Ernie isn't the type to make a scene, but he did attempt civil conversation with some of the hitwizards to see what was going on. He contemplated making a stand by refusing to get on the train, but decided it was best to board and send word ahead to Hogwarts.
Being Headboy, he made general rounds through the compartments and tried to soothe the anxieties of some of the students before returning to his group of friends.