It was awkward, and gave the new master a very unfavourable impression of the most harmless boy in his house.
"Now," said he, beginning on a new tack, "I am anxious to hear from you something about the state of the house.

You're my police, you know," he added with a friendly smile.
Stafford was the only one who smiled in response, and then ensued a dead silence.
"What do you think, Ainger?
Do things seem pretty right ?" "Yes," said Ainger laconically.
"Have you noticed anything, Barnworth ?" "There's a draught in the big dormitory, sir," replied Barnworth seriously.
"Indeed, we must have that seen to.

Of course, what I mean is as to the conduct of the boys, and so on.

Are the rules pretty generally obeyed ?" It was Stafford's turn, and his report was disconcerting too.
"No, sir, not very much." The new master put down the poker.
"I am sorry to hear that; for discipline must be maintained.

Can you suggest anything to improve the state of the house ?" "No, sir," replied Felgate.
This was getting intolerable.