"It was careless on my part to allow the shed to be there," said the colonel. "When we rebuild the ammunition house I will have it placed farther off, and there will be no wooden structures attached to it. We must not risk another accident like this."
In view of the fire, lessons were suspended that day, and only a short drill ordered. When this was over the electioneering began again, for in the afternoon the selection of the football captain was to be made.
There was quite a change of sentiment, and Paul Drew found that he had to do very little pleading now to get the promise of votes for Dick.
"It was the pluckiest and nerviest thing I ever saw done," declared Harvey Nolan, one of the new cadets, who had hitherto resisted Paul's pleadings, being firm for Dutton. "I like Ray immensely, but I think I'll vote for Hamilton."
"If this keeps on it will be unanimous for him," said Paul in delight. He was hardly prepared for what followed.
The cadets were assembled in the gymnasium, and Mr. Martin, by request, was presiding over the important session.
"I understand you are now ready to proceed with the election for a captain and a manager," began the Yale coach.
"Sure," came the inelegant but hearty reply from several.
"There are three candidates," went on the coach. "Mr. Hamilton, Mr. Dutton and Mr. Rutley. How will you vote, by ballot or acclimation?"
"Ballot—ballot!" came the cry.