But a vote of the majority in favor of the silence would be enough; the rest of the class would be bound by the action of the majority.
And all the lower classes would observe and respect any decision of the first class concerning one of its own members.
Not a word did Greg say to Dick.

Yet, under the table, Holmes employed one of his knees to give Dick's knee a long, firm pressure that conveyed the hidden message of unfaltering friendship and loyalty.
For the other cadets at the table the silence imposed more or less hardship, since they could utter only the most necessary words.

They however, were not objects against whom the silence was directed, and they could endure the absence of conversation with far more indifference than was possible for Prescott.
It was a relief to all at the table, none the less, when the rising order was given.

When the corps had marched back to camp, and had been dismissed, Dick Prescott, head erect, and betraying no sign of annoyance, walked naturally into A company's Street, drew out his camp chair and seated himself on it in the open.
Barely had he done so, when Greg arrived.

Cadet Holmes, however, did not stop or speak, but hurried on.
"Greg has his hands full," thought Dick.