“I desire to call your attention to the fact that Midshipman Osborn of the fourth class made but 1.1 on his December examination in mathematics, and is credited with having made 3.54 on the semi-annual examination in the same subject. The two marks are incompatible. The explanation is that Midshipman Osborn had an algebra inside his coat, left-hand side, and a geometry on his right-hand side; during the examination I saw him use them. Osborn stole Bollup’s watch. This matter seems to have been hushed up. It is an outrage to his classmates and to all midshipmen that such a character should be retained at the Naval Academy.
“Indignant Fourth Classman.”
CHAPTER X
“The Osborn Demonstration”
Ralph read the letter, which was written in printed characters, through slowly a second time. Then he looked up at the superintendent with a troubled expression on his face.
“You needn’t say anything about the letter, Mr. Osborn,” the superintendent remarked in a kindly tone. “It contains nothing but lies and the writer is a contemptible coward. But have you any idea as to who the writer may be?”
“Not the slightest, sir,” replied Ralph, much relieved at the superintendent’s words. “Had you heard about Mr. Bollup’s watch being stolen and of how it was found on my watch-chain, sir?”
“Oh, yes, I have the letters you four young gentlemen wrote before me now. Do you think this letter was written by a midshipman or somebody else?”
“I have no idea, sir; I can’t imagine any midshipman would wish to hurt me. I have never had any trouble that amounted to anything with anybody here, except Mr. Short; you know about that, sir.”
“Yes, and Mr. Short is a long ways off. I’ll keep this letter carefully and perhaps something may turn up——”