It was not because he
had finished his education, but because he felt that he was not
appreciated by his fellow-students. He had been ambitious to be
elected to an official position in the Clionian Society, but his
aspirations were not gratified. He might have accepted this
disappointment, and borne it as well as he could, had it not been
aggravated by the elevation of Harry Walton to the presidency. To be
only a common member, while a boy so far his social inferior was
President, was more than Fitzgerald could stand. He was so incensed
that upon the announcement of the vote he immediately rose to a point
of order.
"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.
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