The two boys went to the same school, the new-fangled Higher Grade School at Hanbridge, which had dealt such a blow at the ancient educational foundations at Oldcastle. That their Bert should attend the same school as George was secretly a matter of pride to the Benbows.
"Oh," said Edwin. "We've seen no gaping wounds, have we, Hilda?"
Albert's face did not relax.
"You've only got to look at Bert's chin," said Clara.
Bert shuffled under the world's sudden gaze. Undeniably there was a small discoloured lump on his chin.
"I've had it out with Bert," Albert continued severely. "I don't know who was in the wrong--it was about that penknife business, you know--but I'm quite sure that Bert was not in the right. And as he's the older we've decided that he must ask George's forgiveness."
"Yes," eagerly added Clara, tired of listening. "Albert says we can't have quarrels going on like this in the family--they haven't spoken friendly to each other since that night we were here--and it's the manly thing for Bert to ask George's forgiveness, and then they can shake hands."
"That's what I say." Albert massively corroborated her.
Edwin thought:
"I suppose these people imagine they're doing something rather fine."