The boats were hoisted up at the davits, and the boatswain was ordered to pipe all hands on deck. The principal looked calm, but stern, as he took the position on the hatch which he usually occupied when he addressed the students.
"Wilton and Monroe," said he.
The culprits came forward, hanging their heads with shame.
"I learn that you are the ringleaders in this movement. Is it so?"
"I suppose we are," replied Wilton.
"Who proposed the plan?"
"Wilton first spoke to me about it," answered Monroe.
"And you induced the others to join you?"
"Yes, sir."
"As the ringleaders, Wilton and Monroe will lose twenty marks each, and remain in their mess rooms to-morrow. The other twelve lose ten marks each," continued Mr. Lowington. "Young gentlemen, those who have engaged in this scheme are not to be trusted. I have nothing further to say."