He was really thunderstruck.

Peter was accustomed to write polite platitudes to his parent, and had presumably not intended that his letter to the canon should be actually read by Sir Timothy, when he had asked that the contents of it should be broken to him.
"Selfish, disobedient, headstrong, deceitful boy!" said Sir Timothy.
Lady Mary started.

"How can you talk so!" Her gentle voice sounded almost fierce.

"At least he has proved himself a man.' And he is right.

It was a shame and a disgrace for him to stay at home, whilst his comrades did their duty.