33 North was very much aware that the Commandant
was watching him. "Not very good is it, sir?" North asked.
34 "No, sir," the Officer agreed. "It's damned bad, and we both know
it. Even if you stay in Academy it goes on your record and you're going
to have to be the best Commander The Fleet ever saw, to get anywhere.
And it will all depend on whether or not the Officer presses charges.
If he does, there's nothing I can do. You'll be expelled. If
he doesn't, I'll put you on six months’ probation, give you some minor
extra duties, then, if all goes well, put you back on full status."
35 "Thank you, sir," North remarked. "I think that's exceptionally
fair."
36 "I'll get started on it, North. There's certain people that will
want you out of the Academy immediately. But you've got friends in high
places ...VERY high places. Besides that, I think you're going to be
one of the finest Officers The Fleet has ever seen, and Lord knows, we
need good ones! You worry me, North. There's something about you I
like. I knew your father and you're a lot like him. Maybe he got a bad
deal. You have every reason in the galaxy to hate. But don't let it
burn you out, North. Don't let it destroy the good you can do."
37 "Thank you, sir," North said again. "Sometime, when you have a
chance, I would enjoy talking with you about my father; after
graduation, if you prefer."
38 "Good Lord, lad, you've got confidence! " the Commandant laughed
with a smile. I won't wait THAT long. Give you a couple of years and
this whole thing will be forgotten, except on the record. You might as
well go home, now, and catch up on your studies."
39 "Yes sir!" North snapped, as he rose and gave the Commandant the
salute. This time the Commandant stood and gave him the full salute in
return. North turned and left.
40 As he was flying by the officers' quarters he saw a stretcher team
with a covered stretcher winging toward
the hospital. "Not another accident! " North thought. Later,