And when presently the bodyguard, after sundry whispered communications, increased from two to nine, who marched three in front, two behind, and two on either side of their celebrity, speculation became active and warm.
The escort glared defiantly at any one who ventured to approach the group; but when it was observed that they made straight for the doctor's house, and one by one shook hands with the visitor on the doorstep, there was very little doubt left as to who the stranger might be.
"Mind you come to tea," said Wally, as they parted.
"Don't you make no mistake, I'll be there," said the guest.
Work in school that morning dragged heavily.

The impending meeting was perplexing the minds of not a few.

The phenomenon of.

Yorke's and Clapperton's names appended to the same document puzzled boys who still kept alive the animosity which had wrecked the School clubs earlier in he term and brought the sports to a deadlock.

And the addition of the names of the captains of the other two houses made it evident that the whole School was concerned in the business.