“Mr. President,” he said warmly, “I must protest against this election.  Walton is not a member of the Prescott Academy, and it is unconstitutional to elect him President.”

“Will the gentleman point out the constitutional clause which has been violated by Walton’s election?” said Oscar Vincent.

“Mr. President,” said Fletcher, “this Society was founded by students of the Prescott Academy; and the offices should be confined to the members of the school.”

Harry Walton rose and said:  “Mr. President, my election has been a great surprise to myself.  I had no idea that any one had thought of me for the position.  I feel highly complimented by your kindness, and deeply grateful for it; but there is something in what Mr. Fletcher says.  You have kindly allowed me to share in the benefits of the Society, and that satisfies me.  I think it will be well for you to make another choice as President.”

“I will put it to vote,” said the presiding officer.  “Those who are ready to accept Mr. Walton’s resignation will signify it in the usual way.”

Fletcher raised his hand, but he was alone.

“Those who are opposed,” said the President.

Every other hand except Harry’s was now raised.

“Mr. Walton, your resignation is not accepted,” said the presiding officer.  “I call upon you to assume the duties of your new position.”

Harry rose, and, modestly advanced to the chair.  “I have already thanked you, gentlemen,” he said, “for the honor you have conferred upon me in selecting me as your presiding officer.  I have only to add that I will discharge its duties to the best of my ability.”

All applauded except Fletcher.  He sat with an unpleasant scowl upon his face, and waited for the result of the balloting for Vice-President and Secretary.  Had he been elected to either position, the Clionian would probably have retained his illustrious name upon its roll.  But as these honors were conferred upon other members, he formed the heroic resolution no longer to remain a member.

“Mr. President,” he said, when the last vote was announced, “I desire to terminate my connection with this Society.”

“I hope Mr. Fletcher will reconsider his determination,” said Harry from the chair.

“I would like to inquire the gentleman’s reasons,” said Tom Carver.

“I don’t like the way in which the Society is managed,” said Fletcher.  “I predict that it will soon disband.”

“I don’t see any signs of it,” said Oscar.  “If the gentleman is really sincere, he should not desert the Clionian in the hour of danger.”

“I insist upon my resignation,” said Fletcher.

“I move that it be accepted,” said Tom Carver.

“Second the motion,” said the boy who sat next him.

The resignation was unanimously accepted.  Fletcher ought to have felt gratified at the prompt granting of his request, but he was not.  He had intended to strike dismay into the Society by his proposal to withdraw, but there was no consternation visible.  Apparently they were willing to let him go.