“Yes; I think he may, Mr Hippetts?” said the doctor.

“Yes, sir; of course, sir, if you wish it,” said the master, with rather an injured air; “but I feel bound to tell you the boy’s character.”

“Yes; of course.”

“And to warn you, sir, that you will bring him back in less than a week.”

“No, Mr Hippetts,” said the doctor quietly; “I shall not bring him back.”

“Well, sir; if you are satisfied I have nothing to say.”

“I am satisfied, Mr Hippetts.”

“But he is not so old as you said, sir.”

“No.”

“And you wanted a boy of good character.”