"But Pilnikov," he said, "why are you leaning against the wall?"
Sasha flushed violently, straightened himself and said nothing.
"If you get tired so quickly then perhaps the exercises are injurious to you," said Khripatch sternly.
"It's my fault, I'm not tired," said Sasha timidly.
"You must choose between two things," said Khripatch, "either not to attend the gymnastic exercises or... In any case come in and see me after the exercises."
He went away hurriedly and left Sasha standing confused and frightened.
"You're in for it," said the other boys to him. "He'll lecture you till evening."
Khripatch loved to deliver lengthy reprimands and the students dreaded his invitations above everything.
After the exercises Sasha timidly went to the Head-Master. Khripatch received him promptly. He went close to Sasha, looked intently into his eyes and asked:
"Tell me, Pilnikov, do the gymnastic exercises really tire you? You look quite a healthy youngster but 'appearances are deceptive.' Are you sure you haven't some illness? Perhaps it's injurious for you to do these exercises."