Why, a cadet who, for any reason, finds himself unable to attend a hop, after he has invited a young lady, may arrange with anyone of his comrades to call for the young lady in his place." "What if she should decline the unknown substitute who reported to fill the task ?" teased Belle.
"It would betray her unfamiliarity with West Point," replied Greg, with more spirit than Belle had expected from this once very quiet young man.

"Miss Meade, we look upon a our comrades here as gentlemen.
We regard the man whom we may send in our place as being more worthy than ourselves.

Isn't it natural, therefore, that we should expect the young lady to feel honored by the substitution in the way of escort?
"Wholly so," Belle admitted.

"If I have said anything that sounded inconsiderate, or too light, you will forgive me, won't you, Mr.
Holmes ?" "You haven't offended, and you couldn't," Greg replied courteously; "for I never take offence where none is meant, and you would be incapable of intending any." The young people ahead were talking very quietly.

Laura, indeed, did not wish to talk much.