They laughed softly and bent over their ices in order to exchange glances. Gerald was angry clean through and Alf was scowling into the bottom of his glass.
“Who’s this fellow Pennimore?” asked one of the Broadwood lads.
“He’s a rich guy that lives over on the point. He’s got a son at Yardley. The kid tried to get into Broadwood but couldn’t pass, and they say the old man promised to pay off the school debt at Yardley if they’d take the kid. Anyhow, he’s there.”
Gerald set his glass down and started to his feet with blazing cheeks, but Dan’s hand went out and caught his arm.
“No, you don’t,” said Dan firmly. “You sit down again.”
“But——”
“You sit down!” Gerald obeyed. Alf had stopped frowning. He finished his chocolate, wiped his lips with the little paper napkin and leaned across smilingly to Dan.
“You and Gerald walk to the door,” he said softly, “and be ready to get away quick.”
“What are you going to do?” asked Dan.