“Mason, you said the fire came from Ritter’s post, didn’t you?” asked the head of the school.
“From that direction, yes, sir.”
“Did it look as if it might be from a cigarette?”
“Well, sir—I—I——”
“Answer me!”
“It might be from a cigarette, yes.”
“Ritter, I rather think this is proof positive that the fire may be laid at your door,” went on Captain Putnam.
“I didn’t light the bonfire,” answered the bully doggedly. “At home I am allowed to smoke—I don’t see why I can’t do it here,” he added sourly.
“Because it is against the rules, that is why, Ritter. I do not consider smoking good for any growing boy. Your infringement of the rules did a good deal of harm and it might have resulted still more disastrously. I am afraid I shall have to take up this matter with your father. You will come to my tent, and you can come too, Mason and Sabine. Major Ruddy, you may dismiss the battalion.”
The necessary orders were given and the cadets broke ranks, and gathered in knots to discuss the situation.