"That's it." Matt looked puzzled. "I don't understand it. I went in there honestly convinced that I was going to be commissioned. But I feel wonderful. Why is that?"
"Don't look at me. I feel the same way, and yet I can't remember that he had a kind word to say. The whole business on Venus he just tossed off."
Matt said, "That's it!"
"What's what?"
" 'He just tossed it off.' That's why we feel good. He didn't make anything of it because he didn't expect anything less-because we are Patrolmen!"
"Huh? Yes, that's it-that's exactly it! Like he was thirty-second degree and we were first degree, but members of the same lodge." Tex started to whistle.
"I feel better," said Matt. "I felt good before, but now I feel better, now that I understand why. Say-one other thing."
"What?"
"You didn't tell him about the fight I had with Burke in New Auckland, did you?"
"Of course not." Tex was indignant.