“There has come to the attention of the Student Government League a very grave case of hazing,” Obadiah started. “A case which, I regret to say (which he didn’t) must be dealt with severely. It concerns the ducking of a Sophomore in the ... in the watering trough...!”
The Sophs glanced in my direction in dumbfounded surprise. The Freshies looked glum.
“Such an offense is bad enough in warm weather,” Obadiah continued, “but in mid-winter, (he shuddered) it is absolutely and positively criminal!”
I felt like saying “Amen!” to that. Obadiah stopped to clear his throat and to tap himself on the chest like he was afraid he was going to get a cold on his lungs.
“As you all know, the League has the first power to act on matters relating to the willful misconduct of students,” said Obadiah, as if he’d memorized what he was going to say. “At a meeting of the Emergency Committee this morning it was decided that, if strict measures are necessary to prevent further ... er ... further violence ... the League is prepared to take them!”
Obadiah’s hair began to stand on end like a porcupine’s quills. I could tell he was getting ready to shoot a broadside. So could everyone. But no one could tell where he was going to hit.
“The Freshman class this year has been a trouble breeder. Even the Freshman representative admits that....”
Time out while the Sophs all heaved a big sigh of relief!
“... and it is my understanding that this activity has largely been due to one member who, I have reason to know, was especially prominent in last night’s doings...!”
All eyes went to Eddie who sat looking like there was sickness in the family and he was it. I just had to smile when I thought of the turn things had taken. But the smile came off the very next minute.