After two minutes Captain Goodwin removed the thermometer and held it up.
"Normal," he observed, a bit puzzled. "Dead-beating," as it is called, or trying to get into the hospital when there is no need, is not unknown to the surgeons at the Military Academy. But when done, it is usually tried before a boy has been there a year. "How long have you felt this way?"
"For about twenty-four hours, sir."
"Perhaps I'd better mark you 'quarters' for twenty-four hours to come," said the surgeon, eyeing Dodge closely.
Dodge squirmed. This was what he did not want. Being ordered to quarters would keep him in his room.
"I've been fighting this off in my room, sir," replied Dodge haltingly. "I don't feel well, and I thought that a day or two here, resting in bed under a doctor's eye, might set me up."
"Very well, Mr. Dodge. I don't think anything serious has assailed you, but we'll keep you under observation for a day or two."
Captain Goodwin completed the record of the case, then pressed a button. A sergeant of the hospital corps entered.
"Steward, Mr. Dodge is to be put to bed. Full hospital diet and rest.
Further instructions will be given to you later."
"Very good, sir."