"Well, Hicks," continued the master with the ghost of a smile, "embarrassment is something that you should try to overcome."
At this Turkey Reiter led Shrimp Davis out in agony.
"Very well," said Hickey with an injured look, "I'll try, sir. I'll do my best. But I don't think the conditions are favourable."
Mr. Dater commanded silence. Hickey bowed again and raised his head cloaked in seriousness. A titter acclaimed him. He stopped and looked appealingly at the master.
"Go on, Hicks, go on," said Mr. Dater. "Do your best. At least, let us hear the words."
Another inspiration came to Hickey. "I don't think that this is quite regular, sir," he said aggressively. "I have always taken an interest in my work, and I don't see why I should be made to sacrifice a good mark."
Mr. Dater bit his lips and quieted the storm with two upraised fingers.
"Nevertheless, Hicks," he said, "I think we shall allow you to continue."
"What!" exclaimed Hickey as though loath to credit his ears. Then adding calm to dignity, he said, "Very well, sir,—not prepared!"