"Funny how Bert Dodge keeps up in mathematics, and yet takes in all the pleasures he can find," rumbled on Greg, as he turned the pages of his book, seeking what he wanted. "Dodge is in the section just under the stars, and I hear he has dreams of being in the star section after the January ordeals."
"Dodge always was a rather good student at Gridley High School" rejoined Prescott.
"But he never led our class there in the High School mathematics, which is baby's play compared with West Point math."
"Well, he gets the marks now," sighed Dick. "I wish we could, too."
The academic part of the cadet's year is divided into two halves. The first half winds up in January. During the last few weeks before the period for the winter examination, there is a general review in some of the subjects, notably in mathematics. This general review brings out all of a man's weak points in his subject. Incidentally, it should strengthen him in his weak points.
Now, if, in the general review, a cadet shows sufficient proficiency in his subject, he is not required to take the examination. If he fails in the general review in mathematics, he must go up for a "writ," as a written examination is termed. And that writ is cruelly searching. If the young man fails in the "writ," he may be conditioned and required to make up his deficiencies in June. If, in June, he fails to make up all deficiencies, he is dropped from the cadet corps as being below the mental standards required of a West Point graduate.
Neither Dick nor Greg stood high enough in mathematics to care to go on past January conditioned. Both felt that, with conditions extending over to the summer, they must fail in June.
"I'd sooner have my funeral held tomorrow than drop out of West
Point," Greg stated.
Prescott, while not making that assertion, knew that it would blast his dearest hopes life if he had to go down in the academic battle.
Dodge, who was so high in mathematics that he need have little fear, was circulating a good deal among his classmates these days before Christmas.