clear voice asked, "Cadet Manning, did you strike the first blow?"
"No."
"Dismissed," said Alfie. "Please call Cadet Astro to the stand."
The cadet audience began to murmur and sit forward tensely.
"What the devil is he doing?" growled Connel.
Strong grinned. "Blast me if I know, Lou," he said. "But wait and see. I'll bet you ten credits it's a lulu."