CHAPTER SEVEN.
THE SESSION OF MASTERS AND AN OUTRAGE.
It is to be feared that Mark Railsford, Moral Science man though he was, had yet to learn the art of applying his philosophy to his own circumstances, or he would never have committed the serious error, on the day following the event recorded in the last chapter, of writing the following foolish note to Mr Bickers:-- "_February_ 1.
"Sir,--Referring to the unpleasant topic of our conversation last night, I have since consulted my prefects on the matter, and made other inquiries as to what took place here during my temporary absence at the athletic meeting.

The report I have received, and which I am disposed to credit, differs materially from your own version.

In any case, allow me to say that I require no assistance in the management of my house.
When I do, I shall ask for it.

Meanwhile I shall continue to consider the interference of anyone, whatever his motives, as an impertinence which I, although the junior master at Grandcourt, shall have no hesitation in resenting to the utmost of my power.

I trust these few lines may obviate any future misunderstanding on a point about which I feel very strongly.
"Yours, etcetera, "M.