"Groom, tell Shuffles to come aft," said the principal to one of the midshipmen.
The officer obeyed the order; Shuffles flatly refused to go aft. Mr. Lowington descended from his rostrum and went forward to enforce obedience. This event created a profound sensation among the students.
"Shuffles," said Mr Lowington, sternly.
"Sir," replied the malcontent, in a surly tone.
"The boatswain piped the crew to muster."
"I heard him."
"You did not obey the call. I sent for you, and you refused to come."
"I don't think I ought to obey the boatswain's call."
"May I ask why not?"
"I've been an officer three terms, and I should be now if we had had fair play," growled Shuffles.