That was not his first offence, but the students had always passed those matters over among themselves, not wishing to be compromised in public opinion; now the measure had been exceeded. We will not acquaint the reader with the offence; what concern have we with foulness? It is enough that a court composed of students had decided to expel the offender. From such decisions there was no appeal, for the University authorities always confirmed them; an appeal would only make it more widely known.
Indignation among students was great; no one took the part of Augustinovich except Yosef, who rousing half the University exerted his power to save the man.
"You wish to expel him," said he, at a very stormy meeting. "You wish to expel him? But do you think that after he has left the University he will not bring shame to you? What will he do with himself? Where will he go? How will he find means of living? How will he maintain himself? And do you know why he fell? No!—Ask him when he has eaten a dinner. We are among ourselves. Raise either of his feet, the right or the left, all the same! If under his boots you find one sound sole, expel him. As to me I declare, and may the thunderbolts split any one who will say otherwise, that we ought to save, not to ruin him. Give him salvation, give him bread—take him on your own responsibility!"
"Who will answer for him?" asked one of Augustinovich's opponents.
"I!" shouted Yosef in a thundering voice; and he threw his cap on the floor.
There was uproar and confusion in the room. Vasilkevich supported Yosef with all his influence, others insisted on his expulsion, there was no "small uproar." Yosef sprang onto a bench, and turning to Augustinovich shouted,—
"They forgive thee! Come with me."
He left the room, rubbing his hands with internal delight, and cried,—
"It would be a pity to lose such a head! Besides, let them eat the devil if they act without me now!"
"Why didst thou save me?" inquired Augustinovich.