"Silences."
When the cadets at West Point or Annapolis wish to show their dislike of some instructor who has made himself particularly unpopular, they give him what is known as a "silence." As soon as he enters the mess hall, the clatter and brisk conversation that have filled the room are followed by absolute silence. Not a word is spoken for the rest of the meal. Sometimes the cadets eat nothing more, but sit perfectly still, their arms folded, their eyes looking straight ahead. Many an officer, it is said, has succumbed to this dignified but severe condemnation.
One officer, however, knew how to meet it. When he was received in that way he gave no sign that he noticed anything unusual, but quietly went on with his meal. When he was through, he rose and politely thanked the cadets for the honor they had conferred upon him, assured them that he had never enjoyed a meal with them so much in his life, and calmly walked out. It was admitted that he had the best of it.
Often in dealing with offenders against the social and moral code a "silence" is the best weapon. Simply leave them alone. Do not even allow yourself to bear yourself as usual in their presence. Exile them from society by surrounding them with this sphere of silence. It will be the solitary confinement of the prison without the confinement. It will prove one of the most effective of punishments.
On the other hand, you yourself may be the victim of a "silence," and unjustly. In that case copy the example of the doughty lieutenant who finished his meal. Go on with your work in a good-humored way.
Show your persecutors that you can well get along without them and their society. Live down the lie or the misunderstanding, or whatever it is that led to the "silence," the isolation, the repulsion, and by and by the world will see its mistake and will seek your forgiveness.
Either way, silence is a strong test of character.