Several times he attempted to speak, but the continued cheering discouraged his effort. At length silence was obtained, when Ray said smilingly, and quickly turning attention from himself:
“Gentlemen, you forget that you have not yet decided to be represented in the Berkshire League. You have first to vote on the question: do we send out a nine?”
“We scarcely need put that question,” said a student, as Ray sat down. “It has been only a form in past years, and I move, therefore, Mr. Chairman, that we approve these elections——”
“One moment, Mr. Chairman,” broke in a voice from the back of the room.
“Mr. Pratt has the floor,” said Edwards.
“I have finished,” said Pratt. “My motion is before the meeting.”
It was seconded at once by a dozen voices. Then the speaker at the back of the room rose slowly. It was Len Howard, a Senior, and a prominent lawn tennis player. He looked and acted as if he had a hard and ugly task before him.
“Have I the floor now?” he asked.
“You have,” answered Edwards.