"Yes, sir," replied both of the culprits, in the same breath.
"You know the rules of the Institute, Nevers," added the principal, sternly.
"I do, sir; but I was struck, and was obliged to fight in self-defence."
"And you, Grant, had common sense enough to know better than to engage in a fight. You struck the first blow—did you?"
"I struck the first blow that was given with the fist, but Nevers struck the heaviest blow with his tongue."
"Explain, Grant."
"At breakfast I was informed by Nevers that they found out what boys were made of on drill."
"Did you make use of this remark, Nevers?" asked the principal.
"I did, sir."
"What did you mean by it?"