The story begins with a conversation among several girls—Gertrude, Joan, and Marylin—discussing the new boys at school. While Marylin expresses disinterest, the group notices some freshmen being hazed by sophomores. Led by a confident sophomore named Johnny, the upperclassmen engage in a ritual of public humiliation that involves making freshmen perform demeaning acts.

One freshman in particular stands out for his defiant attitude. Unlike his peers, he openly challenges Johnny's authority. When Johnny attempts to haze him, this freshman, described as physically robust but not an athlete, confronts Johnny, refuses to comply, and warns him to keep away. His bold refusal and assertive departure mark a stark contrast to the usual compliance of freshmen, leaving the onlookers surprised and Johnny nonplussed.