That being so, he did not have it in his heart to punish Jack, or even to find fault with him.

Yet the discipline of the school must be maintained.
"Major Ruddy, do you know what the first duty of a soldier is ?" he asked, but his voice was soft and easy.
"Yes, sir; to obey orders." "Exactly." "But there is no rule about what to do if a fellow slaps your face," added Jack, quickly.
"That is true." Captain Putnam had to turn away to conceal a sudden smile.

"And, in one way, let me say I do not blame you for what you did, especially as you acted on the spur of the moment.

But fighting must stop.

If I dismiss this case against you, will you promise to leave Ritter alone in the future ?" "I will if he leaves me alone.