Several schoolhouse fellows protested against the proceedings being interrupted in this way, and even Bloomfield exclaimed across the table, "For goodness' sake, Wibberly, don't bring up that wretched subject again." But those who had watched Riddell had seen him turn suddenly pale at the question, and for a moment make as though he would rush from the room.
But he stopped himself, and turned like a hunted deer on the questioner.
A dead silence fell on the assembly, as Wibberly coolly said, "I will repeat the questions.

Has Mr Riddell found out who cut the rudder- lines?
or does he suspect any one?
and, if so, who is it ?" Every eye turned on Riddell.

The brief pause had given him time to collect himself and fight out the inward battle; and now he answered steadily, "I do suspect some one.

But until I am perfectly sure I shall not say who it is." So saying, he quietly left the room..