Only small persons in this world—small in nature—bully those under them. Corporal Sharpe was possessed of an extremely small and narrow spirit, and he delighted in showing his petty authority and in doing his utmost to make life unpleasant for those over whom he could exercise his will.
His reputation as a “plebe hazer” was well established among the cadets themselves, but it had not reached the ears of his superior officers. He knew that, and he lost no time in taking advantage of the fact.
“I’ll tell you all about it, sir,” he said, boldly. “I was giving this squad of plebes—er—new fourth class men instructions in seamanship when Mr. Gote, not liking a rebuke caused by his own inattention, made an entirely unprovoked assault on me.”
A murmur, faint but distinct, ran through the group of plebes, and Clif stepped forward as if with the intention of speaking. Before he could commence, Sharpe pointed him out, and added, triumphantly: “And that cadet helped him, sir. His name is Mr. Faraday, and he is as guilty as the other.”
The speaker glanced toward Judson Greene and Chris Spendly as if seeking confirmation. Their hatred of Clif was an old story to the cadets of the Naval Academy. He was not disappointed in his anticipations.
“That’s right,” said Greene, audibly.
“Sure thing,” spoke up Spendly.
“Do you mean to tell me they actually attacked you while you were on duty over them?” exclaimed the executive officer, in amazement.
“Yes, sir. And it was entirely unprovoked,” glibly replied Corporal Sharpe. “They are troublesome pupils, sir. This isn’t the first time they have broken the rules.”