"In the Hudson?
I decline, sir, to obey an illegal order." Amid a good deal of laughter the returning cadets trudged across the road, over the railroad tracks and on up the steep slope that led to the administration building.
Across the inner court of the administration building walked the second classman briskly, and on up the stairs.

There was no more laughter.

Even the talking was in most subdued tones, for these young men were going back to duty---military duty at that! In one of the outer offices on the second floor the cadets left their suit cases.
Dick, being one of those in the lead, stepped into the adjutant's room, brought his heels together, and in the position of the soldier, saluted.
"Sir, I report my return to duty at the Military Academy." "Very good, Mr.Prescott.

Report to the special officer in charge at the cadet guard house, and receive your assignment to your room.

The special officer in charge will give you any further immediate orders that may be necessary." Again saluting, Prescott wheeled with military precision and left the adjutant's office.