“Well,” exclaimed Don Hale, “that chap may not think he’s a hero, but, all the same, I believe he is.”
And to this sentiment every one heartily agreed.
CHAPTER IX—THE ACE
Many of the students confidently believed that by the time another day had rolled around Albert would have so far recovered from the effects of his thrilling experience as to reconsider his determination. This, however, was not the case.
A few privately expressed the opinion that Drugstore was a quitter, but, somehow or other, the boy’s frank avowal had raised him in the opinion of the majority, who sincerely regretted that so promising a pupil should be lost to the school.
During the late afternoon another American arrived. Of course this was not a very important event. Students were always going and coming, some leaving for the École de Perfectionment[[5]] others being sent back to their regiments when it was found that they were not fitted by nature to become successful airmen.
But a little incident in connection with the appearance of the newcomer profoundly interested those of an observant or inquisitive nature. It was a rather dramatic meeting between him and the former college student, Victor Gilbert.
The latter, who was now in the third class and gave promise of being one of the best of the élève pilots, upon entering the room and coming face to face with the other halted as though almost petrified with astonishment, and exclaimed:
“Hello! You here, Jason Hamlin!” Whereupon the other answered, in a tone which showed no trace of friendliness:
“Yes, I am here, Gilbert. And one of the reasons I am here is because you are here. Does that disturb you?”