Loomis was very quiet. "Is that your last word?" he asked icily.
"Yes," said Smith.
Loomis nodded. "Well, let me warn you, Professor Smith, I have no intention of dropping the matter here.
"Gentlemen, please," Rutherford said. He looked like he was about to cry. "Let's keep our perspective. As you know, there must be unanimous approval for the candidate to pass. Is there no way to resolve this difference?"
Nobody spoke.
Rutherford sighed. "Well then, I have no choice but to explain that -
-"
"Just a minute." It was George Wren; he had been so quiet throughout the examination that the others had almost forgotten he was there. Now he sat up a little in his chair and turned to the tabletop in a tired but determined voice. "As Acting Chair of the Department, I will make a recommendation
