However it was, during the short time the term had run, the two men had struck up an acquaintance which perplexed a great many spectators and displeased a great many more.
"I think you should be careful with Lablache," said Grover to his friend.

"Not that I know anything against him, but his reputation in the school is rather doubtful." "I suppose the reputation of all detention masters is doubtful," said Railsford, laughing; "yours or mine would be if we had his work to do.
But a man is innocent till he is proved guilty in England, isn't he ?" "Quite so," said Grover.

"I don't want to set you against him, for, as I say, I know nothing of him.

All I mean, is, that you must be prepared to share a little of his unpopularity if you take up with him.

That's all." "I'll take my chance of that," said Railsford.
The first time Monsieur Lablache appeared in Railsford's house, in response to an invitation from the new master to come and take coffee, there was considerable excitement in the house.