CHAPTER XXI 

MARJORY THE FRANK 

At the door of the senior block Burgess, going out, met Bob coming in, hurrying, as he was rather late. 

"Congratulate you, Bob," he said; and passed on. 

Bob stared after him. As he stared, Trevor came out of the block. 

"Congratulate you, Bob." 

"What's the matter now?" 

"Haven't you seen?" 

"Seen what?" 

"Why the list. You've got your first." 

"My--what? you're rotting." 

"No, I'm not. Go and look." 

The thing seemed incredible. Had he dreamed that conversation between Spence and Burgess on the pavilion steps? Had he mixed up the names? He was certain that he had heard Spence give his verdict for Mike, and Burgess agree with him. 

Just then, Mike, feeling very ill, came down the steps. He caught sight of Bob and was passing with a feeble grin, when something told him that this was one of those occasions on which one has to show a Red Indian fortitude and stifle one's private feelings. 

"Congratulate you, Bob," he said awkwardly. 

"Thanks awfully," said Bob, with equal awkwardness. Trevor moved on, delicately. This was no place for him. Bob's face was looking like a stuffed frog's, which was Bob's way of trying to appear unconcerned and at his ease, while Mike seemed as if at any moment he might burst into tears. Spectators are not wanted at these awkward interviews. 

There was a short silence. 

"Jolly glad you've got it," said Mike. 

"I believe there's a mistake. I swear I heard Burgess say to Spence----" 
What did Bob's face look like when talking to Mike?
a feeble grin