I ask the gentlemen of the class to bear with me patiently while I set forth some of the aspects of this matter as I see them.
"At the very outset, sir, I wish to make it as plain as possible that I do not seek to stand here as the apologist for Mr.Jetson.I feel very certain that he would not authorize me to take that position.

What I state I am stating on my own authority purely, and therein I am only exercising my right as a member of the second class.
"I would remind you, sir, that you all know, as well as I do, that Mr.
Jetson has always borne an honorable reputation in this class and in the brigade.

You all know his leading traits as well as I do.

Mr.Jetson is a man of quick temper and rather lasting resentments.

There is a good deal of sullenness in his nature--" "And they're not the best qualities in a man who is being trained to command!" broke in a midshipman at the rear of the room.
"As to whether Mr.Jetson will be, by graduation time, well fitted to command men," Dave answered, "is not a question that this class is called upon to pass on.