Then Paxton was told to come in, and on being questioned he became more confused even than Coulter.

Then both were confronted by George Strong, and at last they virtually admitted that Ritter had struck the first blow, and that they knew nothing of the quarrel previous to that time.
"You may go," said Captain Putnam, at length.

"Your efforts to shield Ritter do you no credit." And Coulter and Paxton slunk out of the office silently and much worried over the thought of what punishment they might receive for trying to deceive the master of the Hall.
After that Pepper and Fred were again interviewed and cross-questioned.
But they stuck to their original story, and as that was the story told by Jack, Captain Putnam felt that it must be true.
"You may go," said the captain, presently.
"Have I got to go back to the dormitory ?" queried Pepper.
"No, you may join the other cadets," answered the head of the school.
"But, sir----" commenced Josiah Crabtree.
"I do not see as he merits punishment, Mr.Crabtree," said the captain, coldly.

"We will let it pass." And he spoke so firmly that the dictatorial teacher said no more on the subject.
When Jack was again called into the presence of the teachers it must be admitted that he was a good deal worried.

There was a strict rule at Putnam Hall against fighting, and that rule had been violated by him.
Yet he felt he had been justified.
"Major Ruddy, I have examined several witnesses to this affair and I find that your story of the occurrence is substantially correct," began the head of the school.