"I have heard quite sufficient.

The manner in which you and these fishermen have given your evidence convinces me that you are speaking the truth, and I am sorry that you should have been placed in this position.

You will understand that this is not a formal court, and therefore that there is no question of discharging you.

I can only say that, having heard the story of what took place at this fight between you and my nephew, I am convinced that you did what any other boy of spirit would have done, under the same circumstances, and that the punishment which you administered to him was thoroughly deserved.
"Good morning!" James Walsham and his witnesses left the room.

Mr.Linthorne rose, and saying to his nephew, "Follow me, sir," went to his study.
Without saying a word as to what had passed, he took down some books from the shelves, and proceeded to examine Richard in them.