But none of the troop made any comment.
After the distribution of a dozen or so merit badges, Mr.Temple called out, "Alfred McCord, Elk Patrol, First Bridgeboro, New Jersey Troop." There was a slight bustle among the Bridgeboro boys to make way for their little member who started threading his way among the throng, his thin little face lighted with a nervous smile of utter delight.
"Bully for Alf!" some one called.
"Greetings, Shorty," another shouted.
He stood before Mr.Temple on the platform, trembling all over, and yet the picture of joy.

His big eyes stared with a kind of exaltation.

For once, his hair was smooth, and it made his face seem all the more gaunt and pale.

This was the crucial moment of his life.

He stood as straight as he could, his little spindle legs shaking, but his hand held up in the full scout salute to Mr.Temple.Oh, but he was proud and happy.