“Sir,” said Ralph, “I wish to report that a great mistake has been made. I ought to have been given at least three-five on that examination. Of this I’m absolutely certain. I worked correctly nearly every problem. I compared my answers with those of other candidates and I can state positively that I made at least three-five on that examination. I cannot be mistaken in this matter.”
“The papers are marked independently by two different officers, Mr. Osborn; it’s not possible such a glaring mistake could be made by two different people.”
“I can’t explain it, sir; but I know I got the right answer to nearly all the questions.”
“Why have you been so late in reporting this matter?” inquired the superintendent, looking at him keenly.
“I have just learned it, sir. My father was killed in an accident and I left the day the examinations were finished and have just returned.” There was a break in Ralph’s voice as he spoke.
“I’m very sorry indeed. I’ll look into this matter. Be at my office at two o’clock.”
“Thank you, sir; I will.”
Ralph was there at the time appointed and was immediately called before the superintendent. “Mr. Osborn,” said the latter, “I have had your mathematical papers read over again by a third officer who did not know the original mark given them, and he marked them eight-tenths. He says they are very poor. I’m sorry, but I can do nothing more for you. Good-day, sir.”
There was an air of finality in the superintendent’s manner and voice.
“Sir,” said Ralph, now desperate, “I have to report that I answered nearly every question correctly,”—a look of displeasure crossed the superintendent’s face,—“I beg of you to let me see my papers.”