Two blackballs excluded a candidate from membership; and when the votes were counted it was found that Albree had received seven blackballs. Frank Windsor and Bruce Watson, who were sitting together in the back of the room, conferred in whispers after this announcement. Then Frank rose.
"Mr. President," he said, "I'd like to say about Mr. Albree that he's one of the brightest and most amusing fellows I know, and I don't think the fact that he's never done much in a literary way should count against him. He'd be mighty good in debates. He's witty and clever, and I hope the society will feel like reconsidering its vote."
"Mr. Stoddard has been proposed for membership, and will now be voted on," said Harry, and Windsor sat down.
A few moments later Harry received from the tellers the memorandum announcing the result of the vote. He announced slowly:—
"Mr. Stoddard has received two blackballs, and is therefore not elected."
Nat Belmont and three or four other fellows
