But it was a time of anxiety and trepidation, and my nerves were somewhat strained before it was over.
The shock of the day, however, awaited me as I got outside on my way to the fields.
A small youth of my own size accosted me.
"I say, are you the new chap ?" "What new chap ?" "The new chap that Redwood told to fetch his belt." "Yes," said I, turning a little pale.
"All right.

You've got to go to him, sharp." "I tried to give it him back yesterday, really I did; but I was stopped," said I.

"Do you think I'll get in a row ?" "I wouldn't be in your shoes, that's all I know," remarked the messenger brutally.

"It'll be all the worse if you don't cut." "Where is he ?" "In the captain's room at the School House." I went off with my heart in my boots.

And I had hoped so much to show up well to Redwood! It was all Jarman's fault, and I wrote down yet another grudge against him in my mental book.
The captain was alone, and evidently expecting me, as he rose and came to meet me when I appeared.
"Here you are, then, youngster," said he, in a tone which, if it meant a licking, was a very deceptive one.
"I'm very sorry," said I; "I tried to bring the belt round yesterday evening, but--" "Hang the belt!" said the captain.