Let him say yea or nay to what this--little--peacher says." "Say you didn't, Jeff," implored the boys.
Jeffreys shook his head sadly.
"I can't," he said.

"If he's dead--" "Oh, he's dead," put in Jonah; "I can tell you that." Jeffreys gave one scared look at the speaker, and then hurried from the room.
Mrs Trimble followed him up to his room.
"I don't believe it all," said she; "you never did it on purpose, you're not so bad as that.

I won't believe it even if you tell me," said the good lady, bursting into tears.
Jeffreys put together his few books and garments.
"You're going," said she, "of course.

It's no use hoping you won't.
Here's two pounds you're owed--and--" Jeffreys took the money, and kept her hand for a moment in his.
"You are kind," said he hoarsely.

"Good-bye, Mrs Trimble." He kissed her hand and took up his bundle.
At the foot of the stairs a boy's hand was laid on his arm.
"Oh, Jeff," whispered Teddy--he had stolen out of the schoolroom.