Then the quick look-up and the half-defiant "No, sir," (for they all caught up the captain's tone).

And, finally, the retreating footsteps, and the silence preceding the next name.
There was no sign of faltering; and, wherever the secret lurked, Railsford saw little chance of it leaking out.

A few boys, indeed, as was natural, gave their replies after their own fashion.

Barnworth looked bored, and answered as though the whole performance was a waste of time.

Arthur Herapath was particularly knowing in his tone, and accompanied his disclaimer with an embarrassing half-wink at his future kinsman.