“That’s better. By the way, what time did you leave?”
“About half-past ten.”
“As early as that? And how did you get away without Vinton knowing it? For, of course, he didn’t know it. Otherwise he would have prevented you from going.”
“I—I went to bed with my underclothes on, sir.”
“And you managed to leave the room without awakening Vinton? Is that it?”
Gerald considered an instant. Then he nodded.
“Yes, sir. Dan didn’t know that I was going.”
“Hum.” Mr. Collins observed him sharply, but Gerald met his eyes without faltering. “Well, I have talked with Doctor Hewitt, and we have already determined the punishment appropriate. First, you will compose a letter to the Principal of Broadwood, apologizing for the act of trespass you committed. Draw it up and bring it to me.”
“Yes, sir.”
“Then you will go on probation until further notice. You know what that means?”