At supper formation the next evening, Ralph was in ranks as usual. The companies were mustered, then aligned, and then, when each cadet lieutenant stood in front of the center of his company, the battalion adjutant, Himski, reported to Cadet Lieutenant-Commander Bollup: “Sir, the battalion is formed.”
“Publish the orders, sir,” replied Bollup.
Ralph was now immensely startled to hear Himski call out, “Midshipman Osborn, fall out of ranks and report to the battalion adjutant immediately.”
“What’s up now?” wondered Ralph, yet not worried. He had not the faintest conception of what was about to happen. He left his place in ranks and went directly to where Himski was standing, in front of and facing the battalion. He saluted Himski. The latter motioned Ralph to one side, and then called out: “Attention to orders.” He unrolled some papers he had in his hands and read as follows:
“Order:
“The superintendent accepts the resignation voluntarily offered, as cadet lieutenant-commander, by Midshipman Bollup. Midshipman Bollup returns to ranks with the entire esteem of the authorities.”
Himski then read another paper.
“Order:
“Midshipman Ralph Osborn of the first class is appointed cadet lieutenant-commander and commander of the battalion of midshipmen, vice Bollup, resigned.”