He moved towards the cane, which hung from a nail beside the high desk.
Obliging schoolfellows explained to Peter. “He spoke to you three times.” “He’s going to swish you.” “You’ll get it.”
Peter went very white and sat very tight.
“Now, young man,” said Mr. Mainwearing, flicking the cane. “Step out, please....
“Come out here, sir.”
No answer from Peter.
“Stubland,” roared Mr. Mainwearing. “Come out at once.”
There came a break in the traditions of High Cross School.
Peter rose to his feet. It seemed he was going to obey. And then he said in a voice, faint and small but perfectly clear, “I ain’t going to be caned. No.”
There was a great pause. There was as it were silence in Heaven. And then, his footsteps echoing through that immensity of awe, Mr. Mainwearing advanced upon Peter. Peter with a loud undignified cry fled along the wall under the map of Palestine towards the door.