Mr Bickers was leaving just as he entered, and Railsford read in his looks, as he brushed past, no great encouragement to hope that things would soon be made right.
"Mr Bickers," said he, advancing almost in front of his colleague, "I _must_ tell you how distressed I am at what has occurred.

I--" "Yes, it _is_ trying for you," said the injured master, drily.

"Excuse me, though; I want my breakfast." It was not easy to feel cordial sympathy with a man like this.

However, there was nothing for it but to go and lay his case before the doctor, and Railsford entered accordingly.
Dr Ponsford was at breakfast, and asked his visitor to take a seat.
"You have come to tell me that Mr Bickers's assailants are discovered ?" said he.
"I wish I could," said Railsford.

"I have only had time to speak to my prefects." "Two of whom are not to be trusted, and profess a personal spite against Mr Bickers." This was just like the doctor.