CHAPTER XX.
SOWING THE WIND.
The passage of arms between Mr.Grice and the two prefects was eagerly discussed by boys of all ages.

Exaggerated reports spread from mouth to mouth, each teller of the story adding to it some details drawn from his own imagination, until, away down in the Second Form, it was confidently asserted that Oaks had called Mr.Grice a "little tin monkey," and that Allingford had boxed the master's ears; which enormities would most certainly result in the expulsion of the two offenders.
As a matter of fact, the expected storm never burst.

The first thing the doctor did on receiving Mr.Grice's complaint was to compare that gentleman's watch with his own.

"Hum'" he said shortly, "I suppose you're aware that you _are_ ten minutes fast ?" A few moments later Mr.Grice withdrew, looking rather crestfallen.
As may be imagined, the result of his interview with the head-master was never made public, and in the meantime Ronleians old and young were expressing their high approval of the conduct of their captain and his lieutenant.

The gilt was beginning to wear off the Thurstonian gingerbread, and sensible fellows, who could tell the difference between jewel and paste, were less inclined than ever to be led by the nose by such fellows as Gull and Hawley.