“Number 35, Os, left-hand column. You made 3.82 on your geometry and 3.26 on your algebra; your average for the examination is 3.54, and for the term 2.81.”
Ralph gave a wild “hurrah,” and feasted his eyes over these marks. Never before had anything ever looked so beautiful to him. Now he felt all his worries were over.
Two days later he was called to the office of the officer in charge. “Osborn, sir,” he reported, saluting.
“Report to the superintendent’s office immediately, Mr. Osborn,” directed Lieutenant Wilson.
“Very well, sir,” replied Ralph in great surprise, wondering what in the world the superintendent could want with him. He was soon admitted to the superintendent’s presence.
“Good-morning, Mr. Osborn,” said the latter, fixing his penetrating gray eyes upon Ralph.
“Good-morning, sir. I was directed to report to you, sir.”
“Yes. I want you to read a letter I have just received.”
He picked up a paper from his desk and handed it to Ralph. It was as follows:
“To the superintendent of the Naval Academy: