“Now that we’ve gone over the matter of the Liberty Loan,” he said, leaning back in his chair, “there’s one more piece of business before we take up our final practice for the rally to-morrow. I mean the application of young Frank Tallerico for membership in the troop. I don’t think I need say much about him. He’s been present for several meetings and you’ve had time to size him up and talk over the matter amongst yourselves. There is just one thing, though. You know I don’t wish to influence you in any way, but for some time it has seemed to me we might very well broaden out and take in more fellows like Tallerico—boys who work or who come from laboring families. I’ve already talked about this with the troop leaders, so I won’t say any more now. The meeting is open for nominations.”
As he ceased speaking there was a little stir amongst the scouts seated on a long row against the opposite wall. The scoutmaster, apt at reading expressions, sensed a slight feeling of tension and was prepared, as he had expected to be, for a marked difference of opinion. Clay Marshall, serious and full of responsibility, seemed on the point of getting on his feet. But before he or any one else had time to make a move, Jim Cavanaugh sprang up.
“I nominate Frank Tallerico for membership,” he said abruptly.
“Second the motion,” echoed McBride, from his place at the head of the Eagle Patrol.
There was a murmur of surprise from several quarters. Stout Harry Ritter’s jaw gaped.
“Well, of all the fakes,” he muttered to Ted Hinckley beside him. “Why, not more than a week ago he wouldn’t listen to such a thing.”
John Wendell’s face expressed neither his surprise nor his gratification.
“You’ve all heard the nomination,” he said. “Will you have a standing vote, or ballot?”
“Standing vote,” suggested several voices at once.
“Very well. Those in favor of the nomination please stand. Those opposed remain seated.”